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The Connecticut Department of Public Health reported 11 fentanyl-laced marijuana overdose cases in July, nine in August, nine in September and 10 in October. The cases occurred all over Connecticut with no apparent pattern. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, just two milligrams of fentanyl can be a lethal dose.
Connecticut Department of Public Health warns of fentanyl-laced marijuana spike
Staples High School offered the COVID-19 booster shot for teachers on Nov. 17. They could sign up for a preferred time slot and receive it when convenient.
Westport Public Schools offers booster shot for teachers
The Coxsockie skin rash can develop on hands, feet and mouth, known to be an itchy discomfort and takes approximately seven to 10 days to go away.
Coxsackie viral infection spreads throughout Staples
Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore’s plans as they take office as First and Second Selectwomen elects.
Republicans elected to First and Second Selectwomen seats
American airports are filled with visitors as the travel ban for dozens of countries has now ended.
America terminates the international travel ban for dozens of countries
While Thanksgiving was only a week ago, I’ve already wrapped about 25 gifts, which will reside on the basement floor because my family has yet to get our tree.
An ode to wrapping Christmas gifts
Despite all of the excitement that follows Black Friday, it is extremely overrated and takes away from the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Instead, Cyber Monday is the better way to achieve holiday shopping and discounts over Thanksgiving break.
Black Friday traditions detract from the true meaning of the Thanksgiving holiday
This year’s snow day policy is back to the policy before COVID, which is that the first few snow days will be added on to the end of the year, and then if more are needed they will be taken from April break.
Taking away days from April break is unfair, snow day policy must be altered
Due to the stigma surrounding men’s skincare, men are often forced into a lose-lose situation in which they are mocked both for having acne and for trying to take care of their skin. To end this stigma, skincare must be seen as gender-neutral tools rather than feminine products.
Stigma around men’s skincare must be upended
The student survey consisted of 40 multiple choice questions and four open-ended questions that asked students to reflect upon the start of the school year and how students have handled it thus far.
Westport Public Schools requires increased student representation
James Speer, vendor of Cloudy Lane Bakery, has attended the Westport Farmer’s Markets for years. Speer eagerly took on his new job at his favorite bakery this year and is looking forward to the winter season.
Community commemorates Westport Farmers’ Market fall season
Many businesses around Westport are seeing a resurgence in their sales following the initial Covid lockdown.
Westport’s retail stores hope sales return to normal
The CDC recommends that all adults who have received the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine get the booster shot six months after their second dose.
Staples handles teacher absences due to COVID-19 booster shots
Chrissy Toeplitz’s kids, Henry (6) and Paige (9), received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at the Staples High School clinic on Nov. 13.
Vaccination clinic for ages 5-11 nurtures excitement for second dose
While many colleges are allowing applicants to choose to submit their test scores, stress for the junior class persists.
Junior class navigates pressure from standardized-tests
As a big fan of Mexican food, I was excited for Salsa Fresca’s opening in Westport but was very disappointed after tasting my meal.
Salsa Fresca fails to spice up Westport Mexican food scene
Adele’s new album ‘30’ was released on Nov. 19. The album consists of 12 new songs and is her fourth studio album.
Adele’s new album ‘30’ shows self-growth, change
Owners Dave Kuban and Charlie Gonzales opened the doors to Dave and Charlie’s Hometown deli located at 300 Strawberry Hill Ave, Norwalk CT on Nov. 1. Check out their instagram @d_c_hometown_deli.
Dave and Charlie’s hometown deli opens in Norwalk, provides great atmosphere for customers
Staples Players return to the stage for their first official production since the start of the pandemic.
Staples Players adjust to Covid regulations in production of ‘Grease’
‘The Princess Switch:’ Romancing the Star proves to be an exemplary holiday movie that introduces new and exciting elements to the overused plot of a Christmas romance.
