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  • The United States Capitol is prepared ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 19, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8841.tif
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    obama1.jpg
  • The band from Punahou School in Hawaii, where President Obama attended stay warm as they wait to march in the parade after the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9606b.jpg
  • The band from Punahou School in Hawaii, where President Obama attended stay warm as they wait to march in the parade after the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9604.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9393.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8609.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8565.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8524.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8467.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8412.jpg
  • People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness  the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America In Washington DC January 20, 2009. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States.
    DSC_9057.tif
  • Native American Indians from Montana wait with their horses to march in a parade after the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. The electric and emotional mood was contagious as Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. .
    DSC_9630.tif
  • Thousands of people waited in the streets from 2 am in frigid temperatures to be sure to see the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. The electric and emotional mood was contagious as Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. .
    DSC_9132.tif
  • Thousands of people waited in the streets from 2 am in frigid temperatures to be sure to get a spot to see the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8961.tif
  • The band from Punahou School in Hawaii, where President Obama attended stay warm as they wait to march in the parade after the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9613.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9313.jpg
  • A family poses in front of the Capitol in Washington DC ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness this historic inauguration.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8837.jpg
  • A family from Atlanta, Georgia pose in front of the Capitol in Washington DC ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness this historic inauguration.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8833.jpg
  • Students from Pitzer College in Claremont, California pose in front of the Capitol in Washington DC ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness this historic inauguration.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8831.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8583.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8572.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8556.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8511-2.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8379.jpg
  • Millions of people came to Washington to the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC.  Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. People waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness President Obama take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_8370.jpg
  • Baltimore City Police and Air Force guard the parade route in front of religious protestors ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9335.tif
  • Alabama Police guard the parade route ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9212.tif
  • Alabama Police guard the parade route ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Before a crowd of more than a million, Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. On an extraordinary day in the life of America, people waited for hours in frigid temperatures to witness a young black man take command of a nation founded by slaveholders.  (Ami Vitale)
    DSC_9162.tif
  • Thousands of people waited in the streets from 2 am in frigid temperatures to be sure to see the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. The electric and emotional mood was contagious as Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. .
    DSC_9102.tif
  • Thousands of people waited in the streets from 2 am in frigid temperatures to be sure to see the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America January 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. The electric and emotional mood was contagious as Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. .
    DSC_9015.tif
  • Mariama, a jubilent volunteer street crossing guard welcomes people to Washington DC January 18, 2009, ahead of the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America . The electric and emotional mood was contagious as Obama became the first African-American to be elected to the office of President in the history of the United States. .
    Obama01.tif
  • Protesters who included celebrities like Jane Fonda, Susan Saranda, Tim Robbins and Sean Penn, as well as politicians rallied in Washington DC, in the United States, Saturday January 27, 2007 to press their cause with a Congress about to make a decision whether to increase troops in the ongoing war in Iraq. United for Peace and Justice, a coalition group sponsoring the protest, had hoped 100,000 would come but it was estimated to be smaller than 100,000.(Ami Vitale)
    was102.jpg
  • Iraq Veterans Against the War along with other protesters who included celebrities like Jane Fonda, Susan Saranda, Tim Robbins and Sean Penn, as well as politicians rallied in Washington DC, in the United States, Saturday January 27, 2007 to press their cause with a Congress about to make a decision whether to increase troops in the ongoing war in Iraq. United for Peace and Justice, a coalition group sponsoring the protest, had hoped 100,000 would come but it was estimated to be smaller than 100,000.(Ami Vitale)
    was101.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook looks out a window of the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7948.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook visits the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8493.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook visits the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8478.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook looks out a window of the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7952.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook looks out a window of the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7947.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook visits the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7944.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook stands in the doorway of the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7933.jpg
