Metropolitan Diary Challenge Day 1: What Is Your N.Y. Story?

Metropolitan Diary Challenge Day 1 centers on readers’ New York City stories as part of the column’s 50th anniversary celebration. The piece notes that Shanahan has served as editor for 10 years, while Agnes Lee has produced more than 2,000 illustrations for the weekly column since 2017. The challenge spans two days: Day 1 prompts writers to find a suitable memory, while Day 2 offers tips to shape it into a strong submission. Submissions must be true, based on firsthand experience, and limited to 300 words or fewer. The story must be set in New York City and avoid politics, divisive topics, and vulgar material.