Today I attended the closing ceremony for the Summer Night Lights program, which kept 16 recreation centers open during the late evening hours throughout the summer. Similar to the At the Park After Dark program we started in Glassell Park, each program included activities of interest for young people of all ages, but was especially designed to attract teens who might otherwise just be hanging out on the street during these late hours.
Across the city, thousands of people participated in Summer Night Lights and it's helping to make our city safer. I want to acknowledge all of the people who have made this program a success, including the city staff, our partner community-based organizations, Youth Squad members, and especially the young people and families to came to their neighborhood park to enjoy Summer Night Lights.