When I posted about how to ace a telephone interview, several people wrote to me saying that whether the interview is on the phone or in person, there were several questions that they anticipate with dread. I’ve been collecting those questions and talking to some pros about how best to answer them. Here are the top five, with suggested answers. Of course, there are no right or wrong answers, only ways of thinking about answers that will get you to the next stage of the process. Have a look at these and when you’re done, chime in if you have better ideas about how to approach any of these questions:
What’s your greatest weakness?
It’s an interview cliche, but it still gets asked. The key is to come up with something that is truthful, yet doesn’t impact your ability to do the job, according to career coach and blogger, Miriam Salpeter. More important than what you identify as a weakness is the part about how you’ve overcome it. Salpeter offers this example: A computer programmer might say, “Speaking in front of very large crowds really scares me, but I’ve been working on becoming a better public speaker. I’ve joined Toastmasters, and I stand up in front of my mirrror, pretending there is a crowd.” It's a good one because public speaking is something most people are afraid of, and it is also not likely to be essential to a job as a programmer. One thing you should never say, says Salpeter, is that you are a perfectionist because no one wants to work with a perfectionist. If you want to know why, read this spot-on post by Penelope Trunk.
So tell me about yourself? (Also posed as “Why do you think you’re the person for this job?” “Why should we hire you?” “What distinguishes you from other candidates?”)
This is not an invitation to recite your biography. It is an opportunity to draw out the parts of your story that best sell you for the position. So if you were born and raised in Boston and are passionate about the city, that might a good topic for conversation in an interview for a marketing position with the Boston Red Sox. But it wouldn’t necessarily be worth mentioning if you were talking about a job in international banking. If you’re fluent in three languages, have worked overseas, and have parents who hail from outside the U.S., then those facts would be good ones to highlight in the interview for the international banking job.
Talk about a time you failed and how you recovered.
Since we all mess up from time to time, the important thing is that you choose something where you can demonstrate what you’ve learned from the experience. A classic example here would be a time that you took on too much responsibility or agreed to do something on an unreasonable timetable, according to career coach and resume writer, Chandlee Bryan. Your recovery could be as simple as the fact that you now feel comfortable raising concerns about what you can deliver on a given schedule.
What changes would you make to our company if you came on board?
This one can set you up to stumble in a variety of ways, according to Ford R. Myers, author of the new book, “Get the Job You Want Even When No One is Hiring.” "No matter how comfortable you feel in this situation, you are still an outsider, and don't know the inside story,” warns Myers. “Even if your suggestions are good, you might make them look like idiots, if they don’t see things your way. And if you say something that doesn’t align with the company’s culture, then you look like an idiot.” Myers recommends saying something like this: “I wouldn’t be a very good doctor if I gave my diagnosis before examining the patient. If I were hired, I’d take a very good look at what’s going on, speak to a lot of people. And after examining the entire situation, I would come to you with a proposal for your input, and collaboratively we would come up with a solution.”
Why are you returning to a field or a company you left?
The key with this one is to present your time away as a learning experience and focus on what you know now that you didn't understand before, says Chandlee Bryan. Say you were in banking, helping to evaluate companies for mergers and acquisitions and went for a stint to a startup. You’ll now be able to say that you understand the start-up mentality from more than just a balance street perspective. You might want to add that the time away helped you understand why you are more suited to working in a large organization than in a small one, or some other observation about the difference in cultures and why the one you left is a better fit for you.
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For examples of more challenging interview questions along with sample answers, spend some time on Glassdoor.com’s interview section where people post real questions -- as well as other details about interview formats -- from real interviews. To gain full access to the interview section, you need to post information about an interview you went on. The site offers a range of questions -- from basic ones like the ones above, to some that will appeal to anyone who enjoyed studying for the SATs. This was apparently a question in an interview for an account manager Microsoft interview: “One train leaves Los Angeles at 15mph heading for New York. Another train leaves from New York at 20mph heading for Los Angeles on the same track. If a bird, flying at 25mph, leaves from Los Angeles at the same time as the train and flies back and forth between the two trains until they collide, how far will the bird have traveled?”
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Readers pay tribute to Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson was unquestionably the biggest pop star of the 1980s, and certainly one of the most popular recording artists of all time.
>>>>....News readers shared their tributes and memories of the "King of Pop."
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"When I received the text that the King of Pop had passed on, the feeling was surreal. I thought this was a hoax until the news came in on CNN. For some reason, when the news set in I felt an instant and overwhelming amount of pain come over me. The man whose edgy, original, funky, smooth and timeless pieces of work I had grown up listening to was gone and then I thought of my eight year old son who loves Michael like most kids love Chris Brown these days. I got home and watched all the newscast and stations playing non-stop Michael hits and I looked around in my house and realized something amazing. My mother, myself and my children were all crazy about this one iconic individual. In these day and ages, what are the odds that 3 generations would love the same music? Well the way I see it, its not odd at all, for goodness sakes, its MICHAEL JACKSON. He will truly be missed and I plan on blasting his hits for the years to come. My children will still be able to say they grew up listening to the best! My love, support and prayers go out to all of his fans, friends and family!"
--Maurisha Minor, Phoenix, Ariz.
"In your life you may have felt alone and have had to face extreme scrutiny, but I hope you look upon the world from heaven and hear all the voices and cries of millions, if not billions, of people who love you and mourn for the loss of you, our King of Pop for all time. Your music and your voice will live on in our hearts forever and we will never forget your talented gifts you shared with us. I've been playing You Are Not Alone over and over and can't believe you are gone. We will miss you. I extend my deepest condolensces and sympathies to Michael's family and all the fans who are grieving at this terrible loss. I'm heartbroken."
--Kelly, Toledo, Ohio
"He was a man with tremendous talent. He was a gift to the world. I still cannot believe he is gone. I keep wishing it was not true. I loved the man and his music and will forever. May we never ever forget the man that was Micheal Jackson. His legacy will live on forever."
--Keitha Lynch-Smith, Barbados
"As a single child, I remember coming back home every summer from boarding school and blasting MJ's songs on my stereo as soon as my parents left for work and dancing silly around the house. I never felt alone. Thank you, Michael for unforgettable music and your amazing spirit."
--Bipana, Kathmandu
"There is not a larger music icon as Michael Jackson, nor will there ever be. His life was cut too short by unforeseen events. I only wish he could have performed his last tour in London before this happened. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fans. I believe he will have the largest funeral when it happens. Although there has been MUCH negative publicity against him in the past decade or so, I want the young generation to look past it and give him and his music the respect it deserves. He has changed the music industry forever by uniting African-American and White music. He deserves for all of the hurt and pain to be left behind and lay to rest the 'King of Pop' forever. Goodbye Michael."
--Jade Autry, Marysville, Penn.
"I have been a fan of his since forever. I remenber when I received Thriller. My uncle got it for me for passing in school. When I heard it, I knew that Michael Jackson was destined for greatness. I can't believe that he is gone. My heart hurts so. My prayers and condolences go to his family and friends and all of his fans. He will be truly missed."
--Alishia Armstrong, Madison, Wis.
"In the 20th century, I can't think of a figure more popular than Micheal Jackson. He was identified and his music was loved by even those who couldn't understand a word of what he sang."
--Ahmed Bashir, Lahore, Pakistan
"Michael was a man after my own heart. The man i dream and pray to see one day in my life but sorry, i see it was only a dream that will never come through. May your soul rest in Peace Michael. We love you Michael."
--David Agbugan, Nigeria
"My name is rob. Im stationed here at camp taji in Iraq. I was really stunned and saddened when I heard of the passing of Michael Jackson. Im 27 and remember him for a lot of his 80's and other music. Michael Jordan had the commercial about being like mike. Well. When I was growing up I wanted to be like Michael Jackson. He was pleasure to hear his music. He was always putting something out that was good to listen to. Thriller by far is my favorite. He made music for all types of music geres. No matter what happened in his personal life, he was always there for his fans. i used to have the Michael Jackson outfit and had my hair like him back in 1985. Always a fan favorite and always a favorite of mine. Im from Chicago and I must say that I include Michael and his family as far as being from that area. The world has lost a wonderful person and the greatest music entertainer today. He will be truly missed. But he will live on forever in all our hearts. R.I.P. to the GREATEST."
--Rob Baldwin, Chicago, Ill.
"When I was a little girl, I remember being fascinated by Michael Jackson. I don't know if it was his dance moves or his sensational music. I don't think he received enough credit while he was alive. He was definately a trendsetter. The world of music will never be the same. I will miss him forever."
--Alesha G. Flora, Miss.
"i would like to say michael jackson was 1 of the best musicians of my life time in my short 26 years and i'm sure there will never be another like him. god bless and god be with your family during this trying time. i've had my own shares of public humiliation and if MJ can pull thru, so can i. thank you for showing us all we too can make it if we stick in there and that there is a bright side to the darkness."
--Bing, Alaska
"Unarguably the greatest artist of all time. the man made people move. the man made sense! rest in peace. physically dead, ALIVE FOREVER. Jacko immortal, Jacko Forever! His death shall bring him to life."
--Kathan Patel, Toronto, ON, Canada
"Michael and his family are in our thoughts and prayers. It is very unbelievable to think he won't be performing any longer. I've been a fan for nearly 40 years, and now my son began enjoying Michael's music too. He's even learned to moonwalk. We are just very saddened by the news. In their thirst to make money, the media-paparazzi really seriously can hurt people; you would think they would learn to back off from people before hurting lives that way. The world has lost a musical genius as well as a great human being. Thank you, Michael, for all you gave to us...fly with the angels and may your spirit always stay with your family."
--B. Peffer, Pittsburgh, Penn.
"Michael, your music will always be in our hearts, I know 'Where there is love, you are there'. Your songs relay the messages straight from your heart and these reflect through your actions...sometimes they are just misinterpreted and it is difficult to believe anything negative about you. It is heavy at heart to accept that a world icon has departed. May you R.I.P. Michael, thank you for the memories. You will always be in our hearts and part of our lives. We love you! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
--Robert Caoile, Manila, Philippines - South San Francisco, Calif.
"You will always be remembered as the man who defined multiple generations across the globe...Will miss you."
--Amanda Ting, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"His frail human body and mind finally surrendered to the heavenly gifts (talents, fame & fortune) that so few ever receive. I will always remember him as a beautiful soul who lost his way and never could reconcile with the world. I was very fortunate to be among the masses to have seen him live in his 'Dangerous' tour. Let's remember all the good and joy he brought during his time, with his music, performances and generosity across the world. Rest in Peace Michael."
--Wiwid, Indonesia
"God bless you Mike and your family. May you have eternal happiness were you surely are now. Ill never forget the memories you have created for me and my family. I only wish I could have met you or seen one of your shows live. Please forgive the ill minded people that tried to interfer with your life...they know not what they do. You were always better than that and it showed in your character. Take care good friend and rest in peace."
--Ray and Lana Elder, Harrison Township, Mich.
"Michael Jackson will truly be missed in my heart! I grew up listening to his music and following his career. The music world wouldn't be the way it is today if it wasn't for him! God bless you and you are now in heaven looking down on all of us. He is our guardian angel. No one will ever forget him, and I cannot beleive you are really gone. I love you michael!"
--Kristina, Santa Barbara, Calif.
"My friend and I saw him at the original MGM in Las Vegas when I was 19 about 35 years ago. In the showroom that night all the old people took off when 'The Jackson 5' came on and the rest of us stood up, danced, yelled and sang ABC...He was awesome then as now. I am a huge fan. My heart goes out to his children, family, friends and fans. When I heard of his death I lit a candle, blasted his music video and cried. So sad...Rest In Peace My Man YOU ARE THE KING OF POP and I will always remember you!"
--Wendy N. in Orlando, Fla.
"May the Jackson family have peace and blessings during this tragic time...My love goes out to the family, the true fans, and to Michael Jackson...May Michael Jackson live in peace and my god rest his soul...also my belief is that Michael has not left our lives...he is still alive as long as we all keep his music going...he was a big inspiration to everyone...especially for me :-( Michael is still alive inside our hearts...all we have to do is feel him and his music beats...I will miss you Michael...May god bless you...love you..."
--Tejal S., Brownstown, Mich.
"I have always been a big fan of Michael Jackson and regardless of what anyone said he did or supposedly did it never changed my feelings for him. I still have a picture of him in my photo album that I received when I signed up to be a member of his fan club and I pull it out and look at it every now and then. I send my deepest heartfelt condolences to his family, especially his children and I pray that his soul is now at rest and peace. I grew up with Michael and I will always be a big fan, sometimes it felt as if he were a part of my family and I will miss him so much. God Rest Your Soul, Michael. I love you now and forever."
--Gwen Scott, Mansfield, La.
"We grew up on his songs, let it be Jackson 5, Christmas albums or solo hits. The world is yet to realize how much a person she has lost forever. May God bless his family and may his legend continue. Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson."
--Gilbert AL Francis, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Sadness is no longer a word. My prayers for Michael was for him to have his comeback, and for people to realize that he did not hurt children. Instead, he embraced their non-judgmental attitudes and felt the most comfortable with them. Sadly, a few saw it as an opportunity for financial gain, without any regard to what he gave their children. Now, their children are scared, but not by Michael. Rest in peace, Michael. You're bigger than Elvis."
--Joey, Brooklyn, N.Y.
"I am so sad to hear of Michael;s death. I grew up listening to his music and he was such an icon. I feel bad that he died just when he was planning a big tour schedule. I am sure the concerts would have been amazing. He blessed us with entertainement for all those years. May he rest in peace."
--Kimberly, Eastpointe, Mich.
"Mike was an inspiration to us all and will be sadly missed. I thought alot of him and he inspired my stage performances also!! Goodbye Michael Joseph Jackson , May the lord Bless You and Keep You !!"
--Joe Jackson, Tipton, Ind.
"I loved Michael Jackson when I was in high school, but he had been a prominent figure throughout my life before then. I remember standing in front of the TV with a videotape of his MTV VMA's performance and trying to copy his dance moves--and I openly and proudly credit him with teaching me how to dance. It's been a very bad week for us all--too many people have died this week, and this is certainly the biggest death of the year, if not the decade, or even the century. I'm not all that surprised that he died, given the circumstances and his tendency to overwork his body while rehearsing, but I am very saddened. I only hope his children can cope with this loss--no one deserves to lose his or her father, especially not at such a young age as his children are. Rest in peace, Michael. You will most certainly be missed."
--Cyndi S. Crawford, Atlanta, Ga.
"Rest and Peace Michael! Hopefully, you already found the most precious peaceful place that most good soul ever wishing for. Im not your diehard fan, but, I love all your music and dance moves. Everytime you're guesting on TV Show, I dropped whatever Im doing just to watch you until the shows is done. I will missed you so much. Our happynest is always in Gods well. Goodbye."
--Adelfa Clamucha, Philippines
"I cannot recall a time when Michael Jackson was not in my life. I have been sitting here watching the news and I am still in total disbelief. I will always love Michael Jackson. Whenever I heard his music, I knew he was a genius. He will always be the King of Pop. No one will ever take your place Michael. I love you and one day I hope I will see you again. Much love and sympathies to the Jackson family and the millions of fans all over the world. Our King went to meet up with The King. Michael Jackson 4Ever."
--Micheline de Rothschild, New York City, N.Y.
"I remember coming home from school on 80`s, I was about 8 years old. First thing I did at home was that I put on the Thriller tape and practiced a bit moonwalk...And nowdays, when I feel a bit sad, the Jackson 5 always helped to make my day bright! But today it makes me sad.. Cant belive you are not there anymore! I´m happy that I saw you live in Estonia 1997! Thou my moonwalk never came out like yours, I try it today again, for your memory! I think many people do! Thank you for all and rest in peace!"
--Aale Rosenstrauch, Tallinn, Estonia
"Every human have limited life on this earth but some peoples live himself forever by his character & Michael Jackson one of them. Only few people in this world who reach highest level of fame by his great effort & you can count on your fingertip that kind of peoples & you will be find Michael Jackson hopefully top of the list. His POP style live forever in every corner of this world when somebody perform POP music. May GOD shower his countless blessing on his soul."
--Aatif Javeed, Faisalabad, Pakistan
"I went to Michael's concerts here, in Bucharest in 1992 and 1996, I was fascinated by him at the time. In the recent years, the magic had passed but I still went in shops and searched for every album of his - he had a rhythm, lines, musical notes, message that will never be forgotten. I do not like empty music like the one today (house, electronic..), I like to hear the piano, the guitar, the trumpet..and in some songs of Michael's the instruments and words mingled in an extraordinary piece of musical art. I hope that his children will never forget their father and will have a family and friends around them, I am sending my eternal regrets to his family, to all his friends, to all his fans, to all people who appreciated him all over the world. More than that, I would like to add that I have never believed that crap with the pedofile accusations, I just think that people wanted to take advantage of him, of his fame, of his money; here in Romania people are clever and experienced and do not believe all the gossip that appears in the press, my father was in the US in the 80' s and the same thing happened when he wanted to take a baby in his arms, they told him not to do that because they would say he was a pedofile, when he just wanted to admire and try to talk to the little one. So, as a final idea, I hope that Michael's soul knows that he will be missed by all the people who love and appreciate good music! God rest him in Peace!"
--Adriana, Bucharest, Romania
"You have been my hero since the age of 10. You have been my inspiration and will forever continue to be so. Thank you for everything. You will forever be the King of Pop. RIP."
--Bala, New York, N.Y.
"MJ you will be missed. Eventhough you are 8 years older than me, you will be missed. I have been a fan since I don't know when. I remember when I bought my first red jacket, the gloves and shoes, even my jerry curl. No matter what people say or have said about you, you are one in a million my brother. LOVE YOU MICHEAL!"
--Arthur E. McBeath, Virginia
"You will forever and always live on in the hearts of the millions you touched! You were the legend of all legends and you will truly be missed. Your songs were the first I ever knew as a little girl and you have continued to be the greatest muscian known to man. May you now rest in peace without the scrutiny and pain that many in society placed upon you! We will love you always, Michael!"
--La Nise, Spartanburg SC
"I was so shocked by this. I grew up with the fact that Michael was the greatest. I'm 15 - got the albums, posters - leather jackets! I've learned the dance moves man. You just can't get away from him and his influence. He made people live, dance, and sing. All across the world people danced to a voice and a power that moved them beyond words. Yanno what I love about this - watch everyone. Watch them dancing and singing and becoming so filled with life when they think of him and play his music in tribute. The priviledge of immortality will let him continue to move the world. Thanks michael. You strove for perfection and damn boy you did good, we all saw you as perfect, no matter what anyone said about you I just hope that you know that the entire world cried last night when they knew there'd be another angel in heaven."
--Nicole Warnke, Houston, Texas
"My condolences to the Jackson family for their loss! You are in our prayers! I didn’t grow up to Michael’s music, but loved every beat, hum and shout, that he gave whether performing live or just giving you a TASTE of the ‘King of Pop’. He will greatly be missed and will be forever in our hearts. ‘YOU GOT TO FEEL THAT HEAT AND WE CAN RIDE THE BOOGIE, SHARE THAT BEAT OF LOVEEEE! We are rocking with you Michael!"
--L. Anderson, Washington, DC
"Being a 60’s child I feel like we have grown up together throughout these years. I remember seeing him perform on tv as a young boy, listening and singing to the songs and watching him dance. He was just so amazing and creative with his performances and videos. I have never got a chance to see a live performance but he still captured my heart. I admired this man because despite his life long detractors he proved that it doesn't matter your background or financial status, if you want it you can achieve greatness and he was just that GREATNESS. And he has truly achieve such greatness throughout theses years with hit after hit from the Jackson 5, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous and lets not forget the infamous Motown era. He will always and forever be the “KING OF POP.” To the Jackson family, know that God will keep them secure and he has Michael in his hands now letting him rest from his long journey here on Earth and that he now has the peace he sought for so long. R.I.P Michael. Also R.I.P. Farrah."
--Angie, Washington D.C.
"I just can’t believe Michael Jackson is gone. I just can’t believe it. I grew up listening to his music. He was and still is my all time FAVORITE artist. I am just so saddened by this. May prayers go out to his family. He will be GREATLY missed."
