(That's what you came here for.)

My name is Alan Welch. I am originally a native of Florida, living in North Carolina by way of (The Great State Of) Texas. I served a short hitch in the Navy (ours) and have been in Durham since October, 1991. I am what is known as a history and aviation buff, so go ahead, ask me something.

I am employed by Duke University as the promotion specialist for Duke University Stores. More of that story can be found in the section labeled "Work History". I am in my sixth year of employment here and my office is currently on West Campus.

My interests, for those of you who are curious, include movies, theatre, computer graphics, sailing, camping, intellectual (not emotional) games, cooking, ethnic (especially Celtic) celebrations, and the finer performing arts, with particular emphases on Gilbert and Sullivan, ballet and other forms of dance. I enjoy being artistically creative and appreciate that aspect in my friends. Over the last 20 years I have done a great deal of performing, both musically and on stage with everything from Shakespeare to stand-up comedy. I have found making people laugh to be one of life's great pleasures. Traveling is a special passion and I relate well to penguins and small, furry woodland creatures.

I have a keen sense of humor and honestly believe a good pun, (No, that's NOT a mutually exclusive term), is the highest use of language. I have very healthy attitudes on almost everything and think of myself as a moderate. (This, of course, means my conservative friends think I'm liberal and my liberal friends are confused.)

My most prized possesions are the friendship and respect I have received.

Yes, I have a cat!

Take me home, Al.