Date: September 6, 2007
Contact: Mark Williamson willima@ci.akron.oh.us

AKRON TO REMEMBER 9/11 IN MUSIC AND DANCE

NOON CEREMONY TO FEATURE GOSPEL, ISLAMIC AND
JEWISH YOUTH CHOIRS JOINING IN SONG

Greater Akron will mark the sixth anniversary of the September 11^th terrorist attacks with The Rhythms of Remembrance and Renewal, a ceremony sponsored by the Greater Akron Remembrance Coalition.  This is the fifth time the coalition has brought the community together to remember September 11, 2001.

On Tuesday, September 11, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at St. Bernard's Church on Broadway at University Avenue in downtown Akron, Mayor Don Plusquellic, Akron Fire Department Chief Larry Bunner, United Way of Summit County President Bob Kulinski and others will gather to remember, through words and music, the significance of this anniversary to our country.

Mayor Plusquellic asks residents of Greater Akron to take time out Tuesday to reflect upon the events of 9/11 and how they have changed our world.

"Very few of us could have known at the time just how significantly our lives would be altered in the coming years because of that day.  I feel it is important for us to spend time thinking about that," said Plusquellic.

Akron also conducts this September 11 commemoration to honor the service of brave men and women who, since 9/11, have been deployed in foreign wars.  This public ceremony is also an invitation for our community to pray for peace. 

Numerous vested clergy members from all parts of the community will join in the processional at the beginning of the ceremony.  St. Bernard's music minister Jim Kintz will provide musical reflections along with: the Kenmore Sr. High Madrigals; Salvation Army Brass Choir; Paul Callahan, chief of the University of Akron Police Department will sing the National Anthem; Piper, Linda Rignodin will play Amazing Grace and there will be a performance of a liturgical dance by Eric Carvill and Jessica Schroeder.

Also featured are the Unity Gospel Singers, Shaw Jewish Community Center/Lippman Day School Choir and the Islamic Center School Choir.  Each will perform individually.  This will be followed by all three choirs joining to sing Bill Withers' Lean on Me. 

"I think everyone could agree that this is more than a symbolic moment," said Mayor Plusquellic, "to have the Islamic children and Jewish children unite in song at St. Bernards.  This is very special."

Transportation to the event will be available for veterans or military dependant families through the American Red Cross - Summit County Chapter and Salvation Army - Summit County.  Those needing a ride may call 330-535-6131.

The Greater Akron Remembrance Coalition was formed in 2002 to produce the area's September 11^th commemorations, and has also presented the Korean War Commemoration Ceremony in 2003.  Members of the Coalition include the City of Akron, Salvation Army, American Red Cross - Summit County Chapter, United Way of Summit County, and the University of Akron.