--Nicole Matyas, Lorain, Ohio
"I remember growing up listening to his music and being so fascinated that someone could have that much talent. I am an 80's child, so I was blessed with seeing many iconic moments of his life: the Motown 25 Special, the release of Thriller, Bad, Dangerous and Invincible. Yes, I had the curls, glove, and the Thriller jacket growing up. My sister was a HUGE fan and we will miss him very much. I admired this man tremendously, because despite his detractors, he PROVED that it doesn't matter your background or financial status, if you want it, you can achieve greatness. May the Jackson family know that God will keep them secure and may Michael have the peace he sought for so long."
--Le Beau, Normal, Ill.
"Blessings and condolences to the Jackson family. I agree with everyone... the media circus is over and Michael is able to rest, finally in peace. May the true love in your heart live forever. Thank you for the incredible music that we will always remember. In my workplace, we've been singing along with the radio today, ever since the sad news broke. We were remembering the first time we saw the 'Billie Jean' video on MTV. I remember thinking, how does he get the cement to light up like that?! You are missed, Michael."
--Jennifer Mueller, Las Vegas, Nev.
"Such a GREAT GREAT loss in the music industry. I practically grew up with his music!"
--Maidi Asuncion, Manila, Philippines
"I have many memories of watching Michael Jackson when I was younger, I have always admired him and continue to do so today. Regardless of what has been said about him, I have never believed that he would ever hurt anyone, especially children. I pray for his soul and his family at this time. This is a very sad moment, I wish it was'nt happening. God Bless you Michael Jackson, I pray that you are in his presence right now, be at peace, and the world still loves you. God Bless the family of Micheal Jackson and I pray for you to have God's peace. He was truly a talented man and a blessing to this world. I believe God felt that he had been through enough heartache down here and he took him to his rest, REST IN PEACE with JESUS!!!!! With all my love..."
--Andrea, Lakewood, Ohio
"I was only 10 at the time, but I remember seeing Michael Jackson in concert at the United We Stand concert in DC after 9/11. Still one of the most memorable acts I've ever seen. Rest in peace!"
--Keri B, College Station, Texas
"I've been a fan of Michael Jackson since I can remember. I am his loyal fan and still remain a loyal fan no matter what he has been through. His sudden demise is a great shock to me but I pray for him and his family. We miss you Michael. May your legend prevails."
--Joe Miceli, Dallas, Texas
"Born in 1972, I grew up with MIchael's music, everyone did regardless of who tried to denied it in the 90s. My kids today, know his music from his thirller 25 years cd that i have stored in the car, they have his best video cd's. Regardless of the truth of events, the truth is that the world has missed his shine and talent for many years, shadowed by the hypocrites and a judicial system that allows heroes to rise and fall faster than any empire, I am saddened to know that he left this world without knowing the power of love from the millions that weep him today. Even more so by the stream of gossip and tarnish that will come from his death. Michael Jackson the man has died today of heart failure, but he will live on forever in the hearts of millions, if one heart could not carry the burden then amongst those loving him, it shall be overcome."
--Monica Flores, Monterrey Mexico
"Michael Jackson was the first person I ever wanted to marry, I still have home movies of me dancing around my living room with my Thriller record. I feel that we lost an amazing artist today... Michael went through alot of trials and tribulations in his life. He was forced to be in the spotlight at a very young age, and gave up his childhood in the process. By giving up a part of HIS life, he graced the world with some of the best music ever written. Twenty five years after hearing his music, I still love it as much now as I ever did then. My heart goes out to the whole world and most importantly, his family. Despite all the media hype, I still love Michael Jackson and I always will."
--Laura F., Essex Junction, Vt.
"He is such a good performer. It is such a lost to us as his fans. But hope that he can live well over there at his new place. May Allah bless him. Amin."
--Nur Nasriq Aini Binti Samsudin, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
"I WANT TO SAY THAT MICHAEL JACKSON WAS ONE OF MY BIGGEST INSPIRATIONS EVER! HE IS MOST OF MY IDOLS IDOL SO I KNOW THAT HE IS VERY SPECIAL.H E TO ME IS WHAT MADE DANCING AND SINGING ALL AT ONCE A VERY POPULAR AND FUN THING TO DO. ITS HARD FOR ME TO ACCEPT THE FACT THAT HE IS GONE. I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT HE'D BE REAL OLD AND THEY'D BE GIVING HIM A TRIBUTE AND I WOULD PERFORM FOR HIM AND HE'D TELL ME THAT I WAS A REALLY GOOD PERFORMER. IT REALLY HURT ME TO HAVE TO REALIZE THAT THAT DREAM WAS NOY GOING TO COME TRUE. I WILL DEARLY MIS HIS VOICE AND HIS STYLE. NOBODY WILL EVER COMPARE TO HIM BECAUSE ALTHOUGH HE IS GONE HE WILL ALWAYS BE THE KING OF POP. MY HEART GOES TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HE ISN'T AN ICON HE SOMETHING BIGGER THAN THAT. SO BIG THAT THEY HAVEN'T EVEN MADE A WORD TO DESCRIBE HIM YET AND THEY PROBABLY NEVER WILL BE ABLE TO. LOVE YA MICHAEL AND MAY YOU REST IN."
--LeJerrica, Louisiana
"WOW...What more can be said. He was truly an inspiration and a force to be reckon with. No one will ever be able to replace this talent. A true gift from above. I thank you Michael for all of the memories. I am only 33 and he has always been a part of my life, and now my children's. An icon for years to come, thank you for your presence...REST IN PEACE SIR."
--Sakara, Chicago, Ill.
"I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Michael Jackson’s untimely death. I’ve always loved his music and believe him to be the most talented artist in history. This is a true loss to fans all across the globe. Michael is an icon and will always be remembered for being a little strange but his talent surpassed his quirks. Rest in peace sweet Michael."
--Angela, Arlington, Texas
"The death of Michael Jackson has got to be the saddest thing to have happened since the passing of Bernie Mac. I can say those two names in the same sentence because Bernie was a King of Comedy and Michael was the King of Pop. I grew up on Michael Jackson, loved him with the Jackson Five and loved him on his own. Personal life aside, as most go overboard on that, Michael was an amazing performer and an inspirational writer. His music was just awesome. He did break down barriers. His moon walk will be enbedded in hearts forever. What a sad and tragic end to a wonderful human. Rest in Peace King of Pop. You are loved every day and will be missed forever."
--Shannon, Lawton, Okla.
"When I heard the news of The King Of Pop died sadness just overwhelmed me. There has never been an artist who had it all: vocals, moves, and on stage persona like the King. I am praying for his family and hope God has a wonderful place for him in Heaven. Michael you will be surely missed."
--Heidi, Austin, Texas
"All my condolences to his family members and Micheal, we will always love you and will remember you! you made the music a living thing on this whole planet. your talents are unmeasurable!"
--Tsering lhamo, Brussels, Belgium
"May Michael finally find the peace that he was never able to have while living. He was by far one of the greatest entertainers of all time. My prayers go out to his family. He is in God's care now. Bless you."
-- Judy, Kentucky
"This has got to be one of the saddest days in music history!! I grew up with his songs... His song touches everyone in the world... He will be in our memory forever..."
--Timmy, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Though i never get to hear much of his music, shows and concert due to my age. the way i hear people talk about him really made me convinced how great he is. He became an inspiration to lots of us especially during the 80's where most region across the globe are suffering, he became an icon of bliss and love. And for us generation who unfortunately missed the most of his career, he will still remain one of the biggest star of the entertainment industry."
--Ace De Vera, Manila Philippines
"Michael Jackson was the greatest. I was looking forward to his comeback concert. His work in the music industry will never be surpassed. He will be missed. I pray for his family's strength in this trying time. I loved Michael Jackson since I was a child. His posters covered my walls. I am sad but I had great memories."
--Loretha Lott, Chicago, Ill.
"Michael (TO OUR KING OF POP), CAN'T BELIEVE YOU HAVE PASSED AWAY. YOU WILL BE FOREVER MISSED. THE WORLD AND THE WORLD OF MUSIC WON'T BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE WITH THE HEAVENLY ANGELS AND WITH OUR SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST."
--Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Perez & Family, Iowa
"I couldn't believe my ears when I heard the King Of Pop died. I was stunned. He was a great performer. Through the good and bad times I stuck by Michael. He was the best performer of my times. I loved him and always will. R.I.P. Michael. You are always going to be the Greatest in my eyes."
--Tonya, Morrisville, Vt.
"What can I say I am totally still in shock!! I grew up with Michael Jackson I had Michael and his brothers on wall as a your teenager. I played his Off the Wall album so much my family was ready to either get rid of me or the album. He will be missed, I am just in shock. Rest in peace Michael, I Love You!"
--Michelle, Wyandanch, N.Y.
"Today is a sad day not just for the entertainment biz but for all of us who grow-up with the jackson Family, from watching them preform as the jackson 5, to watching there sisters preform as well ruby with her hit centerpied, latoya preforming with micheal in some of his videos, to janet, on good times and then staying close on big brother micheal's heels as a pop performer in her own right, Micheal was like a brother to all of us we shared his up' and down's and we never left his side. Till this day his influrence in music can never be duplicated, The endless charities he's started and gave to, in order to heal the world as he would say brought out the best in all of us. To his children, his family, his close friends, and most of all the fans around the world who lives you have touched, we love you and we will miss you but we never will forget you and all you done to make the planet a better place for all mankind we love you micheal rest in peace."
--Percy Mcpeters, Blue Mtn, Miss.
"I loved his songs and music, his persona, his charisma, his dance moves. He was a performer who had everything. This is a sad day in the pop world and in the whole world. He was put on this earth to entertain and love. No one could ever reach the height of popularity that he reached. When I heard the news, I was shocked and heartbroken. A sad time and a loss for all of us...No matter what your history is - you were always a pop icon and entertainer - thank you for the memories. I would like to give condolenses to the family and friends. May God bless his family and may his legend continue. Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson."
--Hariamala Kesavan, Malaysia
"I am saddened by the loss of this music legend. Even during his troubled life-events, I remained a loyal fan of his victorious talent and only hoped the circumstances were of faulted misunderstandings. My family and I spent many years on holidays playing the songs of his very early music. His gentle nature was an enormous attribute while his spirit and energy embellished mankind. My thoughts and prayers for his family and close friends. They have lost an icon, a sweet soul and a world-class entertainer."
--Julie Romain, New Orleans, La.
"Michael has always been and will always be the big LOVE of my life. He should always be remembered for the things he has given to us, his music, his passion, his love. Today, the world should acknowledge what a great person he is and not what he is thought to be. I love you Michael, forever and ever. My biggest condolences to Michael's family and to us, his ever adoring fans. WE LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!! RIP"
--Izadora Mustaffa, Malaysia
"When my mom was pregnant with me, she would play Michael Jackson in the tape player and place the headphones on her belly so that I could listen. I grew up loving him. He had an unbelievable impact in the music industry, and was an amazing performer. I remained a devoted fan through all of his troubles, and no matter what will forever be a fan. He will live on through his music; and taken so suddenly, he will be missed! My condolences go out to his family and friends. Thank you for the wonderful memories! R.I.P."
--Jessica Meeker, Dallas, Texas
"I've been a long time fan of Michael's from the age of 5 to being 30 now. I'm speechless at his death and my heart is deeply saddened by what has happened. Rest in Peace Michael...We will miss you terribly!"
--Danielle MacLennan, Attleboro, Mass.
"I am in utter shock! I grew up listening to Michael Jackson, he is an icon whom regardless of what people accused him of, or thought he did, or didn't do will truly be missed. Music lost a piece of it's heart today and so did millions of fans around the world! My heart goes out to his family and friends! May he finally be able to rest in peace."
--Christina, Abilene, Texas
"Death is always a hard thing to deal with, but more especially so when it is someone like the King of Pop. I was just recently watching The American Dream on VH1, and I find out this horrible news today. It was very unexpected, and sad to see someone loved as much as Michael cut down so early. Being from Motown, I grew up listening to all of his hits from the Jackson 5 to his many solo albums. He may very well had been the greatest entertainer ever, and it will be a long time before someone could provide the same caliber of work that Michael so often graced us with. He has made one of the biggest contributions to modern music, and is sampled in every genre. To his family, I send my condolensces for their loss. However, he is not gone for he will live forever through his music and in the heart of his fans. R.I.P. Michael Jackson & Farrah Fawcett"
--Angelo Jenkins, Detroit, Mich.
"I really loved his songs. Rest in peace."
--Anna P., Chicago, Ill.
"Through the massive charity project of 'We are the World', Michael helped save uncounted lives. Saving even one life is like saving an entire world! May his tremendous good deed clear his soul of any traces negativity, and may he rest in perfect peace. May we forgive him, and may he forgive us!"
Matthew, New York, N.Y.
"I find this so strange that in one year we have gained the first black president and now we lose one of our great black icons of the music world. A very sad day indeed. I did not understand his need to be close to young boys like that and hoped and still do that there was nothing sexual in it.
Yes he was strange but for some reason genius and eccentricity seem to go hand in hand. But when it comes to being an entertainer WoW He has no equal. Only he could simply walk onto a stage and people just went wild. Very sorry indeed."
--Terry Best, Barbados
"Micheal Jackson was the king of pop. He was to many of us like princess Di was to many people. he was a very good entatainer. We have always loved his music. He could bring joy to you through his music. we will remember the man that he was, not the lies that was told of him. we give his family our prayers."
--Kevin and Melvina Hutton, Airville, Penn.
"Rip michael. You will be missed."
--Connie Norman, Indiana
"I lived in Texas as a boy, and thought Michael Jackson was a 'black' artist. Around fourth grade, I started actually hearing some of his music, and realized: this was good stuff! Michael opened my eyes to a world of entertainment that I would have otherwise missed as a ignorant young white kid. Thanks to him, I was able to later enjoy other musicians like Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, even Run D.M.C. Thanks Michael. Goodbye – you will be missed."
--Andy R, Washington DC
"When I was a kid, He was very popular in our remote village in India. At that time, we didn't even know who the American president was but we knew Michael Jackson. We enjoyed his music so much even without understanding the meaning of a single word. That was the power of his music. I am very sad."
--Blesson George, Pathanapuram, India
"He gave so much...and got so little...; money doesn't heal hurt."
--Terry Ann Fortuin, Garfield, Kan.
"I remember being a kid when I first heard his song 'Black or White' on TV. Yeah, I first saw him on TV, not the radio. I thought he was THE best I’ve ever seen. He had the moves, the voice, the charisma –- and his songs, they’re all so unique and gets me on my feet! I loved his songs that have inspirational messages like 'Heal the World' and 'You are Not Alone'. Our (middle) school band played his song 'Heal the World' when I was 11 years old and my late grandma saw me perform. It was wonderful. This is my tribute to the late King of the Pops because he (or at least his songs) had been a part of my life as I was growing up. Now I am in my mid 20s. Rest in peace and may the Lord have mercy on your soul."
--Audrey J Ansibin, KK, Malaysia
"One of the greatest musicians to walk the earth. To think he almost wasn't part of the Jackson 5! R.I.P. Gloved One ... Time for the King of Pop and The King of Rock and Roll to sing together for all eternity ... can't get tickets for that show anywhere!"
--Greg, Trinidad and Tobago
"I just hope the children are being cared for at this time. I am very shocked and saddened by the death of Michael Jackson. I have and always will believe he was innocent of the crimes he was accused of and I believe it took its toll on him. I can say that my daughter and I will light a candle for him and his family. RIP-King of Pop."
--Angel from St. Louis, Mo.
"I may be a 90s kid, but Michael Jackson's my favourite in a class where everyone listens to Britney Spears or the Backstreet Boys. I woke up this morning to hear that one of the greatest music icons is dead. I may not have cried...yet but I feel full of regret that he will never be able to get up on that stage one last time to show us again why he is the greatest performer ever!!!"
--Kyle Tot, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Michael you were the best entertainer I have ever known. You have been number one since I first heard your music when I was 8. You will be greatly missed by my ears and heart. May your great music live on forever in our hearts. Bye Moonwalker."
--Eric Foiles, Chippewa Falls, Wis.
"i was thinking, it's a dream, but now i wake up seen it real. Pop music has gone. May He Soul Rest in Peaceeeeeeeeeeeee."
--Yusuff Animashaun, Abuja, Nigeria
"I may only be 24 years old but micheal jacksons music has been with me my whole life. I have followed his career and respect the man like no other in the buisness. We have truly lost a great artist today. Micheal Jackson's impact on the world will forever be remembered. Rest In peace Micheal and just know that your fans will always love you!"
--Brenda Gonet, San Diego, Calif.
"As a 38-year old African-American man, Michael Jackson has been a part of my life all of my life. As long as I have been alive, there has been Michael Jackson. Listening to Jackson 5ive 45's on my Fisher Price record player as a preschooler; watching the cartoon and variety show on TV, and trying my best to do the robot like him during the break to "Dancing Machine;" learning and singing "Destiny," "Off The Wall" and "Triumph" note for note in their entirety throughout elementary school; memorizing all the steps to "Beat It" and "Thriller" (and coveting the jackets) in middle school; still enjoying him as he got stranger and less relevant on "Bad" and "Dangerous" through high school and college; snapping and singing along to "Butterflies" with my wife and kids. No matter what his personal life became, his legacy is intact: one of, if not the single greatest entertainer the world has known. Our prayers are with the family, but our condolences are to ourselves as well, for we have all suffered a great loss. Rest in peace, Michael."
--DeNon, Los Angeles, Calif.
"Say what you will about Michael Jackson, but there is no question he influenced an entire generation (and then some) in his styles of music and fashion. He was an entire culture unto himself. No matter what, he will always be an icon, like Elvis, Marilyn, Mozart, Shakespeare, and even Socrates. May your spirit and soul find peace and release, Mr. Jackson. I also mightily hope his children will cope well with this, and hope for them 'normal' lives outside the spotlight and legacy their father has left behind."
--Jessica Seda-Ruiz, Phoenix, Ariz.
"MJ was my favourite entertainer throughout the 80s and early 90s. Thank you for being a part of my teenage years, for brightening my days with your music and most importantly for teaching me that there is no black or white. May you rest in peace. God Bless."
--Juliana T, Perth, Western Australia
"I'm devastated. I don't want to believe it. Michael was my first superstar crush back in the 1980s. I... i am at a loss for words... God be with his family and may his soul find its way to eternal life."
--Ester, Odessa, Texas
"I grew up as a little girl in the 1980's listening to and LOVING Michael Jackson's music and watching his videos. His works were among the first works that both my parents, my little brother and I ALL loved listening to and watching together. Despite everything he went through over the years, I still remained a loyal fangirl of MJ's music, and I STILL love it. I only regret never being able to afford to attend any of his concerts, even though I DID watch them on tv whenever I could. I still remember when I was a little girl, my brother and I recorded our own little fan video of Thriller, with the two of us singing along to MJ, my brother donning a cape and werewolf mask for Vincent Price's speaking parts, and me dancing around in the background. Michael will be greatly missed!"
--Debra Rohlfs, Stanhope, N.J.
"RIP Michael Jackson...my husband and I are so shocked by your death. I loved your music and I feel like a member of my family has died. You are missed Michael, be at peace."
--Ty & Shaun Hanley, Tiffin, Ohio
"Michael wasn't only musically gifted he could perform also I loved watching him dance. Thriller was the first album I ever bought I was 11 years old I played it so much I wore it out. Michael will truly be missed. Rest in piece King Of Pop."
--Kristen, Pittsburgh, Penn.
"Just about every kid that grew up in the 80’s loved Michael. We dressed like him, stayed up late to watch his videos, and knew every word to every song on the Thriller album. As cliche as it may sound, he WAS the Elvis of our generation. Regardless of the odd events of the last 10 years, he will be greatly missed for his talent and effect on our lives"
--Amy, Austin, Texas
"I am very sad about Michael Jackson's sudden death. I am one of his fan's and I was also born on Aug 29. With Love and Prayers."
