POWERGRAMS

4 high schools and colleges from Alabama, Georgia and Florida at Electrathon. Some 25 Alabama Power employees helped conduct pre-race inspections, paddock and pit set- up and lap counting. "It's important for students to have a hands- on opportunity to apply what they learn in a classroom," said Fleet Technical Services Engineer Cody Caver, who helped organize volunteers and count laps. "Building, testing and racing Electrathon cars gives students the opportunity to learn tangible skills, such as wiring, fabrication and automotive principles, as well as intangible skills like teamwork, leadership and determination." "It's fun to spend a day seeing cool and creative small electric vehicles compete on a professional race track," said Ezeokoli. "More so, I find it very fulfilling to see the young students taking pride and interest in this technology." "This was my third year volunteering at Electrathon and I love it," said Fleet Specialist Joshua Bergeron. "It's really amazing to see the teams of young people come together and create those vehicles." The main race was won by Saraland High School of Mobile County. Ten days earlier, Hurliman was on hand for his eighth year at the Grand Prix, playing traffic cop in the pits as paddock marshal, living out an interest he developed in cars at age 12 when his sister bought her first vehicle – a 1965 Mustang. "I like to restore and show Mustangs, and participate in open track road-racing events," said Hurliman, who this year retired aer a 44-year career. "I enjoy the car hobby on many levels." While Hurliman admits the work of a marshal "is very tiring – a lot of walking and standing for long hours," he has both a personal and civic reason for volunteering beyond his natural bent toward cars. "I enjoy being up close with the teams and cars," he said. "You get to meet a lot of great people and it gives me opportunities to share my faith in Jesus Christ. "The events at Barber's bring people from all over the world to Alabama. I like to help make them feel welcome and show them what true Southern hospitality is all about," Hurliman said. "You never know when they may decide to do business here. It's a win-win for the citizens of Alabama and Alabama Power." Xxxxx xxxx xxxx x xxxx Employees assist at Barber event. Josef Newgarden won the 2018 Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama. Photo by Phil Free

• Cover