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During the months of April through November, Church Lane will be closed to public traffic allowing only pedestrians on the road.
Downtown Westport announces seasonal entertainment starting early April
If approved, this years Education budget will increase by about 8%.
Board of Finance approves Board of Education budget for next year
Dr. Daniel Cortright leads the BMS Science Olympiad team to victory. Cortright started out as the assistant coach in 2017 and became head coach in the 2021-2022 season.
Bedford Middle School Science Olympiad team places first in state tournament, advances to national competition
Leigh Foran ’24 poses for her next year on the Colombia Women’s Track team.
Principal Thomas announces 2024 valedictorian, salutatorian
Westport will charge electric vehicle drivers fees at 35 charging stations across town and railroad lots, with a rate of 35 cents per kilowatt-hour and an additional idling fee at certain locations, to promote sustainable and economically viable EV use.
Westport implements electric vehicle charging fees
Warmer temperatures in Westport and Fairfield County during the winter cite a need for climate action.
Abnormally warm winter and spring cite importance of reducing climate change
Even though many people think that having a 504 plan means that people are disabled, it actually means that they might need a little extra help but they can still succeed even if it isnt the “normal” path to success.
Having a 504 plan doesn’t make someone dumb, it means they have a different path to success
The emergence of post high school plan Instagram accounts has heightened stress among students and proved to be unproductive. Although intending to be positive, it fosters competition.
‘Post high school plan’ Instagram pages prove unproductive, generate competition
Emails and reminders for course registration can help students think ahead.
Scrambling to finalize courses for that “final counselor meeting’’
Entering 2024, students are now able to participate in the digital SAT which provides many advantages and new opportunities, in contrast to the paper SAT that was previously given. (Graphic from Wikimedia)
Digital SAT unleashes new advantages, monumental for the future of testing
Students will begin in Rome and visit major cities like Venice until ending up in Paris, France to conclude their 11 day trip of museums and monuments.
Art department’s trip to Italy and France offers glance into European art, culture, history
Across the school, there are seven Stop the Bleed kits placed within first aid boxes.
M.O.S.S. enters Connecticut, planting roots in Staples High School
Members on the Staples STEM trip pose in front of Mediterranean Sea.
STEM students and staff embark on meaningful trip through Northern Italy and France despite last minute obstacles
The paper version of the SAT has now been changed to digital.
Juniors express opinions after taking new digital SAT test
Marley Belzer ’26 (left) and Taylor Brunetti ’25 (right) record new podcast-style IMentor videos at Westport’s Touquet Hall
Next generation of IMentor, internet safety program MiniMentor educates Westport youth
A gaggle of insects (Left to right Cameron Mann ’24, Josy Pitaro ’24, Finley Chevrier ’24, Samantha Edwards ’24, Matthew Bukzin ’24) facing James (Beck Fipp ’27) during rehearsal.
James and the Giant Peach makes its debut at Staples
Usher performed during the Apple Music halftime performance in Las Vegas, Nevada, for Super Bowl LVIII.
Revealing the highs and lows of Usher’s Super Bowl halftime performance
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies is now open in Westport in addition to Fairfield in the Post Road plaza with Greens Farms Spirit Shop and Fortuna’s.
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies expands into Westport
The Grammys 2024 had highs and lows, per usual.
The Grammys 2024 were predictable, but fun
Galentines Day 2023 table
Whip up some love: Valentine’s Day recipes to savor with loved ones
Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. carries spirit week on his back by wearing pink for color wars in the week leading up to homecoming.
“This school isn’t fun,” yes, but it can be
Staples High School defeated Bassick High School by a whopping 42 points as Wreckers defeated the Lions by a score of 84-42. (Photo by William Murray 25)
Boys’ basketball trounces Bassick in straightforward win
Many sports show games on multiple platforms, meaning the cost to watch sports is rising.
Paywalls pose obstacles, close viewership to sports fans
Nick Sikorski ’24 converts a layup in the first quarter. (Contributed by Nick Sikorski 24)
Late rally pushes Wreckers towards victory over Greenwich
Many professional athletes have dealt with their mental health struggles by taking breaks from their respective sports. Taking a mental break from a sport should be a decision that is respected by their coach (Contributed by Greershotz Photography).
Sacrificing my pom poms for my mental health: rigid cheerleading policy must change to support athletes’ well-being
The bulk ferment is when the yeast fully developed through rest. The dough should nearly double in size and get bubbly. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will ferment. If you leave the dough on the counter it will take about eight to 10 hours. For a more sour dough, leave it in the fridge for up to three days for a slower fermentation.
Sourdough: A simple but challenging craft
On Sunday, March 17, the 4 by 800m relay competed. From left to right, Sarah Bogdan 26, Leigh Foran 24, Emma Morris 24 and Avery Kalter 27 were on the relay. They finished with a time of 10:17. Though their season record was 10:06, they finished in the top eight overall.
Girls’ Track travels to Adidas Nationals
Mrs. Robbins gets personal and answers 10 questions.
10 Questions with Mrs. Robbins
Class of 2024 share their riveting plans of traveling abroad, team bonding and taking time to unwind.
Reset and recharge: how seniors are making the most of final break
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
Mrs. Robbins gets personal and answers 10 questions.
10 Questions with Mrs. Robbins
Class of 2024 share their riveting plans of traveling abroad, team bonding and taking time to unwind.
Reset and recharge: how seniors are making the most of final break
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
One requested trend that teens want back is slime, so we tested it out for ourselves to see if it is worth bringing back or should be left in the past.
Old trends still manage to intrigue
Keira Best signs her official commitment to Davidson College for women’s lacrosse.
Staples’ D1 signing day showcases athletes committing to colleges
The bulk ferment is when the yeast fully developed through rest. The dough should nearly double in size and get bubbly. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will ferment. If you leave the dough on the counter it will take about eight to 10 hours. For a more sour dough, leave it in the fridge for up to three days for a slower fermentation.
Sourdough: A simple but challenging craft
On Sunday, March 17, the 4 by 800m relay competed. From left to right, Sarah Bogdan 26, Leigh Foran 24, Emma Morris 24 and Avery Kalter 27 were on the relay. They finished with a time of 10:17. Though their season record was 10:06, they finished in the top eight overall.
Girls’ Track travels to Adidas Nationals
Latin club presidents and members sell Italian themed merchandise on March 14. Italian students also created posters with language trivia that hang in the hallways.
World Language Week boosts cultural celebrations
Dumplings hold significant meaning in Asian cultures, as they resemble hope and comfort. This auspicious symbol is especially meaningful during the Chinese New Year celebration, as they bring fortune and prosperity in the coming year.
How to make traditional Chinese dumplings
Cobs Bread opened recently in the Compo Acres shopping center, providing residents with fresh baked goods and a lively atmosphere.
Cobs Bread: fresh baked goods, quality service
On the Wreckord - Episode Fifteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Fifteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Fourteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Fourteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Thirteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Thirteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Twelve
On the Wreckord – Episode Twelve
On the Wreckord - Episode Eleven
On the Wreckord – Episode Eleven
Parents, students and members of the Westport community gather in protest against racism in the schools.
Westport rallies against racism: Community protests discrimination in public schools
Legacy admissions remain a contentious topic among Connecticut schools, with some opting to consider legacy status while others do not. However, this practice remains a significant factor in admissions decisions at many prestigious institutions.
Connecticut lawmakers may consider ban on legacy admission consideration
Jackson Cregan 24 stands to become the third Eagle Scout in 108 years to be awarded the Conservation Award after he completed two arduous environmental projects at Sherwood Island last fall. (Photo contributed by Jackson Cregan 24.)
Preserving Sherwood: Cregan’s journey to the highest Eagle Scout Award
Awesome Austin” (left) and his chief angel Andrew Berman (right) show off the medals Austin has received after participating in MyTEAM TRIUMPH events
Disabled marathoner inspires crowd at Westport charity event
To implement the ban on new smoke shops in Westport, several changes must be made to existing laws, including banning smoke shops from all zoning districts and requiring special permits to sell tobacco products.
Planning and Zoning Commission reveals potential ban on smoke shops in Westport
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Inklings Wordle 3/7/23
Inklings Wordle 3/3/23
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Inklings Wordle 2/17/23
Inklings’ Wordle 2/17/23
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Alex Gaines 25

