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Graphic of Santa waving with a big pile of presents behind him to give out.
Where to Visit Santa Claus Near Westport This Year
Spotify brings the gift of Spotify Wrapped to users this Christmas season.
Spotify Wrapped arrives, inciting mixed reviews from Staples’ students
About 10 toys were taken from the toy drive bins around school, intended to be donated to the Lighthouse program.
Santa’s little grinches: gifts taken out of toy drive donation boxes
A second suspect was arrested for a smash-and-grab robbery at Lux, Bond & Green
Second suspect arrested in store ‘Smash-and-Grab’ robbery
Riko’s Pizza brings its famous thin crust and hot oil pies to Westport’s Saugatuck neighborhood at 60 Charles Street—a slice of Stamford now closer to home!
Slicing into Westport: Riko’s Pizza now open!
As Black Friday sales expand, it’s important to be mindful and not overspend.
Black Friday promotes overindulgence, overspending
While the 3 weeks separating Thanksgiving break and holiday break may feel long, here's how to stay motivated and productive until the finish line.
Surviving the countdown: tips for the last 3 weeks before the holidays
Trump’s economic and immigration plans could jeopardize the United States economy.
Trump’s win and the looming challenges ahead
According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, the best way to manage stress that is associated with the burden of the first semester is taking time to relax, sticking to a sleep routine and getting physical activity.
How you can survive the rest of first semester, too
While Kamala Harris’ Gen-Z-oriented campaigning has reached a wide audience, it’s not immune to criticism.
Harris’ Gen Z campaign strategy: captivating politics or cringe pop culture?
Block Blast, in action, captures screens and students’ attention at Staples High School
Block Blast takes over Staples High School
Traditional winter holiday symbols.
December around the globe: students with connections to foreign countries share unique holiday traditions
Rei Seltzer ’26 (right) and Kaya Halpert ’27 (left) attend SLOBS election day sticker handout.
Students under 18 participate in 2024 Presidential election
Over a thousand runners gather for the 47th Annual Turkey Trot
Rain or Shine: Pequot Runners host 47th annual Turkey Trot
Molly O’Shea, VC investor and founder of Sourcery, interviewed innovators Dylan Diamond, Max Hammer, Jack Sharkey and Josh Karol on their success.
Startup innovators speak at Westport Library
Regardless of the dish, Christmas food goes beyond the recipe, it’s a celebration of culture, connection, and gratitude.
From lobster risotto to chocolate pecan pie: Unique holiday dishes
Moana 2 was released in theaters just a day before Thanksgiving on Nov. 27, 2024. The film shattered box office records, its five-day opening raking in an estimated $225 million.
After being adrift for years, Moana has finally come back to theaters
Many stores line their shelves with holiday attractions that people may be intrigued to buy, such as stockings and wreaths.
Early holiday marketing is sweeping everyone into the holiday takeover
The long debate of Silver vs. Gold has often led to a victory for gold. This has caused many stores to stop selling silver jewelry.
Silver overlooked: the struggle for stylish, affordable jewelry
Flippers’ lemon ricotta pancakes located in Soho, NYC are a must try.
It’s time for Staples to put pancakes on the menu, permanently 
Staples struggled to gain ground offensively, with its longest pass going for only 26 yards. (Photo by Will Enquist '26)
Staples ends season in shutout loss to Greenwich
Pequot Runners Club: Beyond the Thanksgiving Day Race
Pequot Runners Club: Beyond the Thanksgiving Day Race
The girls’ squash team’s media day was a fun way to get to know the team and take fun photos that will be used throughout the season on social media.
Winter sports warm up: Teams gear up for exciting season
Quarterback Nick Weil ’26 threw for three touchdowns against Trumbull. (Photo by Will Enquist '26)
Staples dominates Trumbull in 28-0 win
Staples fell to New Canaan by a score of 2-0 in the girls’ soccer FCIAC semi finals; after falling out of FCIACs, the Wreckers will look to bounce back in the state tournament. (Photo by William Murray '25)
Girls’ soccer bows out of FCIAC tournament, focus shifts to states
The girls’ hockey team practiced for the upcoming season ahead of their first game at Ridgefield on Saturday Dec. 14.
Girls’ ice hockey kicks off season, eyes set on deep playoff run
The girls’ 2024-25 prepare for the upcoming season with coach Tommy Sparks.
