The “Spoon Man”
AT SCHOOLS
OVER
views on TikTok
OVER
Miles travelled
OVER
hands spooned
ALWAYS
%
Satisfaction
What
Does HE Do?
- He plays with 2 ordinary household tablespoons with music in the background.
- He has an audience Sing-A-Long competition. Everyone gets involved.
- Hilarious Impressions. A-Rock-N-Roll and A Rap-Spoon Player.
- He creates a Mountain Band out of the students and staff.
- He jumps into the audience playing spoons on their hands. Everyone gets “spooned.”
- He has great educational messages, which are blended into his show.
Jim Cruise
An Inspiring Musician, Comedian, and Keynote Speaker
Programs
Respecting Yourself & Others
The “Spoon Man” talks about his experiences in school regarding the importance of being respectful. This discovery had a profound effect on his life, especially relationships with his classmates and teachers. He also talks about some who never discovered the power of being respectful and how it effected their relationships. He challenges the students to practice this virtue of respecting oneself and others.
Catch The Rhythm of Reading
The “Spoon Man” explains how he fell in love with reading, the effect that it had on his grades, and the doors it opened in his life. He emphasizes that reading is like lifting weights for your brain and why we should make it a lifelong skill. He challenges the students to read at least 15 minutes per day. He also talks about writing his book “Spoon Boy.”
Just Plain Fun Comedy Show
Is a 45 minute interactive program. Jim creates a mountain band with audience members along with a good spooning for all. You may even see forks and knives being played!
Stopping the Bully
Jim talks about his expereince in elementary school being bullied and the skills he aquired to address the situation.
Family Night
All ages welcome. Music, comedy and audience interaction. You may even see flaming spoons!
Drug Prevention Message
The “Spoon Man” talks about the temptations he had while attending school, why he said no to drugs, and what happened to the kids that said yes. He also explains the effects of drugs on our bodies and minds.
The messages are based on the grade level of the students.
Spoon Playing Workshops
(BYOS) Bring Your Own Spoons is a 45 minute workshop.
(All shows approximately 45 minutes)
Some Of The Nice Things
People Have Said
"The principal from Bemis Elementary was absolutely correct. You were the best show we have ever had."
Martel Elementary - Kathy Davison, Principal
"Today my son Lain attended your presentation. He is in the 1st grade and he is running about 'playing spoons' as I type, and he dictates. He wants you to know that he loves playing the spoons and that he thought your show was awesome today. Radical, I am being corrected.He says he wants to grow up and be like you. He said that you looked as good as you do because you stayed away from drugs Which I think is great and awesome, myself.It is time for bed (school night) and Lain says have a good night."
Gardens Elementary - Gloria, Parent
"Just wanted to let you know that my kids and I really enjoyed your show. It was funny, entertaining and educational!!! Thank you. I especially liked how you mentioned the importance of getting an education and reading. Thanks again!!!!"
Nicolet Elementary - Jennifer Klapka, Teacher
"I thought You were pretty awesome at the spoons. Did you say you learned to play by your Grandpa teaching you? My brother thought you were awesome because he is really good at the drums. I told him that you wanted a drum set when you were 9 but your parents wouldn't get you one."
Heyworth Grade School - Jen, Student
"In my 6 years at Big Brothers/Big Sisters, this show was by far the best in its entertainment and appeal to all ages. Many of our volunteers also said this was the best entertainment they have seen yet at the dinner."
Big Brothers/Big Sisters - Mike Urschalitz, Social Worker
"We loved your show. We saw you at Buford School in Mt. Vernon, IL. We liked when you were playing the spoons on your bottom. We also liked it when you played the spoons on our hands. We thought it was really funny when the Hill Billy Band played and when you wore that silly hat with the long hair. We hope that we can see another one of your shows again. Thank you for coming to Mt. Vernon, we thought your show was really, really cool!"
Buford School - Mrs. Ice's Kindergarten Class
"You really helped me see that I can be anything I want ,even a spoon player, if I say no to drugs. My friend and I walked home from school today in those nifty hats you gave us! I have one question...do you have to take lessons to become a spoon player? Well, thanks a lot for talking to my grade!"