--Lal Sebastian Vellapallil, Santa Ana, Calif.
"I remember my teenage life before and after michael jackson, thriller and billy jean were important in my personal life and he inspired me to become a better person, from a confused teenager to become a successful commodities trader, which keeps an old t shirt of michael since the 80´s, i love you michael god bless you i am deeply sad i am crying now."
--C.P. Blanca Arizpe Cianca, Mexico
"I never got a chance to meet Micheal in person but I am a huge fan. I always wished he would come to Jamaica and do a show, coz I’d pay anything just to see n hear him. I love his music so much especially the song 'hold me' when he came down as an angel. I was so shocked when I learnt of his death. My condolence to his family; he will always be remembered as the world greatest ever pop star and will be sadly missed."
--Sheryleen, Portland, Jamaica
" My heart goes out to the family of Michael... I grew up with listening to his music. Again a heat felt, sorry for your loss, goes out to his remaining family... Michael, you will be missed, but your music will live on, in our hearts and soul. If I could say one thing to you, it would be thank you.... For the laughs, love, music, dancing and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life... You will be sadly missed... Good bye my friend..."
--Mike, Weare, N.H.
"i can hardly believe Michael is gone it reminds me of the time when Elvis Presley died and now Michael can rest in peace now and forever i love you and i will see you again one day... you are truly an angel and great love you and my love goes out to his family."
--Rachel Hubbell, Jacksonville, Fla.
" At 9 years old Michael Jackson had a voice larger than life. A voice that seemed to be singing only to me through songs like 'I'll Be There' and 'I Want You Back'. He entertained like no other could and was for sure 'second to none'. I raised my sons on his music, we are true MJ fans and will miss Michael very much...our heartfelt condolences are sent to his children and his family. My son received a text message on his way from work-he called me, 'momma, Michael Jackson is dead'...we held the phone in silence, unable or unwilling to absorb what that meant. The world lost today."
--Otha Farley, Stockton, Calif.
"I LOVE EVERY THING ABOUT MICHAEL HE WILL BE MISSED ALL OVER THE WORLD MY PRAYERS GO WITH YOU ALL AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL I LOVE YOU ALL IN CHRIST."
--Laura Bennett, Charlotte, N.C.
"I am 52 years old, so when Michael was a child star, I was crazy about him! I thought he was just so cute! And so talented. I’ll never forget seeing his moonwalk for the first time when it debuted on tv. Everyone was mesmerized by it! Michael was such an amazing performer. Along with his fortune and fame, he had his share of troubles and pain. I was sorry to see it. I wish him well and hope he finds peace on his journey."
--Patty Dowling, Castle Rock, Wash.
"He was 'the Thing' when I was little. I remember believing, when I was still young enough to think that the world was no bigger than the town I lived in, that he lived in this big beautiful house on the corner of a downtown street (in Marion, OH). Every time I would pass it I would think, 'there's Michael Jackson's house- I really wish I could see him!' I loved his music and his image. I just can not believe that he is really gone. It feels like he is the Elvis Presley of my time...such a huge prescense suddenly gone from a life that began at a time when the name Michael Jackson was already a household name, and he was rocking the world. His life may have been shrouded in controversy, but there is not doubt that the world would never have been the same without him. He was an amazing influence, an incredible presence, a leader, and a star. Michael, you will be missed. R.I.P Love."
--Freya Holloway Sexton, Evening Shade, Ark.
"I really like watching how Michael Jackson moves and sings. He was a real born POP STAR. He will surely be missed all through out the world. He was a legend. RIP."
--Agnes, Papua New Guinea
"Michael Jackson was a wonderful entertainer and a great talent. May God give him now the peace he had such a hard time finding in life."
--Sheila Michael, Sandwich, Ill.
"I will truly miss Michael. I will always love him. He was such a pop sensation. 'The King of Pop'. I never believed what bad things people said about him. I think people was just after his money. I loved him when I was little and always wanted to dress like him. I had my Michael Jackson shirts, shoes, hat and the famous white glove. His music and videos are the best! I wanted to go see one of his concerts in his summer tour. Goodness, Its hard to believe he is gone. He will never ever be forgotten though. My prayers are with his family and those closest to him. May God Bless them. RIP sweet Michael."
--Gwendolyn Dunn-Gardner, Johnson City, Tenn.
"OMG !!! I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE IT !!!! MAY GOD REST HIS SOUL... A TRUE LEGEND, THE BEST. YOU WILL TRULY BE MISSED."
--Barbara Cortez, Laredo, Texas
"A living legend gone forever. Michael Jackson will still live in our hearts forever. My bf, Suresh has his glove, that was presented by MJ himself when he was on his world tour. We look at it now with tears in our eyes but we are gifted to have his momento with us. It's special and will always be."
--Suresh and Lavania, Singapore
"I've been listening to his song since I was a child...May His Soul Rest In Peace."
--Hamzah Asyrani, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
"Rest in peace Michael."
--Sara, Green Bay, Wis.
"Michael you were a great dad who was raising three great kids. I will never forget the three months I worked for you in Las Vegas. Especially the one on one talk you had with me at the Wynn Resort Villas, while you were waiting to visit Steve Wynn. Escorting your kids to their teachers room was also a valued experience. All three are so polite and well educated. The are so well-behaved even at the show at the Luxor we attended. Admittingly I was never one of your fans until I got to know you while you stayed at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas for three months. Thanks for the memories that will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace my friend. Thank you for everything."
--Lanny L. Lamb, Las Vegas Nev.
"He's transcended us now. He's with the ages and will live forever in our memories and the history of our time."
--Chris Peterson, Palos Verdes, Calif.
"I've always felt a connection to Michael and his music. I can remember getting my first audio cassette tape when I was younger...Dangerous. I loved that album, and I've loved just about everything Michael ever did. He was an innovator and a master performer, and his music always touched me. It was so dynamic. He's always been my favorite artist, and I'm extremely saddened that I'll never see him perform live...but I celebrate his life and all of his accomplishments, and the joy and entertainment he brought to my own life. I'll always remember him."
--Nicole Elizabeth Ryker, Greenwood, Ind.
"To the Family of Michael Jackson we from Kansas City send our condolences and our prayers to you for your loss of one the world's greatest icons in American History. Today is a day the angels have payed a visit to the world and have received a great man. A man who has touched the whole world, who has brought many races together in life and even on this sad day. He was truly a blessing to us all and may God bless his family, his children, and his fans all across the country. Just remember 'You are not alone.'"
--The Graham Family, Kansas City, Mo.
"I will never forget the day Michael Jackson stole my heart as a child into adult life and regardless of the personal allegations surrounding his life; he was and will always be remembered as the King of Pop -- a true legend. My heart is heavy; I am brokenhearted, short of words. Let us all remember him as the phenomenal performer he was and how he strived to changed the world by reaching one person at a time with his music. People talk about the fact that Michael was going to make a comeback but in my eyes, he never left. He is gone but not forgotten and may he be able to finally rest and in peace. A true legend, so very tragic. My condolences and prayers for his family, friends and fans all over the world."
--Millie, Kissimmee, Fla.
"My first memory of Michael Jackson was a video tape my mother bought that had a compilation of concerts, songs and even the videos of Micheal. My sisters and I watched that video over and over almost everyday. I laugh just thinking about how much we looked forward to seeing him perform and sing. It is so heartbreaking to realize now that he is gone. I wish the best to his family, friends and fellow fans. He was a legend. Like Elvis and Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson is a musical icon and he will never be forgotten."
--Kerrian M., Atlanta, Georgia
"May He Rest In Peace I am olny 20 years young but Micheal Jackson has been in my life as long as i can remember i feel like an emptyness inside i mean everyone know all the scandels that happened with him but still everyone loved and still loves him will never forget MJ Now lets all have a moment of silence for that the King of Pop has laid to rest. Rip Micheal Jackson. May Your Soul Dance Its Way To Heaven As We All Know It Will..."
--Michelle Sanchez, Riverside, Calif.
"I have listened to Michael's music for as long as I can remember and I am 43 yrs old. I am very saddened by his untimely death. He had too many fans to even begin to count. He was talked about by so many people who just didn't understand him. Michael Jackson will live on in many many peoples hearts and memories... YOU will never be forgotten... God be with his children!!"
--Lisa Smith, Walterboro, S.C.
"Stunned is the only word I can think of. When I was in high school, kids teased me and made fun because I was different. I used to imagine what it was like for Michael and looked to his songs and the words in them to help me cope with the bulling and hazing. The one song that forever changed me was 'Man in the Mirror'. That song really forged a new path in my life. I did what it said I took a look at myself and...Changed. I let me be me and I can never really thank him now. I am one of many who will deeply miss this great man. Let's hope the world remembers the good that he has done and hopefully respect his children and family in this hour of need. We will miss you Michael."
--Darrell Thomas, New London, Wis.
"Even through the trials and subsequent downfall of this man, my mother still had respect for him; still a fan after all these years. When I logged into Yahoo.com and glanced at the story on the front page, I couldn't believe it. The King of Pop--dead? I literally did a double take! The most prominent memory of him was watching Michael dance on escalators (the kind that you see in airports and such) while singing -- I had always wondered how someone could handle dancing, moving on those belts on the floor, and singing at the same time. With his and Farrah's death marks the end of a golden era of the 80s where music moved the soul so profoundly. He will be greatly missed by millions across the world."
--Kayla Dunkley, Tampa, Fla.
"The first live concert I ever saw was a Jacksons concert in Toronto – 1981 – Maple Leaf Gardens. The show was great, but Michael was pure magic. And the only poster of a music artiste that I ever put up on my bedroom wall was – guess who – Michael Jackson. Say what you will about his lifestyle, but as an entertainer and performer, the man was phenomenal. He was the greatest performer ever, and there will never be another Michael Jackson. His music will live forever, his legacy will live on, and he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Michael, you will never be forgotten, and God bless your family."
--Patricia, Grenada
"Say whatever you will about Michael Jackson's behavior over the last 20 years...but for those of us who grew up in the 80's, MJ will always be a pop God who gave us some of the best songs and videos. I along with many young girls back then, was totally in love with him. We are playing all MJ music at work today. He will be greatly missed!"
--Stacy, Waikoloa, Hawaii
>>>>....News readers shared their tributes and memories of the "King of Pop."
* * *
"When I received the text that the King of Pop had passed on, the feeling was surreal. I thought this was a hoax until the news came in on CNN. For some reason, when the news set in I felt an instant and overwhelming amount of pain come over me. The man whose edgy, original, funky, smooth and timeless pieces of work I had grown up listening to was gone and then I thought of my eight year old son who loves Michael like most kids love Chris Brown these days. I got home and watched all the newscast and stations playing non-stop Michael hits and I looked around in my house and realized something amazing. My mother, myself and my children were all crazy about this one iconic individual. In these day and ages, what are the odds that 3 generations would love the same music? Well the way I see it, its not odd at all, for goodness sakes, its MICHAEL JACKSON. He will truly be missed and I plan on blasting his hits for the years to come. My children will still be able to say they grew up listening to the best! My love, support and prayers go out to all of his fans, friends and family!"
--Maurisha Minor, Phoenix, Ariz.
"In your life you may have felt alone and have had to face extreme scrutiny, but I hope you look upon the world from heaven and hear all the voices and cries of millions, if not billions, of people who love you and mourn for the loss of you, our King of Pop for all time. Your music and your voice will live on in our hearts forever and we will never forget your talented gifts you shared with us. I've been playing You Are Not Alone over and over and can't believe you are gone. We will miss you. I extend my deepest condolensces and sympathies to Michael's family and all the fans who are grieving at this terrible loss. I'm heartbroken."
--Kelly, Toledo, Ohio
"He was a man with tremendous talent. He was a gift to the world. I still cannot believe he is gone. I keep wishing it was not true. I loved the man and his music and will forever. May we never ever forget the man that was Micheal Jackson. His legacy will live on forever."
--Keitha Lynch-Smith, Barbados
"As a single child, I remember coming back home every summer from boarding school and blasting MJ's songs on my stereo as soon as my parents left for work and dancing silly around the house. I never felt alone. Thank you, Michael for unforgettable music and your amazing spirit."
--Bipana, Kathmandu
"There is not a larger music icon as Michael Jackson, nor will there ever be. His life was cut too short by unforeseen events. I only wish he could have performed his last tour in London before this happened. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fans. I believe he will have the largest funeral when it happens. Although there has been MUCH negative publicity against him in the past decade or so, I want the young generation to look past it and give him and his music the respect it deserves. He has changed the music industry forever by uniting African-American and White music. He deserves for all of the hurt and pain to be left behind and lay to rest the 'King of Pop' forever. Goodbye Michael."
--Jade Autry, Marysville, Penn.
"I have been a fan of his since forever. I remenber when I received Thriller. My uncle got it for me for passing in school. When I heard it, I knew that Michael Jackson was destined for greatness. I can't believe that he is gone. My heart hurts so. My prayers and condolences go to his family and friends and all of his fans. He will be truly missed."
--Alishia Armstrong, Madison, Wis.
"In the 20th century, I can't think of a figure more popular than Micheal Jackson. He was identified and his music was loved by even those who couldn't understand a word of what he sang."
--Ahmed Bashir, Lahore, Pakistan
"Michael was a man after my own heart. The man i dream and pray to see one day in my life but sorry, i see it was only a dream that will never come through. May your soul rest in Peace Michael. We love you Michael."
--David Agbugan, Nigeria
"My name is rob. Im stationed here at camp taji in Iraq. I was really stunned and saddened when I heard of the passing of Michael Jackson. Im 27 and remember him for a lot of his 80's and other music. Michael Jordan had the commercial about being like mike. Well. When I was growing up I wanted to be like Michael Jackson. He was pleasure to hear his music. He was always putting something out that was good to listen to. Thriller by far is my favorite. He made music for all types of music geres. No matter what happened in his personal life, he was always there for his fans. i used to have the Michael Jackson outfit and had my hair like him back in 1985. Always a fan favorite and always a favorite of mine. Im from Chicago and I must say that I include Michael and his family as far as being from that area. The world has lost a wonderful person and the greatest music entertainer today. He will be truly missed. But he will live on forever in all our hearts. R.I.P. to the GREATEST."
--Rob Baldwin, Chicago, Ill.
"When I was a little girl, I remember being fascinated by Michael Jackson. I don't know if it was his dance moves or his sensational music. I don't think he received enough credit while he was alive. He was definately a trendsetter. The world of music will never be the same. I will miss him forever."
--Alesha G. Flora, Miss.
"i would like to say michael jackson was 1 of the best musicians of my life time in my short 26 years and i'm sure there will never be another like him. god bless and god be with your family during this trying time. i've had my own shares of public humiliation and if MJ can pull thru, so can i. thank you for showing us all we too can make it if we stick in there and that there is a bright side to the darkness."
--Bing, Alaska
"Unarguably the greatest artist of all time. the man made people move. the man made sense! rest in peace. physically dead, ALIVE FOREVER. Jacko immortal, Jacko Forever! His death shall bring him to life."
--Kathan Patel, Toronto, ON, Canada
"Michael and his family are in our thoughts and prayers. It is very unbelievable to think he won't be performing any longer. I've been a fan for nearly 40 years, and now my son began enjoying Michael's music too. He's even learned to moonwalk. We are just very saddened by the news. In their thirst to make money, the media-paparazzi really seriously can hurt people; you would think they would learn to back off from people before hurting lives that way. The world has lost a musical genius as well as a great human being. Thank you, Michael, for all you gave to us...fly with the angels and may your spirit always stay with your family."
--B. Peffer, Pittsburgh, Penn.
"Michael, your music will always be in our hearts, I know 'Where there is love, you are there'. Your songs relay the messages straight from your heart and these reflect through your actions...sometimes they are just misinterpreted and it is difficult to believe anything negative about you. It is heavy at heart to accept that a world icon has departed. May you R.I.P. Michael, thank you for the memories. You will always be in our hearts and part of our lives. We love you! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
--Robert Caoile, Manila, Philippines - South San Francisco, Calif.
"You will always be remembered as the man who defined multiple generations across the globe...Will miss you."
--Amanda Ting, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"His frail human body and mind finally surrendered to the heavenly gifts (talents, fame & fortune) that so few ever receive. I will always remember him as a beautiful soul who lost his way and never could reconcile with the world. I was very fortunate to be among the masses to have seen him live in his 'Dangerous' tour. Let's remember all the good and joy he brought during his time, with his music, performances and generosity across the world. Rest in Peace Michael."
--Wiwid, Indonesia
"God bless you Mike and your family. May you have eternal happiness were you surely are now. Ill never forget the memories you have created for me and my family. I only wish I could have met you or seen one of your shows live. Please forgive the ill minded people that tried to interfer with your life...they know not what they do. You were always better than that and it showed in your character. Take care good friend and rest in peace."
--Ray and Lana Elder, Harrison Township, Mich.
"Michael Jackson will truly be missed in my heart! I grew up listening to his music and following his career. The music world wouldn't be the way it is today if it wasn't for him! God bless you and you are now in heaven looking down on all of us. He is our guardian angel. No one will ever forget him, and I cannot beleive you are really gone. I love you michael!"
--Kristina, Santa Barbara, Calif.
"My friend and I saw him at the original MGM in Las Vegas when I was 19 about 35 years ago. In the showroom that night all the old people took off when 'The Jackson 5' came on and the rest of us stood up, danced, yelled and sang ABC...He was awesome then as now. I am a huge fan. My heart goes out to his children, family, friends and fans. When I heard of his death I lit a candle, blasted his music video and cried. So sad...Rest In Peace My Man YOU ARE THE KING OF POP and I will always remember you!"
--Wendy N. in Orlando, Fla.
"May the Jackson family have peace and blessings during this tragic time...My love goes out to the family, the true fans, and to Michael Jackson...May Michael Jackson live in peace and my god rest his soul...also my belief is that Michael has not left our lives...he is still alive as long as we all keep his music going...he was a big inspiration to everyone...especially for me :-( Michael is still alive inside our hearts...all we have to do is feel him and his music beats...I will miss you Michael...May god bless you...love you..."
--Tejal S., Brownstown, Mich.
"I have always been a big fan of Michael Jackson and regardless of what anyone said he did or supposedly did it never changed my feelings for him. I still have a picture of him in my photo album that I received when I signed up to be a member of his fan club and I pull it out and look at it every now and then. I send my deepest heartfelt condolences to his family, especially his children and I pray that his soul is now at rest and peace. I grew up with Michael and I will always be a big fan, sometimes it felt as if he were a part of my family and I will miss him so much. God Rest Your Soul, Michael. I love you now and forever."
--Gwen Scott, Mansfield, La.
"We grew up on his songs, let it be Jackson 5, Christmas albums or solo hits. The world is yet to realize how much a person she has lost forever. May God bless his family and may his legend continue. Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson."
--Gilbert AL Francis, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Sadness is no longer a word. My prayers for Michael was for him to have his comeback, and for people to realize that he did not hurt children. Instead, he embraced their non-judgmental attitudes and felt the most comfortable with them. Sadly, a few saw it as an opportunity for financial gain, without any regard to what he gave their children. Now, their children are scared, but not by Michael. Rest in peace, Michael. You're bigger than Elvis."
--Joey, Brooklyn, N.Y.
"I am so sad to hear of Michael;s death. I grew up listening to his music and he was such an icon. I feel bad that he died just when he was planning a big tour schedule. I am sure the concerts would have been amazing. He blessed us with entertainement for all those years. May he rest in peace."
--Kimberly, Eastpointe, Mich.
"Mike was an inspiration to us all and will be sadly missed. I thought alot of him and he inspired my stage performances also!! Goodbye Michael Joseph Jackson , May the lord Bless You and Keep You !!"
--Joe Jackson, Tipton, Ind.
