The award recognizes skill and creativity of those individuals who apply construction materials in innovative ways. The Carpenters Apprenticeship School was chosen for the use of Lafarge's new Rapid Deco L5 Level 5 skim-coated drywall and joint finishing system in the construction of their new training facility.

The center was able to provide its apprentices with hands-on experience using the latest products in the industry and, at the same time, to build an attractive space in which to work.

The Carpenters Apprenticeship School provides young men and women with the necessary skills to stay current in the construction market. It is accomplished through state-of-the-art and specialty training for all trades-including carpenters, cabinetmakers, floor layers, lathers, millwrights, and wharf and dock builders.

The award was presented at IFCA's 4th annual Finish First Awards Banquet on June 4, 2004 in Philadelphia. Founded in 1968 by the principal union representing finishing contractors in the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey trading area, IFCA represents the concerns of IFCA contractors, both large and small, and offers training and education to its members as well as information relevant to the industry.

In other company news, Lafarge was presented with the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industries 2004 Excellence in Construction Quality Award for providing drywall used in the construction of the new Children's Museum in Miami. The 56,500 square-foot facility includes 12 galleries, classrooms, parent/teacher resource center, Kid Smart educational gift shop, 200-seat auditorium and restaurant.

The project won top honor in the category where a contractor's project was less than $1 million. The award acknowledges all AWCI members-contractors, manufacturers and suppliers-who took part the project.

Sid Spear, vice president of sales and marketing, and Stephen DeMay, southeast regional sales manager, accepted the award on behalf of Lafarge North America during the AWCI "Opening Session and Awards Presentation Brunch" in Las Vegas, April 2004.