"I am a substance abuse counselor...I showed your production to the patients earlier this week.  The response was incredible...I've been showing films in our curriculum since 1994 and I have never seen a response like this.  Not a single person got up or left the room during this film.  The film is almost 90 minutes and many of these people are going through detox--still, NOBODY LEFT.  I've never seen anything like it.  They were stunned."

 

--Mickey W. CADC II - Substance Abuse Treatment Center

Orange County, CA

 

***

 

"Thank you hardly seems like a big enough statement.  You are changing lives...  It's amazing how such an apparently hopeless situation can inspire so much hope in others...  You have managed to capture the humanity of it all.  I can no longer generalize all law enforcement into one category.  You have restored my hope that there are good people out there.  As I watched this film I couldn't help but think that this could have been my brother.  I have loaned out my copy of this film almost everyday since I received it."

 

---D.C.

Southern California 

***

 

"Thanks for the great work...This film was so poignant for me.  I literally had flashbacks to my darkest days.  You reaffirmed some things in me that needed to be reaffirmed."

 

--Robert P.

Unknown, CA

 

***

 

"I'm impressed with all you've done and the stick-to-ness of your work.  I used to think people like this were intentionally being rude, giving the world the finger as it were, but after seeing this, I understand.  Keep up the good work.  Damn, it makes me want to stop."

 

--Kirk Diller

Boise, ID

 

***

"I'm a member of Alcoholics Anonymous here in Ohio and I'm always looking for something to share with my home group.  This DVD would be very inspiring for the new AA member to watch.  I'm sure there are other members of AA across the country that would have an interest in this DVD as well--Keep up the good work."

 

--Ron

Unknown, Ohio

 

***

 

”You obviously have put in a great deal of time and effort trying to solve a very difficult problem, but more importantly, you have shown great compassion in dealing with a situation on a very human level for an individual who clearly needs help and is unable to get it in a system that just doesn't seem geared for it.  I applaud your efforts and
your sensitivity.”

 

--R.M.

Lake Forest, CA

 

***

 

"My sponsors' husband deals with a lot of recovering men and I think they should see this film.  Mark's story just breaks my heart.  It's hard to believe there isn't something that can be done.  You are doing a wonderful thing by putting this out there.  You may not be able to help Mark, but maybe others will seek help after seeing this film.  As a recovering alcoholic myself, I feel his pain!  Thanks for the message and helping me stay sober 'one more day'".

--Carol M.

San Diego, CA

 

***

"This brought me a roller coaster of sentiments, because all have our own demons--Our own Mark David Allen's.  It gets me right in the throat...  Thank you for the d-BISCUITs and the introspection...  Additionally, you are an inspiration.  You are one of the few that has some clarity on this short thing called 'life'.  Thanks for sharing.  You motivate me.  It’s all about the Furious Love.  Carry on, brother.”

  

--J.P. - Police Officer

Orange County, CA

 

***

 

"You've put so much time and energy and have devoted yourself to this ongoing project.  You deserve a medal.  It actually got me a little weepy.  Great job."

--J. Wood

Lake Forest, CA

 

***

 

"As a custody officer, you offer a perspective that many social workers are unaware of.  Instead of pointing the finger, you've chosen to be responsible and take the high road as it pertains to your film.  I applaud you for that as well as showing compassion to a man in the depths of despair.  Thank you for taking the time to make this film.  It was not in vain."

 

--Carol K. - Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Los Angeles, CA

 

 

***

 

"I just finished watching "DRUNK IN PUBLIC"--Very compelling...  Troubling... Thanks for a great documentary."

 

--D. Kiner - Senior Systems Analyst - Mountain View Police Department

Walnut Creek, CA

 

***

 

"I am going through a hospital treatment program.  This is where I first saw your riveting documentary.  I bought the video to show to friends and family.  Thank you very much."

 

--Jim Genzano

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

"I was very impressed.  Thanks again for an eye-opening movie." 

 

--K. Dominguez

Newport Beach, CA  

 

***

 

"I greatly appreciate the effort you have demonstrated with Mark David Allen."

 

--C.F.

Orange County, CA

 

***

 

"A very interesting video...I really see a value in showing this to other cops.  We have one individual, like most places, that fits the same mold of your guy.  Thanks!"

 

--Rick Armstrong - Placer County Sheriff

Lake Tahoe, CA

 

***

           

"Dave, thanks for all the work you have done on this case...You have done tremendous work so far and I greatly appreciate it…Thanks again for your continued efforts on Mark's behalf.  This is an outstanding example of "making a difference."

--P.H.

Irvine, CA

 

***

 

"Thank you for the outstanding work you have done and continue to do...I am extremely impressed with this film...I am passing this film on to my AA home group as I think it has so much relevance to our recovery...'There for the grace of God, go I'".

 

--Rick S. McLaughlin

Unknown

 

***

 

"You've put together a fascinating and haunting piece of work...I reckon you're more a devoted and curious sociologist than a profiteer, and for that you get a free pass into Heaven.  Thank you for your long-standing commitment to understanding and documenting Mark's life."

 

--R.B.

Huntington Beach, CA

 

***

 

"Keep up the good work."

 

--Patrica - RN

Orange County, CA

 

***

 

"Despite Mark David Allen's limitations and seemingly purposelessness; God has given him a purpose through your creative gifts."

 

--S.J.

Redlands, CA

 

***

 

"My husband and I had the pleasure of watching your film last night.  We thoroughly enjoyed it...It's fascinating how you chronicle the demise of this individual's life over a long period of time...Thank you for sharing...You deserve a medal of honor for this."

--Suzanne Kushner
San Ramon, CA

 

***

 

"Dave, you have done a terrific job on this.  Thank you very much for your attention, follow through and for all the hard work that will hopefully have a life saving affect on Mark."