"I loved Michael Jackson when I was in high school, but he had been a prominent figure throughout my life before then. I remember standing in front of the TV with a videotape of his MTV VMA's performance and trying to copy his dance moves--and I openly and proudly credit him with teaching me how to dance. It's been a very bad week for us all--too many people have died this week, and this is certainly the biggest death of the year, if not the decade, or even the century. I'm not all that surprised that he died, given the circumstances and his tendency to overwork his body while rehearsing, but I am very saddened. I only hope his children can cope with this loss--no one deserves to lose his or her father, especially not at such a young age as his children are. Rest in peace, Michael. You will most certainly be missed."
--Cyndi S. Crawford, Atlanta, Ga.
"Rest and Peace Michael! Hopefully, you already found the most precious peaceful place that most good soul ever wishing for. Im not your diehard fan, but, I love all your music and dance moves. Everytime you're guesting on TV Show, I dropped whatever Im doing just to watch you until the shows is done. I will missed you so much. Our happynest is always in Gods well. Goodbye."
--Adelfa Clamucha, Philippines
"I cannot recall a time when Michael Jackson was not in my life. I have been sitting here watching the news and I am still in total disbelief. I will always love Michael Jackson. Whenever I heard his music, I knew he was a genius. He will always be the King of Pop. No one will ever take your place Michael. I love you and one day I hope I will see you again. Much love and sympathies to the Jackson family and the millions of fans all over the world. Our King went to meet up with The King. Michael Jackson 4Ever."
--Micheline de Rothschild, New York City, N.Y.
"I remember coming home from school on 80`s, I was about 8 years old. First thing I did at home was that I put on the Thriller tape and practiced a bit moonwalk...And nowdays, when I feel a bit sad, the Jackson 5 always helped to make my day bright! But today it makes me sad.. Cant belive you are not there anymore! I´m happy that I saw you live in Estonia 1997! Thou my moonwalk never came out like yours, I try it today again, for your memory! I think many people do! Thank you for all and rest in peace!"
--Aale Rosenstrauch, Tallinn, Estonia
"Every human have limited life on this earth but some peoples live himself forever by his character & Michael Jackson one of them. Only few people in this world who reach highest level of fame by his great effort & you can count on your fingertip that kind of peoples & you will be find Michael Jackson hopefully top of the list. His POP style live forever in every corner of this world when somebody perform POP music. May GOD shower his countless blessing on his soul."
--Aatif Javeed, Faisalabad, Pakistan
"I went to Michael's concerts here, in Bucharest in 1992 and 1996, I was fascinated by him at the time. In the recent years, the magic had passed but I still went in shops and searched for every album of his - he had a rhythm, lines, musical notes, message that will never be forgotten. I do not like empty music like the one today (house, electronic..), I like to hear the piano, the guitar, the trumpet..and in some songs of Michael's the instruments and words mingled in an extraordinary piece of musical art. I hope that his children will never forget their father and will have a family and friends around them, I am sending my eternal regrets to his family, to all his friends, to all his fans, to all people who appreciated him all over the world. More than that, I would like to add that I have never believed that crap with the pedofile accusations, I just think that people wanted to take advantage of him, of his fame, of his money; here in Romania people are clever and experienced and do not believe all the gossip that appears in the press, my father was in the US in the 80' s and the same thing happened when he wanted to take a baby in his arms, they told him not to do that because they would say he was a pedofile, when he just wanted to admire and try to talk to the little one. So, as a final idea, I hope that Michael's soul knows that he will be missed by all the people who love and appreciate good music! God rest him in Peace!"
--Adriana, Bucharest, Romania
"You have been my hero since the age of 10. You have been my inspiration and will forever continue to be so. Thank you for everything. You will forever be the King of Pop. RIP."
--Bala, New York, N.Y.
"MJ you will be missed. Eventhough you are 8 years older than me, you will be missed. I have been a fan since I don't know when. I remember when I bought my first red jacket, the gloves and shoes, even my jerry curl. No matter what people say or have said about you, you are one in a million my brother. LOVE YOU MICHEAL!"
--Arthur E. McBeath, Virginia
"You will forever and always live on in the hearts of the millions you touched! You were the legend of all legends and you will truly be missed. Your songs were the first I ever knew as a little girl and you have continued to be the greatest muscian known to man. May you now rest in peace without the scrutiny and pain that many in society placed upon you! We will love you always, Michael!"
--La Nise, Spartanburg SC
"I was so shocked by this. I grew up with the fact that Michael was the greatest. I'm 15 - got the albums, posters - leather jackets! I've learned the dance moves man. You just can't get away from him and his influence. He made people live, dance, and sing. All across the world people danced to a voice and a power that moved them beyond words. Yanno what I love about this - watch everyone. Watch them dancing and singing and becoming so filled with life when they think of him and play his music in tribute. The priviledge of immortality will let him continue to move the world. Thanks michael. You strove for perfection and damn boy you did good, we all saw you as perfect, no matter what anyone said about you I just hope that you know that the entire world cried last night when they knew there'd be another angel in heaven."
--Nicole Warnke, Houston, Texas
"My condolences to the Jackson family for their loss! You are in our prayers! I didn’t grow up to Michael’s music, but loved every beat, hum and shout, that he gave whether performing live or just giving you a TASTE of the ‘King of Pop’. He will greatly be missed and will be forever in our hearts. ‘YOU GOT TO FEEL THAT HEAT AND WE CAN RIDE THE BOOGIE, SHARE THAT BEAT OF LOVEEEE! We are rocking with you Michael!"
--L. Anderson, Washington, DC
"Being a 60’s child I feel like we have grown up together throughout these years. I remember seeing him perform on tv as a young boy, listening and singing to the songs and watching him dance. He was just so amazing and creative with his performances and videos. I have never got a chance to see a live performance but he still captured my heart. I admired this man because despite his life long detractors he proved that it doesn't matter your background or financial status, if you want it you can achieve greatness and he was just that GREATNESS. And he has truly achieve such greatness throughout theses years with hit after hit from the Jackson 5, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous and lets not forget the infamous Motown era. He will always and forever be the “KING OF POP.” To the Jackson family, know that God will keep them secure and he has Michael in his hands now letting him rest from his long journey here on Earth and that he now has the peace he sought for so long. R.I.P Michael. Also R.I.P. Farrah."
--Angie, Washington D.C.
"I just can’t believe Michael Jackson is gone. I just can’t believe it. I grew up listening to his music. He was and still is my all time FAVORITE artist. I am just so saddened by this. May prayers go out to his family. He will be GREATLY missed."
--Nicole Matyas, Lorain, Ohio
"I remember growing up listening to his music and being so fascinated that someone could have that much talent. I am an 80's child, so I was blessed with seeing many iconic moments of his life: the Motown 25 Special, the release of Thriller, Bad, Dangerous and Invincible. Yes, I had the curls, glove, and the Thriller jacket growing up. My sister was a HUGE fan and we will miss him very much. I admired this man tremendously, because despite his detractors, he PROVED that it doesn't matter your background or financial status, if you want it, you can achieve greatness. May the Jackson family know that God will keep them secure and may Michael have the peace he sought for so long."
--Le Beau, Normal, Ill.
"Blessings and condolences to the Jackson family. I agree with everyone... the media circus is over and Michael is able to rest, finally in peace. May the true love in your heart live forever. Thank you for the incredible music that we will always remember. In my workplace, we've been singing along with the radio today, ever since the sad news broke. We were remembering the first time we saw the 'Billie Jean' video on MTV. I remember thinking, how does he get the cement to light up like that?! You are missed, Michael."
--Jennifer Mueller, Las Vegas, Nev.
"Such a GREAT GREAT loss in the music industry. I practically grew up with his music!"
--Maidi Asuncion, Manila, Philippines
"I have many memories of watching Michael Jackson when I was younger, I have always admired him and continue to do so today. Regardless of what has been said about him, I have never believed that he would ever hurt anyone, especially children. I pray for his soul and his family at this time. This is a very sad moment, I wish it was'nt happening. God Bless you Michael Jackson, I pray that you are in his presence right now, be at peace, and the world still loves you. God Bless the family of Micheal Jackson and I pray for you to have God's peace. He was truly a talented man and a blessing to this world. I believe God felt that he had been through enough heartache down here and he took him to his rest, REST IN PEACE with JESUS!!!!! With all my love..."
--Andrea, Lakewood, Ohio
"I was only 10 at the time, but I remember seeing Michael Jackson in concert at the United We Stand concert in DC after 9/11. Still one of the most memorable acts I've ever seen. Rest in peace!"
--Keri B, College Station, Texas
"I've been a fan of Michael Jackson since I can remember. I am his loyal fan and still remain a loyal fan no matter what he has been through. His sudden demise is a great shock to me but I pray for him and his family. We miss you Michael. May your legend prevails."
--Joe Miceli, Dallas, Texas
"Born in 1972, I grew up with MIchael's music, everyone did regardless of who tried to denied it in the 90s. My kids today, know his music from his thirller 25 years cd that i have stored in the car, they have his best video cd's. Regardless of the truth of events, the truth is that the world has missed his shine and talent for many years, shadowed by the hypocrites and a judicial system that allows heroes to rise and fall faster than any empire, I am saddened to know that he left this world without knowing the power of love from the millions that weep him today. Even more so by the stream of gossip and tarnish that will come from his death. Michael Jackson the man has died today of heart failure, but he will live on forever in the hearts of millions, if one heart could not carry the burden then amongst those loving him, it shall be overcome."
--Monica Flores, Monterrey Mexico
"Michael Jackson was the first person I ever wanted to marry, I still have home movies of me dancing around my living room with my Thriller record. I feel that we lost an amazing artist today... Michael went through alot of trials and tribulations in his life. He was forced to be in the spotlight at a very young age, and gave up his childhood in the process. By giving up a part of HIS life, he graced the world with some of the best music ever written. Twenty five years after hearing his music, I still love it as much now as I ever did then. My heart goes out to the whole world and most importantly, his family. Despite all the media hype, I still love Michael Jackson and I always will."
--Laura F., Essex Junction, Vt.
"He is such a good performer. It is such a lost to us as his fans. But hope that he can live well over there at his new place. May Allah bless him. Amin."
--Nur Nasriq Aini Binti Samsudin, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
"I WANT TO SAY THAT MICHAEL JACKSON WAS ONE OF MY BIGGEST INSPIRATIONS EVER! HE IS MOST OF MY IDOLS IDOL SO I KNOW THAT HE IS VERY SPECIAL.H E TO ME IS WHAT MADE DANCING AND SINGING ALL AT ONCE A VERY POPULAR AND FUN THING TO DO. ITS HARD FOR ME TO ACCEPT THE FACT THAT HE IS GONE. I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT HE'D BE REAL OLD AND THEY'D BE GIVING HIM A TRIBUTE AND I WOULD PERFORM FOR HIM AND HE'D TELL ME THAT I WAS A REALLY GOOD PERFORMER. IT REALLY HURT ME TO HAVE TO REALIZE THAT THAT DREAM WAS NOY GOING TO COME TRUE. I WILL DEARLY MIS HIS VOICE AND HIS STYLE. NOBODY WILL EVER COMPARE TO HIM BECAUSE ALTHOUGH HE IS GONE HE WILL ALWAYS BE THE KING OF POP. MY HEART GOES TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HE ISN'T AN ICON HE SOMETHING BIGGER THAN THAT. SO BIG THAT THEY HAVEN'T EVEN MADE A WORD TO DESCRIBE HIM YET AND THEY PROBABLY NEVER WILL BE ABLE TO. LOVE YA MICHAEL AND MAY YOU REST IN."
--LeJerrica, Louisiana
"WOW...What more can be said. He was truly an inspiration and a force to be reckon with. No one will ever be able to replace this talent. A true gift from above. I thank you Michael for all of the memories. I am only 33 and he has always been a part of my life, and now my children's. An icon for years to come, thank you for your presence...REST IN PEACE SIR."
--Sakara, Chicago, Ill.
"I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Michael Jackson’s untimely death. I’ve always loved his music and believe him to be the most talented artist in history. This is a true loss to fans all across the globe. Michael is an icon and will always be remembered for being a little strange but his talent surpassed his quirks. Rest in peace sweet Michael."
--Angela, Arlington, Texas
"The death of Michael Jackson has got to be the saddest thing to have happened since the passing of Bernie Mac. I can say those two names in the same sentence because Bernie was a King of Comedy and Michael was the King of Pop. I grew up on Michael Jackson, loved him with the Jackson Five and loved him on his own. Personal life aside, as most go overboard on that, Michael was an amazing performer and an inspirational writer. His music was just awesome. He did break down barriers. His moon walk will be enbedded in hearts forever. What a sad and tragic end to a wonderful human. Rest in Peace King of Pop. You are loved every day and will be missed forever."
--Shannon, Lawton, Okla.
"When I heard the news of The King Of Pop died sadness just overwhelmed me. There has never been an artist who had it all: vocals, moves, and on stage persona like the King. I am praying for his family and hope God has a wonderful place for him in Heaven. Michael you will be surely missed."
--Heidi, Austin, Texas
"All my condolences to his family members and Micheal, we will always love you and will remember you! you made the music a living thing on this whole planet. your talents are unmeasurable!"
--Tsering lhamo, Brussels, Belgium
"May Michael finally find the peace that he was never able to have while living. He was by far one of the greatest entertainers of all time. My prayers go out to his family. He is in God's care now. Bless you."
-- Judy, Kentucky
"This has got to be one of the saddest days in music history!! I grew up with his songs... His song touches everyone in the world... He will be in our memory forever..."
--Timmy, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Though i never get to hear much of his music, shows and concert due to my age. the way i hear people talk about him really made me convinced how great he is. He became an inspiration to lots of us especially during the 80's where most region across the globe are suffering, he became an icon of bliss and love. And for us generation who unfortunately missed the most of his career, he will still remain one of the biggest star of the entertainment industry."
--Ace De Vera, Manila Philippines
"Michael Jackson was the greatest. I was looking forward to his comeback concert. His work in the music industry will never be surpassed. He will be missed. I pray for his family's strength in this trying time. I loved Michael Jackson since I was a child. His posters covered my walls. I am sad but I had great memories."
--Loretha Lott, Chicago, Ill.
"Michael (TO OUR KING OF POP), CAN'T BELIEVE YOU HAVE PASSED AWAY. YOU WILL BE FOREVER MISSED. THE WORLD AND THE WORLD OF MUSIC WON'T BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE WITH THE HEAVENLY ANGELS AND WITH OUR SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST."
--Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Perez & Family, Iowa
"I couldn't believe my ears when I heard the King Of Pop died. I was stunned. He was a great performer. Through the good and bad times I stuck by Michael. He was the best performer of my times. I loved him and always will. R.I.P. Michael. You are always going to be the Greatest in my eyes."
--Tonya, Morrisville, Vt.
"What can I say I am totally still in shock!! I grew up with Michael Jackson I had Michael and his brothers on wall as a your teenager. I played his Off the Wall album so much my family was ready to either get rid of me or the album. He will be missed, I am just in shock. Rest in peace Michael, I Love You!"
--Michelle, Wyandanch, N.Y.
"Today is a sad day not just for the entertainment biz but for all of us who grow-up with the jackson Family, from watching them preform as the jackson 5, to watching there sisters preform as well ruby with her hit centerpied, latoya preforming with micheal in some of his videos, to janet, on good times and then staying close on big brother micheal's heels as a pop performer in her own right, Micheal was like a brother to all of us we shared his up' and down's and we never left his side. Till this day his influrence in music can never be duplicated, The endless charities he's started and gave to, in order to heal the world as he would say brought out the best in all of us. To his children, his family, his close friends, and most of all the fans around the world who lives you have touched, we love you and we will miss you but we never will forget you and all you done to make the planet a better place for all mankind we love you micheal rest in peace."
--Percy Mcpeters, Blue Mtn, Miss.
"I loved his songs and music, his persona, his charisma, his dance moves. He was a performer who had everything. This is a sad day in the pop world and in the whole world. He was put on this earth to entertain and love. No one could ever reach the height of popularity that he reached. When I heard the news, I was shocked and heartbroken. A sad time and a loss for all of us...No matter what your history is - you were always a pop icon and entertainer - thank you for the memories. I would like to give condolenses to the family and friends. May God bless his family and may his legend continue. Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson."
--Hariamala Kesavan, Malaysia
"I am saddened by the loss of this music legend. Even during his troubled life-events, I remained a loyal fan of his victorious talent and only hoped the circumstances were of faulted misunderstandings. My family and I spent many years on holidays playing the songs of his very early music. His gentle nature was an enormous attribute while his spirit and energy embellished mankind. My thoughts and prayers for his family and close friends. They have lost an icon, a sweet soul and a world-class entertainer."
--Julie Romain, New Orleans, La.
"Michael has always been and will always be the big LOVE of my life. He should always be remembered for the things he has given to us, his music, his passion, his love. Today, the world should acknowledge what a great person he is and not what he is thought to be. I love you Michael, forever and ever. My biggest condolences to Michael's family and to us, his ever adoring fans. WE LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!! RIP"
--Izadora Mustaffa, Malaysia
"When my mom was pregnant with me, she would play Michael Jackson in the tape player and place the headphones on her belly so that I could listen. I grew up loving him. He had an unbelievable impact in the music industry, and was an amazing performer. I remained a devoted fan through all of his troubles, and no matter what will forever be a fan. He will live on through his music; and taken so suddenly, he will be missed! My condolences go out to his family and friends. Thank you for the wonderful memories! R.I.P."
--Jessica Meeker, Dallas, Texas
"I've been a long time fan of Michael's from the age of 5 to being 30 now. I'm speechless at his death and my heart is deeply saddened by what has happened. Rest in Peace Michael...We will miss you terribly!"
--Danielle MacLennan, Attleboro, Mass.
"I am in utter shock! I grew up listening to Michael Jackson, he is an icon whom regardless of what people accused him of, or thought he did, or didn't do will truly be missed. Music lost a piece of it's heart today and so did millions of fans around the world! My heart goes out to his family and friends! May he finally be able to rest in peace."
--Christina, Abilene, Texas
"Death is always a hard thing to deal with, but more especially so when it is someone like the King of Pop. I was just recently watching The American Dream on VH1, and I find out this horrible news today. It was very unexpected, and sad to see someone loved as much as Michael cut down so early. Being from Motown, I grew up listening to all of his hits from the Jackson 5 to his many solo albums. He may very well had been the greatest entertainer ever, and it will be a long time before someone could provide the same caliber of work that Michael so often graced us with. He has made one of the biggest contributions to modern music, and is sampled in every genre. To his family, I send my condolensces for their loss. However, he is not gone for he will live forever through his music and in the heart of his fans. R.I.P. Michael Jackson & Farrah Fawcett"
--Angelo Jenkins, Detroit, Mich.
"I really loved his songs. Rest in peace."
--Anna P., Chicago, Ill.
"Through the massive charity project of 'We are the World', Michael helped save uncounted lives. Saving even one life is like saving an entire world! May his tremendous good deed clear his soul of any traces negativity, and may he rest in perfect peace. May we forgive him, and may he forgive us!"
Matthew, New York, N.Y.
"I find this so strange that in one year we have gained the first black president and now we lose one of our great black icons of the music world. A very sad day indeed. I did not understand his need to be close to young boys like that and hoped and still do that there was nothing sexual in it.
Yes he was strange but for some reason genius and eccentricity seem to go hand in hand. But when it comes to being an entertainer WoW He has no equal. Only he could simply walk onto a stage and people just went wild. Very sorry indeed."
--Terry Best, Barbados
"Micheal Jackson was the king of pop. He was to many of us like princess Di was to many people. he was a very good entatainer. We have always loved his music. He could bring joy to you through his music. we will remember the man that he was, not the lies that was told of him. we give his family our prayers."
--Kevin and Melvina Hutton, Airville, Penn.
"Rip michael. You will be missed."
--Connie Norman, Indiana
"I lived in Texas as a boy, and thought Michael Jackson was a 'black' artist. Around fourth grade, I started actually hearing some of his music, and realized: this was good stuff! Michael opened my eyes to a world of entertainment that I would have otherwise missed as a ignorant young white kid. Thanks to him, I was able to later enjoy other musicians like Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, even Run D.M.C. Thanks Michael. Goodbye – you will be missed."
