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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
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
First COVID-19 vaccine dosage yields difficult side effects in 12 to 15 year olds
First COVID-19 vaccine dosage yields difficult side effects in 12 to 15 year olds
Hannah Even ’21 and Rishabh Mandayam ’21 were awarded a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship.
Two Staples seniors received the $2,500 National Merit Scholarship
She La La, a retail business, along with other buildings in Westport, have put signs in their storefront to inform customers of their mask policy.
Connecticut stores, restaurants individually decide mask mandates for vaccinated customers
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
With prescription drug prices increasing by 33% since 2014, there has been an epidemic of medicine rationing that puts the lives of Americans at risk. Connecticut must promptly pass legislation that caps drug-price increase in order to end this deadly issue.
Connecticut legislation must end medicine rationing epidemic
Tennis Player Naomi Osaka receives support from fans after withdrawing from the Australian Open.
Naomi Osaka withdraws from Australian Open due to Mental health, inspires many
The Dunkin’ and Starbucks summer menu contains lots of bright summery colors, however, the flavors they included were bland and not at the same level as past seasonal releases.
Dunkin’ and Starbucks summer menu falls short of sweet expectations
Acne, although common, is not talked about often enough and the struggles that having acne can cause need to be further understood.
Acne shouldn’t be taken at face-value, when issues can lie beyond the skin
The junior picnic ran from 12:15 to 2:15 at the football field. The picnic included music, food and games like Kan Jam and Spikeball.
Junior picnic proves short, sweet end to chaotic year
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
Connecticut governor Ned Lamont lifted the mask mandate for vaccinated individuals on May 19, posting the above information on his twitter account, @GovNedLamont. Local businesses have differed in their approaches to lifting the mask mandate, and Staples will not be lifting the mandate for this year.
Westport’s differing mask protocols create issues with consistency, facilitate stigma and confusion
In the state of Connecticut, 63% of the population has received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Despite the worries from the beginning, many individuals have gotten the vaccine.
Students reflect on vaccine controversy
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
Paige Toglia ’22 admires the work of her classmates after saying that much of her inspiration comes from conversations with them.
AP Studio Art students channel creativity, individuality for College Board exam
About seven years ago, my grandfather and I made a S’mores layer cake together, so, after not seeing him for nearly 500 days, I wanted to surprise him by baking him that same cake for Father’s Day.
S’mores layer cake honours early Father’s Day gift
Reusing pasta sauce, peanut butter and salsa jars is a great way to reduce waste. They are perfect for storing pantry items, craft supplies or just being used as a drinking cup.
Four daily habits increase sustainability
These easy to make muffins make the perfect light and sweet treat.
Blueberry muffins are great for a light snack
The new Cruella de Vil is a riveting Disney storyline that rewrites the original storyline.
New “Cruella” film has some bumps, but overall pain-free
About seven years ago, my grandfather and I made a S’mores layer cake together, so, after not seeing him for nearly 500 days, I wanted to surprise him by baking him that same cake for Father’s Day.
S’mores layer cake honours early Father’s Day gift
These easy to make muffins make the perfect light and sweet treat.
Blueberry muffins are great for a light snack
Following this simple recipe makes a delectable snack to enjoy this summer or anytime.
Homemade guacamole pairs deliciously with homemade tortilla chips
A frozen fruity treat is a perfect way to start your day. These frozen yogurt barks are my new go-to breakfast and the easiest homemade treat.
Frozen Fruit Yogurt Bark: proves to be perfect breakfast alternative
