POWERGRAMS

16 Prissy Daly is one of several Alabama Power Service Organization volunteers who each year decorate Christmas trees at Children's of Alabama hospital in Birmingham. As far as all things Christmas, she's the star atop the tree, so to speak. "This is a team effort. It's not just Prissy Daly. But I will say this, I think I'm the one that loves Christmas the most," Daly said, with a big laugh. "I kind of do this year-round. It's like a hobby and so close to my heart." For almost 40 years, Daly, an administrative assistant in Environmental Compliance, has worked with the Christmas fundraiser. Last year, APSO decorated three trees that raised a combined $30,000 for Children's. The concept is simple and fun: Families with ties to Children's, nonprofit groups, such as APSO, churches and civic clubs, decorate Christmas trees that are then purchased by families or businesses. All the money raised goes to support programs at the hospital. Trees are decorated in early November and displayed in a winter wonderland at the hospital for a month before they are delivered to buyers to display in homes or offices. Some trees are given back to Children's and stay there, while others are donated to charities, such as Jimmy Hale Mission and Jessie's Place. The trees – pre-lit and 7.5 feet tall – cover much of the hospital lobby and second floor. Each APSO tree has a different theme, such as Santa Claus or snowmen. A "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" themed tree from 2017 is being revived this year as part of an homage to the Dr. Seuss town of Whoville. "We go out each year and buy decorations that will fit the themes of the three trees," Daly said. Daly said Melinda Springfield of the Connection Gift Shop and retiree Cindy DeArman have been a huge help through the years with shopping and decorating. The women say they are glad to lend a hand. "We tend to forget what people at Children's do every day when we have healthy children and grandchildren. DeArman, Springfield, Daly decorated tree.

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