Join the discussion.

Inklings News
Making waves! The students of the Westport Swim Club pose before a ‘candy’ meet. Each swimmer gets a piece of candy after each race, regardless of their placement or time.
Westport Swim Club at risk of closing over scheduling conflict
The new spanish film class projects into the students future, as its potential rises.
Staples expands curriculum with Advanced forensics, Spanish Film Studies and accelerated math
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
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
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande bring life to the iconic roles of Elphaba and Glinda, on screen.
‘Wicked’ set to fly in theaters: A Broadway classic brought to the big screen
Cast of “Elf: the Musical” finish out the show on the production’s opening night, Nov. 15.
Players’ fall show of ‘Elf: the Musical’ brings the Christmas spirit to Staples early
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
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
Catilin Clark calculates her shot before taking it.
Game Changers: Caitlin Clark, Ilona Maher inspire next generation
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
Catilin Clark calculates her shot before taking it.
Game Changers: Caitlin Clark, Ilona Maher inspire next generation
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
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 11/22/24
Inklings’ Wordle 11/22/24
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
Julia Herlyn ’23

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief

Editor-in-Chief Julia Herlyn ’23 enjoys music. She’s been playing violin for nine years both in school with the Symphonic Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra as well as out of school. 

“Music is very important to me,” Herlyn said.

Herlyn joined Inklings because of the community she found in Intro to Journalism as well as her passion for writing. She didn’t know what to expect when she first joined, but has loved Inklings ever since.

 “I think that it’s really amazing.” Herlyn said. “Inklings has so many people with different perspectives, ages and beliefs.” 

All content by Julia Herlyn ’23
The group visited the Panama Canal and took a boat ride with a biologist along the canal, observing local wildlife in the process.

Students hike, snorkel and save the wetlands on seven-day Panama trip

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
March 6, 2023
On Jan. 30 at Toquet Hall, Lighthouse hosted its “A Night of Queer History” event at Toquet Hall. Dan Woog (pictured above), Westport LGBTQ+ advocate, spoke on the history—and future—of the gay community.

Lighthouse, LGBTQ+ support organization arrives in Westport

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
February 7, 2023
According to FranklinCovey, approximately one third of resolutioners give up on their goals before the end of January, typically because of a lack of personal passion (i.e., setting a goal to conform to societal standards or pressures), practicality or specificity. However, by following the above steps when setting a goal—known as the “SMART” method, developed by the journal Management Review in 1981—you may be more likely to follow through with your resolution. All information taken from “How to Make (and Keep) a New Year’s Resolution),” New York Times

New Year’s resolutions prompt self-reflection, growth

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
January 10, 2023

Bhatia and Pogue converse about monthly crosswords

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
November 8, 2022
Over the years, I’ve collected my fair share of astrology paraphernalia, including a notebook, an informational book about Cancers and a Hello Kitty keychain dressed as a crab.

Generalized astrological assumptions are invalid, fail to encompass a person

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
October 13, 2022
As of the 2022-2023 school year, students will store their phones in holders for each class period.

Administration introduces, enforces new personal device policy

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
September 20, 2022
NHD participants create their projects in a variety of mediums, such as Annika Redding ’24, Tessa Tobias ’24 and Talia Varsano’s ’24 exhibit on the development of the polio vaccine amid the Cold War.

Coyne honored, recognized with Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year award

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
June 7, 2022
Classical music is a rich genre that is often overlooked by today’s youth—even within our own school community. At Staples, the Amati Chamber Orchestra (pictured) as well as the Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra receive little attention from administrators and students alike, reflecting the diminishing interest in classical music today.

An ode to classical music and its everlasting value

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
May 31, 2022
Jet Tober '23 developed a passion for music at the age of 3, and has since delved into songwriting.

Tober builds beats, constructs compositions

Julia Herlyn '23, News Editor
April 4, 2022
Reading for a few minutes a day can have numerous benefits, improving upon your mental wellbeing in addition to your physical health.

Lack of reading for pleasure, practicing self-care deteriorates the self

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
March 7, 2022
Spiced apple walnut cake is the perfect autumn and winter dessert to satisfy one’s sweet tooth.

