POWERGRAMS

6 The Alabama Power Foundation is bolstering its commitment to American military veterans through a $75,000 donation that ensures the continuing upkeep of Tuscaloosa's Veterans Memorial Park. Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Foundation representatives accepted the grant during an Oct. 20 ceremony attended by Alabama Power employees, veterans groups, elected officials and Tuscaloosa Park & Recreation Authority (PARA) employees. "As a U.S. military veteran and Alabama Power employee, I was both honored and moved to be present at the grant celebration," said Western Division Market Specialist Joe Lampkin. Western Division Line Construction Coordinator Fred McKinley opened the ceremony with prayer. A veteran, McKinley said he was inspired by Alabama Power's pledge to honor veterans by investing in the park. The donation is designated for the Veterans Memorial Park Endowment for care and maintenance. PARA manages the park and oversees improvements and upkeep. Western Division employees who are veterans were invited to attend the ceremony and take a tour of the park. Those present included Terry Brown, Charlie Cook, Mike Dodd, Ken Flowers, Marvin Johnson, Jason Jones, Jonathan McGinnis, Chad Wells, Otis Tucker, Lampkin and McKinley. "We are proud to partner with PARA to support the Veterans Memorial Park," said Western Division Vice President Mark Crews. "This park is a great example of the community coming together to pay tribute to those who so bravely served our country. It is also a special way for us to honor our Alabama Power teammates who have served. We are so lucky to have a place like this in west Alabama where we can visit and honor our veterans. I know this park will be cherished for years to come." Located on McFarland Boulevard, the Veterans Memorial Park was dedicated in 1978 and developed as a memorial for all veterans of the U.S. armed forces. It also serves as a tribute to Tuscaloosa's Northington General Hospital, one of the largest military hospitals in the world at the end of World War II. When the hospital closed, it was stipulated that the 1-acre site be used as a memorial to veterans. By Anna Catherine Roberson Foundation grant will help maintain Tuscaloosa Veterans Memorial Park SALUTING VETERANS Western Division President Mark Crews, holding check at right, presented grant to PARA. Veteran employees stand behind Wall of Honor. Photos by Anna Catherine Roberson

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