The volunteer: Mr. Allison has been an avid supporter of First Night for five years, but he couldn't tell you a thing about any of the New Year's Eve performances.
The Davidsonville resident spends the hours leading up to the New Year as a field general, coordinating the moving and building of stages and props.
Mr. Allison is a salesman with American Securities United Van Lines in Annapolis. Born and reared in Bladensburg, he served in the Navy for five years and is married with three children.
"He picks up an enormous part of the logistical support of moving everything," said Elizabeth Welch, executive director of First Night. "He's also with a company that is a major sponsor for First Night . . . American Security United Van Lines. They move us, lock, stock and barrel to the command center and back.
"Pat comes in any time we need extra support," she said.
Volunteer's comments: "Basically I coordinate all the logistical moving of props, stages, chairs, and sight signs for the sponsors.
"This is what's amazing about it. About 10 in the morning on the 31st is when we go into full swing for the complete set up. And we're set up by 3 p.m.
"Complete tear down usually takes about three hours, beginning at 11:30 that night.
"The reason I'm involved with First Night is because I firmly believe in this organization and what they do for the eight hours on New Year's Eve.
"Eight hours is not a very long time. But it's an important eight hours for the year.
"Over the years my company's participation has expanded drastically . . . doing 25 to 30 jobs throughout the year. I was instrumental getting the company involved, basically convincing the owner, 'This is the kind of community service that's good.'
fTC "One of the other services American Securities provides for First Night is free year-round storage.
"We basically start planning for the next First Night the next day."
About the program: First Night Annapolis still needs volunteers through Dec. 31. For more information, call 268-8553.
"Volunteer Spotlight" is compiled by Kevin Harrison. To recommend someone, call the Anne Arundel Bureau, 315-8911, any time or send information by fax to 315-8916 or mail them to: The Sun for Anne Arundel, 8131 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena 21122.