--Andy R, Washington DC
"When I was a kid, He was very popular in our remote village in India. At that time, we didn't even know who the American president was but we knew Michael Jackson. We enjoyed his music so much even without understanding the meaning of a single word. That was the power of his music. I am very sad."
--Blesson George, Pathanapuram, India
"He gave so much...and got so little...; money doesn't heal hurt."
--Terry Ann Fortuin, Garfield, Kan.
"I remember being a kid when I first heard his song 'Black or White' on TV. Yeah, I first saw him on TV, not the radio. I thought he was THE best I’ve ever seen. He had the moves, the voice, the charisma –- and his songs, they’re all so unique and gets me on my feet! I loved his songs that have inspirational messages like 'Heal the World' and 'You are Not Alone'. Our (middle) school band played his song 'Heal the World' when I was 11 years old and my late grandma saw me perform. It was wonderful. This is my tribute to the late King of the Pops because he (or at least his songs) had been a part of my life as I was growing up. Now I am in my mid 20s. Rest in peace and may the Lord have mercy on your soul."
--Audrey J Ansibin, KK, Malaysia
"One of the greatest musicians to walk the earth. To think he almost wasn't part of the Jackson 5! R.I.P. Gloved One ... Time for the King of Pop and The King of Rock and Roll to sing together for all eternity ... can't get tickets for that show anywhere!"
--Greg, Trinidad and Tobago
"I just hope the children are being cared for at this time. I am very shocked and saddened by the death of Michael Jackson. I have and always will believe he was innocent of the crimes he was accused of and I believe it took its toll on him. I can say that my daughter and I will light a candle for him and his family. RIP-King of Pop."
--Angel from St. Louis, Mo.
"I may be a 90s kid, but Michael Jackson's my favourite in a class where everyone listens to Britney Spears or the Backstreet Boys. I woke up this morning to hear that one of the greatest music icons is dead. I may not have cried...yet but I feel full of regret that he will never be able to get up on that stage one last time to show us again why he is the greatest performer ever!!!"
--Kyle Tot, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
"Michael you were the best entertainer I have ever known. You have been number one since I first heard your music when I was 8. You will be greatly missed by my ears and heart. May your great music live on forever in our hearts. Bye Moonwalker."
--Eric Foiles, Chippewa Falls, Wis.
"i was thinking, it's a dream, but now i wake up seen it real. Pop music has gone. May He Soul Rest in Peaceeeeeeeeeeeee."
--Yusuff Animashaun, Abuja, Nigeria
"I may only be 24 years old but micheal jacksons music has been with me my whole life. I have followed his career and respect the man like no other in the buisness. We have truly lost a great artist today. Micheal Jackson's impact on the world will forever be remembered. Rest In peace Micheal and just know that your fans will always love you!"
--Brenda Gonet, San Diego, Calif.
"As a 38-year old African-American man, Michael Jackson has been a part of my life all of my life. As long as I have been alive, there has been Michael Jackson. Listening to Jackson 5ive 45's on my Fisher Price record player as a preschooler; watching the cartoon and variety show on TV, and trying my best to do the robot like him during the break to "Dancing Machine;" learning and singing "Destiny," "Off The Wall" and "Triumph" note for note in their entirety throughout elementary school; memorizing all the steps to "Beat It" and "Thriller" (and coveting the jackets) in middle school; still enjoying him as he got stranger and less relevant on "Bad" and "Dangerous" through high school and college; snapping and singing along to "Butterflies" with my wife and kids. No matter what his personal life became, his legacy is intact: one of, if not the single greatest entertainer the world has known. Our prayers are with the family, but our condolences are to ourselves as well, for we have all suffered a great loss. Rest in peace, Michael."
--DeNon, Los Angeles, Calif.
"Say what you will about Michael Jackson, but there is no question he influenced an entire generation (and then some) in his styles of music and fashion. He was an entire culture unto himself. No matter what, he will always be an icon, like Elvis, Marilyn, Mozart, Shakespeare, and even Socrates. May your spirit and soul find peace and release, Mr. Jackson. I also mightily hope his children will cope well with this, and hope for them 'normal' lives outside the spotlight and legacy their father has left behind."
--Jessica Seda-Ruiz, Phoenix, Ariz.
"MJ was my favourite entertainer throughout the 80s and early 90s. Thank you for being a part of my teenage years, for brightening my days with your music and most importantly for teaching me that there is no black or white. May you rest in peace. God Bless."
--Juliana T, Perth, Western Australia
"I'm devastated. I don't want to believe it. Michael was my first superstar crush back in the 1980s. I... i am at a loss for words... God be with his family and may his soul find its way to eternal life."
--Ester, Odessa, Texas
"I grew up as a little girl in the 1980's listening to and LOVING Michael Jackson's music and watching his videos. His works were among the first works that both my parents, my little brother and I ALL loved listening to and watching together. Despite everything he went through over the years, I still remained a loyal fangirl of MJ's music, and I STILL love it. I only regret never being able to afford to attend any of his concerts, even though I DID watch them on tv whenever I could. I still remember when I was a little girl, my brother and I recorded our own little fan video of Thriller, with the two of us singing along to MJ, my brother donning a cape and werewolf mask for Vincent Price's speaking parts, and me dancing around in the background. Michael will be greatly missed!"
--Debra Rohlfs, Stanhope, N.J.
"RIP Michael Jackson...my husband and I are so shocked by your death. I loved your music and I feel like a member of my family has died. You are missed Michael, be at peace."
--Ty & Shaun Hanley, Tiffin, Ohio
"Michael wasn't only musically gifted he could perform also I loved watching him dance. Thriller was the first album I ever bought I was 11 years old I played it so much I wore it out. Michael will truly be missed. Rest in piece King Of Pop."
--Kristen, Pittsburgh, Penn.
"Just about every kid that grew up in the 80’s loved Michael. We dressed like him, stayed up late to watch his videos, and knew every word to every song on the Thriller album. As cliche as it may sound, he WAS the Elvis of our generation. Regardless of the odd events of the last 10 years, he will be greatly missed for his talent and effect on our lives"
--Amy, Austin, Texas
"I am very sad about Michael Jackson's sudden death. I am one of his fan's and I was also born on Aug 29. With Love and Prayers."
--Lal Sebastian Vellapallil, Santa Ana, Calif.
"I remember my teenage life before and after michael jackson, thriller and billy jean were important in my personal life and he inspired me to become a better person, from a confused teenager to become a successful commodities trader, which keeps an old t shirt of michael since the 80´s, i love you michael god bless you i am deeply sad i am crying now."
--C.P. Blanca Arizpe Cianca, Mexico
"I never got a chance to meet Micheal in person but I am a huge fan. I always wished he would come to Jamaica and do a show, coz I’d pay anything just to see n hear him. I love his music so much especially the song 'hold me' when he came down as an angel. I was so shocked when I learnt of his death. My condolence to his family; he will always be remembered as the world greatest ever pop star and will be sadly missed."
--Sheryleen, Portland, Jamaica
" My heart goes out to the family of Michael... I grew up with listening to his music. Again a heat felt, sorry for your loss, goes out to his remaining family... Michael, you will be missed, but your music will live on, in our hearts and soul. If I could say one thing to you, it would be thank you.... For the laughs, love, music, dancing and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life... You will be sadly missed... Good bye my friend..."
--Mike, Weare, N.H.
"i can hardly believe Michael is gone it reminds me of the time when Elvis Presley died and now Michael can rest in peace now and forever i love you and i will see you again one day... you are truly an angel and great love you and my love goes out to his family."
--Rachel Hubbell, Jacksonville, Fla.
" At 9 years old Michael Jackson had a voice larger than life. A voice that seemed to be singing only to me through songs like 'I'll Be There' and 'I Want You Back'. He entertained like no other could and was for sure 'second to none'. I raised my sons on his music, we are true MJ fans and will miss Michael very much...our heartfelt condolences are sent to his children and his family. My son received a text message on his way from work-he called me, 'momma, Michael Jackson is dead'...we held the phone in silence, unable or unwilling to absorb what that meant. The world lost today."
--Otha Farley, Stockton, Calif.
"I LOVE EVERY THING ABOUT MICHAEL HE WILL BE MISSED ALL OVER THE WORLD MY PRAYERS GO WITH YOU ALL AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL I LOVE YOU ALL IN CHRIST."
--Laura Bennett, Charlotte, N.C.
"I am 52 years old, so when Michael was a child star, I was crazy about him! I thought he was just so cute! And so talented. I’ll never forget seeing his moonwalk for the first time when it debuted on tv. Everyone was mesmerized by it! Michael was such an amazing performer. Along with his fortune and fame, he had his share of troubles and pain. I was sorry to see it. I wish him well and hope he finds peace on his journey."
--Patty Dowling, Castle Rock, Wash.
"He was 'the Thing' when I was little. I remember believing, when I was still young enough to think that the world was no bigger than the town I lived in, that he lived in this big beautiful house on the corner of a downtown street (in Marion, OH). Every time I would pass it I would think, 'there's Michael Jackson's house- I really wish I could see him!' I loved his music and his image. I just can not believe that he is really gone. It feels like he is the Elvis Presley of my time...such a huge prescense suddenly gone from a life that began at a time when the name Michael Jackson was already a household name, and he was rocking the world. His life may have been shrouded in controversy, but there is not doubt that the world would never have been the same without him. He was an amazing influence, an incredible presence, a leader, and a star. Michael, you will be missed. R.I.P Love."
--Freya Holloway Sexton, Evening Shade, Ark.
"I really like watching how Michael Jackson moves and sings. He was a real born POP STAR. He will surely be missed all through out the world. He was a legend. RIP."
--Agnes, Papua New Guinea
"Michael Jackson was a wonderful entertainer and a great talent. May God give him now the peace he had such a hard time finding in life."
--Sheila Michael, Sandwich, Ill.
"I will truly miss Michael. I will always love him. He was such a pop sensation. 'The King of Pop'. I never believed what bad things people said about him. I think people was just after his money. I loved him when I was little and always wanted to dress like him. I had my Michael Jackson shirts, shoes, hat and the famous white glove. His music and videos are the best! I wanted to go see one of his concerts in his summer tour. Goodness, Its hard to believe he is gone. He will never ever be forgotten though. My prayers are with his family and those closest to him. May God Bless them. RIP sweet Michael."
--Gwendolyn Dunn-Gardner, Johnson City, Tenn.
"OMG !!! I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE IT !!!! MAY GOD REST HIS SOUL... A TRUE LEGEND, THE BEST. YOU WILL TRULY BE MISSED."
--Barbara Cortez, Laredo, Texas
"A living legend gone forever. Michael Jackson will still live in our hearts forever. My bf, Suresh has his glove, that was presented by MJ himself when he was on his world tour. We look at it now with tears in our eyes but we are gifted to have his momento with us. It's special and will always be."
--Suresh and Lavania, Singapore
"I've been listening to his song since I was a child...May His Soul Rest In Peace."
--Hamzah Asyrani, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
"Rest in peace Michael."
--Sara, Green Bay, Wis.
"Michael you were a great dad who was raising three great kids. I will never forget the three months I worked for you in Las Vegas. Especially the one on one talk you had with me at the Wynn Resort Villas, while you were waiting to visit Steve Wynn. Escorting your kids to their teachers room was also a valued experience. All three are so polite and well educated. The are so well-behaved even at the show at the Luxor we attended. Admittingly I was never one of your fans until I got to know you while you stayed at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas for three months. Thanks for the memories that will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace my friend. Thank you for everything."
--Lanny L. Lamb, Las Vegas Nev.
"He's transcended us now. He's with the ages and will live forever in our memories and the history of our time."
--Chris Peterson, Palos Verdes, Calif.
"I've always felt a connection to Michael and his music. I can remember getting my first audio cassette tape when I was younger...Dangerous. I loved that album, and I've loved just about everything Michael ever did. He was an innovator and a master performer, and his music always touched me. It was so dynamic. He's always been my favorite artist, and I'm extremely saddened that I'll never see him perform live...but I celebrate his life and all of his accomplishments, and the joy and entertainment he brought to my own life. I'll always remember him."
--Nicole Elizabeth Ryker, Greenwood, Ind.
"To the Family of Michael Jackson we from Kansas City send our condolences and our prayers to you for your loss of one the world's greatest icons in American History. Today is a day the angels have payed a visit to the world and have received a great man. A man who has touched the whole world, who has brought many races together in life and even on this sad day. He was truly a blessing to us all and may God bless his family, his children, and his fans all across the country. Just remember 'You are not alone.'"
--The Graham Family, Kansas City, Mo.
"I will never forget the day Michael Jackson stole my heart as a child into adult life and regardless of the personal allegations surrounding his life; he was and will always be remembered as the King of Pop -- a true legend. My heart is heavy; I am brokenhearted, short of words. Let us all remember him as the phenomenal performer he was and how he strived to changed the world by reaching one person at a time with his music. People talk about the fact that Michael was going to make a comeback but in my eyes, he never left. He is gone but not forgotten and may he be able to finally rest and in peace. A true legend, so very tragic. My condolences and prayers for his family, friends and fans all over the world."
--Millie, Kissimmee, Fla.
"My first memory of Michael Jackson was a video tape my mother bought that had a compilation of concerts, songs and even the videos of Micheal. My sisters and I watched that video over and over almost everyday. I laugh just thinking about how much we looked forward to seeing him perform and sing. It is so heartbreaking to realize now that he is gone. I wish the best to his family, friends and fellow fans. He was a legend. Like Elvis and Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson is a musical icon and he will never be forgotten."
--Kerrian M., Atlanta, Georgia
"May He Rest In Peace I am olny 20 years young but Micheal Jackson has been in my life as long as i can remember i feel like an emptyness inside i mean everyone know all the scandels that happened with him but still everyone loved and still loves him will never forget MJ Now lets all have a moment of silence for that the King of Pop has laid to rest. Rip Micheal Jackson. May Your Soul Dance Its Way To Heaven As We All Know It Will..."
--Michelle Sanchez, Riverside, Calif.
"I have listened to Michael's music for as long as I can remember and I am 43 yrs old. I am very saddened by his untimely death. He had too many fans to even begin to count. He was talked about by so many people who just didn't understand him. Michael Jackson will live on in many many peoples hearts and memories... YOU will never be forgotten... God be with his children!!"
--Lisa Smith, Walterboro, S.C.
"Stunned is the only word I can think of. When I was in high school, kids teased me and made fun because I was different. I used to imagine what it was like for Michael and looked to his songs and the words in them to help me cope with the bulling and hazing. The one song that forever changed me was 'Man in the Mirror'. That song really forged a new path in my life. I did what it said I took a look at myself and...Changed. I let me be me and I can never really thank him now. I am one of many who will deeply miss this great man. Let's hope the world remembers the good that he has done and hopefully respect his children and family in this hour of need. We will miss you Michael."
--Darrell Thomas, New London, Wis.
"Even through the trials and subsequent downfall of this man, my mother still had respect for him; still a fan after all these years. When I logged into Yahoo.com and glanced at the story on the front page, I couldn't believe it. The King of Pop--dead? I literally did a double take! The most prominent memory of him was watching Michael dance on escalators (the kind that you see in airports and such) while singing -- I had always wondered how someone could handle dancing, moving on those belts on the floor, and singing at the same time. With his and Farrah's death marks the end of a golden era of the 80s where music moved the soul so profoundly. He will be greatly missed by millions across the world."
--Kayla Dunkley, Tampa, Fla.
"The first live concert I ever saw was a Jacksons concert in Toronto – 1981 – Maple Leaf Gardens. The show was great, but Michael was pure magic. And the only poster of a music artiste that I ever put up on my bedroom wall was – guess who – Michael Jackson. Say what you will about his lifestyle, but as an entertainer and performer, the man was phenomenal. He was the greatest performer ever, and there will never be another Michael Jackson. His music will live forever, his legacy will live on, and he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Michael, you will never be forgotten, and God bless your family."
--Patricia, Grenada
"Say whatever you will about Michael Jackson's behavior over the last 20 years...but for those of us who grew up in the 80's, MJ will always be a pop God who gave us some of the best songs and videos. I along with many young girls back then, was totally in love with him. We are playing all MJ music at work today. He will be greatly missed!"
--Stacy, Waikoloa, Hawaii
Lawyer for doctor: Jackson had pulse when found
LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson still had a faint pulse and his body was warm when his doctor found him in bed and not breathing, a lawyer for the doctor told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Edward Chernoff also said Dr. Conrad Murray never prescribed or gave Jackson the drugs Demerol or OxyContin. He denied reports suggesting Murray gave Jackson drugs that contributed to his death.
Chernoff told the AP that Murray was at the pop icon's rented mansion on Thursday afternoon when he discovered Jackson in bed and not breathing. The doctor immediately began administering CPR, Chernoff said.
"He just happened to find him in his bed, and he wasn't breathing," the lawyer said. "Mr. Jackson was still warm and had a pulse."
Jackson's family requested a private autopsy in part because of questions about Murray, the Rev. Jesse Jackson said Saturday. Murray also told the family an autopsy should be performed, Chernoff said.
Three days after the death of the King of Pop, celebrities descended on Los Angeles for a spectacular celebration of Jackson's life at the annual BET awards show.
Joe Jackson, Michael's father, walked on the red carpet wearing a black hat, sunglasses and a dark suit. He planned make an onstage appearance, show publicist Bobbi Marcus said.
"I just wish he could be here to celebrate himself," he said. "Sadly, he's not here, so I'm here to celebrate for him."
In a statement read at the show, Jackson's parents said they solely had the personal and legal "authority for our son and his children." It was their strongest declaration yet about their son's affairs.
People close to Michael Jackson have said since his death that they were concerned about his use of painkillers. Los Angeles County medical examiners completed their autopsy Friday and said Jackson had taken unspecified prescription medication.
Chernoff said any drugs the doctor gave Jackson were prescribed in response to a specific complaint from the entertainer.
"Dr. Murray has never prescribed nor administered Demerol to Michael Jackson," Chernoff said. "Not ever. Not that day. ... Not Oxycontin (either) for that matter."
Paramedics were called to the mansion while the doctor was performing CPR, according to a recording of the 911 call.
Because Jackson was so frail, Murray "administered with his hand behind his back to provide the necessary support," Chernoff said. Some have speculated the doctor botched the CPR.
"He's a trained doctor," Chernoff said. "He knows how to administer CPR."
Medics spent three-quarters of an hour trying to revive Jackson. He was pronounced dead later at UCLA Medical Center.
Murray was interviewed by investigators for three hours Saturday. His spokeswoman called Murray "a witness to this tragedy," not a suspect in the death, and police described the doctor as cooperative.
The attorney said Murray will wait to speak publicly until after the police and forensics investigation is complete.
"One of his best friends just died, essentially in his arms — yeah he's looking forward to telling his story," Chernoff said.
Chernoff also said the promoter of Jackson's 50-show London concerts, AEG Live, owes the cardiologist $300,000.
"His contract with the promoters states he would receive an amount of money each month to be his (Jackson's) personal physician and they have failed to honor that contract," Chernoff said. "They are two months behind."
Randy Phillips, president and CEO of AEG Live, acknowledged the contract called for Murray to be paid $150,000 a month, but said the contract required Jackson's signature.
"Michael never signed the contract," Phillips said.
He also said the doctor's claim for payment may be against Jackson's estate, not AEG which was merely advancing the money to Jackson.
A private pathologist hired by the Jackson family completed a second, private autopsy Saturday, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the case.
A second autopsy can allow the family to get some information about a death almost immediately, including signs of heart, brain or lung disease or fresh needle punctures, said Dr. Michael Baden, a medical examiner not involved in the Jackson case.
"Usually if it looks normal with the naked eye, it looks normal under the microscope," said Baden, who recently performed a second autopsy on actor David Carradine.
Los Angeles County coroner's officials said their autopsy found no indication of trauma or foul play. But because of additional tests, an official cause of death could take weeks to determine.
There was no word from the Jackson family on funeral plans. Many of Jackson's relatives have gathered at the family's Encino compound, caring there for Jackson's three children.