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director

Creative Director Alex Gaines ’25 is no stranger to the newsroom. Gaines became intrigued by journalism at Ursus, where she was in awe at the complex layouts Inklings produced.

“I used to always compare our papers to the Inklings papers,” Gaines said. “I remember being intrigued by the layouts, which I think drew me to the creative director position.”

Though being creative director is a full time job, Gaines still finds time to pursue her other ambitions.

“I took a class at UCLA on marketing,” Gaines said. “It was super interesting because I definitely want to pursue something in business.”

 

All content by Alex Gaines '25
Many movies, including “Maestro,” “Poor Things,” “Barbie” and “Oppenhimer” have all broken the box office this year. March 10 will ultimately determine which movies will receive the most recognition.

[Photo] Students share, reflect upon Oscars anticipations

Caitlin Jacob ’24, Alex Gaines '25
March 20, 2024
Connecticut is widely considered a “blue” state, but has used its 7 electoral votes for a fair number of Republicans in the past century.

Presidential primaries provide first voting opportunity for some students

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director
March 18, 2024
Many Staples students were worried as pop-up buttons that read “Stop the TikTok Ban!” showed up on their phones a few days ago, an effort made by Bytedance, the company that owns Tiktok, to kill the bill dubbed the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Act.” The bill has potential to ban TikTok in the U.S., as the legislation made its way through the House this past week and now finds itself trying to slug through the Senate.

