neowin Biography Alan J. Cone, born to a wed couple of five years, lived in Oakwood, OH for two years before moving to Kettering, OH in a house to accommodate for a new baby brother. Early on he was placed onto his father's lap so that he may use the computer. As soon as he could hold his head up, Alan was using the technology available to him, which was a Pre-Windows 95 machine. His use of the computer and technology was on and off, due to the attraction of Lego and Hot Wheels. In 6th grade he joined the message board BigBlueBall, which was all about instant messengers. Through this he learned about IRC (Internet Relay Chat) and began taking a larger interest in computers. What began began his graphic and web design freelance work was a contest to create an advertisement. He won in his category, and soon fell in love with Photoshop.