 

--T.G.

Costa Mesa, CA

 

***

 

“I think your assessment is accurate and I hope those who make the decisions agree with it.  As an aside, despite what appears to be a dismal future for Mr. Allen, your interest in seeking help for him is remarkable and noteworthy.  I thank you for him.”

 

--Steve .S.

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

"...I am a Clinical Social Worker working in a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center...Your film was truly inspiring and made me feel in ways that I have not had to deal with in many years."

 

--Mark R. Kisner, MSW, CADC-II

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

“You are clearly very committed and passionate.  This film is an incredible accomplishment.  We thank you for your concern for the adults in the community.”

 

--K.N. – A.P.S.

Santa Ana, CA

 

***

 

“I was very impressed and saddened by the whole story…It brings back a lot of memories for me and is an awesome and sick reminder of where my life could have gone--I've been in and out of jail my entire life.  I used every kind of drug a person could use.  I've been sober for 7 years now.  I just wish I would've met a guy like you in jail.  What you have is a potent tool that just might save some lives.”

 

--Keith Ball

Tustin, CA

  

***

            "I would like this DVD to educate the guys on Mark's story--For it truly is a tragic one and warrants people's attention."

    

 

--J.B. - Firefighter

Orange County, CA

 

***

 

               “Your film is great.  I gave it to a National Certified Addiction Counselor to view on Thursday.  I am so glad that I waited to view the whole thing.  It was worth it.  I thank you.  Keep up the good work.”

 

--Darrell McWayne  – Probation Officer

Rome, GA

 

***

 

               “YOU are the reason Mark David Allen is still alive, if you ask me.”

 

--Kevin Speckmaier

Vancouver, British Columbia

 

***

 

“First of all thank you. I've had three brothers die of this disease and one of them was similar to Mark.  The pictures of Mark when he was a child were just heart breaking.  I love his taste in music.  I'd also like you to speak at our church sometime and maybe show the film.  We have an addictions ministry in Los Angeles.  Once again thanks, and if you see Mark tell him hello.”  

 

--Don Jaley

Los Angeles, CA

 

***

           “Wow!  That's powerful, David, and while sad, it's also great to see how things can affect and change people, which is pretty amazing.”

 

--Chris M.

San Francisco, CA

 

***

 

               “I just watched your film on Mark David Allen, and was shocked to da bone.  I was or am an alcoholic/addict now in recovery.  I'm on outpatient from a hospital chemical dependency unit. I had 8 years sober in AA/CA and never thought I would relapse...  Eight months ago I lost my battle with my disease and went back to the streets and almost lost my life.  Thanks for giving me a view of what I would be like today.  Unfortunately, we may have lost Mark already.  Thank you again for all your work.”

 

--“Turbo Tony”

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

               “I'm a child of the sixties and was raised in San Clemente, Newport Beach and Laguna.  The three men in my life, my father, and two men I loved dearly have all died because of alcoholism.  I thought they were relentless but Mark has them all beat…I am helping my daughter-in-law get the awareness of your documentary out to all and more… We love what you have done and continue to do.  THANK YOU!!!  Keep up your fantastic work.  I hope we meet someday soon.  With Compassion, I thank you…

 

--Sandra B.

San Clemente, CA

 

 

***

 

“I really sensed how much this film meant to you.  I thought that you did a wonderful job and I bet you have been able to touch so many people with your work.  Your police department all seemed so awesome to work with as well.  You are a very lucky soul to have the opportunity to express your longing and your gifts like this—And it is exemplified in your work.  Thank you very much.”

--S.S.

Bakersfield, CA

 

***

 

“I finally had a chance and was in the right frame of mind to watch something I thought would be depressing.  It certainly was--Both Mark's self-inflicted demise and your county's and or town's failure to protect someone clearly in need.  I hope your caring documentary helps to change the system you seem to have forced upon you.  Thank you so much.”

              

 -Clark Bryan

Madison, WI

 

***

 

“I work for the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence-Orange County (NCADD-OC).  I read about your film in the Orange County Register.  Your passion and dedication is so admirable.  Thank you.”

 

 

--C.L.

Santa Ana, CA

 

***

"My father was in and out of jail his entire life and eventually drank himself to death.  I just wish that along the way, he could've run into someone like you."

 

--Unknown

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

           

           “I viewed your film and it was wonderful.  It is extremely interesting!!!  I have delivered it to my mother and she loved it, along with her co-workers.  She has not only passed your information around her job but has also gone to the other facilities around El Paso and spread the word as well.  She will be anxiously awaiting your book and will be checking your website for updates.  I thank you so much & wish you the best of luck!!!  Thanks again!!!”

 

--Rima Ibarra

Taos, NM

 

***

  

"Watching that film reminded me how far I have come--The look in his eyes, the feet, the jail, everything...That was me.  I've been in and out of 11 treatment centers...It was like re-living my experience.  It was horrifying--I am so grateful.  I finished watching it 30 minutes ago and when I look at my hands--I can't stop shaking...Thank you so much."

 

--W.F.

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

"My mother took me to hospitals, showed me people on the street, did everything she could to scare me straight.  None of it worked.  Just watching this film did more for me than anything I've ever seen."

 

--Patient - Hoag Hospital Chemical Dependency Center

Newport Beach, CA

 

***

 

"I don't much care for cops, but when I read the article in the paper, I thought I'd come out and support you and because you're not like them and I love what you're doing... I hold little esteem for law enforcement, but have infinite respect for you for trying to help Mark, as well as your efforts to shock others into not becoming like him."

 

--Jose Timel

Newport Beach, CA

***