Youth Commission Sends Off Grads
Apr 18, 2024 09:00AM ● By Matthew Malone
Galt youth commissioners pose for a photo with Chibwe Chungu (standing, fourth from left) of Banyan Tree Skills Academy, who presented at the meeting. The commissioners are (standing, from left): Kayson Jones, Gabrielle Akers, Navkiran Sandhu, Annaliese Bowen, Josh Cullers, Alexa Murillo Cuevas, Kareena Lallian and Mikey Brixey; and (kneeling, from left) Alexia Bulahan and Alexis Ortega. Photo by Paige Lampson
GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt Youth Commission gave its well-wishes to graduating members at its April 1 meeting, thanking the commissioners for their contributions to the group’s work representing the city’s young people.
Chair Josh Cullers and Commissioners Alexa Murillo Cuevas and Kayson Jones are graduating this year.
Commissioners spoke about Cullers’ efficiency in running meetings, noting that he allows opportunities for commissioners to voice their opinions. They also praised his kind-heartedness and professionalism.
In his time on the commission, Cullers has also served as sergeant-at-arms and City Council liaison.
“You were an amazing, amazing chair,” Commissioner Alexis Ortega said. “I’ve never seen someone get through a meeting so efficiently, and just so detail-oriented. … No matter how small the agenda item was. You made sure everyone had a voice.”
Jones complimented Cullers’ confidence.
“You can show up to class in a tux and rock that thing with complete confidence. … And I really do admire that and how, mostly, you have your priorities straight, and you had them straight for a long time, and you do what you believe in,” Jones said.
Murillo Cuevas, the current vice-chair, received praise for her kindness and intelligence, and for welcoming new members.
Commissioner Alexia Bulahan described her as “one of the kindest hearts I’ve ever seen.”
Adult mentor Paige Lampson commended Murillo Cuevas’ attention to detail. Murillo Cuevas previously served as chair, treasurer and fundraising officer.
“I think, Alexa, you’re very articulate and very intelligent, and so you’re very self-confident with that,” Galt City Councilmember Shawn Farmer said.
Commissioners described Jones as detail-oriented and organized, asking good questions during agenda items. They also complimented his sports accomplishments and outgoing personality.
Jones served as treasurer this school year and organized lunches with special-education students as part of the commission’s participation in Random Acts of Kindness Week. He previously served as sergeant-at-arms.
“I’ve seen you take a lot of initiative lately and it’s really cool. You’ve been really hard-working,” Commissioner Mikey Brixey said.
Adult Mentor Robert King said, “You all exude quiet confidence and that’s something I really have enjoyed seeing you develop.” King added that the graduates have learned to support each other and honed their active-listening skills.
Farmer voiced optimism for the three commissioners’ future.
“I think all three of you are going to be successful in whatever you do, so good luck to you,” Farmer said.
