STUDENT LIFE
PTA REFLECTIONS CONTEST
November 2020
Calling out all Mustangs that would like to take a chance in being a Reflections contest winner this year! If you have an interest in playing an instrument, singing, writing, drawing, painting, taking photographs, dance choreographing or making movies keep reading because this contest could be for you. If you have ever wondered what you'll write about in your college essay one day this contest could be for you. If you have ever wanted to give your parents' bragging rights this contest could be for you. If you're answering yes to these questions don't miss out on your opportunity to participate in this year's contest! This year's Reflections theme is "I Matter Because... ." Music, video and dance entries have to be less than 5 minutes! Literature entries can be a poem or short story! It doesn't take much to fit into your busy schedules! Reflect on this - several past winners have completed their submissions in only an hour! Don't be shy -anyone can participate! This is your chance to show off your talent! Recognition is awarded to all participants!
There are 6 Arts Categories: Music Composition, Visual Arts, Photography, Dance Choreography, Film Production, and Literature. In order for you to participate, you should review the "Official Rules" and "How to Enter" pages. All entries must include an "artist statement" (just has to be a minimum of 10 words) and it is VERY IMPORTANT that your parents sign the student entry form and review the rules for the category in which you are competing to ensure your submission will qualify. Detailed rules specific to each category and all detailed information on the contest can be found in the following link: https://floridapta.org/reflections-art-program/
NOTE that there is also a Reflections Theme contest - you can enter an idea for the next year's Reflections theme. Entries must be mailed in and postmarked by Friday Nov. 1st.
Rules and pre-printed entry forms are available online or through your Reflections contacts below. Turn in your entry to the Front Desk addressed to PTSA Reflections Chair. If you have any questions about Reflections, please don't hesitate to contact the Reflections chair: Claudette Naft, crnaft@gmail.com, 954-496-3010
*** THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 ***
MARKHAM MEMORIAL MAGNOLIA TREE
BY ALICE WEBBER October 2020
Markham Woods Middle School planted a magnolia tree in memory of those who have died from Covid-19. This tree will serve as a memorial for the families at Markham Woods who were impacted by Covid-19. This is a place where staff and students can remember their loved ones who died from the virus.
This special tree is called The Magnolia Memorial. This magnolia tree was donated from The Cornell Family of Treemendous Quality Tree Growers. Next to the tree will be a bench donated by MKMS Student Council.
A dedication ceremony took place on September 25, where anyone who painted a rock could place it at the base of the tree to represent a relative who had passed. Several students and their families, staff members, and community members attended the ceremony Friday afternoon. Speeches were given at the dedication ceremony by Principal Mrs. Linda Mumey, School Board Member Dr. Tina Calderone, Student Body President Kaylee Keller, and Pastor Dr. R. W. Berry.
"We plant this tree to represent our respect for all those who sadly passed during this time," said Kaylee Keller. "Everyone is more than welcome to come sit... at this tree"
If you would like to visit the tree or place a rock underneath it, the tree is planted next to the Markham Woods bus ramp. If you want to decorate a rock in memory of a loved one who died of Covid-19, any rock is perfectly fine, but you can also get one at the school's front desk for free.
THESPIANS COMPETE AT THE STATE LEVEL
BY NATALEE GERBOC February 2020
In November 2019, some students at Markham Woods Middle School traveled to Florida District Junior Thespians. Every member in Markham's troupe qualified for states this month, and Ms. Bennett and Mrs. Antmann choose eight I.E.'s to go to state this Thursday. I.E's stands for individual events. These include events such as pantomimes, duet acting scenes, ensemble acting scenes, monologues, and solo musicals.
Critic's Choice was also a big part of the experience at Districts. Critics' Choice means that performance got the best score out of that category. Isaiah Warner got Critic's Choice for his monologue, and Alyssa Proenza, Farah Muri Natalee Gerboc, Abagail Nimi also received Critic's Choice on their pantomime.
On February 6, some students from Markham Woods traveled to the Orange County Convention Center for Florida State Junior Thespians. Some of the Drama 3 students performed the one act, Macbeth, and received an Excellent rating. Others participated in workshops and watched other one-acts. Workshops are are fun events that you can do throughout the festival like dance, acting and singing workshops. On the last day of the event, the MKMS I.E.'s competed and were awarded a total of four Superior ratings (the highest rating one can earn). Congratulations to the Markham performers in Troupe 88773!
