By Pat Trevino | May 25, 2026
CUERO, TX — The Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC) closed out the 2025–26 school year with a meaningful end‑of‑year gathering at La Bella Tavola, where Mayor Emil Garza honored the seven graduating seniors who have served on the council since its inaugural year. The evening highlighted both the accomplishments of the students and the continued growth of the youth‑leadership program.
The MYC was established to give Cuero high school students a direct role in local government, civic engagement, and community service. Members participate in leadership workshops, volunteer projects, city events, and discussions with municipal leaders. Students apply annually through the City of Cuero’s youth leadership program, submitting academic information, activity involvement, short‑answer responses, and a letter of recommendation. The program seeks motivated students who demonstrate leadership potential, community interest, and a willingness to serve.
This year’s MYC included 13 students — seven seniors and six juniors — who contributed to community initiatives, attended city meetings, and represented Cuero at various civic events. Mayor Garza praised the group for their commitment and emphasized that the inaugural seniors played a defining role in shaping the direction and expectations of the MYC.
As a gesture of appreciation, Mayor Garza presented each graduating senior with a signed copy of Stars and Stripes, a military leadership book he contributed to and co‑authored. The book’s primary authors, Major General (ret.) Bradley Spacy, USAF, and Chief Master Sergeant (ret.) Dr. Jose Lugo Santiago, USAF, traveled from San Antonio to meet with the students, share leadership insights, and autograph each copy. Their presence underscored the importance of mentorship, service, and character — values central to the MYC’s mission.
The graduating seniors recognized during the ceremony were Julian Henson, Sawyer Fuchs, Landon Crain, Jaida Dean, Tanner Lucas, Everette Odom, Jossiah Taylor
With six juniors expected to return next year — and with hopes of welcoming new members — the MYC continues to expand opportunities for youth leadership in Cuero. The program remains committed to empowering students, strengthening civic awareness, and building the next generation of community leaders.