The City of Akron is joining forces with Ron Marhofer, Akron Police and Fire departments, and Lock 3 to roll out the "Cruise Into Summer" event, a family-centric celebration marking the end of the academic year for students of Akron Public Schools. This free bash is slated for the evening of June 5, running from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the downtown plaza known as Lock 3, located at 200 S. Main St., and promises an array of activities for community engagement.
With an eye on fostering a safe and vibrant summertime vibe, the event will feature games, food, live entertainment, and a suite of summer resources aimed at children and their families. In a statement obtained by the City of Akron, Mayor Shammas Malik expressed his enthusiasm: "We're excited to offer this free, family-friendly event to set our students on the right path for summer." The mayor further highlighted the city's awareness, recognizing that a lack of resources and opportunities could lead students down a path fraught with distractions, crime, or violence during the summer months.
The correlation between the rise in temperatures and the uptick in juvenile crime rates is not a novel concern. Akron Police Chief Brian Harding underscores this phenomenon, stating, "There is a correlation between the summer months and an increase in crime/violence not only in our community but across the country." He told the City of Akron that "This event is a great way to focus on our youth and give them and their families resources to help combat that trend here in Akron."
