Portfolio is happy to receive readers' essays fitting the following topics, ranging in length up to 750 words.

Send your submissions (including your name, your neighborhood or municipality, and contact information) by e-mail to page2@post-gazette.com; or write to Portfolio, Post-Gazette, 34 Blvd. of the Allies, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Steelers Nation: In connection with the black and gold's playoff run, tell us your story of how the Steelers' exploits over the years have led to bonds among family members, friends, neighbors, strangers, etc.

Winter Musings: Help your fellow readers get through the cold and snow of the season by offering your own unique story of enduring (or enjoying) them in the past.

Raves: Sing the praises of some present-day, Pittsburgh-area setting or activity you want others to know about. (We'll avoid commercial endorsements, however.)

Biography: If a person you know or knew lived an interesting life worth others reading about, let us know how -- as concretely as possible.

Out-of-Towners: We're eager to hear non-Pittsburghers' impressions of the city, positive or otherwise. Tell us about a memorable visit or encounter.

Storytelling: Reminisce about something meaningful -- an event, location, job, etc. -- that has some sort of Pittsburgh connection to it.

Local Dispatch: A catch-all category in which we'll showcase good writing on a variety of topics related to Western Pennsylvania.

First Published: December 29, 2010, 5:00 a.m.