  • Just down the road from Lindytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook stands in the doorway of the now-vandalized building that once served as the meeting hall for members of Local 8377 of the United Mine Workers of America. Back when the building was in use, Cook sometimes polished its wooden floors. Mountaintop-removal mines are now abundant in the area. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
    DSC_7917.jpg
  • Jama Masjid-Muslims come to the largest mosque in India, the Jami Masjid ,to pray for the first day of Ramadan  Saturday, November 17, 2001 in Old Delhi, India.  (Ami Vitale/Getty Images)
    14a.jpg
  • Jama Masjid-Muslims come to the largest mosque in India, the Jami Masjid ,to pray for the first day of Ramadan  Saturday, November 17, 2001 in Old Delhi, India.  (Ami Vitale/Getty Images)
    14a.jpg
  • Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8459.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9354.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9308.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9281.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9262.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9256.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9141.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9128.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9120.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9109.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9093.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_9013.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_8966.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_8932.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_8913.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_8900.jpg
  • A bird's-eye view of the mountaintop-removal mine that emptied Lindytown, West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
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  • Signs are posted outside Hobet Mining's mountaintop mine in southern West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
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  • Randy Meyers, holding a photo of when he was a track star, believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • The landscape is beautiful outside Hobet Mining's mountaintop mine in southern West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
    DSC_8773.jpg
  • Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_4338.jpg
  • Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Left to right, Sisters Ayona Hernandez, 13, Aaliya, 16, and Zayda, 14, hold their inhalers on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_4298.jpg
  • The landscape is beautiful outside Hobet Mining's mountaintop mine in southern West Virginia. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
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  • Left to right, the siblings of the Hernandez family stand in front of the Reid Gardner coal plant: Zayda Hernandez, 14,   Ayona Hernandez, 13,Gyiel, 7, Aaliya, 16, and Ayasha, 4 and on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Left to right, sisters Ayasha, 4, and Ayona Hernandez, 13,play a game  on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. Because the air is so polluted, they can not spend much time outdoors. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Marilyn Mullens poses next to a mine on Kayford Mountain in southern West Virginia. She organized the Memorial Day protest against mountaintop-removal mining: "We just want people to be aware. Know that every time you turn on a light switch . . . someone here is paying for that with dirty water, with air that they can't breathe." Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. © Ami Vitale
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  • Trains carry coal from Williamson, West Virginia, where mountaintop mines are abundant. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_4099.jpg
  • Surita Hernandez brings her children along with neighbors to swim in a river on the Moapa reservation outside Las Vegas, Nevada in July, 2012. They don't get to go outside as often as they like because of the poor air quality. In the photos are:   Aaliya Hernandez , 16, (grey shirt on left) and her sister Zayda Hernandez, (black shirt) 14 on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_3999.jpg
  • Zayda Hernandez, 14, and Ayasha, 4 play on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    TAN_3758.jpg
  • Trains carry coal from Williamson, West Virginia, where mountaintop mines are abundant. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8541.jpg
  • Zayda Hernandez, 14, holds her inhaler inside her room next to a portrait of her grandfather who passed away in March, 2012. All of her family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Ayona Hernandez, 13, holds her inhaler inside her room next to a portrait of her grandfather who passed away in March, 2012. All of her family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_3786.jpg
  • Trains carry coal from Williamson, West Virginia, where mountaintop mines are abundant. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8539.jpg
  • An home sits abandoned in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8513.jpg
  • Quinnie Richmond walks around inside her home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8390.jpg
  • Quinnie Richmond walks around inside her home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • Vernon Lee, standing in front of graves on the reservation, believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering and dying from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_3400.jpg
  • Quinnie Richmond holds an old photo of herself inside her home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    DSC_8368.jpg
  • Surita Hernandez brings her daughter Ayashe, 4, into the wate to swim in a river on the Moapa reservation outside Las Vegas, Nevada in July, 2012. They don't get to go outside as often as they like because of the poor air quality.   All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_3314.jpg
  • An home sits abandoned in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • Surita Hernandez brings her children along with neighbors to swim in a river on the Moapa reservation outside Las Vegas, Nevada in July, 2012. They don't get to go outside as often as they like because of the poor air quality. In the photos are: Ayona Hernandez, (wearing glasses)13, Aaliya Hernandez , 16, (grey shirt in ponytail)Gyiel Hernandez, 7, (Small boy)  Surita Hernandez, (mother) 37, Zayda Hernandez, (black shirt) 14,  Edgar Perez, 16, Summer Marie Sunshine Nickrand, 14  and Ayasha Hernandez, 4 and on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
    DSC_3169.jpg