St. Angela School - Meggie, 8th Grade
"Thanks you so much for your wonderful presentation. The faculty was very impressed with your inspirational words to the kids. Thanks for the laughs. It was so heartwarming to receive your blessing at the end of your show. The kids need to hear from adults whose faith is important in their lives."
St. Sebastian School- Mary Jo Welch, Principal
"I'm a substitute teacher and attended the assembly today. I wanted to let you know I thoroughly enjoyed the program, as did the fifty or so first and second graders in my care. I liked both the message and the method of presentation. I'll be sending an e-mail to Dave Letterman as well. Thanks for an enjoyable afternoon and best of luck."
Coventry Elementary - April Minatrea, Teacher
"The message was clear to our students! Someone with your charisma can send out the 'respect' message and have clout! Thank you for a meaningful and high energy performance."
Parkview Elementary - Susan Lukaart, Principal
"Jim, the Juvi kids and staff loved your performance! We've had many visiting artists here recently, and you were the only one that drew a crowd in the hallway as well as in the chapel! I admire your trust in yourself, in following your dreams. I hope we will have the pleasure of your company again soon."
Kent County Juvenile Court - Dana, Activities Director
"I've seen some teachers smile for the first time. We'll definitely have you back again. Great Job."
Grissom Elementary - Doug Stewart
"You are so funny. The hillbilly act was awesome. You are sure good at the spoons. I went to your web page too. I kind of know how to do the spoons, but not better than you. I saw some teachers crying you were so funny. I really liked your SHOW VERY MUCH. I think you are a smart guy. Is that bully thing really true when you were in seventh grade?"
Immaculate Conception School- Michael, 4th Grade
"Out of all the acts we've had, yours was the first one in which the kids were begging me to have you back again."
South Elementary - Genie Tobias, Principal
"I saw your show. I thought it was awesome.The funniest part was when Nancy went up on stage. It was funny when you let her play the marrocca. Your line about having bolts in the morrocca was hysterical.I thought it was funny when you put the white hair on. Hope you come to our school again."
Apollo Elementary - Daniel, 3rd Grade
"I wanted to tell you that I thought you show was really cool. I'm in 8th grade, and I'm sure you know we usually don't get to involved with the school assemblies, but your show was really fun! All my friends and I were laughing the whole time, thanks for giving us a good time!"
Immaculate Conception School - Jen, 8th Grade
"I thought your show was great. It was neat how you played the spoons on everyone. I am practicing playing the spoons. I am getting good at it. I am a fellow spooner."
Liberty Elementary - Thomas, Student
"The children and staff members were all very impressed by your presentation. You have inspired a potential orchestra of spoon players in this school. You did and excellent job with the large groups and made quite an impression on the students. I reviewed with my Kindergarten and First Grade students your three points and the teachers used your performance as a teaching moment regarding reading. Thank you very much for the great job!"
Nettie Davis Elementary - Robert P. Walter Jr., Principal
"Jim, the students are still talking about your performances, especially the 'Hillbilly Band. 'Our parents really enjoyed your message about drugs and felt it was worth their while to come!' May God continue to bless you."
St. John's Lutheran - Sue Miller, Assistant Principal
"Out of all the schools I called in my district, your show was the most recommended over everyone else."
Marshall Elementary - Debbie Worley, PTA President
"Thank you for the wonderful opening to our Eastview Day.You did an excellent program and we ALL enjoyed it."
Eastview Elementary - Susan Yocum, Teacher
"Just wanted to let you know you did a terrific show. It's hard to get young kids to pay attention and sit fairly still that long. I was the 'impartial judge' you selected. Thanks again! Nice job!"
Medinah Intermediate School - Dennis Hayes, Library Media Tech
"Hi! Do you remember I was Billyburt with the rock and roll wig I learned how to play the spoons at home! When I grow up I want to be funny like you! My dad said he saw you at the school he works at. Thanks for coming to my school."
Highview School - Jennifer, Student
"We enjoyed your presentation this afternoon very much. We both are learning how to play the spoons and we can play the alphabet and London Bridge is falling down. We made up a game where two or more people have a pair of spoons and we listen to a song on the radio and who ever plays a rhythm from that song is the winner. We liked your show a lot and hope that you will come again and perform again for us!"