Al Sharpton, who arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, said he was heading to the Jackson compound and would talk with the family about how to memorialize the late pop star. Sharpton said they want to hold memorials in key cities around the globe and also planned a memorial service Tuesday at the Apollo Theater in New York.
It also wasn't clear what would become of Jackson's Neverland Ranch. Investor Thomas Barrack previously set up the joint venture with Michael Jackson after the singer nearly lost the ranch to foreclosure.
Barrack feels close to family members and wants to hear their thoughts on how best to honor Jackson's memory, said Owen Blicksilver, a spokesman for Colony Capital LLC, the Los Angeles-based firm where Barrack is chairman and CEO. The investor joined Jackson's brother Jackie, Jermaine and Tito for lunch Saturday at the sprawling Santa Barbara County property.
A White House adviser said on NBC's "Meet the Press" that President Barack Obama had written to the Jackson family to express his condolences.
Edward Chernoff also said Dr. Conrad Murray never prescribed or gave Jackson the drugs Demerol or OxyContin. He denied reports suggesting Murray gave Jackson drugs that contributed to his death.
Chernoff told the AP that Murray was at the pop icon's rented mansion on Thursday afternoon when he discovered Jackson in bed and not breathing. The doctor immediately began administering CPR, Chernoff said.
"He just happened to find him in his bed, and he wasn't breathing," the lawyer said. "Mr. Jackson was still warm and had a pulse."
Jackson's family requested a private autopsy in part because of questions about Murray, the Rev. Jesse Jackson said Saturday. Murray also told the family an autopsy should be performed, Chernoff said.
Three days after the death of the King of Pop, celebrities descended on Los Angeles for a spectacular celebration of Jackson's life at the annual BET awards show.
Joe Jackson, Michael's father, walked on the red carpet wearing a black hat, sunglasses and a dark suit. He planned make an onstage appearance, show publicist Bobbi Marcus said.
"I just wish he could be here to celebrate himself," he said. "Sadly, he's not here, so I'm here to celebrate for him."
In a statement read at the show, Jackson's parents said they solely had the personal and legal "authority for our son and his children." It was their strongest declaration yet about their son's affairs.
People close to Michael Jackson have said since his death that they were concerned about his use of painkillers. Los Angeles County medical examiners completed their autopsy Friday and said Jackson had taken unspecified prescription medication.
Chernoff said any drugs the doctor gave Jackson were prescribed in response to a specific complaint from the entertainer.
"Dr. Murray has never prescribed nor administered Demerol to Michael Jackson," Chernoff said. "Not ever. Not that day. ... Not Oxycontin (either) for that matter."
Paramedics were called to the mansion while the doctor was performing CPR, according to a recording of the 911 call.
Because Jackson was so frail, Murray "administered with his hand behind his back to provide the necessary support," Chernoff said. Some have speculated the doctor botched the CPR.
"He's a trained doctor," Chernoff said. "He knows how to administer CPR."
Medics spent three-quarters of an hour trying to revive Jackson. He was pronounced dead later at UCLA Medical Center.
Murray was interviewed by investigators for three hours Saturday. His spokeswoman called Murray "a witness to this tragedy," not a suspect in the death, and police described the doctor as cooperative.
The attorney said Murray will wait to speak publicly until after the police and forensics investigation is complete.
"One of his best friends just died, essentially in his arms — yeah he's looking forward to telling his story," Chernoff said.
Chernoff also said the promoter of Jackson's 50-show London concerts, AEG Live, owes the cardiologist $300,000.
"His contract with the promoters states he would receive an amount of money each month to be his (Jackson's) personal physician and they have failed to honor that contract," Chernoff said. "They are two months behind."
Randy Phillips, president and CEO of AEG Live, acknowledged the contract called for Murray to be paid $150,000 a month, but said the contract required Jackson's signature.
"Michael never signed the contract," Phillips said.
He also said the doctor's claim for payment may be against Jackson's estate, not AEG which was merely advancing the money to Jackson.
A private pathologist hired by the Jackson family completed a second, private autopsy Saturday, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the case.
A second autopsy can allow the family to get some information about a death almost immediately, including signs of heart, brain or lung disease or fresh needle punctures, said Dr. Michael Baden, a medical examiner not involved in the Jackson case.
"Usually if it looks normal with the naked eye, it looks normal under the microscope," said Baden, who recently performed a second autopsy on actor David Carradine.
Los Angeles County coroner's officials said their autopsy found no indication of trauma or foul play. But because of additional tests, an official cause of death could take weeks to determine.
There was no word from the Jackson family on funeral plans. Many of Jackson's relatives have gathered at the family's Encino compound, caring there for Jackson's three children.
Al Sharpton, who arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, said he was heading to the Jackson compound and would talk with the family about how to memorialize the late pop star. Sharpton said they want to hold memorials in key cities around the globe and also planned a memorial service Tuesday at the Apollo Theater in New York.
It also wasn't clear what would become of Jackson's Neverland Ranch. Investor Thomas Barrack previously set up the joint venture with Michael Jackson after the singer nearly lost the ranch to foreclosure.
Barrack feels close to family members and wants to hear their thoughts on how best to honor Jackson's memory, said Owen Blicksilver, a spokesman for Colony Capital LLC, the Los Angeles-based firm where Barrack is chairman and CEO. The investor joined Jackson's brother Jackie, Jermaine and Tito for lunch Saturday at the sprawling Santa Barbara County property.
A White House adviser said on NBC's "Meet the Press" that President Barack Obama had written to the Jackson family to express his condolences.
13 Things Your Waiter Won't Tell You
1. Avoid eating out on holidays and Saturday nights. The sheer volume of customers guarantees that most kitchens will be pushed beyond their ability to produce a high-quality dish.
2. There are almost never any sick days in the restaurant business. A busboy with a kid to support isn't going to stay home and miss out on $100 because he's got strep throat. And these are the people handling your food.
3. When customers' dissatisfaction devolves into personal attacks, adulterating food or drink is a convenient way for servers to exact covert vengeance. Some waiters can and do spit in people's food.
4. Never say "I'm friends with the owner." Restaurant owners don't have friends. This marks you as a clueless poseur the moment you walk in the door.
5. Treat others as you want to be treated. (Yes, people need to be reminded of this.)
6. Don't snap your fingers to get our attention. Remember, we have shears that cut through bone in the kitchen.
7. Don't order meals that aren't on the menu. You're forcing the chef to cook something he doesn't make on a regular basis. If he makes the same entrée 10,000 times a month, the odds are good that the dish will be a home run every time.
8. Splitting entrées is okay, but don't ask for water, lemon, and sugar so you can make your own lemonade. What's next, grapes so you can press your own wine?
9. If you find a waiter you like, always ask to be seated in his or her section. Tell all your friends so they'll start asking for that server as well. You've just made that waiter look indispensable to the owner. The server will be grateful and take good care of you.
10. If you can't afford to leave a tip, you can't afford to eat in the restaurant. Servers could be giving 20 to 40 percent to the busboys, bartenders, maître d', or hostess.
11. Always examine the check. Sometimes large parties are unaware that a gratuity has been added to the bill, so they tip on top of it. Waiters "facilitate" this error. It's dishonest, it's wrong-and I did it all the time.
12. If you want to hang out, that's fine. But increase the tip to make up for money the server would have made if he or she had had another seating at that table.
13. Never, ever come in 15 minutes before closing time. The cooks are tired and will cook your dinner right away. So while you're chitchatting over salads, your entrées will be languishing under the heat lamp while the dishwasher is spraying industrial-strength, carcinogenic cleaning solvents in their immediate vicinity.
2. There are almost never any sick days in the restaurant business. A busboy with a kid to support isn't going to stay home and miss out on $100 because he's got strep throat. And these are the people handling your food.
3. When customers' dissatisfaction devolves into personal attacks, adulterating food or drink is a convenient way for servers to exact covert vengeance. Some waiters can and do spit in people's food.
4. Never say "I'm friends with the owner." Restaurant owners don't have friends. This marks you as a clueless poseur the moment you walk in the door.
5. Treat others as you want to be treated. (Yes, people need to be reminded of this.)
6. Don't snap your fingers to get our attention. Remember, we have shears that cut through bone in the kitchen.
7. Don't order meals that aren't on the menu. You're forcing the chef to cook something he doesn't make on a regular basis. If he makes the same entrée 10,000 times a month, the odds are good that the dish will be a home run every time.
8. Splitting entrées is okay, but don't ask for water, lemon, and sugar so you can make your own lemonade. What's next, grapes so you can press your own wine?
9. If you find a waiter you like, always ask to be seated in his or her section. Tell all your friends so they'll start asking for that server as well. You've just made that waiter look indispensable to the owner. The server will be grateful and take good care of you.
10. If you can't afford to leave a tip, you can't afford to eat in the restaurant. Servers could be giving 20 to 40 percent to the busboys, bartenders, maître d', or hostess.
11. Always examine the check. Sometimes large parties are unaware that a gratuity has been added to the bill, so they tip on top of it. Waiters "facilitate" this error. It's dishonest, it's wrong-and I did it all the time.
12. If you want to hang out, that's fine. But increase the tip to make up for money the server would have made if he or she had had another seating at that table.
13. Never, ever come in 15 minutes before closing time. The cooks are tired and will cook your dinner right away. So while you're chitchatting over salads, your entrées will be languishing under the heat lamp while the dishwasher is spraying industrial-strength, carcinogenic cleaning solvents in their immediate vicinity.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Mystery surrounds Michael Jackson's sudden death
One day after Michael Jackson's sudden death, speculation was already turning on Friday to what killed the 50-year-old "King of Pop" just weeks before his long-awaited series of comeback concerts.Jackson, a former child star who became one of the best-selling pop artists of all time before a descending into a strange and reclusive lifestyle, died on Thursday afternoon at a Los Angeles hospital, where he had been rushed in full cardiac arrest after collapsing at his nearby rental home.
His passing was front page news around the world, airwaves were filled with his greatest hits from "Thriller" to "Billie Jean," social networking sites were bombarded with messages and tributes from fans and musicians continued to pour in.
"It's so sad and shocking," said former Beatle Paul McCartney. "I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever."
Few details were known about the circumstances surrounding Jackson's death, but the entertainer was reportedly unconscious and not breathing by the time he arrived at UCLA Medical Center, and doctors were unable to revive him.
His body was flown by helicopter from the hospital to the coroner's office late on Thursday.
Brian Oxman, a spokesman for the Jackson family, told CNN on Thursday the family had been concerned about his health and had tried in vain to take care of him for months.
"Michael appeared at rehearsals a couple of times, he was very seriously trying to be able to do those rehearsals," Oxman said of Jackson's preparations for a series of 50 concerts that were scheduled to begin in London in July.
"His use of medications had gotten in the way, his injuries which he had sustained performing, where he had broken a vertebrae and he had broken his leg from a fall on the stage, were getting in the way," Oxman told CNN.
Authorities have scheduled an autopsy for Friday. But they cautioned it could take weeks to determine a cause of death, which will likely have to wait for the return of toxicology tests. Those tests will determine if Jackson had any drugs, alcohol or prescription medications in his system.
Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery Homicide division searched Jackson's home in the upscale Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles at the behest of Chief William Bratton. But they called the investigation an "every day" event.
TAINTED TALENT?
Jackson dominated the charts in the 1980s and is considered one of the most successful entertainers of the past century, with a lifetime sales tally estimated at 750 million records, 13 Grammy Awards and several seminal music videos to his name.
"Michael was and will remain one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived," said Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, Jackson's first label boss.
"He was exceptional, artistic and original. He gave the world his heart and soul through his music."
But Jackson's reputation as a singer and dancer was overshadowed in recent years by his increasingly abnormal appearance, and bizarre lifestyle, which included his friendship with a chimp and a preference for the company of children.
He named his estate in the central California foothills Neverland Valley Ranch, in tribute to the J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan stories, and filled it with amusement park rides and a petting zoo.
Jackson was twice accused of molesting young boys and was charged in 2003 with child sexual abuse. He became even more reclusive following his 2005 acquittal and vowed he would never again live at Neverland.
Facing a battered reputation and mountain of debts the Wall Street Journal reported ran to $500 million, Jackson had spent the last two months rehearsing for the London concerts, including Wednesday night at the huge Staples Center arena, home to the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team.
Despite reports of Jackson's ill-health, the promoters of the London shows, AEG Live, said in March Jackson passed a 4-1/2 hour physical examination with independent doctors.
"I can't stop crying over the sad news," Madonna said in a statement. "I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats but his music will live on forever."
Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, the seventh of nine children and first performed with his brothers as a member of the Jackson 5.
His 1982 album "Thriller" yielded seven top-10 singles. The album sold 21 million copies in the United States and at least 27 million internationally.
The following year, he unveiled his signature "moonwalk" dance move, gliding across the stage and setting off an instant trend, while performing "Billie Jean" during an NBC special.
In 1994, Jackson married Elvis Presley's only child, Lisa Marie, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1996.
"I'm so very sad and confused with every emotion possible. ... This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me," Presley said in statement.
Jackson married Debbie Rowe the same year and had two children, before splitting in 1999, and he later had another child with an unidentified surrogate mother.
He is survived by three children named Prince Michael I, Paris Michael and Prince Michael II, known for his brief public appearance when his father held him over the railing of a hotel balcony, causing widespread criticism.
His passing was front page news around the world, airwaves were filled with his greatest hits from "Thriller" to "Billie Jean," social networking sites were bombarded with messages and tributes from fans and musicians continued to pour in.
"It's so sad and shocking," said former Beatle Paul McCartney. "I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever."
Few details were known about the circumstances surrounding Jackson's death, but the entertainer was reportedly unconscious and not breathing by the time he arrived at UCLA Medical Center, and doctors were unable to revive him.
His body was flown by helicopter from the hospital to the coroner's office late on Thursday.
Brian Oxman, a spokesman for the Jackson family, told CNN on Thursday the family had been concerned about his health and had tried in vain to take care of him for months.
"Michael appeared at rehearsals a couple of times, he was very seriously trying to be able to do those rehearsals," Oxman said of Jackson's preparations for a series of 50 concerts that were scheduled to begin in London in July.
"His use of medications had gotten in the way, his injuries which he had sustained performing, where he had broken a vertebrae and he had broken his leg from a fall on the stage, were getting in the way," Oxman told CNN.
Authorities have scheduled an autopsy for Friday. But they cautioned it could take weeks to determine a cause of death, which will likely have to wait for the return of toxicology tests. Those tests will determine if Jackson had any drugs, alcohol or prescription medications in his system.
Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery Homicide division searched Jackson's home in the upscale Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles at the behest of Chief William Bratton. But they called the investigation an "every day" event.
TAINTED TALENT?
Jackson dominated the charts in the 1980s and is considered one of the most successful entertainers of the past century, with a lifetime sales tally estimated at 750 million records, 13 Grammy Awards and several seminal music videos to his name.
"Michael was and will remain one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived," said Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, Jackson's first label boss.
"He was exceptional, artistic and original. He gave the world his heart and soul through his music."
But Jackson's reputation as a singer and dancer was overshadowed in recent years by his increasingly abnormal appearance, and bizarre lifestyle, which included his friendship with a chimp and a preference for the company of children.
He named his estate in the central California foothills Neverland Valley Ranch, in tribute to the J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan stories, and filled it with amusement park rides and a petting zoo.
Jackson was twice accused of molesting young boys and was charged in 2003 with child sexual abuse. He became even more reclusive following his 2005 acquittal and vowed he would never again live at Neverland.
Facing a battered reputation and mountain of debts the Wall Street Journal reported ran to $500 million, Jackson had spent the last two months rehearsing for the London concerts, including Wednesday night at the huge Staples Center arena, home to the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team.
Despite reports of Jackson's ill-health, the promoters of the London shows, AEG Live, said in March Jackson passed a 4-1/2 hour physical examination with independent doctors.
"I can't stop crying over the sad news," Madonna said in a statement. "I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats but his music will live on forever."
Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, the seventh of nine children and first performed with his brothers as a member of the Jackson 5.
His 1982 album "Thriller" yielded seven top-10 singles. The album sold 21 million copies in the United States and at least 27 million internationally.
The following year, he unveiled his signature "moonwalk" dance move, gliding across the stage and setting off an instant trend, while performing "Billie Jean" during an NBC special.
In 1994, Jackson married Elvis Presley's only child, Lisa Marie, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1996.
"I'm so very sad and confused with every emotion possible. ... This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me," Presley said in statement.
Jackson married Debbie Rowe the same year and had two children, before splitting in 1999, and he later had another child with an unidentified surrogate mother.
He is survived by three children named Prince Michael I, Paris Michael and Prince Michael II, known for his brief public appearance when his father held him over the railing of a hotel balcony, causing widespread criticism.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Michael Jackson dies in LA hospital
LOS ANGELES - Michael Jackson's brother says it's believed that the pop star died of cardiac arrest.
Jermaine Jackson cautioned at a hospital press conference Thursday that the cause of his death would not be known until an autopsy was performed.
He said Michael Jackson's personal doctor and paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his rented home in Holmby Hills. A team of doctors at UCLA Medical Center also tried for more than an hour.
Los Angeles police Lt. Gregg Strenk said at a separate news conference that police robbery-homicide detectives have been ordered to investigate, which is common in a high-profile case. Strenk says the coroner's office, which will handle inquiries into the type of death, is taking possession of the body.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Michael Jackson's brother Germaine says it's believed that the pop star died of cardiac arrest.
Jermaine Jackson cautioned at a hospital press conference Thursday that the cause of his death would not be known until an autopsy was performed.
He said Michael Jackson's personal doctor and paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his rented home in Holmby Hills. A team of doctors at UCLA Medical Center also tried for more than an hour.
Los Angeles police Lt. Gregg Strenk said at a separate news conference that police robbery-homicide detectives have been ordered to investigate, which is common in a high-profile case. Strenk says the coroner's office, which will handle inquiries into the type of death, is taking possession of the body.
Jermaine Jackson cautioned at a hospital press conference Thursday that the cause of his death would not be known until an autopsy was performed.
He said Michael Jackson's personal doctor and paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his rented home in Holmby Hills. A team of doctors at UCLA Medical Center also tried for more than an hour.
Los Angeles police Lt. Gregg Strenk said at a separate news conference that police robbery-homicide detectives have been ordered to investigate, which is common in a high-profile case. Strenk says the coroner's office, which will handle inquiries into the type of death, is taking possession of the body.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Michael Jackson's brother Germaine says it's believed that the pop star died of cardiac arrest.
Jermaine Jackson cautioned at a hospital press conference Thursday that the cause of his death would not be known until an autopsy was performed.
He said Michael Jackson's personal doctor and paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his rented home in Holmby Hills. A team of doctors at UCLA Medical Center also tried for more than an hour.
Los Angeles police Lt. Gregg Strenk said at a separate news conference that police robbery-homicide detectives have been ordered to investigate, which is common in a high-profile case. Strenk says the coroner's office, which will handle inquiries into the type of death, is taking possession of the body.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Air has elevated cancer risk in 600 neighborhoods
WASHINGTON – Millions of people living in nearly 600 neighborhoods across the country are breathing concentrations of toxic air pollutants that put them at a much greater risk of contracting cancer, according to new data from the Environmental Protection Agency.
The levels of 80 cancer-causing substances released by automobiles, factories and other sources in these areas exceed a 100 in 1 million cancer risk. That means that if 1 million people breathed air with similar concentrations over their lifetime, about 100 additional people would be expected to develop cancer because of their exposure to the pollution.
The average cancer risk across the country is 36 in 1 million, according to the National-Scale Air Toxics Assessment, which will be released by the EPA on Wednesday.
That's a decline from the 41.5 in 1 million cancer risk the EPA found when it released the last analysis in 2006. That data covered 1999 emissions.
"If we are in between 10 in 1 million and 100 in 1 million we want to look more deeply at that. If the risk is greater than 100 in 1 million, we don't like that at all ... we want to investigate that risk and do something about it," said Kelly Rimer, an environmental scientist with the EPA, in an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Parts of Los Angeles, Calif., and Madison County, Ill., had the highest cancer risks in the nation — 1200 in 1 million and 1100 in 1 million, according to the EPA data. They were followed by two neighborhoods in Allegheny County, Pa., and one in Tuscaloosa County, Ala.
