Declaration Documentary Project: Exclusive Opportunity for YMCA Youth and Government Students and Alumni

Exclusive Opportunity for YMCA Youth and Government Students and Alumni

Part of a nationwide documentary film project

Valuable activity to include on your college or professional resume

Declaration is a documentary film produced by Billboard-Chart-Topping pianist Lara Downes to commemorate the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026.

As part of the project, she’ll conduct an exclusive performance and workshop for YMCA Youth & Government students and alumni that will be filmed for the movie.

Only 30 spots are available.

When: Wednesday, June 18, at 1pm

Where: KMFA Radio’s Draylen Mason Studios (41 Navasota St)

How to Participate:

Register here
Listen to these musical works (1 hour)
Reflect on what they inspire in you
Choose from the themes of “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” to reflect on in-depth
Create your own artistic interpretation. NOTE: respond in any artistic way that feels true to you. Your creation can be:
1. - A poem or essay
  - A drawing, photo, painting, or song
  - A short video
  - A song, dance, or spoken word performance
  - Anything else you dream up
Attend the workshop
Share your creation – participating students may be featured in the film

This is a valuable resume-builder.

Deadline to register is Friday, June 13, 2025.

Email Sean Doles, YMCA Public Affairs Officer, at [email protected] with any questions.

CLICK HERE to complete the Declaration Project Application

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-06-12T12:37:03-05:00June 12th, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

FINE PRINT SAVES LIVES!: THE UPS AND DOWNS OF THE “NUTTY NEGLIGENCE” TRIAL

The Glenda Dawson H.S. delegation (District 3) defending the restaurant.

By: Malcolm Hodge
Glenda Dawson High School

Austin, TX – Much of the time, when we carry out tasks that we have years of experience with, we tend to ignore the text that we consider “less important”, whether that be on the bottom of a run-of-the-mill sign-up sheet, label of a beloved food, or a wordy workplace memo. Usually this does not prove to be dangerous or have detrimental consequences, but these oversights can certainly be catastrophic.

Take this year’s trial court case, alliteratively referred to as “Nutty Negligence”. In the case, a single mother sued a restaurant for preparing a delivery meal which contained trace amounts of

peanuts (which her daughter was allergic to). The decision of the case was often contingent on the varied importance assigned to fine print; there was an addendum to the order placed on the fact that there was a small alteration to the packaging of the fatal ingredient, reading “May contain peanuts”, and the fact that an addendum was placed on the online order asking specifically not to contain peanuts. However, the fine print on the packaging had just recently begun to appear, and the note asking not to add peanut products was not placed in the “allergies” section of the order (which was placed through a third-party platform).

This morning as well as yesterday, courts have seen different verdicts from the same team, as certain delegations placed varied emphasis on many of the numerous thought-provoking points of their arguments.

Most recently at the state Capitol, the Glenda Dawson H.S. trial court team was able to absolve the restaurant of liability for the daughter’s death through a combination of clever testimonies, witty objections, and consistent examinations. This victory, however, was long-awaited. “Did we win?!”, exclaimed one shocked student. Overall, watching the litigation of “Nutty Negligence” was an invigorating, entertaining, and at-times humorous sight

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T09:16:25-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Visiting the Capitol Gift Shop

By Kimberly Damian
Bob Hope School

Let’s think about when you enter the capitol, you wonder if the gift shop have good gifts or not.

We want to believe that the gift shop has great stuff. Let me rest your minds, they have great gifts for your friends or lovers. The gift shop have necklaces that say names or they say yo quier, or mi amor. They have plush animals, such as dogs, giraffe, and so many more. They sell shirts and caps whether they are my style or not I think I would get it for if my shirt got small or damaged. The gift shop at the Texas State Capitol in Austin is a treasure love of unique souvenirs and memorable that captures the essences of Texas rich history story

Moreover, the gift shop places a strong emphasis on supporting local artisans and businesses. Many of the products available are made by local craftsmen, ensuring that each purchase not only serves as a memento but also supports the local economy. This commitment to local craftsmanship is evident in the quality and uniqueness of the items available, from hand-painted ornaments to gourmet Texan snacks. For visitors, this means they can take home a piece of Texas that is not only meaningful but also authentically representative of the state’s culture and creativity.