FREE TUTORING AT SCHOOL
BY ALICE WEBBER January 2020
Tutoring can benefit, not only your grades, but your willingness to learn. Tutoring is one on one attention and can boost self-esteem.
* Sixth grade students can go for math tutoring with Mrs. Barton after school on Thursdays at 4:00PM in room 2-215.
* All math levels/grades can go to the Collaboratory and work with Mr. Robinson on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:00PM.
* Don't feel left out because Algebra 1 Honors and 8th grade Pre-Algebra tutoring is on Mondays and Fridays at 8:30AM with Mr. Skodnik in Room 4-218.
* If you are good in math and need help with another core subject, our NJHS students offer tutoring for anyone with below a C average in any subject. This happens at 4:00PM in the Media Center.
* Tutoring for Civics is on Thursdays in the Media Center from 4:00-5:30PM.
If you need more information about any of this, please contact the sponsor. To be tutored you need to behave and be focused. The activity bus can drop you off, but if it doesn't go to your neighborhood, you will need to have an adult come pick you up after school.
HOW TO HEAT UP YOUR WINTER BREAK!
BY JACKSON PANCAKE December 2019
Winter Break is right around the corner, what are your plans? Travelling, seeing family, or just sticking around your house? If you're like the last one and want to make the most of your whole two weeks off school, read ahead for some tips on inexpensive and fun activities for this break!
1. ICE at the Gaylord Palms Resort Orlando. The world-famous Gaylord Palms Resort located in Orlando Florida, and every year they host an Icy Christmas wonderland. This year's theme is The Polar Express, the movie featuring a train that takes kids on Christmas Eve to Santa's Workshop. You can also expect to see ice slides, hot chocolate, and yummy snacks - all in one family fun Ice Adventure! Tickets range from $14.99 for children to $28.99 for adults.
2. Planet Obstacle Trampoline Park. Planet Obstacle, a trampoline park located in Lake Mary, Florida is a 50,000 square foot trampoline and obstacle park featuring a full Ninja Warrior course, floating obstacle course, bumper cars, and tons of trampolines. Planet Obstacle tickets are $25 each, and you have unlimited time. It's a great place to bring your kids without breaking your bank to pay per hour like other trampoline parks. Planet Obstacle also features a rock-climbing wall.
3. Michael's Craft Class. You read it right, the arts and crafts store, Michael's, is offering fun classes featuring cute and easy crafts taught by professionals! If you go to their website, you can see the dates they offer these cheap and fun classes, mostly held on Saturdays.
Fun Things to do at Home!
1. Build a pillow fort- movie theater! Want to have fun but not leave the comfort of Wi-Fi and air conditioning? The Golden Horseshoe's got some great ideas! One thing you can do at home is build a pillow fort movie theater! Make your average pillow fort but add your computer or phone and watch a movie! This is a cozy and fun way to "stay warm."
2. Make hot chocolate and enjoy the fresh air! Another thing you can do without leaving your home is make hot chocolate! You can add in a stir-able mix and then enjoy it on your patio or in your backyard! Enjoy Florida's amazing temperate climate all year long.
Here's hoping that your winter break is great! Take these ideas to heart and make the best out of your break!
SHOO, FLU!
BY AVARY HEWETT December 2019
Flu season has taken over our school lightning fast! People are getting sick and the clinic is filled with fevered students. A lot of students are missing multiple weeks' worth of their classes. If you want to stay healthy during this season, here are a few tips and tricks.
According to www.uwhealth.org, the first tip is to wash your hands regularly. Washing your hands can prevent you from getting the flu or the cold. Washing your hands also stops those illnesses from spreading from you to another person. Germs are everywhere like phones or doorknobs, so it is very important to always wash your hands to keep those germs away.
The second way is to stay away from anyone sick. Staying at least three to six feet away from a sick person or friend can help you stay healthy. Illnesses can spread very easily so it is very important to protect yourself and get as far away as possible from these harmful germs.
The third and final way to stay healthy is to always keep your hands away from your nose and mouth. www.webmd.com says, "Little habits -- touching eyes, putting finger to nose, biting nails -- give the flu virus a welcome mat into your system." Your hands contain many germs and touching your face with your hands can lead to the flu and other sicknesses.
To stay away from all these illnesses, you should follow these steps and stay safe from germs. Washing your hands, staying away from anyone sick, and keeping your hands out of your face are all steps that you need to follow to stay healthy!
