By BIA President Jay ProvanzoOriginally published in the Fall 2016 issue of Lancaster Builder newsletterThe average cost of a new home was $11,000. Average monthly rent was $88. Gas ran about 22 cents per gallon, and yearly wages weighed in at around $4,450. The first computer hard drive was invented by IBM, the Suez Canal crisis rocked Egypt, and Dwight D. Eisenhower was re-elected President. As the rock and roll dance craze swept the world, Elvis Presley entered the U.S. music charts for the first time and the epic film The 10 Commandments premiered.Oh, and the BIA of Lancaster County - or, actually, the Homebuilders Association of Lancaster County - was born. We're looking forward to celebrating this anniversary at our gala on September 14 with our members and friends!Indeed, much has changed over the past 60 years since a group of home builders bonded together to help further their businesses. And while the need for quality homes has been and will remain steadfast, the way we do business and the climate in which we work is ever-evolving.As the times have changed, so has our association. What started out as an organization strictly for builders grew in 1986 to include other construction trades, as we realized the importance that associate members hold to our industry. It was then that we changed our name to the Building Industry Association to reflect this new diversity of membership. Also in the 1980s, members recognized the need for involvement in legislative activities, and so our Government Affairs program began.Over the years, we've developed many avenues to promote our members and help bring more business through their doors. The 1970s saw the onset of our Spring Home Show, in its early years a smattering of booths scattered throughout Park City Mall, which has now grown into an impressive, extensive exhibit floor known by many as the classiest, most pro-fessional show around. Then in 1990 the Parade of Homes began, and has since blossomed into a much-anticipated annual affair that draws tens of thousands through dozens of homes. In recent years, we've added year-round promotional campaigns that tout the benefits of doing business with a BIA member to the public.We're not just focused on self-promotion. Our community service efforts have become a priority, as we recognize the need to share our strength and resources with those less fortunate. Now with some second and third generation members in our ranks, we're seeing new leaders rise up to continue driving this association to serve its members and community more effectively than ever. We may look different, but we are as relevant today as we were in 1956, and perhaps even more so.From an age where television was just coming onto the scene, to a time when social media rules the day, the local trade association representing the residential building industry remains a strong and respected voice in the community, helping to promote high-caliber member companies and advocate for a fair market environment that meets the housing and building needs of Lancaster County. And while we may not be able to foresee exactly what the next 60 years will bring, I'm confident that we will continue to be a stalwart for the industry for decades to come, thanks to the solid foundation both our founders and our current members have laid.