In conclusion, the gift shop at the Texas State Capitol in Austin is more than just a place to buy souvenirs; it is a gateway to experiencing and celebrating the unique spirit of Texas. Through its diverse product offerings and support of local artisans, the shop provides visitors with a tangible connection to the state’s history and culture. Whether you are looking for a keepsake to remember your visit or a gift for someone special, the Capitol gift shop is sure to have something that captures the heart and soul of Texas.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T09:06:04-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

YAG at ACC

Gabriel Lara
Austin High School

This Friday, February 28th, the YMCA Youth and Government District court delegates gathered at Austin Community College’s Highland campus for a day of debate and competition. I had the pleasure of joining them on this expedition and witnessing multiple trials. What really intrigued me though was the building itself.

According to the Austin Community College website, the Highland campus was actually a commercial mall. At first glance I couldnt imagine that the facilities would be refined and modern, but they were exactly that. When someone thinks of the word “Community college,” they most likely picture a rundown project, and that’s probably the last stop they want to get off at. But ACC was the exact opposite.

Other delegates and I were welcomed by state-of-the-art infrastructure, and there were many accessible areas to work and communicate with other delegates. I was particularly impressed with the availability of private working areas from study rooms to quiet seating areas.

The area I found most interesting was the 4000 building where we ate lunch. This was the only area that somewhat resembled an old mall. There was a nice indoor plaza with many tables and chairs to eat at. There were remnants of the old mall such as trees and escalators. These remnants gave the whole area a nostalgic ambiance and made it very welcoming and inviting. I had the pleasure of speaking with a YMCA evaluator. Cynthia Soliz was very pleased with the facilities being offered to YAG and its delegates. She told me “as a native Austinite I would never have guessed that the Highland Mall would have been renovated into such a nice campus”. ACC was a great place to host youth and government and ensured that everybody had an exceptional state conference experience.

The area I found most interesting was the 4000 building

want to get off at.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:57:58-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Kalahari Chaos

By: Emily Ramirez
Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet

On Friday, after the first day of competition, delegates returned to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, only to face long delays before being allowed back to their rooms. Many delegates and advisors, exhausted from the day’s events, sat or lay on the floor, removing their shoes and attempting to rest while waiting for clearance to go upstairs. The situation became increasingly frustrating as hours passed with no clear communication.

Eventually, Missy Garcia, the Program Director, sent a notification through the Yapp app, announcing, “You’re officially released to your free night!” However, despite this announcement, advisors briefly continued to hold delegates downstairs before finally allowing them to return to their rooms.

Ultimately, this created a stampede of students waiting by the stairs and escalators. According to the Kalahari Resort website, the situation may have violated fire safety policies due to the sheer size of the crowd. As the delegates were eventually released, many rushed toward the escalators and stairs in a chaotic scene. Exits became completely blocked, creating a potential fire hazard. Some individuals were even seen running up the escalator intended for downward traffic, further adding to the disorder.

The unexpected delay and subsequent rush created a stressful and exhausting experience for many attendees. The lack of clear instructions and crowd control led to frustration, and the fire safety concerns raised serious questions about event management. In conclusion, future state conferences held at the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions may need to implement better crowd control measures and strategic scheduling to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:41:54-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

GETTING INTO LEGE: A QUICK GUIDE AND TIPS ON YG LEGISLATIVE

Texas YMCA Youth and Government Legislative Delegates in their second hearing at the Senate Chamber.

By: Dylan Nguyen

Woodrow Wilson ECHS

Austin, TX – One of Youth and Government’s four primary departments is the Texas YMCA Youth and Government Legislative. People participate in a legislative body, identify issues, draft bills, debate them, and present them. Legislative members draft a bill and conduct research to refine their performance in front of the conference.

In order to decide which bills will be forwarded to the state, they must pass stringent hearing committees at the District Conference. In these committee hearings, the author of a bill starts with their opening remarks where they have 3 minutes to elaborate on their bill and ultimately persuade delegates to be in favor of the bill. Preceding this, Delegates ask the bill author questions regarding their bill during a short period of question and answer. Following the Q&A session, the delegates engage in a debate of opposition or agreement. In order to demonstrate their support for the bill, two delegates speak as proponents and two delegates speak as opponents. The amendment phase follows, during which delegates revise the bill that is already on the table to include any necessary changes. The bill’s author concludes with closing remarks following the Amendment Period, and the caucus votes on whether to move the bill forward or not. If a delegate’s bill makes it to the state conference, the bills are then separated into either House or Senate bills where they then are heard in a first committee, advance to a chamber, and eventually sent to the Youth Governor.

