Kevin In June 24, 2002 Issue Of People Magazine

Back - Index - Submissions - - What is RSS? Date: Jun 18, 2002 Source: People Magazine Submitted By: Gina Cates Senator VS. Backstreet Vexed by the parade of cause celebs from Julia Roberts (Rett syndrome research) to Christie Brinkly (nuclear energy) on Capital Hill recently , Sen. George Voinovich of Ohio , 65, boycotted the June 6 congressional appearance of Backstreet Boy Kevin Richarson, 30, who testified about the environmental impact of coal mining. "It's just a joke," says Voinovich, "to think that this witness can provide members of the U.S. Senate with information on important geological and water quality issues." Richardson, who grew up in Kentucky's heavily mined Appalachian Mountains and heads his own environmental foundation, Just Within Reach , begs to differ. "Senator Voinovich doesn't know where I'm from, what experiences I've had," says the singer. " I'm here today not as a celebrity; I'm here as a concerned citizen. To prejudge someone is unfair. It's unfortunate he wasn't here. I might have taught him something." Comment on this item. Next Item: Pop Stars Celebrate Father's Day Prev Item: BackStreet Boys #19 on Forbes Top 100 List