Medinah Intermediate School - Katie & Jessica, Students
"You are really good at spoons. We really liked the show. We hope that you come here again."
Worthington Elementary - Mrs. Karazsia's, 1st Grade Class
"Just wanted to let you know how much we (enjoyed) your show. We went back to our school and had spoons and pudding in your honor. We went through over 150 plastic spoons for just 44 kids..... they all played spoons most of the afternoon. Thanks for finding your talent and sharing it with us... you were great!!!!!!!!!!!"
Farrand Elementary - Ms. Diane, Teacher
"You were the best assembly we've had. We will definitely have you back again!"
Dimmick School - Rita Stevenson, Principal
"Hi it's me Billy . Are you going to do another show in McLeansboro soon? I liked your show at East Side School! It rocks!! I am a big fan of Elvis!! I thought it was funny when you did an impression of Elvis!! hope to see you soon."
Eastside School - Billy, Student
"You were the first program that I've seen that could entertain both the 1st graders as well as the 6th graders throughout your show."
Central Elementary - Verne Sawyer, Principal
"I liked your performance today. I wanted to thank you for the great show. I wish I could see you again here in Roanoke because I really enjoyed your show! You can find me here anytime, and I hope to see you again.Bye and thank you."
Sowers Elementary - Dylan Swank, Kindergarten
"Thank you for coming to our school. That is really cool!!! If you really want to know what I felt at first, I thought it was going to be kind of boring because my teacher said we were going to see a assembly on the 'Spoon Man'. But I have to tell you I really enjoyed it. It was so fun seeing you dance and play the spoons at the same time. It is a good influential thing which makes old and young people think they could do anything. For instance, becoming a teacher or being the first to land on mars or something wacky and out of this world kind of thing!!! On behalf of my class I would like to thank you for coming to our school."
Gardens School - Amelia, Student
"I would like to go to one of your programs one day. I really enjoyed your show when you came to my school. I hope to someday be able to play the spoons just like you. Thank you for playing your spoons on my hand."
Roguewood Elementary - Tara, 1st Grade
"You are REALLY funny and it was really funny when you had Mr.Webber come up there and you put a goldilocks wig on him. Thanks For coming to our school."
Jefferson Elementary - Tate, Student
"Jim, FANTASTIC! as you began your first show, I intended to stay for only 10 minutes as I had to get to work. But I found myself unable to leave- your energy, enthusiasm, and talent was contagious and kept me riveted to my chair to the very end of the show."
Jamieson School - Kerry Doan PTO
"Your humor and talent entertained us and brightened our day with tears of laughter in many of our eyes."
St. Mary's School - Sue Kelly, Principal
"We just returned from watching your show at the Harlan High School Auditorium. Jonny from our class was excited to be picked to help and to get 'spooned.' Good luck and we enjoyed the show."
West Ridge Elementary - Mr. Vande Berg's 4th Grade Class
"Our class really enjoyed your show yesterday. I was wondering how you were going to keep us all entertained for a long period of time with your spoons. I love the message you gave to the students. You do very good in getting that message across."
Marysville Elementary - Mrs. Heim's, Teacher
"In one short phrase, it was FABULOUS!!! It's always difficult to find someone who will appeal to teachers and students alike, across the varied age groups of kindergarten to fifth grade. Both students and teachers made positive comments after the show. We even had some preschoolers who were enthralled."
BC-IG Elementary School - Kathi Ketelsen, Guidance Counselor
"Hi Spoon Man! We're the music class that just listened to your show, and we LOVED it! By the way, how do you tune your spoons? Ha! We loved the Hillbilly band. Thanks for coming to see us, we had a great time!!!!!"
Central School - Ms. Palma, Music Teacher
"Thank you so much for your wonderful show . Both of my daughters, Britney 3rd grade & Sara 1st grade haven't stopped talking about you since they came home from school yesterday. Not to mention the amount of spoon clanging going on in the house!!!!I was told we had to visit your web page !!! Here we are, so now they can go to school this morning and tell their friends!"
Seaborn Elementary - Suzan Stabile, Parent
"I absolutely have to say your show was awesome. When you picked out one of my good friends to put on the Pippy Longstocking wig I couldn't stop laughing. I just loved your show. Just come back some day if possible. Also I have to say my second grade buddy just rushed home as fast as he could to talk to his family about it."
