Reeves Keynote Speaker at Ackerman Ribbon-Cutting

Governor Tate Reeves was the keynote speaker at a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at Southeast Timber Products in Ackerman.

While STP has been a staple in Choctaw County for five decades, a recent investment of $123 million allowed for upgrades and improvements at the plant.

Reeves spoke about the importance of forestry and STP as an industry in Choctaw County as well as the state. He also noted economic development requires many moving parts to work together. Reeves acknowledged the staff and administration at STP but also thanked entities such as Mississippi Development Authority.

Reeves also noted the ways Mississippi has moved forward, particularly during and after COVID. Mississippi has risen from 49th in educational measures to 16th; Reeves also shared specific statistics regarding 4th grade reading and math. This has been given the moniker “The Mississippi Miracle.”

Reeves’ comments then tied in workforce development and vocational training in leading to success - and sending potential employees to various industries, including forestry.

Other speakers at the ribbon-cutting included Randy Loper, Choctaw County Economic Development; John Shoemaker, who led the invocation and is a member of the Choctaw County Board of Supervisors; and