TAYLORSVILLE—Southern Pine Electric held its annual membership meeting on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at 2 p.m. Before the meeting, Southern Pine employees welcomed members at booths focused on electric safety, conservation, and more.
The first meeting since 2019 to be held in person was a long-awaited event for the members of Southern Pine. Members had a chance to see a safety demonstration, Cooperative Energy’s drone program, enjoy a fried catfish lunch, and visit member spotlight booths that highlighted members and their products from each district. The Cotton Blossom Singers from Piney Woods School kicked off the meeting with a beautiful vocal performance.
Chris Rhodes, president and CEO of Southern Pine Electric, opened the meeting by giving a recap of 2022 challenges and accomplishments and introducing special guests. Michael Watson, Secretary of State, was the guest speaker, followed by Public Service Commissioner Brent Bailey.
“The very reason we exist is because of our members,” said Rhodes. “We appreciate our members taking time from their busy schedules to attend the meeting and show support for their co-op. Without members, there is no Southern Pine.”
Over 1,000 members attended the meeting to cast their ballots for four directors. Billy Parish of Jefferson Davis County, Blaine Eaton of Smith County, Mims Berry of Lawrence County, and Dean Kirby of Rankin County were all elected to serve three-year terms.
Southern Pine Electric is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative that distributes electricity to more than 69,500 meters in 11 counties in central and south Mississippi. Headquartered in Taylorsville, Southern Pine has offices in Brandon, Newton, Hattiesburg, and New Hebron.###