Q&A with Legislative Delegates

Delegates’ Favorite Part of Being in Legislative: “Being able to speak and talk on a bill”

-Delegate Truc Le, District 4

Delegate Grayson Carlson, District 3, is a part of the Senate chamber and mentions that “the ability to debate, the fast pace, and procedures of legislative” is what keeps him intrigued.

“Students building bills, doing research, and making solutions to problems”

-Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch

The diversity of thoughts and perspectives in legislative is Delegate Mason Wakefield’s favorite part.

Challenges Legislative Delegates face: “Growing Confidence”

-Delegate Levi Jenkins, District 3

Forgetting what she was going to say is a big challenge for Delegate Truc Le

Preparing for questions is a big challenge for delegates, according to Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch.

Tips and Things to Look out for:

“Self-doubt is a big thing to look out for, just believe in yourself”

-Delegate Levi Jenkins

“Don’t be afraid to speak”

“Add value to the committee. don’t go up just to say something”

-Delegate Mabel Cotter

“Preparation is really important”

-Parent Advisor Meg Cotter’lynch

“Just jump into the deep end and dive into it” “It starts scary but you’ll ease into it”

-Delegate Mason Wakerfield

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:33:23-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Dive Into Democracy: A Rookie’s Guide to YG

By Charlie Alfred
Woodrow Wilson High School

Joining the Texas Youth and Government (YG) program is an exciting opportunity for young people to engage in civic education, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. As a rookie, you might feel a mix of excitement and nervousness, but don’t worry—this guide will help you navigate your first steps in the program.

What is Texas youth and government

Texas Youth and Government is a statewide program that allows students to simulate the roles of government officials, including legislators, judges,

attorneys, and more. Participants engage in mock trials, legislative sessions, and other activities that mirror the functions of real government. The program aims to foster a deeper understanding of the democratic process and encourage active citizenship.

YAG Sections

Legislative Section: Participants draft, debate, and vote on bills, simulating the legislative process. This section helps students understand how laws are made and the importance of effective communication and negotiation.

Judicial Section: Students take on roles as attorneys and judges in mock trials. This section provides insight into the judicial system and helps develop critical

thinking and public speaking skills.

Media Section: Participants act as journalists, covering the events of the Youth and Government conferences. This section emphasizes the role of media in democracy and reporting skills.

State Affairs Forum: This section allows students to discuss and debate current issues, providing a platform for thoughtful dialogue and policy analysis.

Tips For Rookies

Be Prepared: Familiarize yourself with the rules and procedures of your section. Practice your speeches, arguments, or reports to build confidence.

Stay Confident: It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that everyone starts as a rookie. As many veterans suggest, “Fake it till you make it”1.

Confidence will come with experience.

Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from advisors and veteran participants. They can offer valuable insights and support.

Engage Fully: Participate actively in all activities. The more you engage, the more you will learn and grow.

Reflect and Improve: After each session or conference, take time to reflect on your performance. Identify areas for improvement and set goals for your next participation.

Conclusion

Texas Youth and Government is a fantastic platform for young people to develop essential skills and gain a deeper understanding of the democratic process. As a rookie, embrace the learning experience, stay confident, and make the most of every opportunity. Welcome to the journey of becoming an informed and active citizen!

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-02T08:11:58-06:00March 2nd, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Seniors of YAG: What Are Their Next Steps into the Real World?

By: John Mahon
Bastrop High School

Austin, TX – Today, interviewer John Mahon went around the Capitol and asked seniors about the upcoming end of their time as the top dogs.

Senior Kayleigh Ricker from Creekwood High School says, “I am really excited to finally graduate after these long 4 years.” Ricker wants to become a lawyer and believes that being in Youth and Government will help her reach this goal due to how much it has improved her public speaking and self-advocacy skills.

Senior Charlie Ragner from Austin High says, “When thinking about leaving high school, it’s such a weird feeling because it feels like you will be there forever. It’s starting to get too real.” Ragner wants to go into engineering or computer science at Texas Tech and believes that being in YAG will help him in those fields by allowing him to create things to help the world.