‘The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star,’ captures fresh twist on usual holiday films
German spaetzle dumplings serve as a perfect side
German spaetzle dumplings serve as a perfect side
Tik Tok salmon rice bowl; as easy as it gets
Tik Tok salmon rice bowl; as easy as it gets
Korean popcorn chicken serves as popular, tasty meal
Korean popcorn chicken serves as popular, tasty meal
This crowd-pleasing traditional Jewish dessert is a sweet and savory dish that everyone can enjoy.
Sweet, savory Jewish dessert promises to please
This classic pumpkin cake is perfect for ringing in the season and adds a unique twist on a popular fall flavor.
Maple pumpkin cake, great way to ring in the fall
Crystal collecting serves as a meaningful hobby
Crystal collecting serves as a meaningful hobby
Superfans cheer on Wreckers through themed games
Superfans cheer on Wreckers through themed games
Participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk helps raise awareness
Participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk helps raise awareness
Feeling peckish? Instead of going to Shake Shack, try eating some of the many wild fruits and plants growing all around your neighborhood.
Westport’s bounty serves as a fall foraging feast
From Oct. 8 - Oct. 11, the Westport Library organized another one of its book sales, featuring an immense collection of various books and other items.
Westport Library book sale fosters academia, community
Last Thursday, BLAME IT ON BABY appeared on spotify, apple music, and other music websites.
Second album this year further drives young rapper DaBaby’s music career
The new release show “Outer Banks” enhances a mysterious, adventurous teen drama show to allow viewers to binge watch during this time of being stuck inside.
‘Outer Banks’ creates a binge-worthy T.V series
Phoebe Waller-Bridge dominates airwaves with fantastic new releases
Phoebe Waller-Bridge dominates airwaves with fantastic new releases
The Strokes released “The New Abnormal” on April 10.
The Strokes new album makes great comeback
With two episodes each Sunday for the next five weeks, sports fans have something to look forward to in the short-term.
‘The Last Dance’ provides reprieve for sports fans worldwide
The girls’ soccer team lined up with the opposing team before their semifinal game. This lineup is a tradition before every championship game where they announce the starting lineup.
Girls’ soccer advances to state championship
The Wreckers practice during the offseason to prepare for their first game on Dec. 16 against Norwalk.
Girls’ basketball team trains for success
Staples boys soccer dominates first round of state tournament
Staples boys’ soccer dominates first round of state tournament
The Staples girls soccer team played Wilton in the FCIAC championship game. Staples won with a final score of 1-0.
Wreckers beat Wilton in girls soccer FCIAC championship
Since 2011, the University of Connecticut Football team has not had a single winning season. As Connecticut’s national representative for sports, UConn must improve their record and financial practices for the sake of state pride.
UConn Football Team poorly represents Connecticut
James Speer, vendor of Cloudy Lane Bakery, has attended the Westport Farmer’s Markets for years. Speer eagerly took on his new job at his favorite bakery this year and is looking forward to the winter season.
Community commemorates Westport Farmers’ Market fall season
Pie, turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy are some of the most traditional Thanksgiving foods that are seen on the dinner table.
Staples celebrates Thanksgiving with unique traditions
As Thanksgiving approaches, we went around asking Staples staff and students what they are thankful for this holiday season.
Staples community expresses thanks before Thanksgiving
Social media studies reveal that up to 13.5% of UK teen girls have experienced an increase in suicidal thoughts after using Instagram and 17% have experienced an increase in eating disorder tendencies, yet social media seems to remain as prominent as ever in youth’s daily lives.
Exposed harmful impact of social media prompts underwhelming, passive reaction from users
Owners Dave Kuban and Charlie Gonzales opened the doors to Dave and Charlie’s Hometown deli located at 300 Strawberry Hill Ave, Norwalk CT on Nov. 1. Check out their instagram @d_c_hometown_deli.
Dave and Charlie’s hometown deli opens in Norwalk, provides great atmosphere for customers
Governor Ned Lamont plans to implement the most ambitious reopening plan in the tristate area since the pandemic started last year. Throughout March and April, all capacity limits for most businesses and personal retail stores are being lifted.
