(09/06/07) - Greater Akron will mark the
sixth anniversary of the September 11th 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 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 Regnaudin 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, middle school students from the Lippman
Jewish Community Day School and the Islamic Center School Choir. Each will perform
individually. This will be followed by all three 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 11th 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.
END
