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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
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
Staples High School has significantly higher standardized test scores compared to the rest of the country. Because of these high test scores, Staples High School is very competitive and high-achieving in academics.
Standardized testing competition must be eliminated
Houses around Westport spotted with early Christmas spirit with decorations and lights surrounding their homes.
Early Christmas spirit allows for kinder, happier community
Thanksgiving, usually a holiday representing family and unity, is seen as more of a melancholy and reflective day for those with international families.
Thanksgiving serves as a longing reminder of distant family
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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Hannah Ratcliffe ’22

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor

Web Arts Editor Hannah Ratcliffe ’22 loves all things arts and dancing, which has shined through in Inklings.

“I am a competitive dancer at ‘The Spot’ studio in Norwalk and that takes up most of my time,” Ratcliffe said. “Dance is something I’m super passionate about and it's always been a huge part of my life.”

Being a dancer and a student can be a huge time commitment, so Ratcliffe has learned to integrate the two.

“I wrote my first two articles for Inklings surrounding dance, and one of the things I love most about the class is being able to write about what I want to write about and choosing my own path.”

 

All content by Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
Thanksgiving, usually a holiday representing family and unity, is seen as more of a melancholy and reflective day for those with international families.

Thanksgiving serves as a longing reminder of distant family

November 24, 2021
MoCA Westport presents new exhibition 'Between the Ground and the Sky'

MoCA Westport presents new exhibition, ‘Between the Ground and the Sky’

October 18, 2021
Assembly Bill 245 was passed in California on Oct. 6, 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom to prohibit public universities from misidentifying students on their diplomas and school reports.

New Assembly Bill 245 should inspire Staples High School to create a more inclusive community

October 15, 2021
Customers order by the window of The Tasty Yolk food truck in Fairfield while the staff cooks and prepares everything from brussel sprouts to bacon and egg breakfast sandwiches.

Tasty Yolk food trucks provide original, accessible breakfast option

September 28, 2021
The Department of Education announced that Connecticut schools will not be required to offer distance learning to students for the 2021-2022 school year, creating speculation regarding Staples’ plans for the fall.

Westport Public Schools not required to provide online learning option for future academic years

June 1, 2021

Staples seniors await spring internships

March 5, 2021
The Westport Public Library offers weekly virtual study sessions for teens, giving them an opportunity to safely study with friends.

Westport Public Library’s virtual study halls foster academic opportunities

January 26, 2021

Holiday season brings sentimental gift giving

December 22, 2020
Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

December 22, 2020
Madeline Michalowski ’22, one of the Spanish dancers, waits backstage at the Westport Academy of Dance’s 2019 performance of The Nutcracker.

Westport Academy of Dance forced to postpone annual performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

December 4, 2020
Doug Quinn opens new restaurant Hudson Malone on Oct. 16 on the corner of Main Street and Canal Street. Named after Quinns two sons, Hudson Malone has expanded from its previous location in New York and now offers Westporters an authentic New York style restaurant.

Two new restaurants, Hudson Malone, Outpost Pizza hope to survive pandemic

November 2, 2020
The Westport Museum of Contemporary Art launches new fall exhibition about world peace, including a variety of different artists that each comment on both current and past events such as the Black Lives Matter movement and modern politics.

MoCA Westport displays new exhibition surrounding world peace

October 22, 2020
Students from the Spot @ Just Dance Studios practice routines with masks on.

COVID-19 greatly alters Westport’s dance studios

October 14, 2020
Junior Dance students’ assignments regarding physical and emotional goal-setting on Google Classroom.

Junior Dance course sacrifices full experience of class due to curriculum change

October 8, 2020
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