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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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Inklings News
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

Finnegan Courtney ’23, Paper News Editor • June 15, 2021

Unlike most years, the fireworks that fire right over a crowded Compo Beach around Independence Day, celebrating our country’s most patriotic day of the year, will not be occurring.  Westport has...

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

Finnegan Courtney ’23, Paper News Editor • June 2, 2021

Recently, the CDC and state governments across the country announced that, with some exceptions, masks will no longer need to be worn by those who are fully vaccinated. Of course, this doesn’t mean every...

The search to cure autism has upset individuals who believe that it is best to embrace the neurological disorder rather than just cure it.

Autism charity under fire for promoting research to find medicinal cure

Abigail Nevin '23, Web News Editor • May 24, 2021

Recently a charity that promotes autism awareness claimed that finding a cure for the neurological disorder is necessary, yet it is receiving backlash from those who believe it is best to accept the neurological...

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

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

Finnegan Courtney '23, Paper News Editor • March 1, 2021

Culinary Arts is a very popular class at Staples; however, some students simply are never allowed to experience such a thing due to a very unfortunate circumstance: a nut allergy.  Culinary Arts is...

The current hybrid model consists of two cohorts, cohort A going to school on Mondays and Tuesdays and cohort B going in on Thursdays and Fridays. Wednesdays act as a remote learning day for everyone. The district will be moving forward with a new 75% model starting in March.

Staples teachers debate returning to full in-person learning

Natasha Taubenheim ’22, Staff Writer • February 11, 2021

All Westport elementary and middle school students were given the option to fully return to school as of Feb. 3. While some chose to stay remote, most made the decision to go back and conclude their distance...

The Saturn app has been re-programmed to show the new A and B day schedules for students during this period of online schooling. Kids will have school from 8:30am-12:15pm everyday, with homework from their teachers to complete after those hours.

New A and B day schedule brings timely routine to students during online school

Izzy Sareen '22, Staff Writer • April 23, 2020

As unprecedented times come upon us, Staples High School has stepped up to the plate to create an efficient and easy way for students to complete their schoolwork online. During the past month, Staples...

Countless organizations, including Dartmouth College, Stanford University, the Kansas City Chiefs, Clevland Indians, Golden State Warriors and Manchester High School have changed their outright derogatory mascots shown here. Each mascot has been changed into things with no offense to any specific ethnic group.

Movement to ban racist mascots will satisfy in the upcoming future

Samantha Felner '22, Paper Opinions Editor • March 25, 2020

Dartmouth College, The Chiefs, Stanford University, Golden-State Warriors, and Manchester High School. What do each of these have in common? Each of these sports teams, colleges, and high schools have...

Students express opinions on the recent school start time change

Shira Zeiberg ‘22 and Tori Wilson ‘22 • March 10, 2020

Students stand up in preparation for the pledge during the extended period each morning.

Staples students, teachers validate pledge procedure

Anastasia Thumser '22 and Lyah Muktavaram ’22 • March 3, 2020

Students stress over midterm exams due to lack of preparation time

Natasha Taubenheim '22 • January 23, 2020

Students share perspectives on Trump’s impeachment

Andreas Lolis '21 and Graham Wood '21 • January 5, 2020

Graphic by: Lia Chen '20

Individual Halloween costumes allow for less stress,drama

Amanda Rowan '22, Staff Writer • October 30, 2019

 With Halloween quickly approaching, the list is endless in deciding what costumes you’ll choose for this special day, and it is popular for individuals to coordinate their Halloween costume with a...

Staples students opinions on Wear Orange Weekend

Staples students opinions on Wear Orange Weekend

Mark Didio '20 and Alex Massoud '20, Staff Writer and Web Sports Editor • June 7, 2019

Staples students opinions on Wear Orange Weekend by Mark DidioStream Staples students opinions on Wear Orange Weekend by Mark Didio from desktop or your mobile device

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