Testimonials

It was a thoughtful and inspiring program and I have received some great feedback from students. There were more people in the audience who were directly impacted by drunk driving, I think they didn't want to bring it up in front of the crowd (maybe too emotional?) Anyway, we were very pleased! I loved your personal and humorous approach!

Elaine Gisriel
Student Development Specialist
College Life
Harford Community College

Dear Michael,
I can't thank you enough for your presentation to our middle and high school students last week. Your message was clear, entertaining, compelling, and no doubt received by students and parents alike.

Through your eloquent and engaging personal testimony, you took a difficult and serious subject and educated in a way that by rights should leave a long lasting impression.

Thank you once again for being with us and may your continuing efforts be met with only greater success.

Best and shalom,
Richard Agler
Senior Rabbi
Congregation B'nai Israel
Boca Raton, FL

The message of "The Magic of Life" is a critical one to share with college students. Michael's approach is effective - he gets the students' attention through the use of comedy and then hits home by sharing his personal experiences. He also does not judge the students or their choices, but makes them aware of the consequences of their behavior - on not just themselves, but also on others. I am pleased with the opportunity I have to work with Michael and look forward to including The Magic of Life in our Week of Welcome schedule for many years to come.-Brenda McKenzie, Associate Director, Center of Student Involvement, Kent State University.

The presentation was enjoyable. I believe students need more presentations like this one. It was a good change from the normal speakers and something that will have a lasting memory. -Michael, Kent State University

Last night I was expecting someone from the school to cover all the rules and regulations for the NCAA but I never expected to hear such an emotional story from a real person. I definately walked away with a new view on parties. Thanks so much for coming to Findlay!! -Rachel, The University of Findlay

Thank you so much for presenting at our school yesterday. It was a pleasure having you. I know the students enjoyed your presentation and found it very moving. You came across very genuine and I can imagine it was emotional for you. I hope your first Middle school experience was a good one.

It also looks like your KISS shirt was a hit! Also...you do look like Jerry Seinfeld! :)

We look forward to working with you again in the future.

Sincerely,
Photini Manesiotis
Northlake Middle School
Counselor

I left your performance wanting more. I believe that you opened my eyes because I have a similar story only with suicide. I connected with your story and I enjoyed every moment. Thank you for your humor and honesty.-Erin, Lake Erie College

After attending your program, I have a better understanding of life as a whole. I never realized how precious life really is. I drove while under the influence and I regret every second of it. I will never do it again and would rather not drink and be a designated driver. I have learned some life changing lessons and I will appreciate everything I have. -Alyson, Kent State University

Your speech was the funniest I have heard, and also the saddest. You thoroughly educated us on the dangers of drinking and driving and also revealed yourself by giving us details of your tragic childhood story. It was so powerful. I really took what you said to heart, there is not a day that goes by that I regret driving drunk. Very rarely do you hear somebody give such intimate details about themselves. -John, Lake Erie College

It was great!! There were a lot of people talking around campus about how much they enjoyed it! Thanks for coming!

Heather
Bluffton University

On behalf of the students, parents and staff at Congregation B'nai Israel, we want to thank you for the very inspirational program you presented to us. Our adolescents cannot be fooled, and they could tell you were the real thing with a very real story to tell. You were able let them understand the impact of alcohol on their spirit, their academic possibilities and career choices while at the same time imparting humor into the program. Everyone in the audience was able to laugh, but also think deeply about the impact of alcohol. Upon leaving the program, one of our students said, "We got it without being depressed".

Again, thanks.
Marilyn Asofsky, Coordinator
Mark S. Bertuch Make-A-Difference Program
Congregation B'Nai Israel
Boca Raton, FL

Michael was a master of engaging with his audience of college students by telling jokes in the manner of Jerry Seinfeld, as he expressed humorous accounts such as the experience of baby-shower shopping, a routine which left me in stitches. The most powerful portion of the presentation was when he shared how a drunken driver had killed his mother. This testimony had an emotional impact upon me. Michael explained how joy in life should not be derived from alcohol, but should come from the satisfaction of pursuing one's own dreams. -Philip, Kent State University

I just wanted to let you know that your presentation at Kent State was very inspirational. I truly enjoyed being there and your words left a good impact on me. Your success and courage gives us all hope for the future, and encouraged me to live in the present as best I can. I hope that everyone took your words into as much consideration as I have. Thanks again! -Stacey, Kent State University

Many thanks for your presentation to our students, faculty and parents! Your presentation was well received by all. -Ron Morrison - Bishop McDevitt High School