Connecticut’s transition to 100% capacity, eased restriction concerns among students
Increased flooding downtown threatens shops through costs and water damage
Increased flooding downtown threatens shops through costs and water damage
A COVID-19 vaccine is currently being developed.
Potential COVID-19 vaccine brings controversy
Two competing houses on Maple St. express opposing political viewpoints of the upcoming presidential election through banners, signs and flags. The WPD’s press release stated that signs placed on private property may not extend beyond the property line. In addition, it is recommended that residents remove their respective signs within two days after the election, or other specified event.
Removal of political signage around Westport prompts WPD response
Longshore golf course opens with COVID-19 restrictions
Longshore golf course opens with COVID-19 restrictions
Students, teachers work to respect pronouns, names
COVID-19 couldn’t stop these stunning movie stars from rocking the Oscars red carpet Sunday night.
The Oscars lookbook: glitz, glam, and gorgeous gowns
The new Dunkin’ Donuts spring menu displays new and exciting food and drink options that are sure to brighten up this spring season.
Dunkin’ Doughnuts Review
Those who identify as “super straight” have already adopted their own version of a pride flag, a rectangle divided between black and orange. Critics of the label have seen it as exclusionary and take issue with the attempts of “super straight” people to insert themselves into the LGBT community.
‘Super Straight’ trend provokes ire, discussions about transphobia 
Some vaccinated families were able to celebrate Passover traditionally, while others held their seder’s over zoom.
Staples students celebrate passover amid COVID-19
Staples gets set to tip off at home against Fairfield Warde on March 28.
Staples Basketball Recap
Staples warming up before tip off against Brian McMahon with no fans in the gym.
The success of Staples basketball
The Staples Varsity softball team high-fives last year before COVID-19 began. This year, social distancing and mask wearing will be enforced so on field play will be very different.
Spring sports season brings mixed feelings to players
Last rec season, swapping jerseys with a member of the opposing team after the game was the ultimate sign of respect and gratitude players could share. Angelo Casabianca ’21 and Haydn Siroka ’21 share a moment together after a close game between the two.
Seniors reflect on rec basketball cancelled
Staples girls basketball celebrates after upsetting Norwalk on the road.
Students discuss status of winter sports
While the pasta options range in caloric density, all are easy to make and delicious in their own way.
Trader Joe’s offers variety of gnocchi to satisfy pasta cravings
Bachelor Matt James and winner of this season Rachal Kirkconnel had clear tension between them at the after the final rose ceremony. Rachel shed many tears, as Matt was so heartbroken he could barely speak.
Bachelor finale shocks Bachelor Nation
These are all of the materials needed to cuff any pair of pants and sew exciting stitches to the linings of clothing articles. This will revamp garments in addition to providing pops of color.
Crafting clothes proves fun quarantine activity
A hand showing female empowerment, which is similar to drawings that were shown in the movie.
Moxie inspires high schoolers to make a change
Emma Losonczy ’23 uses music as a way of focusing while studying in the library. The music helps Losonczy keep her mind awake while she writes an essay for English class.
Reviewing La Di Die
Photo by Shira Zeiberg “Operation Varsity Blues” is a documentary investigating the mastermind behind the scheme to get kids of rich families into top colleges.
Netflix film ‘Operation Varsity Blues’ sheds light on college admissions scandal
Staples students are cautious to travel due to the looming threat of COVID-19.
Students traveling for vacation raises COVID concerns
Each year, students must receive recommendations from teachers to enroll in specific level classes. Though these recommendations are helpful, they also can restrain students from taking classes they know they can handle.
Teacher recommendations do more harm than good
After making our way through the towns best diners and delis, we found that the classic Sherwood Diner breakfast sandwich was our favorite.
Students search for Westport’s best egg sandwich
First Lady Biden brings education to forefront of American politics
First Lady Biden brings education to forefront of American politics
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Inklings News
Finnegan Courtney ’23

