Inklings October 2020 Issue

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Local politicians prepare for 2020 election Oct. 30, 2020

Staples High School

Claire Redmer ’21 Editor-in-Chief

Jonathan Steinberg ’74 has held the position of District 136 Representative since 2010. As he concludes his fifth term, Steinberg is seeking re-election once again.

His current focus is leading Connecticut through the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s still going to be COVID, front and center,” Steinberg said. “It’s going to be both the healthcare and the economy and budget side of things, with a slew of hard choices.”

Steinberg’s position as chair of the Public Health Committee has meant an active role in the COVID response.

He believes that the legislation this committee creates will have continued importance over the next few years.

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estport voters will select a candidate for both State Senator and Representative—in addition to choosing a Representative for Congress, President and Vice-President—in the 2020 election. The candidates for the 26th State Senate seat are Will Haskell and Kimberly Healy; running for District 136 of the Connecticut House of Representatives are Jonathan Steinberg and Chip Stephens.

Government Administration and Elections ple to gain access to quality healthcare.

Committee, securing no-excuse absentee “When I visit small businesses in ballots and ballot drop boxes for the state, the district, they tell me that the bigand is a member of the Environment, Ju- gest reason it’s hard to do business diciary and Transportation committees. He in Connecticut is because the cost has committed to of healthcare is “I’m very eager to get back skyrocketing,” being open about his stances and up to Hartford and continue Haskell said. voting records on “One thing working on keeping bills in Hartford. we can do to Connecticut healthy."

If re-electreally help is - State Senator Will Haskell create a public ed, Haskell’s primary goal is option, meanto create a public option for healthcare ing people who work for small coverage, which he believes will help the businesses and nonprofits can state’s economy and allow more peo- buy into the state's healthcare plan.”

Photos by Natalie Bandura '22

Will Haskell ’14 currently represents Connecticut’s 26th District as a State Senator and is running for re-election in 2020.

“The challenges before us are really big,” Haskell said, “and I’m very eager to get back up to Hartford and continue working on keeping Connecticut healthy, and on a more long term basis, making sure that this is a state that’s affordable and appealing to every generation.”

Haskell serves as the Chair of the Higher Education committee, working on legislation for student debt relief and free community college, a position that he requested given his recent graduation from college. He also works as Vice Chair of the

Volume 88, Issue 2

Kimberly Healy is the Republican and be,” Healy said. “I kept hearing from people Independent candidate for the 26th dis- that their concerns were being overlooked. trict of the Connecticut State Senate. As someone who had never run for office, worked for a She decided to run politician or “As someone who had never for three main reacampaign, I sons: to potentially run for office, worked for a increase the number politician or campaign, I only only know how to serve of women serving in know how to serve everyone the State Senate, to everyone regardless of regardless help with Connectiof party afparty affiliation.” cut’s economy and to f i l i a t i o n .” serve her community.

- Kim Healy He a ly “I have the skills [to] says she has received a lot of support work with people of all backgrounds and from the local community.

Each town help them with whatever their needs may

in the 26th district (Wilton, Ridgefield, Redding, Westport, New Canaan, Weston and Bethel) has a Republican Town Committee that has helped Healy run her campaign. She said she also received support from friends and family.

Healy opposes school regionalization and is in favor of local control over zoning changes.

“I am not looking to start a career in politics,” Healy said. “I hope to go to Hartford to do the hard work and make a difference. I will be focused on the issues that most affect us here in the 26th district and the success of Connecticut as a whole.”

Additionally, he serves on the En- particularly young people, to engage ergy & Technology and Transpor- in the democratic process and vote in tation committees in Hartford. elections for all levels of government.

Through the t ransp or t at ion “I’m hoping that everybody realizes committee, he has that elections and “[Elections] shape our lives voting are critipushed for invest[...] You don’t think it’s ments in state incally important,” frastructure like Steinberg said. going to affect you roads, trains and “They shape our directly until it does. bridges.

Steinlives. Who ends Elections matter.” berg supports the up on the Su- Representative proposal to add preme Court may Jonathan Steinberg truck tolls on mahave a ramification jor public roads, for decades to come in order to pay for these investments. and you don’t think it’s going to affect Steinberg encourages all people, but you directly until it does. Elections matter.”

Chip Stephens ’73 decided to run right and working in collaboration with for State Representative after three terms others,” Stephens said, “hopefully we can on the Planning and Zon- get other things to work, in terms of land use, in terms of ing Committee in order to fur“I can bring people together reversing the horther his work and get [a] consensus, and rible police accountability and for Westport.

