POWERGRAMS

HONORS Briany Cobb may be the face behind the scenes, but Gadsden Energizers say it's because of her that their meetings run without a hitch. As the plant liaison for the local Energizers chapter, Cobb coordinates all the logistical arrangements for the group's bimonthly meetings at Gadsden Steam Plant. "She does a super, super job taking care of us," said Buford Lee, president of the Gadsden Energizers Chapter. "Basically, you don't have to say anything, it just gets done. Gadsden Energizers are fortunate to have the use of the pavilion and have someone of Briany's experience and dedication to make sure everything is handled efficiently." In recognition of her commitment and hard work on behalf of the chapter, Cobb received the Alabama Power Energizers' 2017 Sam Booker Award. Established in 1998, the award recognizes employees who go the extra mile in support of the Energizers. "I was completely shocked, surprised and humbled," said Cobb. "I don't feel like I'm doing anything more than my regular job when I help the Energizers. I've grown fond of them and just enjoy geing to fellowship with them at their meetings." Cobb reserves the pavilion for the Energizers meetings, ensuring they are scheduled on the plant calendar a year in advance. She then contacts plant housekeeping before each meeting to arrange the setup that will best meet the Energizers' needs. On meeting days, Cobb arrives at the pavilion early to lend a hand. She meets the caterers, assisting with everything from seing out plates, cups and utensils to filling dessert bowls and making coffee. Cobb works alongside Gadsden Energizer Jeannee Lee, who oen chooses the decorations and theme for the meetings. Cobb brightens the room by spreading tablecloths and assisting Lee in seing out centerpieces and other decorations. Cobb remains aer the meeting to help clean the room and ensure everything is returned to its proper place. "I really appreciate Briany's help," said Jeanee Lee. "She is sweet, cheerful and upbeat, and always has a smile for everybody. She talks to everybody and asks how they are, and we really appreciate that." "There are a lot of lile things that have to be done for each meeting, and Briany takes care of them for us," said Tom McKenzie, Gadsden Energizer and state board member. "Because Briany sees to everything for us, we don't have to do anything except have our meeting, enjoy fellowship and eat." Diving in headfirst Cobb was assigned to assist the Energizers as soon as she was hired to work at Gadsden nearly five years ago. She had only been on the job for a week when she was called on to help coordinate the chapter's annual Black- Eyed Pea Lunch, its largest fundraiser at the time. Cobb called it a "trial by fire" introduction to the Energizers. "People would buy those black-eyed pea lunches like crazy. We had to run shules from the plant parking lot to the pavilion so people could pick up their lunches," Cobb said. "Having been brought in for the black-eyed pea lunch showed me how important that group is and what they can accomplish." Keeping busy on and off the job As administrative support specialist, Cobb is timekeeper for all 50 employees at the plant. She updates the facility's website, schedules meetings, makes luncheon arrangements and works with Gadsden's Cobb earns Booker Award By Carla Davis 37

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