[Photo] BREAKING NEWS: “TikTok Ban” Bill soars through the House

Nina Bowens '25, On The Wreckord Producer
March 15, 2024

Staples community samples uncommon halloween candies

Alex Gaines ’25 and Caitlin Jacob ’24
October 25, 2023
The playground, along with the classroom used for Little Wreckers will remain in place for the 2023-24 school year as the programs ability to open is decided.

[Photo] Little Wreckers Preschool moves out of Staples due to low enrollment, financial concerns

Caitlin Jacob ’24 and Zara Saliba '26
September 20, 2023
Olivia Rodrigo’s sophomore album, “GUTS,” features 12 tracks that range from depressing heartbreak ballads to rock anthems.

Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘GUTS’ proves shockingly good artistic evolution

Alex Gaines ’25, Staff Writer
September 19, 2023

Staples Swifties rejoice as Eras Tour arrives to Northeast

Alex Gaines ’25 and Mia Bomback ’25 Paper Editor
June 6, 2023
Staples’ last day of school each year is a two-hour finals block, but do students deserve something more fun than a testing day? Graphic by Alex Gaines ’25

Last day finals spark debate on end of year activities

Alex Gaines ’25, Creative Director
June 6, 2023
The 22 one-act plays utilize casts of two to four Staples Players, telling short 10-minute stories to the Black Box theater audience from April 22-23.

One-Acts gives seniors exclusive directing opportunity

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director
May 1, 2023
NHD exhibits created by U.S. History Honors students filled an entire room at Sacred Heart University.

NHD competition exhibits sophomores’ research talent

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
March 22, 2023
Co-presidents Freddie Aldridge ‘24 and Noah Salpeter ‘23 are advocating for the complete restoration of the Compo Beach skate park. They are currently communicating with Westport Parks and Recreation and the Westport Youth Commission to figure out the budget plans for the project.

Staples Skate Club advocates for mainstream, inclusive culture through Compo Park renovation

Allison Gillman '23 and Alex Gaines '25
March 3, 2023
From Nov. 11-14, the Westport Library hosted their biannual book sale, which takes place every fall and spring. Westport residents are encouraged throughout the year to donate gently used books and vinyls to the library to be included in the sale.

Library Book Sale amazes with extensive book collection

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
January 5, 2023
Thefts in the girls’ locker room occurred on Thursday, Dec. 8, and Friday, Dec. 9, and have left female Staples students in shock and missing belongings such as AirPods, debit cards and cash.

Locker room thefts leave female students missing belongings

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
December 26, 2022
The large community of TikTok that discusses and recommends books is commonly called “BookTok.” The hashtag “#BookTok” has over 93 billion views across the app.

BookTok praises few books, proves dangerous for most authors

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
December 13, 2022
The cast of “Guys and Dolls” bow on the Nov. 12 evening performance. The show runs for about 3 hours including a 15 minute intermission.

‘Guys and Dolls’ amazes with classic Broadway

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
November 28, 2022
Staples Players’ production of Guys and Dolls will run from Nov. 11-19. The show features classic Broadway songs such as “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ The Boat” and “A Bushel and a Peck.”

Players prepare for “Guys and Dolls”

Alex Gaines ’25, Arts Editor
October 17, 2022
Alex Gaines ’25 deleted the newly popular app BeReal in light of her skepticism with its authenticity.

BeReal not “real” enough for enjoyment

Alex Gaines ’25, Paper Arts Editor
October 7, 2022
Library book sale provides more than just books

Library book sale provides more than just books

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director
May 12, 2022
Throughout the school day on April 8, the library had a station for students to pick up their paper desk stand to show to teachers that they’re staying silent, as well as a pride tattoo to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride.

Day of silence demonstrates LGBTQ+ community’s strength

Alex Gaines ’25, Arts Editor
April 28, 2022
Staples Players’ production of Disney’s “Descendants” runs from April 1-3 and 8-9. The lighthearted musical tells the story of the teenage children of classic Disney villains being faced with threats from their parents, forcing them to explore the world of “good” Disney characters.

‘Descendants’ enchants with extreme talent, Disney magic

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director
April 27, 2022
The cafeteria served new dishes every day in celebration of the week, including chicken fried rice for Chinese language day on Monday, March 14. Other dishes such as churros, éclairs and tacos were offered exclusively on other language days.

Staples celebrates World Language Week

Alex Gaines '25, Creative Director
April 3, 2022
“The Power of the Dog” and “Dune” lead this year’s Oscar nominations. 53 distinct films were nominated for the Oscars this year, which will air on March 27.

2022 Academy Award nominees feature adventure films, many musicals

Alex Gaines ’25, Staff Writer
February 23, 2022
Coleytown Elementary School (CES) is adding two portable classrooms to its property in order to address spatial concerns due to the growing populations of both CES and Stepping Stones Preschool (which is located inside of CES).

Portable classrooms at CES attempt to alleviate overpopulation

Lilly Weisz ’23 and Alex Gaines ’25
February 14, 2022
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