Little Silver school hosts second annual Markham CARES Day

On Feb. 3, sixth graders at Markham Place School were treated to an afternoon of presentations and activities to promote Cooperation, Assertion, Responsibility, Empathy and Self Control (CARES).

Three community members shared their time, enthusiasm and knowledge for the second annual Markham CARES Day.

Holiday Express executive director Don Pignataro enlightened the students about the tremendous work done by Holiday Express. Founded in 1993 by Little Silver resident and Markham Place parent Tim McLoone, Holiday Express delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children in need. Every year in November and December, Tim and his volunteers travel the tri-state area hosting over 50 shows, complete with music, food and gifts to people who may otherwise be overlooked during the holidays.

Emphasis was on Cooperation, where the talents of many come together to make our community a better place. Each student cut the fringe on a polar fleece scarf, rolled and tied it with a ribbon, then wrote a message to the unknown recipient. 90 Scarves were made and donated to Holiday Express for distribution to the needy. 

Retired US Navy senior Chief, Monmouth University VP, and Markham Place dad Dr. Edward Christensen spoke to the students about life in the military. He conveyed that a marine’s responsibility is to protect our country and each other, and that Americans at home have a responsibility to support the troops and their families.

Each student wrote a note on Markham CARES stationery to PFC Sean MacDonald from Rumson, who was recently deployed to Afghanistan. Gallon size bags were packed with items donated by the kids and the community. 13 copy paper boxes were packed with over 80 care packages, including socks, game books, toiletries and candy, and mailed to Sean and his comrades. The shipping cost was generously donated by Wendy and Greg Munoz of Little Silver. Students learned abut the importance of Assertion and Responsibility.

Little Silver resident, Markham Place and Monmouth University graduate Noelle McNeil shared her inspirational story of her miraculous recovery from a near fatal accident. Ms. McNeil conveyed that with faith and belief in one’s self, a person could overcome many obstacles.

The students all participated in an activity where a heart shaped paper was taped to their back, and each of their classmates wrote a positive comment on their heart. The emphasis was on Empathy and Self-control, as well as the affects of bullying. Noelle authored Heaven Exists about her journey, and is currently working on a second book.

The day was supported by over 30 volunteers from the Little Silver PTO, in conjunction with the sixth grade teachers.

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