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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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All content by Audrey Kercher '23
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

November 24, 2021
Westport children Penny and Jack Smith received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. They have just become eligible.

Westport parents remain hesitant about vaccinating their younger kids

November 23, 2021
Emma Nahon ’23 has committed to University of Pennsylvania for field hockey. Nahon currently plays for the Staples girls’ varsity field hockey team.

Committed Staples athletes show excitement, dedication

October 19, 2021
Wakeman field at Bedford Middle School is the designated parking area for juniors. There are not set parking spaces, making parking there not optimal.

Harsher punishment must be enforced for parking in seniors’ spots

September 24, 2021
Amazon Prime Day will be held on June 21 this year. This Amazon holiday provides deals for customers and has been proven to be harmful to both the environment and to Amazon employees.

Avoid Amazon Prime Day for moral, environmental reasons

June 11, 2021
The third testing window is approaching for the 2021 AP exams. This window for the AP exams is happening in June and will be taken from home.

Tips to succeed on digital AP exam

June 7, 2021

Motorcade brings closure to seniors

May 25, 2021
Connecticut travel guidelines have been updated to be less strict, and to include options for those who have been vaccinated. These updated guidelines are less restrictive, while remaining safe.

Updated travel guidelines prove effective, safe

May 6, 2021
Lemon bars are easy and quick to make. They are perfect for the spring because of their light and refreshing taste and sunny color.

Lemon bars make perfect treat for spring

March 24, 2021
The three vaccines currently being given are highly effective in preventing COVID-19. The effectiveness of the vaccines makes more people want to take it, and also decreases the spread of COVID-19.

Vaccinating students will lead to end of pandemic

March 10, 2021
During COVID-19 some Westport dance studios have implemented a hybrid schedule where dancers go into the studio or dance from home via Zoom. Because of the difference in surroundings, dancers have a different experience based on their location.

Dance studio’s hybrid model changes class experience

February 24, 2021
Due to confusion with the state of Connecticut, some teachers have already been vaccinated or registered to be vaccinated even though they are not technically eligible until the end of February, or even March. Currently, only phase 1a and the beginning of 1b are eligible to be vaccinated, and teachers are in the later part of phase 1b.

Vaccine eligibility contradictory, causes confusion for teachers

February 12, 2021
Homework assigned over the holiday break forces students to focus on school assignments rather than festive activities like decorating a Christmas tree

Homework during the holidays puts damper on festivities

December 23, 2020

College kids search for jobs

December 22, 2020
Sticky buns serve as a wonderful breakfast or dessert for special occasions. Although it is an overnight recipe, it is so easy to make.

Sticky buns; sweet overnight treat to make for the holidays

December 15, 2020
The exposure notification option in settings is available on both apple and android phones in Connecticut. When enabled, the service tracks if people have been exposed to others that have Covid-19 through logging any phone that comes within six feet. If someone with this service tests positive for Covid-19, they enter it into their phone and the exposure notifications send a message to phones that have come within six feet of the positive person.

Westport establishes hotline, exposure notifications to track Covid-19

November 25, 2020
The first snowfall of the school year happened recently, and it left people wondering if snow days will now be online days. Online school instead of snow days is more beneficial because it allows for students to still learn.

Online learning allows students to learn in all conditions

November 10, 2020
Residents of Westport put exuberant decorations on their houses and in their yards to get in the Halloween spirit.

Halloween house decorations raise holiday spirit

October 22, 2020
Students of Staples High School run online clubs through Zoom meetings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Online clubs enhance students’ COVID-19 experience

October 9, 2020
Staples cross country runners wear masks and socially distance while running in their small cohorts at practice.

COVID-19 affects cross country team

September 25, 2020
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