I hope to, when elected, defunding bill He believes [...] represent the people that was passed Westport has of Westport.” quietly in June.” done a lot right, Stephens has specifically in - Chip Stephens endured controterms of affordversy, relating to a able housing and hopes to help other towns in the state statement made about a building project using Westport’s tax dollars and ideas. that encompassed single and multi-family “Through showing how we’ve done it housing. “To me, this is ghettoizing West-

port,” Stephens said at a Planning and Zoning meeting in June, 2018. He stated that he used the word ghetto in reference to the density of a 2.2 acre lot that would accommodate up to 12 families and believes that the statement was spread without proper context or understanding.

Stephens believes that his local zoning background makes him aware of important issues and gives him experience to serve Westport.

“I believe in playing well in the sandbox together, as I describe it. I can bring people together and get [a] consensus, and I hope to, when elected, [...] represent the people of Westport.”

Coronavirus protocols make Halloween safe to celebrate

Davis furthers music passion with business ‘Hummingbird’

Staples’ annual concert season survives COVID-19 protocols

Lack of superfans impacts athlete experience

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Eloise Ahl '21 argues that kids should be allowed to celebrate Halloween with protocols in place.

Learn about Matt Davis ’22 and his extensive exploration of his musical talents.

The band, orchestra and chorus will reach their audience virtually this year.

Due to COVID-19, Staples sports have limited fan sections during games.

Inside the Issue

2

Oct. 30, 2020

News

Phase 3 of reopenings launch as COVID-19 rates increase among youth

Local briefs P

Natalie Bandura ’22

Andreas Lolis ’21

Breaking News Editor

Nov

3

Election Day

Westport voters will vote for their representatives on the federal and state level. The presidency and congressional seats, are on the ballot, with Donald Trump and Jim Himes defending their incumbencies, respectively. State Senator Will Haskell ’14 and State Representative Jonathan Steinberg ’74 are fending off Republican challengers, Kim Healy and Chip Stephens ’73, respectively.

Nov

7

SAT

Staples will host students from across the state on Saturday, Nov. 7 for an SAT test. Scores for the November test will be available on Nov. 20. Students will also have SAT testing on Dec. 5 at Staples.

Nov

8

Staples Players Radio Plays

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions because of it, Staples Players will present their rendition of “Pride and Prejudice” through WWPT, Staples’ radio channel, rather than an in-person performance. This past week, they featured “Wizard of Oz” on Oct. 25, and they have a third show, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” on Nov. 22.

Nov

12

Short Cuts Film Festival

The “Short Cuts” Film Festival will return to the Westport library after its inaugural year in 2019. “Short Cuts” will feature five short movies from 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. After every film is shown, the director will have a dialogue with the audience about their work.

Staples High School

the driver's seat to the Governor during the pandemic,” Steinberg said. “These emerNews Editor gency powers are deemed necessary to provide the flexibility and agility to quickly respond to problems in real time -- something hase three of statewide reopen- that the legislative process can't provide.” ing amid the COVID-19 panEven as Connecticut enters a new phase demic was implemented on of reopening, statewide COVID-19 casOct. 8 as the next step in the four-phase es continue to escalate especially among plan for reopening designed by Gov- the younger population. This includes ernor Lamont and his administration. several cases in multiple Connecticut The new protocols, most of which in- school districts, spawning some closures. clude mask and social distance require“I think we as a school community ments and an increase from 50% to 75% have done well, but we can’t control what capacity for indoor seating at restaurants, happens outside these walls,” Staples nurse personal services, hair salons, barber Anna Fitzpatrick said. “Large social gathshops and libraries; an increase erings are usually super-spreader events, from 25% to 50% so I think people “I am grateful that [our should continue capacity at outdoor event venues and an local business communities] to maintain good opening of indoor have worked with the town, habits [...] if we performing arts venand that they clearly have want to control ues at 50% capacity; this. The goal is the best interests of [...] the to stay in school, 50% capacity with community, in the forefront so that means eva cap at 100 people instead of the former during this difficult period.” erybody has to 25 for indoor gath- First Selectman Jim Marpe do their part.” erings at commerWhile some cial establishments commend the state or places of business; and a change in the government for their bold steps towards recap at 150 people instead of the previous opening, others remain skeptical and fear 100 for private outdoor gatherings, ac- that Phase 3 is too drastic of a step at a time cording to Lamont’s Sept. 24 press release. when such change is not yet warranted.

“I think [Phase 3] is very ambitious, “There’s not even a vaccine yet,” Lili but I am very optimistic,” Eva Fitch ’21 Aldridge ’22 said. “There’s no cure, we’re said. “We’re so far into the pandem- still just playing it by ear. I wouldn’t want ic and there needs to be some form us going into Phase 3 until we see a plateau of forward thinking at this point, so I in numbers or at least a slight decrease.” think in order to progress and maneuThis more cautious viewpoint is not ver our way through this pandemic there unique to Steinberg, as it is typical of most have to be big steps taken like these.”

