Jackson, August 18, 2008 — Today, Commissioner David J. Socolow of the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development commended the Six Flags Corporation for participating in the Department’s pilot summer job program, Summer HEAT (Help Employ Area Teens). Through the program, Six Flags hired 38 young people from the Elizabeth area to work in its parks this summer.

“Summer jobs are often a teen’s introduction to the work world,” said Labor Commissioner David J. Socolow. “The partnership that we have with companies like Six Flags demonstrates that summer job programs can be important and successful for employers and for young workers. We are thrilled that employers like Six Flags have stepped up to help these young people. We urge employers throughout the state to consider participating in the program next year.”

Summer HEAT offers at-risk youth,* ages 14 to 25, opportunities to gain exposure to different careers and learn the skills needed to graduate and become successful working adults. The program supports Governor Corzine’s Public Safety Plan to reduce youth delinquency, gang involvement, and gun violence in New Jersey’s cities, by partnering with local government and communities to reduce the impact of risk factors on youth.

Summer HEAT targeted five New Jersey regions: Atlantic City, Camden, Elizabeth, Paterson, and Essex.

“We are pleased to partner with the New Jersey Department of Labor for the Summer HEAT program,” said Mark A. Kane, President of Six Flags. “It’s a win-win situation for our company and the communities we serve.”

Commissioner Socolow marked the event by presenting certificates of participation to Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor President, Mark A. Kane and the workers in the program.

Employers interested in participating in the 2009 Summer HEAT program may visit www.nj.gov/labor, or call (609) 984-3519 for more information.

* An ‘at-risk youth’ is defined as a youth with one or more of the following barriers to employment (1) school dropout; (2) basic skills deficient - tests below 8^th grade on a standardized test or unable to function on the job or in society; (3) below grade level for age; (4) pregnant or parenting; (5) physical, mental or learning disability; (6) homeless, runaway or foster child; (7) offender; (8) low income; or (9) needs additional help to complete an educational program and/or secure and hold employment.

Please click for Summer HEAT Background Information

Click to view photos of the event

-30-