10/28/2026
John Russell ( John Russell ) from More Perfect Union is “driving progress in a pickup truck”, and I’m honored I got to steal him away for a quick moment to capture these photos for YNST (You’re Not Seeing Things)! 📸
This article, written by Gillian Cappadona ( Gillian Wanosky Cappadona )truly captures his impact and his hopes for the working-class community here in West Virginia.
One of my favorite quotes from John:
“You have way more in common with a neighbor that’s different than you than you do with the people who hold all the money and power.”
I’ve known John for a while now, and I’ve always admired his work ethic, his beliefs, and his dedication to the people around him. Getting to hang out, talk, and know him a little better reminded me of what community is really all about.
That’s what I love about YNST Magazine. Sharing local voices, telling meaningful stories, and highlighting the people making a difference right here in our own communities.
There’s something so powerful about that, and I’m incredibly honored that i got to step out of my comfort zone with this and that my photography got to play a small part in telling this story! 🧡
(You might also notice the red bandanas scattered throughout these photos, a nod to West Virginia’s rich labor history and the red bandanas worn by striking coal miners during the Mine Wars. A small but powerful reminder of the generations of working-class West Virginians who fought for better wages, safer working conditions, and the right to organize. That history is still very much a part of who we are, and it felt fitting to honor it in these photos.)
Go buy ISSUE 13 today & check it out for yourself! ❤️
