06/26/09

LAS VEGAS (AP) _ A collection of Michael Jackson memorabilia is
up for auction in Las Vegas _ a potentially lucrative coincidence a
day after the singer's death.

A celebrity auction Friday at the Planet Hollywood Resort and
Casino has been planned for months, and was promoted mostly as
featuring Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe items.

But after Jackson's death Thursday, items likely to get more
attention include a drawing of Mickey Mouse done by Jackson as a
child, handwritten lyrics for his 1987 hit ``Bad,'' and a shirt the
star wore on his 1984 Victory tour.

Auctioneer Darren Julien says they're from a collection owned by
David Gest, the producer and promoter once married to Liza
Minnelli. Jackson introduced the couple and was best man at their
wedding.
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On the Net:

Julien's Auctions http://www.juliensauctions.com

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
APNP-06-26-09 1624MDT<