Photo of the Day: Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2008

MICHAEL LAPOLLA / Observer-Dispatch
Lauren Smith, 8, of Utica, punches a punching bag during a Boxing Youth Sports Camp at Martin Luther King Junior Elementary School, Monday, August 4, 2008, in Utica.

Editor's note: This is a shot that changed the face of the front page. The editor's dream is to have a strong photo like this that forces a debate as to which photo should run as the main photo.

Photo of the Day: Monday, Aug. 4, 2008

WILLIAM P. CANNON / Observer-Dispatch
A rainbow stands in the clouds behind a row of trees, Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008, in the Town of Trenton. Scattered storms moved through the area throughout the day.

Photo of the Day: Tuesday, July 8, 2008

MICHAEL LaPOLLA / Observer-Dispatch
Saul Rivera, 10, of Utica, jumps into the water to cool off at Buckley Pool on Culver Ave., Tuesday, July 8, 2008, in Utica.

Photo of the Day: Sunday, July 6, 2008

NICOLE L. CVETNIC / Observer-Dispatch
Fort Smith, Arkansas Nighthawks goalie Levi Hicks, 8, guards the net as teammates Adam Harrison, left, and Lane Caldwell, both 9, attempt to drive the ball away during the 48th United States Roller Hockey National Championships at The Aud, Sunday, July 6, 2008 in Utica.

MICHAEL DOHERTY / Observer-Dispatch
Sherrill Post shortstop Jermy Roden throws put a Clonan Post batter in an Oneida County American Legion baseball game, Monday, June 30, 2008, at Sauquoit Valley High School in Sauquoit.

Editor's note: It is the expression that really makes this shot.

Photo of the Day: Saturday, June 28, 2008

MICHAEL LAPOLLA / Observer-Dispatch
New Hartford Senior High graduate Elijah Norwood performs a victory dance while walking across the stage during the New Hartford Central School Commencement at the Stanley Center for the Arts, Saturday, June 28, 2008, in Utica.

Editor's note: This is a great reaction shot. Given the fact that such ceremonies can make us feel a bit sedated, this shot is a real gem.What gives it the extra punch is the fellow students smiling an watching. This brings your eye into the frame and stregnthens the moment.

Photo of the Day: Tuesday, June 24, 2008

NICOLE L. CVETNIC/Observer-Dispatch
Professional Bicycle Stunt Rider and Motivational Speaker Chris Poulos performs a stunt against the gymnasium wall at Waterville Middle School, Tuesday, June 24, 2008 in Waterville.

Editor's comment: A unique moment that catches you eye makes you want to read the caption.