Girls’ basketball hires new coach
Aside from decorating gingerbread men, the Westport Museum also has other fun activities to do this holiday season, including posing by the photo stand-in.
Frosted fun: Westport museum hosts gingerbread men decorating
Student opinions differ on whether New Year’s resolutions are helpful or not worthwhile.
New Year’s resolutions: motivating or overrated?
Recent actions by both Russia and Ukraine have escalated conflict and driven discussion at Staples.
Escalation of Ukraine war sparks discussion
The girls’ hockey team practiced for the upcoming season ahead of their first game at Ridgefield on Saturday Dec. 14.
Girls’ ice hockey kicks off season, eyes set on deep playoff run
The girls’ 2024-25 prepare for the upcoming season with coach Tommy Sparks.
Girls’ basketball hires new coach
Aside from decorating gingerbread men, the Westport Museum also has other fun activities to do this holiday season, including posing by the photo stand-in.
Frosted fun: Westport museum hosts gingerbread men decorating
Student opinions differ on whether New Year’s resolutions are helpful or not worthwhile.
New Year’s resolutions: motivating or overrated?
Recent actions by both Russia and Ukraine have escalated conflict and driven discussion at Staples.
Escalation of Ukraine war sparks discussion
This fall, Staples Players is bringing the holiday spirit to life with the captivating production of “Elf the Musical.” From Nov. 14 -17 and Nov. 21-23, the Staples community can enjoy a glimpse of Buddy the elf’s whimsical world through his ventures outside the north pole in search of his biological dad. With cast lists already released, suspense and anticipation have been running high around the school as the Players prepare for a festive adventure. Pictured right, Seamus Brannigan '26 as Buddy the Elf struts across stage to greet Beck Fipp '27
Staples spreads holiday cheer with Elf: The Musical
These cute mutts compete for the place as cutest pup at the fair.
Top 10 cutest dogs at the Westport Dog Festival
My hand, clutching the smoothie, freezes as I anticipate sunset. Finally, as the clock strikes 7:30 p.m., I can finally indulge in this long- awaited beverage.
A Ramadan Temptation: Indulge in an Avocado Smoothie
The bulk ferment is when the yeast fully developed through rest. The dough should nearly double in size and get bubbly. The warmer the environment, the faster the dough will ferment. If you leave the dough on the counter it will take about eight to 10 hours. For a more sour dough, leave it in the fridge for up to three days for a slower fermentation.
Sourdough: A simple but challenging craft
On Sunday, March 17, the 4 by 800m relay competed. From left to right, Sarah Bogdan '26, Leigh Foran '24, Emma Morris '24 and Avery Kalter '27 were on the relay. They finished with a time of 10:17. Though their season record was 10:06, they finished in the top eight overall.
Girls’ Track travels to Adidas Nationals
On the Wreckord - Episode Twenty
On the Wreckord – Episode Twenty
On the Wreckord - Episode Nineteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Nineteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Eighteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Eighteen
On the Wreckord - Episode Seventeen
On the Wreckord – Episode Seventeen
On the Wreckord - Episode Sixteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Sixteen
Reported weapon threats and concerning comments at CT schools as of Oct. 16.
CT faces school threats, local teams work to ensure student safety
Many student-athletes are forced to choose one path: Staples teams or club teams.
Pressure to prioritize: the challenge between choosing high school or club sports
Mel Stanger '23 at New York Fashion Week, modeling the red suit that shows women’s empowerment.
Strutting into style: Mel Stanger ’23 takes on New York Fashion Week
Numerous spotted lanternflies are infesting Westport. They are commonly found on wood surfaces, like this one is, or other hard surfaces. Lanternflies should be killed when sighted.
Spotted lanternfly infestation spreads, Staples environmentalists express concern
At a powerlifting competition in April, Abe Lobsenz ’25 broke three state records for his weight class. 102.5kg for bench, 155 kg for squat and 195kg for deadlift.
Powerlifters pursue national records, co-found club
Inklings' Wordle 12/17/24
Inklings’ Wordle 12/17/24
Inklings' Wordle 3/15/23
Inklings’ Wordle 3/15/23
Inklings Wordle 3/7/23
Inklings Wordle 3/7/23
Inklings' Wordle 3/3/23
Inklings’ Wordle 3/3/23
Inklings' Wordle 2/17/23
Inklings’ Wordle 2/17/23
Join the discussion.