  • Lindytown, West Virginia is almost completely abandoned. It was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
    TAN_6061.jpg
  • Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • Summer Marie Sunshine Nickrand, 14  jumps in a river on the Moapa reservation outside Las Vegas, Nevada in July, 2012. They don't get to go outside as often as they like because of the poor air quality. In the photos are: Ayona Hernandez, (wearing glasses)13, Aaliya Hernandez , 16, (grey shirt in ponytail)Gyiel Hernandez, 7, (Small boy)  Surita Hernandez, (mother) 37, Zayda Hernandez, (black shirt) 14,  Edgar Perez, 16, Summer Marie Sunshine Nickrand, 14  and Ayasha Hernandez, 4 and on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Quinnie Richmond poses inside her home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, only one original family remains: Quinnie Richmond and her son, Roger. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • Surita Hernandez brings her children along with neighbors to swim in a river on the Moapa reservation outside Las Vegas, Nevada in July, 2012. They don't get to go outside as often as they like because of the poor air quality. In the photos are: Ayona Hernandez, (wearing glasses)13, Aaliya Hernandez , 16, (grey shirt in ponytail)Gyiel Hernandez, 7, (Small boy)  Surita Hernandez, (mother) 37, Zayda Hernandez, (black shirt) 14,  Edgar Perez, 16, Summer Marie Sunshine Nickrand, 14  and Ayasha Hernandez, 4 and on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. All of their family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment. Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Roger Richmond and his mother, Quinnie, pose outside their home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, Roger and Quinnie Richmond are the only original residents that remain. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • Roger Richmond and his mother, Quinnie, pose outside their home in Lindytown, West Virginia. Lindytown was once home to dozens of families, many with roots dating back generations. In 2008, residents started moving away because of a nearby mine. Today, Roger and Quinnie Richmond are the only original residents that remain. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. © Ami Vitale
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  • All of the Hernandez family suffers from Asthma and though they can't prove it, believe its because of the coal plant next door. Her grandfather died in march because of cancer. The Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Charlie and Donna Branham met in high school and married shortly thereafter. Donna Branham shaved her head on the steps of the West Virginia Capitol with a group of women in protest to mountaintop-removal mining. The shaving of their heads was symbolic of the mountains that have been stripped of all of the living things on them. It was also symbolic of the many people who are sick or dying as the result of Mountaintop Removal. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. "People don't know how hard it is on the Appalachian people," Branham said of mountaintop-removal mining. "They have no idea. And they don't want to know. As long as they don't have to look at it, they can ignore it." © Ami Vitale
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  • Charlie Branham, a former coal miner, poses with his wife Donna outside their home in Lenore, West Virginia. Donna Branham shaved her head on the steps of the West Virginia Capitol with a group of women in protest to mountaintop-removal mining. The shaving of their heads was symbolic of the mountains that have been stripped of all of the living things on them. It was also symbolic of the many people who are sick or dying as the result of Mountaintop Removal. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. "People don't know how hard it is on the Appalachian people," Branham said of mountaintop-removal mining. "They have no idea. And they don't want to know. As long as they don't have to look at it, they can ignore it." © Ami Vitale
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  • Lane Miller, 12, plays with a toy he made inside their home on the Moapa reservation in Nevada. Lane has trouble breathing and uses an inhaler and nebulizer for his lungs. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Vernon Lee believes that the many people on the Moapa reservation suffering from health issues are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • Near his home in Bandytown, West Virginia, Leo Cook visits the Webb Cemetery, where several of his relatives are buried. Bandytown is in the heart of America, where mountaintop-removal mines are abundant. Mining firms must maintain a 100-foot protective zone around such burial grounds. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map. The mountaintop-removal mine near Blair caused the population to fall from 700 in the 1990s to fewer than 50 today, according to the Blair Mountain Heritage Alliance. "I saw Lindytown disappear," Leo Cook said. "Three people up there that died, and I believe in my soul -- I'll go to my grave believin' this?that aggravation's what caused it." © Ami Vitale
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  • Jennifer Samson, 43, sits with her relative and closest friend Russell Samson who passed away Friday, August 3, 2012 from cancer.  Though it can not be proved, many people on the reservation suffering from health issues, believe the enormous number of deaths are because of the coal plant next door. Sierra Club is working with the Moapa Band of Paiutes to transition NV Energy away from the Reid Gardner coal-fired power plant -- which sits only 45 miles from Las Vegas and a short walk from community housing at the Moapa River Indian Reservation. The Reid Gardner coal plant is literally spewing out tons of airborne pollutants such as mercury, nitrous oxide, sulfur dioxide, and greenhouse gases. This has resulted in substantial health impacts on the Moapa community, with a majority of tribal members reporting a sinus or respiratory ailment.
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  • The sun rises over mountains in West Virginia, where mountain-top removal mines are abundant. Mountaintop Removal is a method of surface mining that literally removes the tops of mountains to get to the coal seams beneath. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. It is the most profitable mining technique available because it is performed quickly, cheaply and comes with hefty economic benefits for the mining companies, most of which are located out of state. Many argue that they have brought wage-paying jobs and modern amenities to Appalachia, but others say they have only demolished an estimated 1.4 million acres of forested hills, buried an estimated 2,000 miles of streams, poisoned drinking water, and wiped whole towns from the map.
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