WORLD DIABETES DAY
BY NATALEE GERBOC November 2019
Did you know, November 14 was World Diabetes Day? In fact, November is Diabetes Awareness month. World Diabetes Day is celebrated on November 14 to spread the word about Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. We celebrate this each year in November to raise awareness for diabetes. The theme for World Diabetes Day and World Diabetes Month 2018 and 2019 is The Family and Diabetes. It seeks to, raise awareness of the impact that diabetes has on the families and support system of those affected. And also, to promote the role of families in the management, care, prevention, and education of diabetes.
Why is November 14 world diabetes day? Well, November 14 is a crucial date in the diabetes calendar because it marks the birthday of Frederick Banting, the man who co-discovered insulin. He discovered insulin in 1922, at the side of Charles Best.
You may want to know, what actually causes diabetes? According to, www.niddk.nih.gov, "Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system, the body's system for fighting infection, attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists think type 1 diabetes is caused by genes and environmental factors, such as viruses, that might trigger the disease." It is estimated that 415 million people are living with diabetes in the world, 46% of people with diabetes are undiagnosed. It is expected 642 million people are going to be living with diabetes by 2040.
Here are five easy ways to spread the word about diabetes according to, info.totalwellnesshealth.com, First, wear blue! The color blue, and more specifically, and open blue circle, is the universal symbol for diabetes. Second, participate in a diabetes fundraising event. One of the best ways to raise awareness is to form a team to participate in a fundraising event. Third of all, create a bulletin board! Share a wealth of information for anyone who passes by a hallway bulletin board (The more is stands out, the more likely people will stop and read it!) Fourth, add diabetes information to your newsletter. Like some basic information about diabetes and give some tips about how to prevent it. And lastly, join or create a lifestyle change program. Make it fun and enticing so people will keep up with it.
Now that you know, will you help raise awareness for diabetes next year in 2020? The next World Diabetes Day will take place on Saturday, November 14, 2020.
DRAMA 3 PERFORMS AT MARKHAM
Marhkam's actors and actresses put on a show!
BY VRITI SHAH November 2019
Some of Ms. Bennett's Drama 3 students performed Macbeth at the Thespians competition earlier this month. They earned a Superior rating and a Critics Choice! Macbeth has been chosen to represent our district! Before the Thespians perform at Districts, they will perform Macbeth at Markham Woods Middle School's Black Box Theater along with an Act Two! Act 2 is filled with monologues, musical theater solos, duet scenes, small group scenes, and more!
Some Act 2 performances also performed at Thespians and were awarded Superior and Excellent ratings. Isaiah Warner, an 8th grader who performed at Thespians with a monologue, received a Critics Choice Award. This means that he performed the best monologue in division 2! Isaiah will be performing in Act 2! Act 2 is performed by students and directed by Ms. Bennett.
Ms. Bennett is also the director of Macbeth. While watching Macbeth, the audience will be taken on a Shakespearean adventure with live sound effects, amazing actors and actresses, and the thrill of watching a famous Shakespeare tragedy! Ms. Bennett and her students have worked hard to make sure everything is spooky and realistic for the audience, so this is definitely not a show you want to miss out on!
Drama 3 will perform November 21 and 22 at 7:00 pm. All students, family members, staff, and faculty are invited! This is a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends as you enjoy the show! Delicious concessions will be sold and tickets for the show are only $5.
Make sure you come over to the Black Box Theater on November 21 or 22 to see Drama 3 perform their amazing productions! Your evening will be filled with laughter, excitement, and amazement!
BACKPACKS = BACK PAIN
BY VRITI SHAH October 2019
In school, it's known that you must carry a backpack everywhere you go. These backpacks tend to get heavy especially when kids don't have lockers to keep their books in. According to kidshealth.org , "When a backpack isn't used properly, it can cause back problems or even injury." Heavy backpacks can cause back problems for students.
When you wear backpacks the wrong way, the weight can pull you backwards or forwards. If you wear your backpack on one shoulder, then it can pull you to the side as well. People who lean forward or backward can have shoulders that become rounder and their back can become curved. In the future, this can develop shoulder, neck, and back pain. People who lean to the side can experience lower and upper back pain which can strain your neck and shoulders.
