The unofficial convention/benefit organized solely by Backstreet Boys fans is a charity fundraiser to raise money and awareness for the Backstreet Boys' charitable organizations, including Howie Dorough's Dorough Lupus Foundation, Kevin Richardson's Just Within Reach, Nick Carter's Oceans Campaign, A.J. McLean's Johnny No Name (JNN) Foundation, and Brian Littrell's Healthy Heart Club.

"We're going to have a lot of fun celebrating the Backstreet Boys," said Connell, adding, "This event is by the fans, for the fans." In conjunction with the arrival of the convention, Baltimore Mayor Martin O'Malley officially proclaimed Saturday (March 2) to be Backstreet Boys Day in the city.

While the Backstreet Boys themselves are not scheduled to attend the convention, some of their closest friends and family members are confirmed to be on-hand, including Littrell's mother, Dorough's mother and sister, and representatives from the Boys respective charities.

The festivities will include an A.J. McLean look-alike contest, trivia contests, raffles, a fan rally, a fan award presentation, and a Backstreet Boys karaoke contest. In addition, there will be a charity auction that will include autographed Backstreet Boys merchandise. For more information about the 2002 Backstreet Boys Fan Convention, visit the official website at geocities.com/astarforbsb/convention.html?vo=yahn&.

-- Jason Gelman, New York