June 27, 2013

INDIANAPOLIS – From the heydays of the 1950s and 60s to the more recent efforts to revitalize its local economy, the seven communities that comprise Indianapolis’ near Southside have always served as a place where generations of families have grown up together.


Beginning August 31st, an unprecedented celebration – as part of the 2013 Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC) Miracle Mile Parade – is planned to highlight the quality of life that exists throughout those communities, including CityWay, Bates-Hendricks, Gateway South, Homecroft, University Heights and the cities of Southport and Greenwood, Ind.



According to Jeff Cardwell of the Gateway Community Alliance, parade organizers recently announced that the theme for this year’s event – “Celebrating the Gateway South” is intended to symbolize the “history, economic achievement and future” of the seven communities. In fact, each of the seven parade divisions will be named for the connecting communities.

The unique character and quality of life of our communities is what makes the Southside of Indianapolis very special,” said Cardwell. “Within each of these neighborhoods is where families come together, go to school, attend church and support the businesses that have helped our community grow, both economically and culturally. All of that is going to make for a great celebration.

The 2013 ABC Miracle Mile Parade is scheduled to take place on Aug. 31st beginning at 1 p.m.

At the heart of this year’s activities will be the completion of the Gateway Arch – a beautifully-designed structure that will stretch across the intersection of Madison Avenue and East Street; an achievement that represents the foundation of a host of improvements – totaling more than $1 million – intended to contribute to an even greater quality of life for the community. Over the past eight years, more than $30 million has been invested in the Southside to attract businesses and improve the area’s infrastructure.

As in years past, thousands of people are expected to participate in the parade and related activities. Dozens of businesses and organizations have already committed to provide entries in the parade and many more are expected. Sponsorships are also being arranged as well. For more information regarding the event, visit the website – www.miraclemileparade.com or call (317) 781-4769. Parade entries are now being accepted online.

ABOUT MIRACLE MILE PARADE 
More than a half-century ago, the “Miracle Mile Parade” sought to rekindle the spirit of community from the days of yesteryear. In 1957, Claude B. Kendall, owner of the Key West Shrimp House had a vision to bring families to the greater south side of Indianapolis to enjoy fine dining, great entertainment and an evening in the amphitheater at Garfield Park. Through Kendall’s leadership and a partnership with the Madison Avenue Businessmen Association, the "Miracle Mile Parade" was first formed. Today, the strong grass roots effort is continuing as the founding members of the Gateway Community Alliance have joined forces with both the private and public sectors on a journey to re-discover the “Miracle Mile Parade.”

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