People living in parts of Coconino County, Ariz., and Lyon County, Nev., had the lowest cancer risk from air toxics. The counties with the least toxic air are Kalawao County, Hawaii, and Golden Valley County, Mont.
"Air toxic risks are local. They are a function of the sources nearest to you," said Dave Guinnup, who leads the groups that perform the risk assessments for toxic air pollutants at EPA. "If you are out in the Rocky Mountains, you are going to be closer to 2 in a million. If you are in an industrial area with a lot of traffic, you are going to be closer to 1100 in 1 million."
The analysis predicts the concentrations of 124 different hazardous air pollutants, which are known to cause cancer, respiratory problems and other health effects by coupling estimates of emissions from a variety of sources with models that attempt to simulate how the pollution will disperse in the air. Only 80 of the chemicals evaluated are known to cause cancer, EPA officials said.
The information is used by federal, state and local agencies to identify areas in need of more monitoring and attention.
The levels of 80 cancer-causing substances released by automobiles, factories and other sources in these areas exceed a 100 in 1 million cancer risk. That means that if 1 million people breathed air with similar concentrations over their lifetime, about 100 additional people would be expected to develop cancer because of their exposure to the pollution.
The average cancer risk across the country is 36 in 1 million, according to the National-Scale Air Toxics Assessment, which will be released by the EPA on Wednesday.
That's a decline from the 41.5 in 1 million cancer risk the EPA found when it released the last analysis in 2006. That data covered 1999 emissions.
"If we are in between 10 in 1 million and 100 in 1 million we want to look more deeply at that. If the risk is greater than 100 in 1 million, we don't like that at all ... we want to investigate that risk and do something about it," said Kelly Rimer, an environmental scientist with the EPA, in an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Parts of Los Angeles, Calif., and Madison County, Ill., had the highest cancer risks in the nation — 1200 in 1 million and 1100 in 1 million, according to the EPA data. They were followed by two neighborhoods in Allegheny County, Pa., and one in Tuscaloosa County, Ala.
People living in parts of Coconino County, Ariz., and Lyon County, Nev., had the lowest cancer risk from air toxics. The counties with the least toxic air are Kalawao County, Hawaii, and Golden Valley County, Mont.
"Air toxic risks are local. They are a function of the sources nearest to you," said Dave Guinnup, who leads the groups that perform the risk assessments for toxic air pollutants at EPA. "If you are out in the Rocky Mountains, you are going to be closer to 2 in a million. If you are in an industrial area with a lot of traffic, you are going to be closer to 1100 in 1 million."
The analysis predicts the concentrations of 124 different hazardous air pollutants, which are known to cause cancer, respiratory problems and other health effects by coupling estimates of emissions from a variety of sources with models that attempt to simulate how the pollution will disperse in the air. Only 80 of the chemicals evaluated are known to cause cancer, EPA officials said.
The information is used by federal, state and local agencies to identify areas in need of more monitoring and attention.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Best Places to Live 2009 (America)
With the decade winding to a close, Americans have grown increasingly reluctant to gas up their moving vans. Last year, the Census Bureau's national mover rate--which represents the percentage of Americans 1 year and older who moved within the past year--hit its lowest level since 1948, when the bureau began tracking the data. And who can blame us? In the face of a terrifying banking crisis, a historic housing crash, and a grueling recession, relocating to a new city isn't exactly on the to-do list. But despite the uncertain economy, the nation's diverse topography presents an enviable menu of great places to find work, retire, or just change your scene.
In selecting our Best Places to Live for 2009, U.S. News took a thrift-conscious approach: We looked for affordable communities that have strong economies and plenty of fun things to do. The cities we selected are as distinct as America itself--ranging from a quaint suburb to a live-music mecca. But whether you prefer hiking through the Rocky Mountains, pulling a fish out of the Atlantic Ocean, or grilling hot dogs at a college football tailgate, here are 10 places that will fill up your daybook without emptying your wallet.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Along the banks of the Rio Grande, with the Sandia Mountains in the background, is the beautiful city of Albuquerque, N.M. The sunny climate and endless landscape have long drawn writers, poets, and artists to this spot, which includes an unconventional mix of American Indian, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures. But it's not just freethinkers who drift to this Southwestern city of 511,000. Kirtland Air Force Base, Sandia National Laboratories, and Intel Corp. have helped develop the area into a manufacturing and research hub. They provide a stable anchor for the local economy.
Albuquerque's clear skies, calm winds, and abundant sunshine present plenty of opportunities to explore its natural splendor. Each October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta fills the sky with more than 700 colorful hot-air balloons. Fourteen area golf courses are open year-round and allow duffers to tee off against spectacular backdrops of volcanoes and mountain peaks. Meanwhile, Albuquerque's foothills and network of trails make the area a wonderful destination for biking. Still, "it's kind of undiscovered at the same time," says Will McConnell of the Albuquerque Bicycle Center.
Auburn, Alabama
For Southern charm with collegiate vigor, consider Auburn, Ala. This diamond on the eastern Alabama plains has a population of just under 50,000 and is home to Auburn University. On football Saturdays, when die-hard fans arrive in droves to cheer their beloved Tigers, Auburn swells to the state's fifth-most-populous city. And as Auburn's largest employer, the university also plays a starring role in the local economy.
With mild winters and hot summers, the city offers no shortage of outdoor recreation opportunities. Find a nice hiking trail in the 696-acre Chewacla State Park before cooling off with an afternoon swim. Take a stroll through the Donald E. Davis Arboretum, located on the Auburn University campus.
Golfers can head to nearby Grand National golf course and wend their way through the state along the beautiful Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. "Once you have been there, you just want to come back," says John Cannon, president of SunBelt Golf Corp., which manages the trail.
[See a slideshow of the 10 best places to live.]
Austin, Texas
If you're a free spirit, music junkie, or barbecue lover--or if you simply have what it takes to "keep Austin weird"--Texas's state capital is for you. Considered ground zero for live music, this city of 716,000 residents is home to legions of musicians and nearly 200 performance venues. In addition, Austin hosts the always popular South by Southwest festival. Since its inception in 1987, the event has mushroomed from a local gathering to a 1,800-band, 80-stage extravaganza of music, filmmaking, and interactive activities featuring performers from all over the world. Austin is also a high-tech hub, with companies like Dell and IBM, which employ thousands of residents.
The city's warm climate offers plenty of sunshine, while the open green spaces don't provide any excuse for staying indoors. Head over to Lions Municipal Golf Course for an inexpensive round. Wander through the 351-acre Zilker Metropolitan Park until you find Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre water source fed by underground springs that keep its temperature around 68 degrees all year long. To escape the city, head for the nearby Hill Country. "It's rolling hills cut with lots of little creeks and streams," says Tom Beach, a sales clerk at Austin Canoe & Kayak. "It makes for a nice road trip."
Boise, Idaho
Although often overlooked, Boise, Idaho, is a terrific destination for those looking to escape out West. With a high-desert climate of sunshine, clear skies, and four distinct seasons, this city of 200,000 makes a perfect base camp for exploring southwest Idaho's dramatic panorama. Choose from the many nearby parks, which total some 2,700 acres, cast a fishing line into the Boise River, or head over to Boise State University for a Broncos football game.
High-tech companies Micron Technology and Hewlett-Packard are among the area's leading private employers. To hit the thriving local arts scene, cruise downtown. Boise's free "Alive After Five" concert series brings musicians and other entertainers to the Grove Plaza each Wednesday during the summer. "It's harder to find a parking space after 5 than it is before 5," says Paul Hiller, the executive director of the Boise Valley Economic Partnership. "It's one of the most vibrant downtown areas you've ever seen."
Durham, North Carolina
Once a tobacco town, Durham, N.C., has evolved into a world-class center of all things advanced. This city of 206,000, located halfway between the Atlantic coast and the Great Smoky Mountains, is called the "City of Medicine" because of its expansive healthcare industry. And although widely known as the home of prestigious Duke University, it's also a thriving technology hub. At the same time, Durham's mild climate allows residents to get out and explore the region's abundant outdoor attractions. Consider hiking one of the many distinct trails and greenways or heading over to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park for an afternoon baseball game.
La Crosse, Wisconsin
With a population of about 50,000, La Crosse, Wis., is a great staging ground for exploring the natural wonders of the upper Mississippi River area. Although winters can be bitterly cold, friendly Midwesterners and the nearby ski slopes will keep your spirits high. The spring opens an active outdoor culture of camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing that brings more than a million visitors to the area each year. Explore the mighty Mississippi on a riverboat tour, or try your luck with the northern pike in Lake Onalaska. "Great people, fun town," says Dave Lueck, a 36-year-old graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. "It's not too big, not too small." And with a 2008 median home sale price of $113,000, it's also an affordable destination.
[Learn more about our methodology in choosing the best places to live.]
Loveland, Colorado
Located just outside the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, Loveland, Colo., is considered the "Gateway to the Rockies." But while it has 27 public parks and nearly 16 miles of recreation trails, it's Loveland's affection for man-made beauty that sets this community of 56,000 residents apart. Thanks to its Art in Public Places program, more than 300 pieces of sculpture and two-dimensional works are on display throughout the community. And with a 2008 median home sale price of $186,000, the area's real estate market is relatively affordable.
Loveland has also achieved acclaim for its Valentine remailing program, in which 200,000 cards are sent to the city to receive a special cachet stamp. "We've got a waiting list of over 50 people that are waiting to be stampers," says Kathryn Roth of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce.
San Luis Obispo, California
Tucked into California's sweeping Central Coast region is lovely San Luis Obispo, Calif. Its warm, gentle climate, with temperatures rarely surpassing 90 degrees, is perfect for hitting nearby beaches or touring local vineyards. In addition, California Polytechnic State University, which is located in town, infuses the community with intellectual energy.
Although area home prices have fallen by as much as 35 percent over the past two years, the national housing bust may have also created another reason to make San Luis Obispo your home, says John Day, a local real estate broker. "There are just plain good deals" in the current market, he says.
St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation's longest continually inhabited European-founded city, St. Augustine, Fla., considers itself the oldest city in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish Adm. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, this community of 13,000 residents on Florida's northeastern coast has managed to maintain its colonial charm. Take the Castillo de San Marcos, for example. This remarkable stone-and-mortar fort is located right in the heart of St. Augustine's cobblestoned historic district. And even though 300 years of violent storms and enemy firepower couldn't penetrate its walls, visitors can enter the 20.5-acre monument site today for just $6.
But St. Augustine's appeal extends beyond the history books. With a highly educated workforce, world-class golfing nearby--the immaculate TPC Sawgrass course is located just up the road--and that refreshing Atlantic breeze, this "ancient city" offers enough activities to satisfy even the most fanatical outdoor sports enthusiast. "Fishing, kayaking, boating--we have just about everything," says Donald Edwards, a clerk at the Avid Angler fishing shop. "I wouldn't live anywhere else."
Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania
For a quiet residential option, consider Upper St. Clair, Pa. This quaint town of fewer than 20,000 residents is located in the hilly woodlands outside Pittsburgh, where the Whiskey Rebellion of the late 1700s was centered. The median home price of this family-oriented community was $240,000 in 2008. And its school system is superb: Ninety-eight percent of its high school graduates go on to college, and the Upper St. Clair school district currently boasts 10 federal government blue-ribbon "Excellence in Education" awards.
After the spring thaw, residents head outside to enjoy the region's abundant greenery. "Pennsylvania is a fairly robust and rich place in terms of resources, if you just look a little bit," says Ed Di Gangi, the president of the Upper St. Clair Fly Fishing Club. In addition to fishing, popular outdoor activities include hiking, cycling, golf, and bocce. And with Pittsburgh about 10 miles away, residents of this small town are never too far removed from big-city comforts. "From here to a Pirates [baseball] game or here to a Penguins [hockey] game, it's 30 minutes or less," Di Gangi says.
Here's our list of the 10 best places to live:
1. Albuquerque, N.M.
2. Auburn, Ala.
3. Austin, Texas
4. Boise, Idaho
5. Durham, N.C.
6. La Crosse, Wis.
7. Loveland, Colo.
8. San Luis Obispo, Calif.
9. St. Augustine, Fla.
10. Upper St. Clair, Pa.
In selecting our Best Places to Live for 2009, U.S. News took a thrift-conscious approach: We looked for affordable communities that have strong economies and plenty of fun things to do. The cities we selected are as distinct as America itself--ranging from a quaint suburb to a live-music mecca. But whether you prefer hiking through the Rocky Mountains, pulling a fish out of the Atlantic Ocean, or grilling hot dogs at a college football tailgate, here are 10 places that will fill up your daybook without emptying your wallet.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Along the banks of the Rio Grande, with the Sandia Mountains in the background, is the beautiful city of Albuquerque, N.M. The sunny climate and endless landscape have long drawn writers, poets, and artists to this spot, which includes an unconventional mix of American Indian, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures. But it's not just freethinkers who drift to this Southwestern city of 511,000. Kirtland Air Force Base, Sandia National Laboratories, and Intel Corp. have helped develop the area into a manufacturing and research hub. They provide a stable anchor for the local economy.
Albuquerque's clear skies, calm winds, and abundant sunshine present plenty of opportunities to explore its natural splendor. Each October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta fills the sky with more than 700 colorful hot-air balloons. Fourteen area golf courses are open year-round and allow duffers to tee off against spectacular backdrops of volcanoes and mountain peaks. Meanwhile, Albuquerque's foothills and network of trails make the area a wonderful destination for biking. Still, "it's kind of undiscovered at the same time," says Will McConnell of the Albuquerque Bicycle Center.
Auburn, Alabama
For Southern charm with collegiate vigor, consider Auburn, Ala. This diamond on the eastern Alabama plains has a population of just under 50,000 and is home to Auburn University. On football Saturdays, when die-hard fans arrive in droves to cheer their beloved Tigers, Auburn swells to the state's fifth-most-populous city. And as Auburn's largest employer, the university also plays a starring role in the local economy.
With mild winters and hot summers, the city offers no shortage of outdoor recreation opportunities. Find a nice hiking trail in the 696-acre Chewacla State Park before cooling off with an afternoon swim. Take a stroll through the Donald E. Davis Arboretum, located on the Auburn University campus.
Golfers can head to nearby Grand National golf course and wend their way through the state along the beautiful Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. "Once you have been there, you just want to come back," says John Cannon, president of SunBelt Golf Corp., which manages the trail.
[See a slideshow of the 10 best places to live.]
Austin, Texas
If you're a free spirit, music junkie, or barbecue lover--or if you simply have what it takes to "keep Austin weird"--Texas's state capital is for you. Considered ground zero for live music, this city of 716,000 residents is home to legions of musicians and nearly 200 performance venues. In addition, Austin hosts the always popular South by Southwest festival. Since its inception in 1987, the event has mushroomed from a local gathering to a 1,800-band, 80-stage extravaganza of music, filmmaking, and interactive activities featuring performers from all over the world. Austin is also a high-tech hub, with companies like Dell and IBM, which employ thousands of residents.
The city's warm climate offers plenty of sunshine, while the open green spaces don't provide any excuse for staying indoors. Head over to Lions Municipal Golf Course for an inexpensive round. Wander through the 351-acre Zilker Metropolitan Park until you find Barton Springs Pool, a 3-acre water source fed by underground springs that keep its temperature around 68 degrees all year long. To escape the city, head for the nearby Hill Country. "It's rolling hills cut with lots of little creeks and streams," says Tom Beach, a sales clerk at Austin Canoe & Kayak. "It makes for a nice road trip."
Boise, Idaho
Although often overlooked, Boise, Idaho, is a terrific destination for those looking to escape out West. With a high-desert climate of sunshine, clear skies, and four distinct seasons, this city of 200,000 makes a perfect base camp for exploring southwest Idaho's dramatic panorama. Choose from the many nearby parks, which total some 2,700 acres, cast a fishing line into the Boise River, or head over to Boise State University for a Broncos football game.
High-tech companies Micron Technology and Hewlett-Packard are among the area's leading private employers. To hit the thriving local arts scene, cruise downtown. Boise's free "Alive After Five" concert series brings musicians and other entertainers to the Grove Plaza each Wednesday during the summer. "It's harder to find a parking space after 5 than it is before 5," says Paul Hiller, the executive director of the Boise Valley Economic Partnership. "It's one of the most vibrant downtown areas you've ever seen."
Durham, North Carolina
Once a tobacco town, Durham, N.C., has evolved into a world-class center of all things advanced. This city of 206,000, located halfway between the Atlantic coast and the Great Smoky Mountains, is called the "City of Medicine" because of its expansive healthcare industry. And although widely known as the home of prestigious Duke University, it's also a thriving technology hub. At the same time, Durham's mild climate allows residents to get out and explore the region's abundant outdoor attractions. Consider hiking one of the many distinct trails and greenways or heading over to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park for an afternoon baseball game.
La Crosse, Wisconsin
With a population of about 50,000, La Crosse, Wis., is a great staging ground for exploring the natural wonders of the upper Mississippi River area. Although winters can be bitterly cold, friendly Midwesterners and the nearby ski slopes will keep your spirits high. The spring opens an active outdoor culture of camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing that brings more than a million visitors to the area each year. Explore the mighty Mississippi on a riverboat tour, or try your luck with the northern pike in Lake Onalaska. "Great people, fun town," says Dave Lueck, a 36-year-old graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. "It's not too big, not too small." And with a 2008 median home sale price of $113,000, it's also an affordable destination.
[Learn more about our methodology in choosing the best places to live.]
Loveland, Colorado
Located just outside the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, Loveland, Colo., is considered the "Gateway to the Rockies." But while it has 27 public parks and nearly 16 miles of recreation trails, it's Loveland's affection for man-made beauty that sets this community of 56,000 residents apart. Thanks to its Art in Public Places program, more than 300 pieces of sculpture and two-dimensional works are on display throughout the community. And with a 2008 median home sale price of $186,000, the area's real estate market is relatively affordable.
Loveland has also achieved acclaim for its Valentine remailing program, in which 200,000 cards are sent to the city to receive a special cachet stamp. "We've got a waiting list of over 50 people that are waiting to be stampers," says Kathryn Roth of the Loveland Chamber of Commerce.
San Luis Obispo, California
Tucked into California's sweeping Central Coast region is lovely San Luis Obispo, Calif. Its warm, gentle climate, with temperatures rarely surpassing 90 degrees, is perfect for hitting nearby beaches or touring local vineyards. In addition, California Polytechnic State University, which is located in town, infuses the community with intellectual energy.
Although area home prices have fallen by as much as 35 percent over the past two years, the national housing bust may have also created another reason to make San Luis Obispo your home, says John Day, a local real estate broker. "There are just plain good deals" in the current market, he says.
St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation's longest continually inhabited European-founded city, St. Augustine, Fla., considers itself the oldest city in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish Adm. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, this community of 13,000 residents on Florida's northeastern coast has managed to maintain its colonial charm. Take the Castillo de San Marcos, for example. This remarkable stone-and-mortar fort is located right in the heart of St. Augustine's cobblestoned historic district. And even though 300 years of violent storms and enemy firepower couldn't penetrate its walls, visitors can enter the 20.5-acre monument site today for just $6.
But St. Augustine's appeal extends beyond the history books. With a highly educated workforce, world-class golfing nearby--the immaculate TPC Sawgrass course is located just up the road--and that refreshing Atlantic breeze, this "ancient city" offers enough activities to satisfy even the most fanatical outdoor sports enthusiast. "Fishing, kayaking, boating--we have just about everything," says Donald Edwards, a clerk at the Avid Angler fishing shop. "I wouldn't live anywhere else."
Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania
For a quiet residential option, consider Upper St. Clair, Pa. This quaint town of fewer than 20,000 residents is located in the hilly woodlands outside Pittsburgh, where the Whiskey Rebellion of the late 1700s was centered. The median home price of this family-oriented community was $240,000 in 2008. And its school system is superb: Ninety-eight percent of its high school graduates go on to college, and the Upper St. Clair school district currently boasts 10 federal government blue-ribbon "Excellence in Education" awards.
