POWERGRAMS

6 AT 10 0 post office, hospital, schools, churches and dining hall. Not only was the village convenient and a great place to live, working at the plant provided a better life for employees and their families. "The company's investment into this area greatly changed the standard of living for local families," said Judd Hamilton, maintenance team leader at Gorgas. "They were able to have the first homes in the area with glass windows and, later, air conditioning. They had clean water to drink and for some families that was the first time ever." Boyce Hosmer worked at Gorgas for 45 years and grew up 5 miles from Gorgas. He attended Thomas W. Martin High School in the Gorgas village. Hosmer decided right out of high school to work at Gorgas. "I was always proud to say I worked for Alabama Power," Hosmer said. "Working out here made me a better man. It provided me and my family with a great life." The concentration of families living in the village created a close-knit community at the plant and throughout the village. This family atmosphere remains rooted in the plant's culture. Like many employees who have worked at Gorgas, memories seem to always revolve around family. The same is true for Larry Eads, who recently retired from Gorgas after nearly 44 years. "They are my family. When you're down here, day-in and day-out, with the same people, you share your lives and share your life's stories," Eads said. "It becomes a part of you." There was no question where Eads wanted to work after high school. "My first cousin worked at the plant and told me to apply," At left, namesake Dr. William Gorgas, and above, members of Gorgas softball team.

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