CFI held its 11th convention recently in Chattanooga, Tenn., themed as "Installation: The Great Adventure." On the first day of the convention, attendees went on mill tours to Shaw's woven and tufted manufacturing plants. They also visited the Mohawk-Durkan printed patterned carpet plant.

The World Floor Covering Association (WFCA) sponsored CFI's Leadership Conference. Afterwards, educational seminars were presented on myriad installation topics, from laminate to carpet, as well as different technologies. A clutch of business seminars were also given.

The Charles R. Gress Award, presented annually to those members who strive to further the cause of the CFI and professional installation, was given to: John Shofner, president of CFI's Louisville, Ky., chapter; Bruce Gentry, Mohawk Commercial, Technical Services Dept.; Ken Brown, Shaw Technical Services; Tommy Gentry, print manager for Shaw Design Origins; and Steve Gentry, director of Field Services, Mohawk Commercial.

Dave Stafford of Commercial Carpets of America and chairman of the Floor Covering Installation Board honored Shawn Marshall, CFI senior certifier and past member of the board of directors, with a special professionalism award.