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Bernstein (left) receives her Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame award.
Building more than toys: Melissa Bernstein inducted into the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame
Gas prices in the state of Connecticut have been going down penny by penny to drop the average gas price in Connecticut below the national average.
Connecticut gas prices lower penny by penny, falling below national average
Fire danger at Sherwood Island State Park is currently rated as extreme, with officials urging the public to take precautions to prevent forest fires.
Brush fire risks rise as high temperatures, lack of rain persists
Incumbent Democrat Jonathan Steinberg and challenger Republican John Bolton debate at Greens Farms Academy on Oct. 17.
Beyond the ballot: Steinberg, Bolton debate for chance to represent 136th district
Fatal narcotic distribution is a big issue (United States Drug Enforcement Adminstration).
Fatal drug crisis: Bridgeport trafficker sentenced as overdose deaths surge across Connecticut
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?
Unfortunately I no longer have as many gray hairs as I did in the past because I tried so many methods to get rid of them.
Accepting my silver hair rewarded me with gold
With the 2024 election coming up, many are examining the role Gen Z voters will have, given that the demographic of young voters tends to vote less than older generations. This raises the question: how will the new strategy of consuming political information on candidates through podcasts play a role?
Politicians are embracing new media; we should too
Income inequality is at record levels in Westport.
Westport’s Housing Market Reflects Growing Income Inequality
The long awaited senior year is not living up to the expectations I have held onto for the past three years. With school work, college applications and essays, it is hard to find a minute of true peace to enjoy myself. Missing out on certain cliche experiences all because of the enormous workload we are given.
Senior year is not living up to the hype
The Westport Library Book Sale, started 25 years ago, raises money for the Westport Library. In the 2023-24 fiscal year they were able to raise $70,000. The Westport Book Shop, created five years ago, further supports the library’s mission by raising essential funds and providing employment opportunities for individuals with differing abilities.
More than just books: Westport Library Book Sale impacts community
Reported weapon threats and concerning comments at CT schools as of Oct. 16.
CT faces school threats, local teams work to ensure student safety
Staples High School has over 1700 students and 200 faculty members, each with interesting facts about them, from playing six sports, to dreaming about going to space, to having held a Guiness World Record.
Discovering Interesting Facts At Staples
Kali Knesich ’25 turned 18 in June and is registered to vote in the 2024 presidential election for the very first time on Nov. 5.
Coming of age: students reflect on being able to vote
Adil Chokairy, the owner of Choupette, officially opened his third crêperie location on Oct. 16. There are two other Choupette locations, in New Haven and Darien.
Bienvenue: New Crêperie and Wine Bar brings French cuisine to downtown Westport
The Big Y has rows and rows of produce, and even sells some exotic fruits such as prickly pears, persimmons and mini guavas.
Big Y grocery store: here’s what you should try
This election cycle, political content has dominated the feeds of millions of Americans, encouraging younger Americans to vote, but simultaneously raising questions about misinformation, one edit at a time. Kasey Feeley ’26 is featured in the photo.
Chronically online politics: how TikTok can change the course of elections
Between scenes and snowflakes – finding warmth in shared moments.
‘Elf the Musical’ takes the stage: Staples Players embraces the holiday spirit
Enjoying the warm embrace of mid-July in Santa Barbara, where 85 degrees and sunny skies create the perfect backdrop for a mood boost.
Why warm weather saves lives
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
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
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
Staples football sporting their normal helmets. Many professional players and high school athletes feel that wearing a guardian cap during practice will ensure better safety for the players during the real games. (Photo by Katherine Phelps '25)
Guardian caps: can they keep football players safe?
The Saint Joseph Cadets handed the Staples girls’ soccer team their first loss of the season in a 4-1 contest. (Graphic by William Murray '25)
St. Joseph hands girls’ soccer first loss of season
Bar selection in Staples Cafeteria with limited Clif Builder's Bars alongside an expansive amount of granola bars.
Ditch the Clif: Staples students deserve better protein bars in the cafeteria
Chef Lewandowski talks about his vision for his newest restaurant The Bridge. He is also the Chef at Townhouse in Greenwich, Connecticut.
“The Bridge” brings flavor and flare to community
The Yankees and Dodgers matchup will mark the 12th World Series between the teams. It has been 43 years since they last met for a championship.
Yankees, Dodgers renew rivalry in highly anticipated World Series
The fall foliage, the best part of fall!
We need to admit that fall is the best season
At Staples girls’ lacrosse Election Day clinic, everyone puts their sticks in the middle to end the clinic with a “one, two, three, Westport!”
Athletic teams hold Election Day clinics for young players
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
Chef Lewandowski talks about his vision for his newest restaurant The Bridge. He is also the Chef at Townhouse in Greenwich, Connecticut.
“The Bridge” brings flavor and flare to community
The Yankees and Dodgers matchup will mark the 12th World Series between the teams. It has been 43 years since they last met for a championship.
Yankees, Dodgers renew rivalry in highly anticipated World Series
The fall foliage, the best part of fall!
We need to admit that fall is the best season
At Staples girls’ lacrosse Election Day clinic, everyone puts their sticks in the middle to end the clinic with a “one, two, three, Westport!”
Athletic teams hold Election Day clinics for young players
This sandwich has turkey, fresh mozzarella, spinach, onions and oil and vinegar toasted on multigrain bread. It is Andi Jacobs ’26’s daily sandwich order.
The Sandwich Coordinator, a new position at Staples, adds menus to the Sandwich line
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 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
On the Wreckord - Episode Fifteen
On the Wreckord – Episode Fifteen
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 11/13/24
Inklings’ Wordle 11/13/24
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
Anastasia Thumser ’22

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor

Web Managing Editor Anastasia Thumser ’22 grew up as a writer, though the road wasn’t easy.

