This is probably one of the better interviews I’ve done because I’ve never spoken with anyone more passionate and filled with more conviction on an issue than Maria Gunnoe (besides my mom — hi mom!). It was hard to choose which bites to use because Gunnoe had a very concise yet firm answer for every question I asked her.

This underwent a vigorous edit, with my editor and I disagreeing on about three major points. I was strongly attached to the subject, so I won’t deny having a hard time divorcing my intrinsic bias on the matter of mountain top removal. It was a good experience, but I failed to convert my editor.

Example: I didn’t like using the word “alleges” in “Gunnoe alleges, over the years, coal workers have killed family pets as well as harassing her and her family.” Not even an AP article on her uses the word “alleges” when discussing the threats she’s received. I think it’s an extraneous legal term that detracts from the seriousness of what she’s been through. “Alleges” is better suited for a crime story, not a feature about a woman’s positive contributions to society.

For my own satisfaction, I revoiced a few sentences and recut a version for my own use. I guess you could say I have my own convictions as well.