Ravinia School - Kyle, 2nd Grade
"The response to your program was terrific!! The kids were very impressed with your message of respecting themselves and others. That night when I returned to school to pick up our 5th grader, a student actually held the door open for me. That was a pleasant surprise!!"
Pewaukee PTO - Liz DeLatt, PTO Chairperson
"I liked the show. My favorite part was when you played the spoons on my hand. I hope you come back to my school again.PS - Mom and Dad thought the show was great also. Keep up the excellent entertainment and valuable message that you send to all the kids. Best of Luck."
St. Bridget School - James, 1st Grade
"Your show was outstanding! The student body were all involved in laughter during the entire show. We've also heard how COOL it was that Spoon Man played spoons right on everyone's hands. You are definitely a winner. We at Collins would highly recommend your show."
Collins Elementary - Gail Quinn, Cultural arts Committee
"I've had comments made to me by the teachers stating 'best assembly and a lot of fun, worth every penny', I hope we can have him back again!' The students were very motivated by your message and loved your spooning-of course they all tried their hand at it."
North Road Elementary - Brenda McLaughlin, Assembly Coordinator
"After your show and after school I went home and tried to play the spoons. I was really good. But I tried a new way. I put on a show for my Dad. Thank you for teaching me about the spoons. My Dad doesn't know how I do it."
Custer School - Nathan, 1st Grade
"I thought you were awesome. Do you have snow in Michigan? We got about 4 inches yesterday. I have been trying to play the spoons. I put 2 spoons together and put a rubber band around them. I played them on my mom's head. I did it to my dad too, and he didn't like it. My mom just laughed and we did it to the cat too.Thank you for coming to my school."
St. John's School - Kaity Taylor, 1st Grade
"Just wanted to thank you again for a great performance at our little school today. I have never missed an assembly since my daughter has been in school (she was the one in the chair with the cast on her leg - 2nd grader), and this one was certainly one of the best! I have never heard the school walls rattle with laughter from the children as they did today. You're doing a great thing!"
Lerna Elementary - Cindy Ebinger, PTO
"We mostly loved the hillbilly band. It was funny when little squirt was up there. We laughed when you did the impression of Elvis. We learned to say no to drugs."
Flaget Elementary - Elizabeth & Jenna, 3rd Grade
"Jim, the staff's opinion was very positive and you can tell by the enclosed letters how my class enjoyed it. Better move over, these kids are really getting into the spoons. Thanks."
Rogers Lane Elementary - Joyce Grumment, 2nd Grade Teacher
"Jim, the students are still talking about your performances, especially the 'Hillbilly Band. 'Our parents really enjoyed your message about drugs and felt it was worth their while to come!' May God continue to bless you."
St. John's Lutheran - Sue Miller, Assistant Principal
"I wanted to tell you that I thought you show was really cool. I'm in 8th grade, and I'm sure you know we usually don't get to involved with the school assemblies, but your show was really fun! All my friends and I were laughing the whole time, thanks for giving us a good time!"
Immaculate Conception School - Jen, 8th Grade
"You were the first program that I've seen that could entertain both the 1st graders as well as the 6th graders throughout your show."
Central Elementary - Verne Sawyer, Principal
"Thank you so much for your wonderful show . Both of my daughters, Britney 3rd grade & Sara 1st grade haven't stopped talking about you since they came home from school yesterday. Not to mention the amount of spoon clanging going on in the house!!!!I was told we had to visit your web page !!! Here we are, so now they can go to school this morning and tell their friends!"
Seaborn Elementary - Suzan Stabile, Parent
"You are REALLY funny and it was really funny when you had Mr.Webber come up there and you put a goldilocks wig on him. Thanks For coming to our school."
Jefferson Elementary - Tate, Student
"You are so funny. The hillbilly act was awesome. You are sure good at the spoons. I went to your web page too. I kind of know how to do the spoons, but not better than you. I saw some teachers crying you were so funny. I really liked your SHOW VERY MUCH. I think you are a smart guy. Is that bully thing really true when you were in seventh grade?"
