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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
Hannah Ratcliffe ’22

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor

Web Arts Editor Hannah Ratcliffe ’22 loves all things arts and dancing, which has shined through in Inklings.

“I am a competitive dancer at ‘The Spot’ studio in Norwalk and that takes up most of my time,” Ratcliffe said. “Dance is something I’m super passionate about and it’s always been a huge part of my life.”

Being a dancer and a student can be a huge time commitment, so Ratcliffe has learned to integrate the two.

“I wrote my first two articles for Inklings surrounding dance, and one of the things I love most about the class is being able to write about what I want to write about and choosing my own path.”

 

All content by Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
Netflix released season four of 'Drive to Survive' on March 13. 'Drive to Survive' captures the behind-the-scenes moments of the Formula 1 race season, including team rivalries, driver lineups and the role of money in the sport.

Season four of ‘Drive to Survive’ delivers the behind the scenes of a thrilling Formula 1 season

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
May 3, 2022
‘Define feminine, I’m feminine’ trend takes over TikTok to embrace women’s differences and challenge societal expectations.

‘Define feminine, I’m feminine’ TikTok trend portrays societal expectations of women, highlights women’s differences

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 27, 2022
The Spot attends first competition at Breakout Dance Competition

The Spot attends first competition at Breakout Dance Competition

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 24, 2022
The Olympics are facing backlash for allowing 15 year old figure skater Kamila Valieva to continue competing at the 2022 Winter games despite testing positive for banned performance enhancing substances.

2022 Beijing Olympics present double standards in drug testing

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
March 8, 2022
Thanksgiving, usually a holiday representing family and unity, is seen as more of a melancholy and reflective day for those with international families.

Thanksgiving serves as a longing reminder of distant family

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
November 24, 2021
MoCA Westport presents new exhibition 'Between the Ground and the Sky'

MoCA Westport presents new exhibition, ‘Between the Ground and the Sky’

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
October 18, 2021
Assembly Bill 245 was passed in California on Oct. 6, 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom to prohibit public universities from misidentifying students on their diplomas and school reports.

New Assembly Bill 245 should inspire Staples High School to create a more inclusive community

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
October 15, 2021
Customers order by the window of The Tasty Yolk food truck in Fairfield while the staff cooks and prepares everything from brussel sprouts to bacon and egg breakfast sandwiches.

Tasty Yolk food trucks provide original, accessible breakfast option

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
September 28, 2021
The Department of Education announced that Connecticut schools will not be required to offer distance learning to students for the 2021-2022 school year, creating speculation regarding Staples’ plans for the fall.

Westport Public Schools not required to provide online learning option for future academic years

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
June 1, 2021

Staples seniors await spring internships

Madeline Michalowski ’22 and Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
March 5, 2021
The Westport Public Library offers weekly virtual study sessions for teens, giving them an opportunity to safely study with friends.

Westport Public Library’s virtual study halls foster academic opportunities

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
January 26, 2021

Holiday season brings sentimental gift giving

Madeline Michalowski ’22 and Hannah Ratcliffe ’22
December 22, 2020
Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

Westport prepares for holiday season with festive decorations

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
December 22, 2020
Madeline Michalowski ’22, one of the Spanish dancers, waits backstage at the Westport Academy of Dance’s 2019 performance of The Nutcracker.

Westport Academy of Dance forced to postpone annual performance of ‘The Nutcracker’

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
December 4, 2020
Doug Quinn opens new restaurant Hudson Malone on Oct. 16 on the corner of Main Street and Canal Street. Named after Quinn's two sons, Hudson Malone has expanded from its previous location in New York and now offers Westporters an authentic New York style restaurant.

Two new restaurants, Hudson Malone, Outpost Pizza hope to survive pandemic

Hannah Ratcliffe ’22, Web Arts Editor
November 2, 2020
The Westport Museum of Contemporary Art launches new fall exhibition about world peace, including a variety of different artists that each comment on both current and past events such as the Black Lives Matter movement and modern politics.

MoCA Westport displays new exhibition surrounding world peace

Hannah Ratcliffe '22, staff writer
October 22, 2020
Students from the Spot @ Just Dance Studios practice routines with masks on.

COVID-19 greatly alters Westport’s dance studios

Madeleine Michalowski '22 and Hannah Ratcliffe '22
October 14, 2020
Junior Dance students’ assignments regarding physical and emotional goal-setting on Google Classroom.

Junior Dance course sacrifices full experience of class due to curriculum change

Hannah Ratcliffe '22
October 8, 2020
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