What to expect when you come to DUI/Risk Reduction Class.

Most people who come to my class are very nervous, apprehensive, or just plain scared because of the subject of the class or because of other people who might be there. Don’t be!! Some think they’re going to be bored out of their mind. You won’t!!

First of all, it isn’t a DUI/RRC class. It’s a health class. Second of all, of all the things I’ve been called, boring and/or dull isn’t among the adjectives used to describe me. I’ll treat you with respect and as a friend. Hey, we’re all in this together. By helping you, I also help myself. This may sound corny, but the world has been fairly good to me and now I can give something back.

I try to use humor to make the material interesting. You don’t have to agree with me. We all have risk for something or everything and I’ll show you how to reduce the risk for some things. Most of all, I want to give you something to think about and the information to make a smart decision. I also like interaction from you. It’s not my class, it’s your class.

It makes me feel great when I see some of the comments people write on my evaluation sheet. But it really makes me feel good when I get a call a few months later and some one tells me how much they appreciated what I did. And even some people who gave me a 'not-too-good' report have called a month or two later and said maybe I did know what I was talking about.

I’ve even had a few persons tell me that they didn’t like what I said, but they liked the way I said it. And some people have called me later and said that even though they didn’t like it, they knew I was right.

I do this because I enjoy it, and 98% of the people who come, appreciate it. I’m retired and I don’t have to instruct this course. I do it because it's important, I enjoy it, and just maybe I saved someone’s life.

Having done stand-up comedy helps me make a very serious problem more easily digested. Of course, not every one has a problem. Some people are just at the wrong place at the wrong time. But on the other hand, no one knows when a problem could develop. And even if you don’t have a problem, someone you know or might know later could; and you will be able to help them.

I do not like to be called "Sir" or "Mister". This isn’t school or the military. It is a class that can help you learn how to make better choices. Remember though, it is a state class. The state gives me certain rules to follow and I’ll explain them first.  Then I’ll ask you to tell me what you want me to call you, what you do and why you’re there. If you don’t want to answer you can always say, "Pass" or "No comment". Very few people do. 

Most of my classes are uplifting and enjoyable. Even though some have said "Fun", I don’t like that description. I'd rather have them say, "I enjoyed it".

"Ace" Allen, Instructor