Senior Zoe Moreno from Bastrop High School says, “Youth and Government has really helped me stand my ground and speak about things that I truly believe in. We need more of that in the world, and the best place to find that is in YAG. YAG has also helped me find friends for a lifetime and become a really good leader.” Moreno wants to become an environmental lawyer at UT Austin and says that being in YAG will help her stand her ground against people who don’t love the planet and its people as she does.

The interviewer spoke to multiple people, and they all gave very mixed answers about what they want to be, but they all believe in one thing: that Texas Youth and Government will help them in the future. Whether you’re a doctor, lawyer, scientist, or public activist, Youth and Government is for everyone. In Youth and Government, you can only gain, whether it’s public speaking or debating subjects that truly matter to you. You will continue to grow and succeed.

Photo of Zoe Moreno

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-01T14:45:45-06:00March 1st, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

HOUSE BILL EXPANDS MEDICAL MARIJUANA

DISTRICT 5 DELEGATE PROPOSES EXPANSION OF MEDICAL CANNABIS SO THAT MORE TEXANS WITH CHRONIC ILLNESSES CAN ACCESS IT

Many modern Americans tend to view the use of cannabis as a deeply unserious and usually recreational practice. Amongst those who know the history of the substance, however, it is known that its origins were medicinal. According to the Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics at the University of Sydney, the first appearance of the use of cannabis was over four thousand years ago in China, where the emperor Shen Nung was known to use it to remediate a vast list of medical conditions. Since then, cannabis has spread across the world and been recognized for its healing qualities, then yet again for its hallucinogenic ones. Of course, with this diffusion comes stigma and speculation surrounding the true intents of youth-endorsed legislation expanding its use. However, the bill (HB126) by District 5 delegate Saanvi Vaddi (Highland Park H.S.) calls for the expansion of eligibility for CUP (Compassionate Use Program) cannabis licenses, increased concentration of dispensaries, and greater funding for Texas DPS locations, to name a few of its numerous provisions. Vaddi specifically plans to expand permissions to people with endometriosis, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, and fibromyalgia. When posed with an inquiry about the risk of lung damage for those with marijuana administered to them, she ensured that the general medical maximum concentration of THC is a mere 1% and would thus not cause harm to a patient’s respiratory system. This low concentration also clarifies the potential of DUls being stricken upon the heightened population using medical THC (such an amount would not inhibit people’s driving abilities, but in the case of abuse of the drug, legal action is possible). Overall, 24 U.S. states allow THC for recreational use, and 47 (including Texas) allow it for medicinal practice. As this number continues to rise, more specific regulation is imperative.

By: Malcolm Hodge

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-01T14:47:22-06:00March 1st, 2025|YG State Conference|0 Comments

The leaders behind the scenes: The people that really deserve credit

John Mahon
Bastrop High Hchool delegation

Austin TX: The Texas Youth and Government (YAG) program is a great way for young people to get involved in the political process with the help of selfless leaders who are keen on mentoring the future generation of leaders. The YMCA Texas Youth and Government is backed by these leaders who do everything they can to make sure that the program is going well and is helping students to gain life skills like communication, leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking.

The leadership team consists of experienced individuals, including volunteers and professionals from the fields of law, education, government, and public administration. This diverse group of leaders contributes a wealth of experience that greatly enriches the program. They contribute not only knowledge that enhances the learning atmosphere but also challenges participants to be their best.

The adult advisors are the real heroes of the program; their advice and counsel are priceless. These dedicated individuals are in charge of arranging YAG conferences and events and they make sure that every aspect of the events is well coordinated to ensure that participants have a fun and informative time. They assist students in the actual legislative sessions, speaking opportunities, and mock debates, with tips and comments that would enable the students to navigate through a governmental process. The knowledge and perspective they give to the students regarding the dynamics of Texas politics is invaluable in the development of these future leaders.

However, the program’s peer leaders are also important in the development of leadership and teamwork. These student leaders would teach the new members how to speak in public, write a bill, and navigate through the legislative process. The advisors are arguably the heart of Youth and Government; most of the people involved in Youth and Government likely wouldn’t be there if it weren’t for them.

Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government2025-03-01T14:09:53-06:00March 1st, 2025|Uncategorized|0 Comments

Texas Youth and Government

About Texas Youth and Government Youth and Government

By: Dylan Nguyen

YAG Sections