Inklings News
Join the discussion.

Inklings News
Jake Fitzpatrick ’22

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer

As staff writer Jake Fitzpatrick ’22 is embarking on his first year on Inklings, he hopes to write many articles voicing his opinions. 

“My biggest passion is politics,” Fitzpatrick said, “so that is the reason I joined Inklings.”

Outside of academics, Fitzpatrick plays volleyball for both Staples and an outside club team, Club Northeast. Apart from Journalism, another class Fitzpatrick is excited about is ‘We the People.’ 

Jake has many aspirations for the future. 

“My dream job is being a social justice lawyer or a civil rights lawyer,” Fitzpatrick said, “like at the ACLU or the Southern Poverty Law Center.”

All content by Jake Fitzpatrick ’22
As the price of regular unleaded gas rises nationally, prices in Connecticut rise as well.

Gas prices in Connecticut spike to record highs

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
May 18, 2022
While the messy divorce between Kanye West and Kim Kardashian has been viewed as nothing but celebrity drama by many, West’s actions prove to be abusive. This apathy sets a precedent for public figures, that abuse is okay as long as it’s against celebrities and their families.

Kanye West’s harassment of Kim Kardashian normalizes abuse

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
April 3, 2022

Juniors, parents make senior parking lots unsafe

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
March 30, 2022
Despite the various human rights abuses perpetrated by the Chinese government, the United States didn’t pull out its Olympic team, instead opting to enact a diplomatic boycott. This decision didn’t fulfill the United States’ responsibility to uphold human rights internationally.

United States diplomatic boycott insults victims of abuse from Chinese government

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
February 18, 2022
As the COVID-19 test positivity rate in Westport has increased rapidly to 253 new cases from Jan. 2 to Jan. 6, Westport Public Schools has put into place a temporary online learning option for symptomatic and vulnerable students.

Westport Public Schools to adopt temporary remote learning option for symptomatic, vulnerable students

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
January 13, 2022
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

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
December 6, 2021
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

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
November 24, 2021
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

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
November 4, 2021
Despite Nestlé’s documented history of slavery, child endangerment and water theft, Staples continues to sell Nestlé Pure Life water bottles in the cafeteria. It is time for Staples to stand up against the injustices that Nestlé has committed and stop selling their products.

Staples must stop stocking the cafeteria with Nestlé products

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
October 18, 2021
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

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
June 15, 2021
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

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
June 11, 2021
When I was a toddler, my dad told me about the dueling origins behind the pavlova dessert. Unfortunately, the OED recently ruled that the pavlova was first made in New Zealand, but to honor my dad and my roots, I choose to make a pavlova.

Honoring my Aussie roots by making a pavlova

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
May 12, 2021
Connecticut must protect problem gamblers when legalizing online gambling

Connecticut must protect problem gamblers when legalizing online gambling

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
April 24, 2021
To meet Connecticut standards, Westport needs to approve over 700 new low-income housing units. These low-income housing units, such as Hales Court, are essential to correct the housing segregation that plagues Westport.

Westport needs to do more than minimum with affordable housing

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
March 18, 2021
You don’t need to eat an entire cake to satisfy your lava cake cravings. These chocolate lava cookies pack all of the chocolate of a cake into a small, delicious package with fewer calories.

Chocolate lava cookies; a rich and sweet treat for the choc-o-holics

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
February 26, 2021
Despite its advances in diversity and representation, Public Act No, 19-12, or An Act Concerning The Inclusion Of Black And Latino Studies In The Public School Curriculum, does not provide proper treatment to Connecticut’s Native American community.

New Black, Latino history bill lacks needed representation for Native Americans

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
January 29, 2021
Just because you’re trying to eat healthy doesn’t mean you have to avoid dessert entirely. These delicious chocolate and peanut butter bars are the desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth but won’t make you go over your calorie count.

Layered chocolate and peanut butter bars; a healthier dessert to prepare for cheat days

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
January 22, 2021
Just days after Thanksgiving, the number of cases per day in Connecticut nearly doubled. Governor Lamont, President-Elect Joe Biden and many top scientists are predicting a bigger spike of cases throughout this holiday season.

Lamont warns of spike in cases as holiday season approaches

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, Staff Writer
December 23, 2020

Students discuss VP Debate

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
November 10, 2020
When you need a quick breakfast before a practice or game, it’s good to have some variety. Protein-packed overnight oats are the perfect breakfast to make, and it’s tasty.

Chocolate apple overnight oats; a protein-packed start to the day

Jake Fitzpatrick '22, staff writer
October 27, 2020
Many Staples athletes choose club sports, prompting COVID-19 concerns

Many Staples athletes choose club sports, prompting COVID-19 concerns

Jake Fitzpatrick ’22, Staff writer
October 14, 2020
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