Additionally, indoor and outdoor graduations are now allowed at 50% capacity capped at 200 people and with no cap, respectively. Indoor religious services may now operate at 50% capacity capped at 200 and outdoor religious services may also operate at 50% capacity with no cap, with the aforementioned social distance and mask requirements in effect for both.

The reopening protocols were developed by Lamont, members of his office and the Department of Economic and Community Development, in coordination with state legislators and the Reopen Connecticut Advisory Group, which consists of medical experts and business representatives, among others.

According to state representative Jonathan Steinberg, the prominent role of the executive office over the Connecticut legislature is not uncommon for COVID-19 related measures, most of which were accomplished through executive orders.

“It's a strange feeling for [us] legislators, Photos by Karina Murray '22 & but we've intentionally ceded our piece of Tori Wilson '21 Infographic by Molly Gold '21

Scan this QR code to read the extended article

Democrats in the Connecticut legislature.

Most conservatives in Congress favor a faster-paced reopening and are more averse to ceding power to the executive branch.

Although Phase 3 stirred controversy in Congress, local officials like First Selectman Jim Marpe support the current reopening plan and praise the precautions that businesses have taken during the pandemic.

“I feel that the Governor’s decision to move the state into Phase 3 is warranted given the current low infection rates in Connecticut [and] I think that this version of Phase III is appropriate for the State at this time,” Marpe said. “I am grateful that [our local business communities] have worked with the town, and that they clearly have the best interests of [...] the community, in the forefront during this difficult period.”

In light of the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases among Connecticut youth, some students feel disconcerted with the fact that the state has continued its reopening plan despite the spike.

“It’s crazy how they just say ‘oh, now you can do all this stuff,’” Grace Horton ’22 said. “I mean cases aren’t really decreasing, so I’m just kind of like ‘bruh’ [...] how does it just magically work that one day we just get Phase 3?”

Due to the false assurance that Phase 3 reopenings may provide, Fitzpatrick is concerned about its potential to cause a proliferation in social gatherings among students and, subsequently, an even more dramatic spike in COVID-19 cases among youth.

“Just because the governor is going to open things up doesn’t mean people can just throw caution to the wind,” Fitzpatrick said. “I think that’s the key, you just can’t really let your guard down no matter what the laws say. The virus d o e s n ’ t understand the law, and especially with flu season coming it’s still very important to maintain good habits.”

As temperatures grow colder and people spend more time indoors, Marpe seeks to remind residents that the shift to Phase 3 does not mean the pandemic is coming to an end, and that it's essential for Westporters to employ safety precautions.

“I would like to remind your readers that they are not immune to COVID-19,” Marpe said. “It is incumbent upon all age groups to do their part to stop the spread— wear a mask, social distance and limit exposure to others to allow for easier contact tracing. Westport can proceed with the State’s plans for Phase 3, but I continue to stress that if we want to stay open, we all need to remain cautious, vigilant and alert.”

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Oct. 30, 2020

News

Combating two illnesses at once: flu season approaches during pandemic Westport prepares “It’s important to get your flu shot,” but more serious symptoms like high fe- for Halloween under Hannah Conn ’23 school nurse Kristen McGrath said. ver should be addressed immediately. COVID-19 precautions Staff Writer

“That’s what we’re advising everyone to do in preparation for flu season.”

Though the combined stress of flu and Staff Writer COVID-19 can be frightening to stulu season is fast approaching, and dents, the school nurses are applying the doctors are recommending that it be same regulations Staples has seen from taken seriously. Medical profession- the beginning of the school year, with als are juggling the overlapping symptoms more serious consideration and attention. of the flu and COVID-19. This is happen“In order to stay at school, we have ing while they're trying to determine how to maintain the same discipline with to contain the two illnesses as districts at- how we take care of ourselves [with tempt to keep students physically in school. COVID-19] because once your immune “I think the nurses will be very busy system takes a hit from either virus, dealing with students who have symp- you’re more susceptible for the other vitoms,” Supervisor of Health Services rus,” school nurse Anna Fitzpatrick said. for Westport Public Schools Suzanne Some students who haven’t been vacciLevasseur said. “The flu season and nated in previous years are getting the flu vacthe pandemic is going to be challeng- cine this year out of precaution for the paning for us to manage in the schools.” demic and its indistinguishable symptoms.

Unlike COVID-19, there is a vaccine “Since the flu and COVID-19 have such for the flu. similar The exact symptoms, efficacy we wanted of the flu to be ex“We have to maintain the same vaccine is tra careful discipline with how we take unknown this year,” care of ourselves [with as of 2020, Pia DottoCOVID-19] because once your but the ri ’23 said. immune system takes a hit from Centers “Especially either virus, you’re more for Disease because I susceptible for the other virus.”