After the spring thaw, residents head outside to enjoy the region's abundant greenery. "Pennsylvania is a fairly robust and rich place in terms of resources, if you just look a little bit," says Ed Di Gangi, the president of the Upper St. Clair Fly Fishing Club. In addition to fishing, popular outdoor activities include hiking, cycling, golf, and bocce. And with Pittsburgh about 10 miles away, residents of this small town are never too far removed from big-city comforts. "From here to a Pirates [baseball] game or here to a Penguins [hockey] game, it's 30 minutes or less," Di Gangi says.
Here's our list of the 10 best places to live:
1. Albuquerque, N.M.
2. Auburn, Ala.
3. Austin, Texas
4. Boise, Idaho
5. Durham, N.C.
6. La Crosse, Wis.
7. Loveland, Colo.
8. San Luis Obispo, Calif.
9. St. Augustine, Fla.
10. Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
7 Ways to Be a Dolt About Credit
Remember the good old days, way back in 2006, when the streets were paved with credit-gold as far as the eye could see and credit cards rained from the sky? Even the credit-destitute were treated like kings by the credit card companies and courted with lavish offers of unlimited credit.
Here in the future, the world has changed. Banks claim they want to lend money, but really they'd prefer to buy other banks with government money.
Credit issuers aren't sure they want to lend money to people who need to borrow it, a situation somewhat analogous to the Groucho Marx axiom, "I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member."
And woe betide those who ask for loans with glaring blemishes on their credit reports. An unpaid collection is apt to be regarded like a cockroach in the consommé.
These days, wrecking your ability to get credit is about as easy as blowing over a house of credit cards.
7 Ways to Be Credit-Stupid
Making some of the following mistakes can ensure that lenders will need a hazmat suit to handle your credit report.
1. Close Credit Card Accounts
A quick way to guarantee that your credit score plummets faster than Lindsay Lohan's career is to slice away your available credit by closing accounts.
You see, credit scores are not built around common sense. Doing away with unused lines of credit would make sense to most human beings, but not so much to a credit scoring model.
"Many of the things that can lower your credit score are kind of counterintuitive," says Melinda Opperman, counselor and vice president of community outreach for Springboard, a consumer counseling organization.
When you close an account, it no longer adds to your total amount of available credit.
"There is a big chunk of your credit (score) that is factored on the amount owed -- 30 percent of your credit score. So one-third of your score measures the amount of debt against the credit limit," Opperman says.
Without changing your level of debt, lowering the credit available to you throws the ratio of debt to available credit out of whack.
For consumers with very low balances, closing newer credit accounts, slowly, can make sense -- especially if the cards sport high interest rates or charge annual fees.
But having too much credit will rarely be a problem.
"In years past there was kind of a myth that said if you have just way too much credit available, you have the risk of being potentially overextended because you could access that much credit right away," Opperman says.
It's still true that when consumers go to take out a home loan, some mortgage lenders may assess the amount of credit available to them and take that into consideration when evaluating their creditworthiness.
"If someone were planning to purchase a home and it was suggested that they close some accounts, the borrowers would want to do it well before applying for a loan and a few months apart -- and make sure that the accounts that they closed did not have too high of a credit limit," Opperman says. "But in general, having a robust credit file will not be an issue."
Furthermore, only recently opened accounts should be considered for closing. Length of credit history is an important component of the credit score.
According to John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education at Credit.com and contributor to CNBC, the ideal credit customer is one with 20 years or more of credit experience -- and you want that good history on your report. Closed accounts will drop off of your credit report.
"The sweet spot is someone who has 20, 30 or 40 years of credit experience and many, many accounts to look back on," Ulzheimer says.
2. Let Credit Cards Collect Dust
Consumers shouldn't necessarily close their credit accounts, but burying cards in the backyard or hoarding them in a shoebox in case of an emergency also may backfire.
Creditors are loathe to let just anyone have vast sums of potential money at their fingertips. Lately lenders have taken a use it or lose it attitude -- preferably lose it.
Consumers encounter two pitfalls if a creditor closes an account for nonuse: The available credit is pared down and that account no longer contributes to their credit history.
If an open account is unused for a long enough period of time, the company can stop reporting it to the credit bureaus. If the account goes unreported, that account is not contributing to your available credit, which affects your credit utilization ratio.
The FICO score isn't an award or demerit system, but a predictive score that tells lenders what you might do in the future.
"The FICO score looks at how recently the information was reported, so, if say, a credit card trade line (credit card account) hasn't been reported in X number of months, then we will not include that information for certain calculations, basically any calculations that look at dollars," says Barry Paperno, consumer operations manager for Fair Isaac and head of myFICO.com's consumer education and advocacy.
That includes the amount of debt you're carrying relative to the amount of credit available.
Plus, the fact that the creditor took action to close the account is also noted on your credit report.
"Some folks feel that because there is the narrative there, it is less desirable for it to say closed by creditor rather than by the consumer. However, I wouldn't have someone be overly concerned with that because the narrative isn't picked up by the credit score," Opperman says.
"But it would be better if consumers were not going to use an account to either close it themselves, or if they want to maintain that credit relationship, we suggest that people use their cards periodically," she says.
3. Run Up High Balances
If using too little credit sends up red flags to lenders, using too much credit sends up road flares and fireworks.
Like Goldilocks' preference for porridge and sleeping accommodations, lenders want to see people use credit just right -- not too much, not too little.
Gail Cunningham, spokeswoman for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling in Silver Spring, Md., says that the FICO score in particular favors lots of credit that is not utilized too little or too much.
"The FICO '08 score does want to see a lot of credit, but it would rather see many low balances on several cards rather than one large balance," she says.
This can be damaging even to cardholders who run up a high balance every month on one card and then pay it off each month. The FICO score does not take those payments into account.
"For instance, charging $8,000 one month, pay it off. Then charge $10,000 the next, and pay it off. The model does not recognize that -- it just reads that you are constantly carrying a large balance," Cunningham says.
Thirty-percent of the FICO score looks at the amount borrowers owe and then compares it to the amount of credit they have available. This utilization ratio gets unpleasantly skewed when you owe more than 30 percent of what is available to you -- particularly if one card is at or near its limit.
And it's not only irresponsible or desperate spenders who have damaged scores because of large balances relative to their credit limits. It can happen to anyone who carries a balance if a lender decides to chop your credit limit -- in response to market conditions, for instance.
To prospective lenders who view your credit report, it appears that you've maxed out your credit cards rather than keeping what was previously a low balance relative to the credit limit.
4. Apply for New Credit Repeatedly
New credit doesn't mean just a shiny new credit card stretching out your wallet; it means a lower credit score -- at least in the short run. The reasons are twofold.
First, new credit accounts lower the average age of your credit history.
"Say you've had one credit card for 20 years and then five others that you just got because you went to five different stores over the holidays and they offered you rebates to sign up for a card," Opperman says.
"The credit score is going to take the one account you've had for 20 years -- 240 months -- and the five accounts that you've had for one year. That's five accounts times 12 months and it would then average all of those accounts together so it only looks like you've had credit for four years," she says.
Also, applying for credit causes a hard inquiry on your credit report. The alternative to a hard inquiry is a soft inquiry, which is what would happen if you pulled your credit report.
Inquiries aren't extremely damaging to a credit score, but multiple hard inquiries in a short period of time can raise lenders' eyebrows, because of that whole reeking-of-desperation-thing, or possibly being up to something illegal. Most banks or credit card companies try to avoid consumers in these scenarios.
However, credit scores do take smart loan shopping into account. When shopping for products such as auto loans or mortgages, consumers are not dinged for each individual auto or home loan-related inquiry within a 45-day window.
Experts recommend doing all comparison shopping within that period of time if possible to minimize credit dings.
5. Don't Pay Fines or Non-Credit-Card Bills
Skipping out on overdue book fines at the library can hurt more than your book-borrowing privileges. It actually can negatively impact your credit score, as can other seemingly meaningless hassles, such as parking tickets.
"These days, public institutions and municipalities will use credit to get people to pay their fines and fees. So if someone has an old library fine that they never paid, it could be killing their credit score without them knowing it -- which is why it is essential to check your score regularly," Opperman says.
Other business relationships that don't normally report your good payments can turn around and bite you if you decide not to pay as agreed. Any business, from garbage collectors to cell phone companies, can turn to the dark side when it comes to getting what's owed to them, and that means sending your account to collections.
"Normally when you have an account with a merchant that doesn't report directly to the credit bureaus, there is a difference between positive and negative reporting. A lot of service providers don't report positive information. But the minute you do something wrong, they can outsource that debt to a collection agency who will report it," Ulzheimer says.
"If I have a Verizon cell phone and pay $79 every single month for the phone, that information is not on any of my credit reports. But if I was on a contract that required that I pay every month and I don't -- it's really only a matter of time before they send it to a collection agency and then the collection agency will report the past-due debt, or the collection debt, on my credit report," he says.
6. Ignore Mistakes on Your Report
Say what you will about credit bureaus: They do make it easy to dispute inaccuracies on your credit report.
Sure, they may not fix them and it may be nearly impossible to ever speak to a live human being. But sometimes, probably more often than not, it works and it's easy.
In order to dispute something on a credit report, one must, of course, check one's credit report. It's easier than it's ever been, so consumers have unfettered access to their own credit information, a vast improvement over the laborious and time-consuming methods used in the dark ages before the Internet.
Unlike other issues that affect credit scores, mistakes sometimes can be remedied easily and quickly, so it's worthwhile to keep tabs on your report.
7. Make Late Payments or Skip Them Entirely
It seems almost too obvious, but it bears stating that paying late and missing payments altogether are stellar ways to ensure that your credit score will scrape the bottom of the barrel.
Fortunately, as it happens, not all missed and late payments are counted equally in credit scores.
According to MyFICO.com's Paperno, the FICO score judges missed and late payments by several different criteria, including how recently it happened, how severely late the payment was and the frequency of missed or late payments.
The recentness of the incident has the most bearing on the FICO score.
"Believe it or not, a 2-year-old incident of a payment being 90 days late is not as bad as a recent 30 days late (payment). The older one may have been one blemish in a long history but a 30-day this month can lead to a 60, which can lead to a 90," Paperno says.
"The score is a predictor of future risk, and all of the factors that are looked at are viewed as to how well they can predict the future. So the more fresh or recent the information is, the more predictive it is," he says. "Lenders are always looking to spot potential problems as early as possible."
The further back in time the mistakes are, the less impact they have on your credit score. Obviously, the fewer mistakes consumers make, the better for their score. Once the mistakes are several years old, however, they may not affect the credit score at all.
Here in the future, the world has changed. Banks claim they want to lend money, but really they'd prefer to buy other banks with government money.
Credit issuers aren't sure they want to lend money to people who need to borrow it, a situation somewhat analogous to the Groucho Marx axiom, "I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member."
And woe betide those who ask for loans with glaring blemishes on their credit reports. An unpaid collection is apt to be regarded like a cockroach in the consommé.
These days, wrecking your ability to get credit is about as easy as blowing over a house of credit cards.
7 Ways to Be Credit-Stupid
Making some of the following mistakes can ensure that lenders will need a hazmat suit to handle your credit report.
1. Close Credit Card Accounts
A quick way to guarantee that your credit score plummets faster than Lindsay Lohan's career is to slice away your available credit by closing accounts.
You see, credit scores are not built around common sense. Doing away with unused lines of credit would make sense to most human beings, but not so much to a credit scoring model.
"Many of the things that can lower your credit score are kind of counterintuitive," says Melinda Opperman, counselor and vice president of community outreach for Springboard, a consumer counseling organization.
When you close an account, it no longer adds to your total amount of available credit.
"There is a big chunk of your credit (score) that is factored on the amount owed -- 30 percent of your credit score. So one-third of your score measures the amount of debt against the credit limit," Opperman says.
Without changing your level of debt, lowering the credit available to you throws the ratio of debt to available credit out of whack.
For consumers with very low balances, closing newer credit accounts, slowly, can make sense -- especially if the cards sport high interest rates or charge annual fees.
But having too much credit will rarely be a problem.
"In years past there was kind of a myth that said if you have just way too much credit available, you have the risk of being potentially overextended because you could access that much credit right away," Opperman says.
It's still true that when consumers go to take out a home loan, some mortgage lenders may assess the amount of credit available to them and take that into consideration when evaluating their creditworthiness.
"If someone were planning to purchase a home and it was suggested that they close some accounts, the borrowers would want to do it well before applying for a loan and a few months apart -- and make sure that the accounts that they closed did not have too high of a credit limit," Opperman says. "But in general, having a robust credit file will not be an issue."
Furthermore, only recently opened accounts should be considered for closing. Length of credit history is an important component of the credit score.
According to John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education at Credit.com and contributor to CNBC, the ideal credit customer is one with 20 years or more of credit experience -- and you want that good history on your report. Closed accounts will drop off of your credit report.
"The sweet spot is someone who has 20, 30 or 40 years of credit experience and many, many accounts to look back on," Ulzheimer says.
2. Let Credit Cards Collect Dust
Consumers shouldn't necessarily close their credit accounts, but burying cards in the backyard or hoarding them in a shoebox in case of an emergency also may backfire.
Creditors are loathe to let just anyone have vast sums of potential money at their fingertips. Lately lenders have taken a use it or lose it attitude -- preferably lose it.
Consumers encounter two pitfalls if a creditor closes an account for nonuse: The available credit is pared down and that account no longer contributes to their credit history.
If an open account is unused for a long enough period of time, the company can stop reporting it to the credit bureaus. If the account goes unreported, that account is not contributing to your available credit, which affects your credit utilization ratio.
The FICO score isn't an award or demerit system, but a predictive score that tells lenders what you might do in the future.
"The FICO score looks at how recently the information was reported, so, if say, a credit card trade line (credit card account) hasn't been reported in X number of months, then we will not include that information for certain calculations, basically any calculations that look at dollars," says Barry Paperno, consumer operations manager for Fair Isaac and head of myFICO.com's consumer education and advocacy.
That includes the amount of debt you're carrying relative to the amount of credit available.
Plus, the fact that the creditor took action to close the account is also noted on your credit report.
"Some folks feel that because there is the narrative there, it is less desirable for it to say closed by creditor rather than by the consumer. However, I wouldn't have someone be overly concerned with that because the narrative isn't picked up by the credit score," Opperman says.
"But it would be better if consumers were not going to use an account to either close it themselves, or if they want to maintain that credit relationship, we suggest that people use their cards periodically," she says.
3. Run Up High Balances
If using too little credit sends up red flags to lenders, using too much credit sends up road flares and fireworks.
Like Goldilocks' preference for porridge and sleeping accommodations, lenders want to see people use credit just right -- not too much, not too little.
Gail Cunningham, spokeswoman for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling in Silver Spring, Md., says that the FICO score in particular favors lots of credit that is not utilized too little or too much.
"The FICO '08 score does want to see a lot of credit, but it would rather see many low balances on several cards rather than one large balance," she says.
This can be damaging even to cardholders who run up a high balance every month on one card and then pay it off each month. The FICO score does not take those payments into account.
"For instance, charging $8,000 one month, pay it off. Then charge $10,000 the next, and pay it off. The model does not recognize that -- it just reads that you are constantly carrying a large balance," Cunningham says.
Thirty-percent of the FICO score looks at the amount borrowers owe and then compares it to the amount of credit they have available. This utilization ratio gets unpleasantly skewed when you owe more than 30 percent of what is available to you -- particularly if one card is at or near its limit.
And it's not only irresponsible or desperate spenders who have damaged scores because of large balances relative to their credit limits. It can happen to anyone who carries a balance if a lender decides to chop your credit limit -- in response to market conditions, for instance.
To prospective lenders who view your credit report, it appears that you've maxed out your credit cards rather than keeping what was previously a low balance relative to the credit limit.
4. Apply for New Credit Repeatedly
New credit doesn't mean just a shiny new credit card stretching out your wallet; it means a lower credit score -- at least in the short run. The reasons are twofold.
First, new credit accounts lower the average age of your credit history.
"Say you've had one credit card for 20 years and then five others that you just got because you went to five different stores over the holidays and they offered you rebates to sign up for a card," Opperman says.
"The credit score is going to take the one account you've had for 20 years -- 240 months -- and the five accounts that you've had for one year. That's five accounts times 12 months and it would then average all of those accounts together so it only looks like you've had credit for four years," she says.
Also, applying for credit causes a hard inquiry on your credit report. The alternative to a hard inquiry is a soft inquiry, which is what would happen if you pulled your credit report.
Inquiries aren't extremely damaging to a credit score, but multiple hard inquiries in a short period of time can raise lenders' eyebrows, because of that whole reeking-of-desperation-thing, or possibly being up to something illegal. Most banks or credit card companies try to avoid consumers in these scenarios.
However, credit scores do take smart loan shopping into account. When shopping for products such as auto loans or mortgages, consumers are not dinged for each individual auto or home loan-related inquiry within a 45-day window.
Experts recommend doing all comparison shopping within that period of time if possible to minimize credit dings.
5. Don't Pay Fines or Non-Credit-Card Bills
Skipping out on overdue book fines at the library can hurt more than your book-borrowing privileges. It actually can negatively impact your credit score, as can other seemingly meaningless hassles, such as parking tickets.
"These days, public institutions and municipalities will use credit to get people to pay their fines and fees. So if someone has an old library fine that they never paid, it could be killing their credit score without them knowing it -- which is why it is essential to check your score regularly," Opperman says.
Other business relationships that don't normally report your good payments can turn around and bite you if you decide not to pay as agreed. Any business, from garbage collectors to cell phone companies, can turn to the dark side when it comes to getting what's owed to them, and that means sending your account to collections.
"Normally when you have an account with a merchant that doesn't report directly to the credit bureaus, there is a difference between positive and negative reporting. A lot of service providers don't report positive information. But the minute you do something wrong, they can outsource that debt to a collection agency who will report it," Ulzheimer says.
"If I have a Verizon cell phone and pay $79 every single month for the phone, that information is not on any of my credit reports. But if I was on a contract that required that I pay every month and I don't -- it's really only a matter of time before they send it to a collection agency and then the collection agency will report the past-due debt, or the collection debt, on my credit report," he says.
6. Ignore Mistakes on Your Report
Say what you will about credit bureaus: They do make it easy to dispute inaccuracies on your credit report.
Sure, they may not fix them and it may be nearly impossible to ever speak to a live human being. But sometimes, probably more often than not, it works and it's easy.
In order to dispute something on a credit report, one must, of course, check one's credit report. It's easier than it's ever been, so consumers have unfettered access to their own credit information, a vast improvement over the laborious and time-consuming methods used in the dark ages before the Internet.
Unlike other issues that affect credit scores, mistakes sometimes can be remedied easily and quickly, so it's worthwhile to keep tabs on your report.
7. Make Late Payments or Skip Them Entirely
It seems almost too obvious, but it bears stating that paying late and missing payments altogether are stellar ways to ensure that your credit score will scrape the bottom of the barrel.
Fortunately, as it happens, not all missed and late payments are counted equally in credit scores.
According to MyFICO.com's Paperno, the FICO score judges missed and late payments by several different criteria, including how recently it happened, how severely late the payment was and the frequency of missed or late payments.
The recentness of the incident has the most bearing on the FICO score.
"Believe it or not, a 2-year-old incident of a payment being 90 days late is not as bad as a recent 30 days late (payment). The older one may have been one blemish in a long history but a 30-day this month can lead to a 60, which can lead to a 90," Paperno says.
"The score is a predictor of future risk, and all of the factors that are looked at are viewed as to how well they can predict the future. So the more fresh or recent the information is, the more predictive it is," he says. "Lenders are always looking to spot potential problems as early as possible."
The further back in time the mistakes are, the less impact they have on your credit score. Obviously, the fewer mistakes consumers make, the better for their score. Once the mistakes are several years old, however, they may not affect the credit score at all.
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