Summer Night Lights Turned on Tonight

The Summer Night Lights program kicks off tonight at Valley Plaza Park when the lights will be left on until midnight as a deterrent to gangs and violence.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's program, now entering its third year, recently and will include 31 other city parks, including Sun Valley Park, which is just a few blocks from the North Hollywood border.

The program was implemented last year at Valley Plaza Park and was by both City Councilman Paul Krekorian and Villaraigosa with reducing violence at the park. The program is also credited with reducing violence and shootings at other participating parks.

The city has been suffering cutbacks in many key programs due to a budget crisis, but was able to expand the program through private donations. Summer Night Lights keeps the lights on until midnight in parks that have experienced violence in the past. Food is served and community activities such as athletic leagues, art initiatives and family programs keep the park occupied, the lights on, and gangs away.

Those interested in getting involved can check Villaraigosa's Web site for more details.