Special to Pelahatchie News
Southern Pine Electric welcomed members from across its 11-county service area on Thursday, November 13, 2025 for the cooperative’s 87th Annual Meeting, a day filled with fellowship, fun, and a shared commitment to the community the co-op has proudly served since 1938.
Members gathered at Southern Pine’s headquarters to enjoy a variety of interactive booths that highlighted the many departments and services of the cooperative. Several booths showcased member spotlights, featuring local artisans and small businesses whose handmade goods, crafts, and wares reflect the unique character of the communities Southern Pine serves. Guests also enjoyed dynamic demonstrations from the Scott County Schools Robotics Team, whose students shared innovative projects and hands-on robotics displays.
Covington County Hospital provided free health screenings, and Lowe’s, Co-Lin Community College, Mississippi State University’s Cybersecurity Mobile Unit, and Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks were all a part of the celebration.
Attendees were treated to a special lunch, Linemen Storm Boxes, giving members an inside look at the meals provided to linemen during storm recovery operations. The lunch served as a unique way to connect members to the hard work Southern Pine’s crews perform during severe weather events.
Following the festivities, music was provided by Seminary High School’s Jazz Ensemble as members gathered for the official business meeting. Drummonds McAlpin, President & CEO, delivered the annual report, highlighting the strong state of the cooperative, ongoing investments in reliability and enhancements to member programs and services. He reflected on Southern Pine’s deep roots in the communities it serves and praised the dedication of the team members who “Bring the Power” every day.
Members also enjoyed the chance to win valuable prizes during the event. Drawings were held for door prizes, $250, $500, $750, and $1,000 worth of electricity, culminating in the grand prize giveaway of a retired Southern Pine pickup truck.
During the business meeting, four incumbent directors were re-elected by the membership to continue their service on the board:
• Billy Parish, Jefferson Davis County
• Blaine Eaton, Smith County
• Mims Berry, Lawrence County
• Dean Kirby, Rankin County
“We are thankful for another successful annual meeting and grateful for the opportunity to spend time with our members,” McAlpin said. “Their trust and involvement ensure that Southern Pine remains strong, member-focused, and committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service.”
For more information about Southern Pine Electric, visit southernpine.coop.
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