Immaculate Conception School- Michael, 4th Grade
"Out of all the acts we've had, yours was the first one in which the kids were begging me to have you back again."
South Elementary - Genie Tobias, Principal
"Hi! Do you remember I was Billyburt with the rock and roll wig I learned how to play the spoons at home! When I grow up I want to be funny like you! My dad said he saw you at the school he works at. Thanks for coming to my school."
Highview School - Jennifer, Student
"Just wanted to thank you again for a great performance at our little school today. I have never missed an assembly since my daughter has been in school (she was the one in the chair with the cast on her leg - 2nd grader), and this one was certainly one of the best! I have never heard the school walls rattle with laughter from the children as they did today. You're doing a great thing!"
Lerna Elementary - Cindy Ebinger, PTO
"Hi it's me Billy . Are you going to do another show in McLeansboro soon? I liked your show at East Side School! It rocks!! I am a big fan of Elvis!! I thought it was funny when you did an impression of Elvis!! hope to see you soon."
Eastside School - Billy, Student
"I wanted to tell you that I thought you show was really cool. I'm in 8th grade, and I'm sure you know we usually don't get to involved with the school assemblies, but your show was really fun! All my friends and I were laughing the whole time, thanks for giving us a good time!"
Immaculate Conception School - Jen, 8th Grade
"You were the first program that I've seen that could entertain both the 1st graders as well as the 6th graders throughout your show."
Central Elementary - Verne Sawyer, Principal
"Jim, the staff's opinion was very positive and you can tell by the enclosed letters how my class enjoyed it. Better move over, these kids are really getting into the spoons. Thanks."
Rogers Lane Elementary - Joyce Grumment, 2nd Grade Teacher
"We just returned from watching your show at the Harlan High School Auditorium. Jonny from our class was excited to be picked to help and to get 'spooned.' Good luck and we enjoyed the show."
West Ridge Elementary - Mr. Vande Berg's 4th Grade Class
"I absolutely have to say your show was awesome. When you picked out one of my good friends to put on the Pippy Longstocking wig I couldn't stop laughing. I just loved your show. Just come back some day if possible. Also I have to say my second grade buddy just rushed home as fast as he could to talk to his family about it."
Ravinia School - Kyle, 2nd Grade
"Just wanted to let you know that my kids and I really enjoyed your show. It was funny, entertaining and educational!!! Thank you. I especially liked how you mentioned the importance of getting an education and reading. Thanks again!!!!"
Nicolet Elementary - Jennifer Klapka, Teacher
"The principal from Bemis Elementary was absolutely correct. You were the best show we have ever had."
Martel Elementary - Kathy Davison, Principal
"In one short phrase, it was FABULOUS!!! It's always difficult to find someone who will appeal to teachers and students alike, across the varied age groups of kindergarten to fifth grade. Both students and teachers made positive comments after the show. We even had some preschoolers who were enthralled."
BC-IG Elementary School - Kathi Ketelsen, Guidance Counselor
"We loved your show. We saw you at Buford School in Mt. Vernon, IL. We liked when you were playing the spoons on your bottom. We also liked it when you played the spoons on our hands. We thought it was really funny when the Hill Billy Band played and when you wore that silly hat with the long hair. We hope that we can see another one of your shows again. Thank you for coming to Mt. Vernon, we thought your show was really, really cool!"
Buford School - Mrs. Ice's Kindergarten Class
"Out of all the schools I called in my district, your show was the most recommended over everyone else."
Marshall Elementary - Debbie Worley, PTA President
"Thank you so much for your wonderful show . Both of my daughters, Britney 3rd grade & Sara 1st grade haven't stopped talking about you since they came home from school yesterday. Not to mention the amount of spoon clanging going on in the house!!!!I was told we had to visit your web page !!! Here we are, so now they can go to school this morning and tell their friends!"
Seaborn Elementary - Suzan Stabile, Parent
"I thought you were awesome. Do you have snow in Michigan? We got about 4 inches yesterday. I have been trying to play the spoons. I put 2 spoons together and put a rubber band around them. I played them on my mom's head. I did it to my dad too, and he didn't like it. My mom just laughed and we did it to the cat too.Thank you for coming to my school."
