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Sunday, December 29, 2002

By the photography staff of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

very day on the pages of the Post-Gazette, we see life in Western Pennsylvania unfold through photographs taken by an award-winning staff. Some of their images captured events that shaped our lives in 2002; some gave richer meaning to the stories they accompanied; others provided a much-needed smile.

Post-Gazette photographers were there for the big events, providing close-ups of Somerset County when rescue efforts ended with the deliverance of nine trapped miners, and for Sept. 11 memorials for the victims of Flight 93. They also were there when a girl in Saxonburg arrived for her first day of kindergarten, and when the Steelers fell one short of the Super Bowl, falling to New England in the AFC Championship game.

There's a story behind each of these photos that, many times, only the photographers can tell: how they positioned themselves in the right place at the right time, for one, or how good luck led to a great photo.

We offer the stories behind the images that make up the 2002 Photos of the Year.

Shining Moment: By Robert J. Pavuchak

Delaying the Happy Ending: By Annie O'Neill

What a Hoot: By Robin Rombach

A Vote for the Media: By Darrell Sapp

Opening Day: By Bob Donaldson

One Man and a Baby: By Lake Fong

Staggering Grief: By V.W.H. Campbell Jr.

Marathon Mom: By Martha Rial

Mystery Mission: By John Beale

A Lifetime of Care: By Steve Mellon

Saying Goodbye: By Andy Starnes

Socialism in America: By Pam Panchak

A New Start: By Matt Freed

Cycle of Giving: By Tony Tye

Cheering from afar: By Bill Wade

Need a Hug?: By Peter Diana

Net Worth: By Peter Diana

Fly on a Wall: By Matt Freed

Kid Stuff: By Martha Rial