Finnegan Courtney ’23, News Editor

For Paper News Editor Finnegan Courtney ’23, journalism has always been a passion of his, even before his time at Staples High School. 

“I’ve always loved writing, and especially journalism,” Courtney said. “Ever since middle school, I’ve been doing journalism and writing for the school paper, and Inklings was the next step.”

Other than working on the paper, Courtney indulges in many other interests. 

“I love a lot of sports. [I] love basketball, baseball, [I] love to run. Also, I’m really interested in sports broadcasting,” he said. 

Yet, journalism still remains Courtney’s top interest.

“It’s just something I love to do,” Courntey said. 

 

All content by Finnegan Courtney ’23
Recently, Bedford Middle School was announced as one of the top 10 middle schools in the state.

Bedford ranked eighth on top middle schools list in Connecticut

November 1, 2021
The first of planned Wellness Activity Days occurred on Oct. 20, yet many students chose to depart prior.

Wellness day presented unfair procedures regarding attendance

October 29, 2021
With blood supply dangerously low across the country, Westport’s VFW recently held a blood drive.

Local blood drive hopes to alleviate dangerously low blood levels

October 19, 2021
The effects of a viral TikTok trend can be felt all across the state, even in our own town at Bedford Middle School, where bathrooms such as these were vandalized and stolen from.

Property stolen, destroyed at Bedford Middle School due to viral TikTok trend

September 20, 2021
The fireworks this Fourth of July in Westport have pretty much faded out of existence, due to the town’s decision. But it’s absolutely clear now it shouldn’t have.

Fourth of July fireworks should not be canceled

June 15, 2021
The Westport Board of Education returned to in-person meetings, like the one pictured above from two years ago, for the first time since March of 2020 (reused photo from previous Inklings BOE article).

Westport BOE returns to in-person meetings

June 10, 2021
The Yankee Doodle Fair, usually an event that signals the end of school and the start of summer, will instead take place in September.

Yankee Doodle Fair postponed to September due to COVID-19

June 10, 2021
Bobby Valentine, former New York Mets manager, may now be managing a whole lot more than one team: an entire city.

Former Mets player and manager to run for mayor of Stamford

June 7, 2021
An overview of the major changes expressed in Superintendent Thomas Scarice’s update, including an update on mask policy.

Westport schools update COVID guidance, masks at recess not required

June 4, 2021
While currently masks are required in school classrooms across the state until the end of the school year, the case may be very different come August.

Time to re-enter the world, vaccinated and maskless

June 2, 2021
Charli and Dixie D’Amelio, two rising social media influencers, will now star in their own show on Hulu.

‘D’Amelio Show’ likely to fall into the pits of garbage television

June 1, 2021
The 2018 Memorial Day parade in Westport will be somewhat different from this year due to COVID-19 regulations and protocols.

Memorial Day parade returns to Westport for May 2021

May 26, 2021
An overview of the major changes resulting from the last COVID-19 guidance across the state.

Masks no longer required indoors if fully vaccinated

May 18, 2021
The Staples field, which often plays host to football games, will be the venue of a much different event this year: the class of 2021’s graduation.

Graduation to take place on the football field

May 11, 2021
A partial view of the full rankings, showing the top three schools, out of a list featuring nearly 200 public high schools in the state.

Staples named Best Public High School in Connecticut

May 4, 2021
Denying full experience of Culinary Arts due to nut allergies must end

Denying full experience of Culinary Arts due to nut allergies must end

March 1, 2021
With the announcement by Lamont yesterday, a new vaccine distribution schedule was released, including when teachers are eligible to Receive.

Teachers to become eligible for COVID-19 vaccination

February 23, 2021
With rising case numbers across the state and in Westport, things like winter sports and a model change are up in the air.

Westport COVID-19 numbers increase

January 22, 2021
With the impending change to full in-person learning district-wide, schools at all levels are going about the process differently.

[Photo] Westport schools set to shift to full in-person model despite teacher, student concerns

January 22, 2021
Changes made to Connecticut sports, CIAC delays winter start

Changes made to Connecticut sports, CIAC delays winter start

November 10, 2020
breaking-Infographics

[Photo] Positive COVID-19 cases confirmed in several Westport schools

November 5, 2020
Following Scarice’s decision, Long Lots Elementary School will be staying in their current model and not going back five days a week.

Scarice recommends against full reopening of Westport schools

October 22, 2020
Impacted by a positive COVID-19 test, Long Lots Elementary School now has multiple members of its community quarantined

[Photo] COVID-19 case prompts quarantines at Long Lots Elementary School

October 2, 2020
Despite the initial announcement that barbershops and hair salons would be included in phase one of Connecticuts reopening plan, Lamont has retracted this statement and pushed the reopening date to June.

Lamont announces barbershops, hair salons delayed until June

May 28, 2020
The Westport Country Playhouse, normally a stage for plays, now has postponed its entire 2020 show season, due to COVID-19.

Westport Country Playhouse postpones season, in danger of permanent shutdown

May 14, 2020
With the COVID-19 pandemic raging across the world, multiple blockbusters have had their original release dates postponed.

COVID-19 delays multiple movies’ production, filming

May 13, 2020
By Monday, voters will need to make a final decision on which party they will be a member of for the 2020 election and whether or not to switch.

Westport Registrar of Voters announces deadlines for 2020 election registration

May 11, 2020
Connecticut schools, including Staples High School, will remain closed until April 20 at the earliest.

School closure further prolonged

March 25, 2020
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