Patriotic themed pretzels for Memorial Day are easy and quick to make. They help to celebrate the holiday, and are perfect to share with friends and family.
Delicious homemade pretzel desserts for Memorial Day
In order to abide by social distancing regulations, the Sherwood Diner has started to build an outside seating area for customers.
Restaurants open socially distanced seating areas for Westporters
Up-cycling helps beautify old clothes, pass time during quarantine
Up-cycling helps beautify old clothes, pass time during quarantine
Quarantine has uprooted our typical routines. However, with two months having gone by, my family slowly has settled back into new routines, as captured in this collection of photo spanning a current type of typical week.
Images from quarantine: time at home creates a change in routines
Ways to reduce waste; turn food scraps into gardens
Ways to reduce waste; turn food scraps into gardens
Making scrunchies is a great way to have fun and pass time when in quarantine.
Making scrunchies serves as a fun quarantine activity
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
Fall sports preseason begins in August with the first games beginning in the latter part of September or beginning of October.
Fall sports captains develop summer training schedules
Linnea Jagenberg ’21, Lizzie Kuendorf ’22 and Leni Lemcke ’22 all scored birdies in their victory against St. Joe’s while Keeva Boyle ’23 scored an eagle. The girls received flamingo and parrot prizes in recognition of their accomplishments. (Pictured left to right) Linnea Jagenberg ’21, Lizzie Kuendorf ’22, Leni Lemcke ’22, Keeva Boyle ’23 Merin McCallum ’21, Kathleen Coffee ’24
Girls’ golf secures spot in FCIACs with close victory against St. Joe’s
Staples girls’ track placed and scored in several events at FCIACs on May 24. This is their first time placing in six years. They hope to further qualify in States and States Open in the upcoming weeks.
Girls’ track secures spot in States after placing in FCIACs
The Longshore Golf Course is a public golf course in Westport where town residents can pay to hit at the driving range or play a round of golf. The Staples golf team practices at the course four days a week, playing nine holes.
Boys’ golf match comes down to last stroke
Charlie Howard ’22 was a leading scorer in the game against Ludlow. Starting off the game strong, Howard scored 1 of his 6 goals in a 15-9 win.
Staples dominates Ludlow once again in FCIAC quarterfinals
With summer right around the corner, it’s time to find a relaxing and fun activity; introducing altered books.
Creative art project perfect for the summer
Paige Toglia ’22 admires the work of her classmates after saying that much of her inspiration comes from conversations with them.
AP Studio Art students channel creativity, individuality for College Board exam
Hook’d on the Sound opened over Memorial Day Weekend at Compo Beach. They serve a myriad of different food choices — smoothies, sandwiches, soft serve ice cream, and many more.
Hook’d on the Sound Opens at Compo Beach
According to the CDC, people with the vaccine can, “Resume domestic travel and refrain from testing before or after travel or self-quarantine after travel” (CDC.gov). The vaccine is enabling all vaccinated people to travel and get back to things that weren't able to happen over the past year.
Vaccine enables students to enjoy summer to the fullest
Every year, shops and businesses receive an overwhelming amount of applications from teens for summer jobs. Some students in Westport are having a challenging time finding a job while others already have one.
Students search for summer jobs in Westport
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
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
Hasbro announces new Potato Head toys that dropped the pronouns Mr. and Ms. due to recent controversy. However, the iconic Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head are still available for sale.
Newest Controversy: The gender of a potato
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 town's 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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Michael Newman, 61, was arrested Friday May 21, after a warrant was made for his arrest regarding child pornography.

