Despite heavy rain downpours and an uncertain economy, the annual Parade of Homes & Landscapes received steady traffic throughout the event weekend, selling 630 tickets.

For the first time in many years, the Parade was held over one weekend instead of two. Consolidating the event helped to attract participants like Pinehurst Homes, who wanted to display a custom home instead of a spec.

"I like to have a furnished house. It’s warmer," said Greg Brown, president and owner of Pinehurst Homes. "One of the reasons we were able to get in this year was because of the one weekend."

Greg said that overall staffing and planning for one weekend was easier than two. Pinehurst is a long-time participant and continues to come back because they make good contacts for future remodeling and building projects.

While the majority of the participants were excited to try the new schedule, many were uncertain how the changes would affect the overall results.

"There are definitely mixed feelings about whether to have the Parade continue as a one-weekend event or to go back to holding it over two weekends," said Jessica Howard, Director of Member Services. "Ticket sales were strong for the one weekend and I felt the builders were pleased."

This year’s event, held September 12-14, featured 18 sites, including landscapes from Robert W. Behrer and Clearwater.

Many vendor businesses were scattered throughout the 18 sites. Cameo Kitchens was one of the vendors at the Pinehurst home.

"Instead of us explaining the detail in the kitchen, Gary [Felmlee] can answer the specific questions," said Greg.

He added that vendors are essential in the home to talk with visitors, provide brochures and product information, and to help take tickets.

This year’s Parade ticket proceeds will benefit the Centre County Child Access Center, located in Bellefonte. The mission of the center is to promote the physical and emotional security of children and their parents in high conflict custody situations by facilitating safe and civil custody exchanges under the supervision of neutral third party monitors. More information is available on their website at www.childaccesscenter.com. A special check presentation will be made to CCCAC on October 3rd.

Help us plan for 2009! Surveys will be mailed to each participant to gain feedback about the success of the Parade. The committee encourages everyone to complete the survey to help guide the planning for next year. Any specific questions or suggestions can also be called in to the BA office at (814) 231-8813.

Click Here view the Parade award winners.