St. John's School - Kaity Taylor, 1st Grade
"I've seen some teachers smile for the first time. We'll definitely have you back again. Great Job."
Grissom Elementary - Doug Stewart
"I've had comments made to me by the teachers stating 'best assembly and a lot of fun, worth every penny', I hope we can have him back again!' The students were very motivated by your message and loved your spooning-of course they all tried their hand at it."
North Road Elementary - Brenda McLaughlin, Assembly Coordinator
"Hi Spoon Man! We're the music class that just listened to your show, and we LOVED it! By the way, how do you tune your spoons? Ha! We loved the Hillbilly band. Thanks for coming to see us, we had a great time!!!!!"
Central School - Ms. Palma, Music Teacher
"I'm a substitute teacher and attended the assembly today. I wanted to let you know I thoroughly enjoyed the program, as did the fifty or so first and second graders in my care. I liked both the message and the method of presentation. I'll be sending an e-mail to Dave Letterman as well. Thanks for an enjoyable afternoon and best of luck."
Coventry Elementary - April Minatrea, Teacher
"In my 6 years at Big Brothers/Big Sisters, this show was by far the best in its entertainment and appeal to all ages. Many of our volunteers also said this was the best entertainment they have seen yet at the dinner."
Big Brothers/Big Sisters - Mike Urschalitz, Social Worker
"Just wanted to let you know you did a terrific show. It's hard to get young kids to pay attention and sit fairly still that long. I was the 'impartial judge' you selected. Thanks again! Nice job!"
Medinah Intermediate School - Dennis Hayes, Library Media Tech
"Jim, FANTASTIC! as you began your first show, I intended to stay for only 10 minutes as I had to get to work. But I found myself unable to leave- your energy, enthusiasm, and talent was contagious and kept me riveted to my chair to the very end of the show."
Jamieson School - Kerry Doan PTO
"After your show and after school I went home and tried to play the spoons. I was really good. But I tried a new way. I put on a show for my Dad. Thank you for teaching me about the spoons. My Dad doesn't know how I do it."
Custer School - Nathan, 1st Grade
"You are really good at spoons. We really liked the show. We hope that you come here again."
Worthington Elementary - Mrs. Karazsia's, 1st Grade Class
"Your humor and talent entertained us and brightened our day with tears of laughter in many of our eyes."
St. Mary's School - Sue Kelly, Principal
"Our class really enjoyed your show yesterday. I was wondering how you were going to keep us all entertained for a long period of time with your spoons. I love the message you gave to the students. You do very good in getting that message across."
Marysville Elementary - Mrs. Heim's, Teacher
"You were the best assembly we've had. We will definitely have you back again!"
Dimmick School - Rita Stevenson, Principal
"The response to your program was terrific!! The kids were very impressed with your message of respecting themselves and others. That night when I returned to school to pick up our 5th grader, a student actually held the door open for me. That was a pleasant surprise!!"
Pewaukee PTO - Liz DeLatt, PTO Chairperson
"Your show was outstanding! The student body were all involved in laughter during the entire show. We've also heard how COOL it was that Spoon Man played spoons right on everyone's hands. You are definitely a winner. We at Collins would highly recommend your show."
Collins Elementary - Gail Quinn, Cultural arts Committee
"I saw your show. I thought it was awesome.The funniest part was when Nancy went up on stage. It was funny when you let her play the marrocca. Your line about having bolts in the morrocca was hysterical.I thought it was funny when you put the white hair on. Hope you come to our school again."
Apollo Elementary - Daniel, 3rd Grade
"We mostly loved the hillbilly band. It was funny when little squirt was up there. We laughed when you did the impression of Elvis. We learned to say no to drugs."
Flaget Elementary - Elizabeth & Jenna, 3rd Grade
"I liked your performance today. I wanted to thank you for the great show. I wish I could see you again here in Roanoke because I really enjoyed your show! You can find me here anytime, and I hope to see you again.Bye and thank you."
Sowers Elementary - Dylan Swank, Kindergarten
"I thought You were pretty awesome at the spoons. Did you say you learned to play by your Grandpa teaching you? My brother thought you were awesome because he is really good at the drums. I told him that you wanted a drum set when you were 9 but your parents wouldn't get you one."