Spiced apple walnut cake serves as a warm, inviting treat

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
January 28, 2022
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driving behaviors changed significantly throughout the course of the pandemic. Speeding rates increased dramatically and still have not returned to normal levels.

Connecticut sees increase in traffic-related deaths, traffic on roads

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
December 13, 2021
Korean popcorn chicken serves as popular, tasty meal

Korean popcorn chicken serves as popular, tasty meal

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
November 1, 2021

Staples artists describe their processes, creations

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
October 31, 2021
At Staples, the music department—including band, orchestra and chorus groups—does not receive as much attention as other school activities, such as academic groups, athletic teams and Players.

Staples music department lacks representation, attention

Julia Herlyn ’23,, Paper News Editor
October 15, 2021
The Staples Pops concert is the only live music performance of the 2020-2021 school year, taking place at the Levitt Pavilion on June 4 and 5.

Staples music department adjusts Pops concert, follows pandemic regulations

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
June 7, 2021
Washington, Connecticut offers “Gilmore Girls” fans a glimpse into what life would be like in Stars Hollow, showcasing its businesses, history and camaraderie.

Washington, Connecticut transports fans to “Gilmore Girls” universe

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
May 27, 2021
The competitive Staples climate disregards students’ personal identities, instead labeling peers based on their academic and extracurricular-related characteristics.

Staples atmosphere is dehumanizing, labels students

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
May 27, 2021
Westport citizens gathered at Jesup Green on March 27 to show their support for Asian Americans, who have been suffering from increased levels of violence and abuse in recent weeks.

First Selectman Marpe’s statement on Asian-American violence reflects sympathy from Westport community

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
April 5, 2021
Some students, like Zach Brody ’23, created an exhibit for NHD. Instead of presenting it in-person to be scored, Brody submitted photos of his display.

NHD competition adjusts in accordance with COVID regulations

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
March 22, 2021
Washington, Connecticut offers “Gilmore Girls” fans a glimpse into what life would be like in Stars Hollow, showcasing its businesses, history and camaraderie.

Washington, Connecticut transports fans to “Gilmore Girls” universe

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
February 26, 2021
In the English department alone, it is more than evident that there is a great disparity between the course opportunities for underclassmen and upperclassmen.

Staples must provide more courses, freedom of selection to underclassmen

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
February 26, 2021
In previous years, Staples held an official midterm week with a specific block-schedule designed for preparing for and taking exams. This year, however, the administration has axed such a week from the schedule.

Staples eliminates midterm week, prompts different responses from community

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
January 20, 2021

Teachers adapt to distance learning, all-remote model

Julia Herlyn ’23 and Lily Klau ‘23
December 11, 2020
Students can slow the spread of COVID-19 by taking measures such as having “Zoom holidays” with their families. Otherwise, many are at risk for contracting COVID; the schools must take preventative measures (such as closing until the new year) in order to ensure our safety.

Students should not return to schools until after holiday season

Julia Herlyn '23, Staff Writer
November 25, 2020
Players practice in booths in the black box theater to maintain social distancing. Pictured are Chloe Manna ’22 and Sebastian Gikas ’23.

Players Zoom, video-chat for upcoming radio productions

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
October 26, 2020
Students are able to utilize various applications to cheat (and violate academic integrity) during the hybrid model and distance learning. This inhibits students’ understanding of material and falsely represents their mastery in a concept. Graphic by Julia Herlyn ’23

Academic integrity suffers in age of COVID-19, distance learning

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
October 25, 2020
The easiest method of shaping mandoo is to form a triangle by diagonally folding the corners.

Korean dumplings satisfy crowds and cravings

Julia Herlyn ’23, Editor-in-Chief
October 16, 2020
Raia Badurina ’23 moved to Westport in April during the pandemic. Despite the challenges she has faced as a new student during COVID-19, Badurina continues to think positively about her situation.

New student adjusts to Staples during COVID-19 pandemic

Julia Herlyn '23, Staff Writer
October 8, 2020
Load More Stories