Michael Earl Alston

Michael was a unique individual; all who knew him would attest to that. I look forward to knowing even more about him through those of you who knew of his many selves--the philosopher, politico, social observer, economist (which I believe was his major in college), questioner, project manager, and many other traits by those who knew him in the early days. I knew Micheal in more recent times, and my contribution will speak to him as a conversationalist and a foodie, Now, Michael was not a foodie, but ours was a routine to get together every Friday to watch golf. Michael would (uncharacteristically) go to the trouble of cooking me lunch--a complete meal like fried fish, veggies, baked potato, and dessert. Just like him to go beyond the call of duty. During another period, our practice on those Fridays was to go to lunch at a favorite restaurant. Now, I am not a talker (just ask Julie), but we would get into these long, varied conversations, solving all of the problems of the world. Michael would keep asking questions until the restaurant had to ask us to finish up and pay our bill. Michael would always insist on paying, as always was the case when out to dinner with Julie and myself--generous almost to a fault. But, that was Michael. Please tell us more (you to there), and thank you to Jay for creating this opportunity to tell Michael's story.