Heyworth Grade School - Jen, Student
"You really helped me see that I can be anything I want ,even a spoon player, if I say no to drugs. My friend and I walked home from school today in those nifty hats you gave us! I have one question...do you have to take lessons to become a spoon player? Well, thanks a lot for talking to my grade!"
St. Angela School - Meggie, 8th Grade
"I liked the show. My favorite part was when you played the spoons on my hand. I hope you come back to my school again.PS - Mom and Dad thought the show was great also. Keep up the excellent entertainment and valuable message that you send to all the kids. Best of Luck."
St. Bridget School - James, 1st Grade
"Thank you for the wonderful opening to our Eastview Day.You did an excellent program and we ALL enjoyed it."
Eastview Elementary - Susan Yocum, Teacher
"Just wanted to let you know how much we (enjoyed) your show. We went back to our school and had spoons and pudding in your honor. We went through over 150 plastic spoons for just 44 kids..... they all played spoons most of the afternoon. Thanks for finding your talent and sharing it with us... you were great!!!!!!!!!!!"
Farrand Elementary - Ms. Diane, Teacher
"Jim, the Juvi kids and staff loved your performance! We've had many visiting artists here recently, and you were the only one that drew a crowd in the hallway as well as in the chapel! I admire your trust in yourself, in following your dreams. I hope we will have the pleasure of your company again soon."
Kent County Juvenile Court - Dana, Activities Director
"Today my son Lain attended your presentation. He is in the 1st grade and he is running about 'playing spoons' as I type, and he dictates. He wants you to know that he loves playing the spoons and that he thought your show was awesome today. Radical, I am being corrected.He says he wants to grow up and be like you. He said that you looked as good as you do because you stayed away from drugs Which I think is great and awesome, myself.It is time for bed (school night) and Lain says have a good night."
Gardens Elementary - Gloria, Parent
"Thanks you so much for your wonderful presentation. The faculty was very impressed with your inspirational words to the kids. Thanks for the laughs. It was so heartwarming to receive your blessing at the end of your show. The kids need to hear from adults whose faith is important in their lives."
St. Sebastian School- Mary Jo Welch, Principal
"I thought your show was great. It was neat how you played the spoons on everyone. I am practicing playing the spoons. I am getting good at it. I am a fellow spooner."
Liberty Elementary - Thomas, Student
"The message was clear to our students! Someone with your charisma can send out the 'respect' message and have clout! Thank you for a meaningful and high energy performance."
Parkview Elementary - Susan Lukaart, Principal
"I would like to go to one of your programs one day. I really enjoyed your show when you came to my school. I hope to someday be able to play the spoons just like you. Thank you for playing your spoons on my hand."
Roguewood Elementary - Tara, 1st Grade
"Jim, the students are still talking about your performances, especially the 'Hillbilly Band. 'Our parents really enjoyed your message about drugs and felt it was worth their while to come!' May God continue to bless you."
St. John's Lutheran - Sue Miller, Assistant Principal
"We enjoyed your presentation this afternoon very much. We both are learning how to play the spoons and we can play the alphabet and London Bridge is falling down. We made up a game where two or more people have a pair of spoons and we listen to a song on the radio and who ever plays a rhythm from that song is the winner. We liked your show a lot and hope that you will come again and perform again for us!"
Medinah Intermediate School - Katie & Jessica, Students
"Thank you for coming to our school. That is really cool!!! If you really want to know what I felt at first, I thought it was going to be kind of boring because my teacher said we were going to see a assembly on the 'Spoon Man'. But I have to tell you I really enjoyed it. It was so fun seeing you dance and play the spoons at the same time. It is a good influential thing which makes old and young people think they could do anything. For instance, becoming a teacher or being the first to land on mars or something wacky and out of this world kind of thing!!! On behalf of my class I would like to thank you for coming to our school."
Gardens School - Amelia, Student
"The children and staff members were all very impressed by your presentation. You have inspired a potential orchestra of spoon players in this school. You did and excellent job with the large groups and made quite an impression on the students. I reviewed with my Kindergarten and First Grade students your three points and the teachers used your performance as a teaching moment regarding reading. Thank you very much for the great job!"
Nettie Davis Elementary - Robert P. Walter Jr., Principal