Former Staples peer advisor arrested, facing possession of child pornography charges

Emma Smith ’22, Staff Writer • May 27, 2021

Former Staples peer advisor Michael Newman turned himself into the Westport Police Station on the evening of May 21; he was arrested and charged with possession of child pornography in the third-degree,...

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

Masks no longer required indoors if fully vaccinated

Finnegan Courtney ’23, Paper News Editor • May 18, 2021

After over a year of mask-wearing and social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the end may finally be near with new CDC guidance.  “If you are fully vaccinated, you can start doing the things...

The FDA is predicted to approve the distribution of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for adolescents ages 12 to 15 early next week. Connecticut plans to get vaccines to this age group through the use of school clinics.

FDA set to authorize Pfizer vaccine for ages 12 and above

Claire Redmer '21 • May 6, 2021

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to authorize distribution  of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to 12 to 15-year-olds during the week of May 10. The vaccine was previously approved...

The schedule for the 2021-22 school year has been announced as returning to the six-period day schedule Staples had before the pandemic.

Schedule change set in motion for 2021-22 school year

Maddy Tansley ’23 • April 26, 2021

The Staples school day schedule for the 2021-22 school year is set to change back to the six-period a day model that was used pre-pandemic, rather than using the current four-block model.   When...

An email sent to all staff on April 5 specified that all staff members, including those who just received their second shots, are expected to work in person on the asynchronous Friday, April 9 following the district’s final second dose COVID-19 vaccine clinic.

Staples staff expected to report in person on asynchronous day following second dose vaccine clinic

Lys Goldman ’21, Managing Editor • April 9, 2021

All Westport teachers and staff are expected to work in person on Friday, April 9, an asynchronous day, after the district’s final second dose COVID-19 vaccine clinic is held on Thursday, April 8, per...

Staples students will learn asynchronously at home on Friday, April 9. This schedule change was made because teachers will be receiving their second dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday, April 8.

Staples to have asynchronous remote day on April 9

Chelsea Strober '21, Associate Managing Editor • April 4, 2021

Staples High School will have a remote day on Friday, April 9, according to an email sent out by Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. The remote day is due to the large number of teacher COVID-19 vaccinations...

Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. announced the commencement of full in-person learning beginning March 25 in an effort to continue schoolwide progression to normalcy.

Staples returns to 100% in-person model effective March

Karina Murray ’22, Features Editor • March 18, 2021

Staples High School will return to full in-person learning beginning March 25, according to an email sent by Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. on March 17.  Principal Thomas outlined the parameters...

All Connecticut residents ages 16 and over will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine by April 5, according to Governor Lamont.

Lamont announces acceleration in Connecticut vaccine rollout

Lea Rivel ’22, Web Arts Editor • March 17, 2021

Connecticut residents 45 and up will become eligible for the COVID-19 vaccinations starting this Friday, and ages 16 and up beginning on April 5, Governor Ned Lamont said on Monday, March 15 in a press...

Connecticut is set to open 100% on March 19

Connecticut to ease COVID-19 restrictions

Jack Dennison ’21, Staff Writer • March 8, 2021

Governor Ned Lamont introduced changes to COVID-19 restrictions in Connecticut on March 3, which will go into effect on March 19. These changes include the elimination of capacity limitations on restaurants,...

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

Finnegan Courtney ’23, News Editor • February 23, 2021

Connecticut teachers and school staff will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine beginning March 1. This announcement from Governor Ned Lamont came in concert with the release of a new vaccination...

The new schedule provided by the school depicting the days in which each cohort goes into school in the month of March.

Staples switches to 75% hybrid model starting March 1

Phoebe Miller '23, Staff Writer • February 13, 2021

Principal Stafford Thomas sent an email to the student body Friday afternoon detailing that Staples High School students will be returning to school at 75% capacity starting March first.  The email...

Rishabh Mandayam ’21, Katie Simons ’22, Alex Harrington ’22, and Natalie Bandura ’22 prepare for the competition via Zoom. The group covered Unit 5, which focuses on freedom of speech and the right to privacy.

We The People continues winning streak at state-wide competition

Poppy Livingstone '21 , Editor-in-Chief • February 12, 2021

Staples’ We The People (WTP) team placed first at the 2021 state competition on Feb. 8, 2021, continuing their two-year winning streak.  The WTP competition, which was held virtually, simulates congressional...

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

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

Natalie Bandura ’22, News Editor • January 22, 2021

All Westport Public Schools plan to transition from the hybrid model to a fully in-person school model per Superintendent Thomas Scarice’s directive, the Board of Education (BOE) announced during a meeting...

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