GLADSTONE, Mo. — Mayor Les Smith and the Gladstone City Council made local history Monday night, presenting the first-ever Clay County 250th Citizen Challenge Coin during the City Council meeting.
The inaugural coin was awarded to Zakk Ryser, a student at Antioch Middle School, who became the first participant to complete the Clay County 250th Citizen Challenge — a countywide initiative celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
The program encourages residents of all ages to honor America’s semiquincentennial through civic engagement, historical learning, and community service. Participants complete activities that connect them with local history, government, and volunteer opportunities, earning recognition for their efforts.
Mayor Smith commended Ryser for setting an example of community spirit and initiative. “Zakk embodies what this challenge is all about — learning from our history, serving others, and taking pride in our community,” Smith said.
The Clay County 250th Citizen Challenge is part of a broader regional effort to commemorate America’s founding, with events and educational programs planned across local cities and schools in the coming years.
Residents interested in participating can learn more about the challenge through their city’s website or by contacting the Clay County 250th Committee.
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