Annual Events

Parade of Homes

It's no secret - the annual Parade of Homes is the single largest and most important showcase of new homes during the year. The Parade of Homes gives the talented craftspeople of our community the opportunity to create masterpieces in new home design and construction.

Subcontractors, suppliers and service companies turn out their best efforts as well in this showcase of housing excellence. Homes ranging from affordable starters to million-dollar luxury estates are exhibited in the annual Parade, each featuring the latest in building technology and the hottest trends in interior design.

Recently, the BIA took the Parade of Homes to an exciting new level. In addition to the traditional, scattered-site homes, the Parade features specific developments in the two-county area, each with a cluster of entries within easy walking distance.

The BIA, in cooperation with Parade Sponsors such as public utility companies, launches an impressive regional marketing campaign to promote the event. And it works -- more than 10,000 consumers attend the nine-day event each year.

But the Parade of Homes is more than just a new home showcase. It benefits the community as well, by providing for scholarships. A portion of the proceeds derived from various fund-raising activities associated with the Parade go to help deserving area students further their education in industry-related fields. Everyone is a winner with the BIA's Parade of Homes. For more information, call 863-5107.

APEX Awards

Each year, the BIA holds it's prestigious APEX Awards. APEX stands for Achievement in Professional Excellence. At this event, BIA members compete in different categories; Kitchen, Bath, Special Purpose Room, New Construction (Residential and Commercial), Architecture, Outdoor Living/Landscaping, Home Design Elements, Interior Design, Remodeling, Energy Efficiency, Community Design and Marketing.

Nail Drivers Golf Tournament

Each year, the BIA has its Nail Drivers Charity Golf Tournament. This tournament is played at a different area course and a portion of the net proceeds are given to a local charity. To make sure that money is distributed to all of those in need, the charity is different each year. REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MONDAY MAY 3,2010.

This event will take place at the Fort Walton Beach Golf Club(Pines Course). Sign in begins at 11:30 am; Shotgun Start at 1:00 pm, 4 person best ball. Free food before and after the tournament, free beverages, goody bags, door prizes, and an awards party at the end of the day. Prizes include: $300 and $150 cash prizes for 1st and 2nd place teams, hole in one prize is a new truck from Hub City Ford! OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Sponsorships are available. For more information and pricing please contact: Terry Hymel- terry@bwcvs.com or (850)420-6416

Mike Josey Memorial Poker Run

In 2008, the BIA lost their friend, Mike Josey.  Mike Josey was the 1st Vice President and President-Elect of The Building Industry Association.  In honor of Mike, we have developed the Mike Josey Memorial Fund and the money for this fund is raised through our annual Mike Josey Memorial Poker Run.

BIA Scholarships

Each year, the BIA gives scholarships in memory of 1995 Association President William “Mac” McClarrie. Those $1,000 grants are given to college and college-bound students to help offset the costs of education at any chosen institution, in conjenction with the Parade of Homes. Priority is given to students taking courses associated with the construction industry. ENTRY DEADLINE:Friday May 28, 2010 at noon.

Priority also is given to families and employees of BIA member companies. Interested students may get scholarship application forms from guidance counselors at local high schools or by calling the BIA office at (850) 863-5107. BIA office fax:(850)864-2037