You may be wondering how to pick out the right backpack and how to wear a backpack correctly, so you don't end up hurting your back. According to kidshealth.org when choosing a backpack, "make sure it's got two padded straps that go over the shoulders. The wider the straps, the better. A backpack with the metal frame like the one hikers use may give you more support."
Kidshealth.org also had information on the best way to hold backpacks without causing back pain. "Before you load your backpack, adjust the straps so the pack sits close to your back. If the back bumps against your lower back or backside when you walk, the straps are probably too long." Some tips are to try to carry the biggest, heaviest items closest to your back and make sure you wear both straps on your shoulders.
Heavy backpacks are causing kids back pain. Follow the helpful tips in the article to save your back from pains in the future.
REFLECTIONS CONTEST
Looking Within
SUBMITTED BY CLAUDETTE NAFT October 2019
Calling out all Mustangs that would like to take a chance in being a Reflections contest winner this year! If you have an interest in playing an instrument, singing, writing, drawing, painting, taking photographs, dance choreographing or making movies keep reading because this contest could be for you. If you have ever wondered what you'll write about in your college essay one day this contest could be for you. If you have ever wanted to give your parents' bragging rights this contest could be for you. If you're answering yes to these questions don't miss out on your opportunity to participate in this year's contest! This year's Reflections theme is "Looking Within." Music, video and dance entries have to be less than 5 minutes! Literature entries can be a poem or short story! It doesn't take much to fit into your busy schedules! Reflect on this - several past winners have completed their submissions in only an hour! Don't be shy -anyone can participate! This is your chance to show off your talent! Recognition is awarded to all participants!
There are 6 Arts Categories: Music Composition, Visual Arts, Photography, Dance Choreography, Film Production, and Literature. In order for you to participate, you should review the "Official Rules" and "How to Enter" pages. All entries must include an "artist statement" (just has to be a minimum of 10 words) and it is mandatory that your parents sign the student entry form and review the rules for the category in which you are competing to ensure your submission will qualify. Detailed rules specific to each category and all detailed information on the contest can be found in the following link: https://floridapta.org/reflections-art-program/
NOTE that there is also a Reflections Theme contest - you can enter an idea for the next year's Reflections theme. Entries must be mailed in and postmarked by Friday Nov. 1st.
Rules and pre-printed entry forms are available at the front office or through your Reflections contacts below. Turn in your entry to the Front Desk addressed to PTSA Reflections Chair. If you have any questions about Reflections, please don't hesitate to contact the Reflections chair: Claudette Naft, crnaft@gmail.com, (954) 496-3010.
*** THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2019 ***
TRAIN YOUR BRAIN!
October 13th is National Train Your Brain Day. If you want to participate in this holiday but can't think of any ways to engage on this day, here are a few ways to train your brain.
The first way to train your brain is to read. Reading a book everyday can increase reading skills and language skills. Reading everyday relives you from stress and it also gives you a lot of benefits for your brain. Reading a book interesting you can increase your brain function or improve it.
The second way to train your brain is to learn something new. Try learning something you've been wanting to learn for a long time. Practice this activity repeatedly to strengthen your brain and it's newly created pathways. Using your brain more for things like this will make it work even better than before. Even doing small actions over and over again can help your brain learn.
The third and last way to train your brain is to exercise. Exercising everyday strengthens your brain, even if your work out is only 20 minutes. Exercising can teach your brain to think faster and remember things better. The physical activities from your workouts can increase your brains thinking.
BIGS AND LITTLES
Building Camaraderie in Chorus
Kick start a new year with an old tradition for the Markham Woods Chorus. Several years ago, Mrs. Antmann, our chorus director, started a tradition called Bigs and Littles. With different dress up days, a party, tons of fun, and making brand new friends, Bigs and Littles was a huge event to plan. This year's Bigs and Littles Week took place on September 30-October 4. Each new chorus member (Little) is paired up with a veteran chorus member (Big). They exchange notes and little gifts all week long and while the Big knows who his or her Little is, the Littles only find out who their Big is at the Reveal Party at the end of the week.
Mrs. Antmann had a committee of students who helped her with planning and these students made sure the week went smoothly.
Doron Glickman, who has served on the committee for two years, said, "We are bringing in many different new themes to the table this year."
"We feel we are getting more connected this year since we already had a year together and I feel us being closer will bring bigger and better ideas for the events coming up," said Elizabeth Bessette, who also served on the planning committee.
