DEMOPOLIS &045; Although he has only been in Demopolis for the last 10 years, Ronnie Snelgrove has made a big impression on its people with the work he does at Alabama Power.

But just a few minutes in his office will tell you he is the go-to man for all the operations in the Demopolis and Linden areas. Whether answering the phone or helping someone in person, his trademark is a big, genuine smile.

Before he and his family moved to Marengo County, Snelgrove started his career path right out of high school in Jasper in the construction department of Alabama Power. He later went on to Prattville, worked as a lineman in Camden and moved up to management in Aliceville where he spent eight years before coming to Demopolis.

When asked what led him to stick with one company for so many years &045; a total of 43 &045; Snelgrove said he has been fortunate to find a career and company he truly enjoys.

But a lot has changed in his many years. Snelgrove has seen the introduction of computers into the business and the shift from local offices to more regional offices. But despite the changes, Snelgrove said the goal has always been the same: helping others.

Snelgrove likened his upcoming retirement to going to the first grade on the first day of school.

But there are a few things Snelgrove’s anticipating after he

works his final business day. Snelgrove is an avid golfer and dedicated Alabama fan. He and his family have held season tickets for years, and he said he looks forward to being able to make some more football and basketball games.

Another thing he’s looking forward to is visiting family and friends without having to plan so much in advance. His daughter, Rhonda, has a seven-year-old son named Jack, who Snelgrove said is just a smaller version of his mom.