“I kind of got off to a rough start in the class. It was hard at first […] I thought it was so overwhelming,” Thumser said 

It was Thumser’s adoration for writing that kept her moving. Overall, Thumser’s affection for Inklings guided her to look at journalism as a part of the next stages of her life. She was able to work her way to the top.

“I found what I was interested in and found my own rhythm,” Thumser said.

 

All content by Anastasia Thumser ’22
The temporary remote learning option for symptomatic or quarantined students will be redacted on Jan. 28 due to zero students in isolation or quarantine at Staples and Coleytown, and merely seven at Bedford.

Live streamed classes discontinued in Staples, middle schools

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor
January 28, 2022

Seniors reflect on Instagram’s role in college decisions

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor
January 4, 2022
Returning items online is an incredibly wasteful habit that results in 5 billion pounds of annual waste, as 25% of all online returns end up in a landfill.

Grotesque online returns overhaul requires consumer responsibility

Anastasia Thumser '22, Web Managing Editor
December 8, 2021
Westporters gather on Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Bridge in protest against recent Texas abortion ban on Sept. 5.

Texas abortion law despicable, but provides unexpected hope

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor
December 5, 2021

Students, teachers work to respect pronouns, names

Anastasia Thumser '22 and Lyah Muktavaram ’22
November 12, 2021
Protesters in Westport gathered downtown on Sept. 5 in opposition to Texas’ restrictive abortion law. The event was organized by community members and leaders, and gained the attention of dozens of Westporters.

Texas abortion law despicable, but provides unexpected hope

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor
September 13, 2021
Prior to April 27, Connecticut residents scheduled vaccine appointments through the statewide COVID portal or a specific provider website, which would be confirmed before receiving their dose. Governor Ned Lamont’s implementation of walk-in clinics is meant to combat the traffic seen below and ease the process of getting vaccinated.

Vaccine providers offer walk-in clinics to Connecticut residents

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Managing Editor
May 6, 2021
While the severity of the college admissions scandal came to light in 2019, 33 parents were accused of bribing “The Key” owner Rick Singer more than $25 million to reserve spots for their children in highly selective universities. Singer has yet to be indicted since the trial.

‘Varsity Blues’ effectively depicts admissions scandal

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web New Editor
April 5, 2021

Connecticut’s transition to 100% capacity, eased restriction concerns among students

Anastasia Thumser ‘22 and Lyah Muktavaram ‘22
March 24, 2021
Full return to school ideal, provides better education

Full return to school ideal, provides better education

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web News Editor
February 11, 2021

Candlelight Concert rehearsals remain a success despite COVID-19 regulations

Lyah Muktavaram ’22 and Anastasia Thumser ’22
December 22, 2020

Selected students anticipate participation in leadership summit

Lyah Muktavaram ’22 and Anastasia Thumser ’22
December 1, 2020
As of Nov. 17, the CIAC has postponed winter sports until Jan. 19, which can potentially be pushed back further depending on Connecticut’s COVID cases in the following months.

CIAC winter sports decision distressing, yet necessary

Anastasia Thumser ’22
November 23, 2020
The Westport school district has debated the most effective and safe way to handle the COVID-19 pandemic since March, when schools first closed in order to protect students and staff.

Delayed reopening of Staples detrimental, requires reevaluation

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web News Editor
October 25, 2020

Students embrace hybrid schedule as school year begins

Anastasia Thumser ‘22 and Lyah Muktavaram ‘22
October 13, 2020
As “The Social Dilemma” explains, social media apps such as these are run by human-made algorithms programmed to interpret user data and create a specific feed for each consumer.

Riveting documentary, “The Social Dilemma” challenges perceptions of social media

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web News Editor
September 26, 2020
Although the AP U.S. History test, for example, traditionally takes over two hours and consists of multiple sections, the 2020 AP test will be 45 minutes long and consist of free response questions. The original test had to be modified due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

[Photo] Students consider impacts of new AP exam format

Lyah Muktavaram ’22 and Anastasia Thumser ’22
April 15, 2020
Dr. Joseph Erardi outlines a rough schedule of the superintendent hiring process for attendees of a Board of Education meeting.

Board of Education continues superintendent search, anticipates naming candidate in March

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Opinions Editor
January 29, 2020
Since 2017, “This Is Us” has been nominated for and won multiple awards through organizations such as the Golden Globes, the Emmys, the American Film Institution, and the Screen Actors Guild.

Fourth season of ‘This Is Us’ emotional, evolving *WARNING SPOILERS AHEAD

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Opinions Editor
November 9, 2019
A horse carriage arrives at the Westport Historical Society for the Family Creep Fest, which offers families hayrides throughout downtown. Photo by Anastasia Thumser '22.

Westport Historical Society’s festivities haunt, but also educate

Anastasia Thumser ’22, Web Opinions Editor
October 10, 2019
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