Backstreet Boy To Announce Johnny No Name Foundation
Source: Launch.com
(5/21/01, 4 p.m. ET) -- Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean's British alter ego Johnny No Name will hold a press conference to announce the official launch of his charity, the Johnny No Name (JNN) Foundation at Hard Rock Live at Universal Studios CityWalk in Orlando, Florida, at 12:30 p.m. ET on Thursday (May 24). The organization intends to raise awareness and funding for VH1's Save The Music Foundation and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
McLean said in a statement: "My family and I are grateful for all that we have been blessed with, and giving back--however we can--is a mainstay of our long-term goals. In establishing the JNN Foundation, we intend to make a difference with causes that have hit close to home for us."
The press conference will also kick off the first fundraising efforts of the JNN Foundation by allowing for 500 fans to purchase tickets to the May 24 press event for a minimum $5.00 donation, with all proceeds benefiting the JNN Foundation. Tickets will only be made available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the door on the day of the event.
In addition, starting on May 24 hardrock.com, in conjunction with Ebay, will host a month-long auction featuring autographed Johnny No Name memorabilia, including a suit and fedora hat worn by the entertainer at a recent Orlando performance, as well as an autographed leather Hard Rock Cafe jacket. Funds raised from the auctions will benefit VH1's Save The Music and JDRF. For more information on the auction, visit hardrock.com beginning May 24.
In other news, McLean has confirmed that he will not be available to attend bandmate Howie Dorough's Lupus 2001 Fundraiser on June 1 and 2 at Hard Rock Live in Orlando. Guests currently scheduled to attend that event include Backstreet Boy Nick Carter, Marc Anthony, Deborah Gibson, Carole King, Sisqo, Aaron Carter, Jon Secada, Tito Puente Jr., Barry Williams, and the Pointer Sisters. (lineup subject to change). Tickets for Lupus 2001 are currently available via Ticketmaster outlets.
-- Jason Gelman, New York
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