October 2026

Monthly Meeting Info
Interior Partitions - What you thought you knew - (and everything you don't).
In today's market we really cannot afford mistakes, especially those that affect time and cost, leading to delays in our projects. Join me for a jam packed hour of an in depth review in the world of Interior Architecture and the lowly, non-descript backbone: the illustrious gypsum board partition. Attendees will learn about Design Considerations & who is responsible for those decisions. We will discuss and review the differences between Structural and Non-structural assemblies; Rated / Acoustic / Seismic designs with examples. More importantly we will review some real world examples of what not to do.

John Murray, CSI, CDT, brings more than 40 years of experience in the construction industry, with nearly 225 projects completed across three continents. Throughout his career, John has worked with the Military, Mission Outreach, and four major architectural firms in the Jackson Metro Area. He has also served as President of both the local MS CSI chapter and the Gulf States Region. In recognition of his contributions and service, John has received numerous honors, including military commendations, the Wetzel Communications Award, and the Bishop Award.
Join us for an hour of insight, experience, and practical knowledge you can take with you.
President's Report

CSI Mississippi Members,
As I think about what makes CSI special, one of the things that stands out most is the willingness of our members to share what they know. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that some of the most valuable lessons don’t come from a book, a seminar, or a specification—they come from the people around us. A conversation with someone who has been in the industry a little longer, worked through a difficult project, or simply learned a few things the hard way can be incredibly valuable. I believe we have a responsibility to share that experience with those coming behind us.
And the truth is, none of us ever reaches a point where we are finished learning. Our industry continues to change through new materials, technologies, construction methods, and evolving ways of communicating and collaborating. CSI gives us an opportunity to keep learning while also giving back by sharing what we’ve learned along the way. I encourage each of us to look for those opportunities—to learn from others, share our experience, and invest in the people who will help shape the future of our industry. That is how we grow, both individually and together as a CSI chapter.
This October, our own John Murray, CSI, CDT, Assoc. AIA, will share insights gained from years of experience in his original CEU presentation, Interior Partitions – What You Thought You Knew, And Everything You Don’t. Those who know John understand his commitment to developing the next generation of leaders by sharing lessons learned throughout his career. In doing so, he embodies our Core Values of “encouraging personal and professional growth” and helping members “make knowledge-based decisions.” Let’s come together this October to support John, our fellow members, and our local chapter.
Taylor Stewart, CSI
Board Meeting Bytes
August 31, 2026 - A quorum was present.
- Treasurers Report: The report for September was reviewed and approved. Motion to approve as submitted was made & seconded. All voted aye and motion passed.
- Product Show: Benji Barham was present. The Muse Center has been reserved for February 3, 2027.
- Programs: Lacie Gibson was present. Brent Williams of LSI from our Knoxville chapter will be presenting this month.
- Membership: Keith West was present. 44 members.
- Electronic Communications: Randall Lewis reported that the website is current. No additional report.
- Certifications: Cassie is working on Monthly Questions
- Education: No report
- Planning: No report
- Academic Affairs: No report.
- Golf: No report
- Old Business:
- OCC Submittal and shortfalls were reviewed and addressed. The development of the Chapter Long Range plan is currently being worked on.
- New Business:
- Institute Convention attendance was discussed.
- Meeting Adjourned at 6:24 PM CST
Did You Know?

Which CSI organizational format is primarily used to organize specifications and other written construction information by work results?
A. Master Format
B. Uniformat
C. Section Format
D. Page Format
Check Back Next Month for another question and the answer to this month.
Cassie Parker, CCS, Past President
Introduction
Thanks so much for taking the time to visit our Newsletter Page. We have re-designed the Newsletter to offer you the information you want and need at your fingertips. For those who are asking what is CSI or what is my ROI? CSI provides professionals with access to the training needed to bridge your education with the broader aspects of the construction world. CSI is a single source network for the entire construction industry combining technical and industry relationships.

Monthly Meeting Dates
Monthly Lunch Meetings:
July 1,2026
August 5, 2026
September 2, 2026
October 7, 2026
November 4, 2026
December 3, 2026 (Thursday Evening / Christmas Party)
January 6, 2027
February 3, 2027
March 3, 2027
April 7, 2027
May 5, 2027
June 3, 2027 (Thursday Evening / Awards Banquet)
July 7, 2027
Board Meeting Dates
BOARD MEETINGS
5:30 pm
JH&H Architects, PA
1047 North Flowood Drive
Flowood, MS 39232

June 29, 2026 (July Board Meeting)
August 31, 2026 (September)
October 5, 2026
November 2, 2026
November 30, 2026 (December)
January 4, 2027
February 1, 2027
March 1, 2027
April 5, 2027
May 3, 2027
June 7, 2027
July 5, 2027

Construction, Cocktails & Camaraderie Dates
Meeting Dates:
July 23, 2026
August 27, 2026
September 25, 2026
October 22, 2026
November 19, 2026
January 28, 2027
February 25, 2027
March 25, 2027
June 24, 2027
Officers & Directors
Taylor Stewart, President
Benjie Barham, President Elect
Lacie Gibson, Vice President
Keith West, Secretary
Randall Lewis, Treasurer
Cassie Parker, Past President
Phil McDade, Director Emeritus
Dennis Walters, Director
Gene Crager, Director
John Murray, Director
Adam Haver, Director
Dustin Gregory, Director