Bigs and Littles is a very exciting and fun experience for everyone every year, mostly because you get to make new friends and spend time with the people that you already know. It's an amazing way to help the singers in Beginning Chorus feel comfortable in a new chorus group.
SUMMER FUN
BY NATALEE GERBOC May 2019
Woohoo! It's summer that means it is time to relax and take a break from school! Summer is the hottest season of all that means trips, pool parties, and etc. are going to be happening for our Mustangs! Eighth graders are leaving Markham and are on a roll to high school. There was a farewell concert performed by all the chorus and warning it got emotional for 8th graders. Summer is the time we get to relax and hang out and not worry about homework all the time. So 8th graders, we hope you had great years at Markham and have fun in High school!
Samantha Minton, a 6th grader, shared what she will be doing this summer. "Wel,l we are going to go to Georgia this summer, and going to stay in a cabin for two weeks."
This summer plan sounds so fun! Talking about summer, this is the last news article for the year! Our club will be continuing next year also, so if you want to join and write your own story, contact our sponsor Mrs. Barth! I hope you have a great year at Markham and have fun!
MATHLETES MAKE MARKHAM PROUD
BY GENESIS HATCHER May 2019
On April 13, Markham math students participated in a competition at Lyman high school. They placed 2nd out of 15 other middle schools in Seminole county. Our school brought 13 teams to the competition and all three grade levels were represented.
Mrs. Frank, a sponsor for the math team said, "I love Math and getting to spend the day with students who not only have to do Math, but enjoy it as well, is a joy. I was very impressed with what our students accomplished. The most important thing is that the students who participated had fun."
In the end
MKMS math students tried their best and they made their math teachers proud. Congratulations, Markham Mathletes!
IF YOU CAN READ THIS, THANK A TEACHER!
Teacher Appreciation Week
BY ZIA ALI May 2019
Teacher Appreciation Week is a holiday celebrated in the United States. It's to honor teachers and their hard work in helping students throughout the year. It's taking place from May 6 - 10, 2019. We should all participate in this week to thank our teachers. There are many gift ideas you could use to make gifts, but here are a few:
1. (If your teacher is a woman) You could get her a manicure set and a card/ sticker/ paper that says "Mani thanks for a toe-tally awesome year!"
2. Get a paper that says "Thanks for keeping me on target" and in pocket on the paper you could put a target gift card.
3. A paper in a smaller shape that says "You are a scent-sational teacher" and give them a candle.
4. Give them a card that says "You are the key to my success" and give them a lanyard.
5. Get a six pack of soda and a card that says "I'm soda- lighted that you were my teacher!"
Teachers love to get these and it shows that you care. It's a great way to show your teacher that you appreciated them for being your teacher this year. Be sure to participate!
FORTNITE VS. APEX LEGENDS
BY VRITI SHAH April 2019
People are arguing about which game, Apex Legends or Fortnite, is a better game. Both games are known as popular and people can't get enough of them! If you don't know or haven't heard about these games then please let me explain. Fortnite was released on September 26, 2017 and was definitely a big hit! According to www.dbltap.com, "8.3 million current players - meaning 8.3 million people are playing Fortnite at the same time." So many people kept playing and playing to see new seasons, skins, and so much more. Until, Apex Legends came out with a newer version. Apex Legends was released February 4, 2019 and was also a big hit! This E.A Sports game had people playing in seconds! According to www.Notebookcheck.net, "Apex Legends has now been played by over 25 million people in the first week of its release." People are really going crazy for this game! We decided to ask some students that go to our school on how they feel about this conflict. 6th grader, Max Ghezzi, was asked, "Why do you think people are so attracted to Fortnite? Explain." He replied with "It's really (competitive) and (you) really (want) to win..." so when you get eliminated in the game, you keep trying again and again. We then looked online for an interview with one of the people who had a contribution with the making of Apex Legends. Www.venturebeat.com was interviewing Mackey McCandlish who is a design director for apex. GamesBeat asked, "How long have you been working on this? From the beginning?" Then he answered back with, "Oh yeah. I've been working on this with the same core of people my entire career. It's taken various forms. It's merged with other teams, leading to where we are today." Then GameBeat asked, "What do you think this has, that's new, that other battle royals don't have." And he shot back with, "It's a rapidly mature genre. We identified through our wide prototyping, that there was an opportunity within the squad, social space...
People play both games and seem to enjoy playing them. We still don't really know which game is better. What do you think? Is Apex or Fortnite the better game? We might never know!