POWERGRAMS

12 past fall, Ellison said the biggest disappointment for many Birmingham Energizers was their inability to help with back-to-school projects for underprivileged youngsters. "Our seniors are still reluctant to do too much out in the community because of COVID cases," Ellison said. "We are staying within the guidance of the company, and are trying to stay safe until the time we can get back out and do things again." She said Birmingham Energizers may resume meetings when Alabama Power Corporate Headquarters fully reopens. Marvin Salter, Southern Energizers president, urged chapter members to take part in Zoom meetings for fun and informational programs. During Southern Energizers' most recent virtual meeting, members heard from Alabama State Treasurer John McMillan. One of the larger Energizers chapters, there are about 320 Southern email addresses for members who are regularly contacted. Salter encouraged Southern Energizers to check their email for meeting reminders a week before and on the day of meetings. "We need that participation. It is definitely a challenge," Salter said. Rallying around their own On June 19, Alabamians watched the news in shock and dismay about reports of a 15-vehicle pileup on Interstate Highway 65 near Greenville. Eight children in a Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch bus were among 10 people killed, which included two children of the counselor driving the bus. Upon hearing the sad news, several Energizers chapters rallied to support Southern Energizers President-elect Michael Smith, who has been CEO of the Alabama Sheriffs Youth Ranches since February 2020. Energizers wanted to help in any way they could. "Several Southern Energizers jumped in to help the Alabama Sheriffs Youth Ranches," Salter said. "This is the worst thing I've ever dealt with in my life," said Smith, who greatly appreciated the Energizers who reached out to him and his staff. Donations went to families of the children who died in the accident. Energizers Coordinator Don Franklin said members are doing all they can to remain cohesive and work together during the pandemic. Franklin noted that chapters will be taking part in virtual meetings while they make decisions about charities to support during the holiday season. James Glover, Energizers state president-elect, said that Eastern Division Chapter, which he attends, hasn't met since the last quarter of 2019. "This pandemic is so unpredictable, it's really been hard to make plans," Glover said. Energizers State President Becky York appreciates all the work of members in 2021. While she realizes that every chapter would like to meet for the holidays, York said chapter leaders must remain watchful and cautious about reserving venues for holiday events, which could be canceled due to the pandemic. "We're doing the best we can do under these circumstances," York said. "We're hoping for better days ahead and the ability to get out and do for our communities, like we always have." By Donna Cope

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