Control dance in a and Presmall room School Nurse vention with lots Anna Fitzpatrick ( C D C ) Photo by Jack Dennison '21 Graphic by Molly Gold '21 of people, found in [my fam2019 that ily] wantit was 39% effective for all age groups. ed to be the most careful we could be.”

Despite the wide availability of the shot, At Staples, the school nurses have resome parents choose not to vaccinate. In determined the criteria of what is confact, the National Poll on Children’s Health sidered “sick” or “healthy” and how stureleased that during COVID-19, 33% of dents should go about visiting the office. parents will opt to not vaccinate their chil- For example, students are encouraged dren. Regardless, many professionals still to wait until passing time for non-emerbelieve in and recommend vaccination. gencies, like a stuffy nose or a cough,

F

Toby Goldfarb ’23

More than ever, health officials recommend that students and staff wash their hands, wear a mask, self-assess each morning and maintain social distance in order to avoid possibly spreading either illness.

“We can’t control students getting a flu shot simply because it’s out of our purview,” Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. said. “But what we can do is keep these safety measures in place.”

Source: CDC Infographic by Claire Redmer '21

Removal of midterm week leads to alternative grading plans Katie Simons ’22 News Editor

There will be no midterms week this year as it is the only way to ensure students meet the total school hours required by the state.

“Midterm days just did not fit into the new model as it would take too long to implement and students could be out of school for over a week depending on which of their courses were giving midterms and the cohort they are in,” Principal Stafford W. Thomas, Jr. said.

While teachers may elect to give their students a midterm test, there will not be a traditional designated week for all students to take midterm exams. Instead, teachers can opt to give a test in a standard 80-minute period and the score would be factored into the quarter grade as a regular test instead of accounting for 10% of the final grade.

According to Thomas, if one teacher in a specific course opts to give a midterm test or project, then all teachers of

hybrid school

year?

16.5% 83.5%

Have your teachers told you how they plan to administer an end-of-semester midterm or other assessment?

66.5% 5.2% 28.3% 213 people responded to the poll

Infographic by Mimi Casey '22

Creative Director Halloween traditions have been canceled or modified this year in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The town of Westport has canceled its annual Halloween parade downtown, as well as trick-or-treating at Town Hall. Instead, alternatives are being organized, such as a Halloween house decorating contest organized by the Parks and Recreation Department.

Many non-town sponsored events have adapted to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as well. Stew Leonard’s in Norwalk changed their traditional hayride into a drivethrough, socially distanced Halloween celebration. Additionally, some outdoor activities that allow for social distancing, such as local pumpkin patches, remain open but with new regulations for restricted capacity.

Although trick-or-treating is being permitted, it is classified as a high risk activity, so the town is highly encouraging participants to comply with the guidelines and recommendations set forth by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Some of these guidelines include setting individually packaged “goody bags” on doorsteps instead of handing out candy, travelling in groups only consisting of those in the same household and setting up hand sanitizer stations outside of homes. Additionally, they recommend that people should host driveby or virtual events rather than parties.

Many families with young children are preparing for a socially distanced Halloween night.

“We all want to keep the community safe of course, so the parents I’ve talked to are avoiding large gatherings and crowded trick-or-treating spots,” Westport parent Jasmine Silver said. “As long as the kids get to dress up and eat some candy, they’ll have fun no matter what they do.”

Similarly, many Staples students are determined to celebrate the holiday, despite the setbacks.

“This is my last Halloween at home so it’s definitely disappointing that it won’t be normal,” Arden Scherer ’21 said. “I’ll probably still dress up with a few of my friends though.”

Despite the setbacks, Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe is confident that the town will still be able to celebrate the holiday in a healthy way.

“This is a special holiday for many of our children and families, and it will clearly look different from years past,” Marpe said. “Nonetheless, I am confident that our community will do what it can to make this years’ experience fun and safe for those who celebrate the holiday.”

Photo by Maddy Tansley '23

Is it necessary to remove midterms for the 2020-21

that course are expected to do the same. ject to change, it is the most promising For instance, if one Global Themes A class answer to how the math department has an assessment at the end of the quar- will handle the removal of midterms. ter, another Global Themes A class with a If the math department chooses to test different teacher will have to do the same. students each quarter, Porco believes that Most of the math department is not this would lead to AP courses limiting the planning on giving an extensive number of tests they give to fit in a review midterm test test at the end of each quarter.

“Midterm days just did this year for the “The AP courses are going to not fit into the new majority of their have difficulty with that,” Porco classes. Instead, model as it would take said. “For that course, they may they are plantoo long to implement have to scale back the numning to assign ber of tests they give because and students could be there's so much content to teach.” tests at the end out of school for over of each quarter.

While there is no official plan a week" “We’re gofor how cumulative tests would ing to proba- Principal Stafford W. adapt to remote learning, many bly steer away believe that the current arrangeThomas, Jr. from midterms ment is the most suitable for the for the most present hybrid circumstance. part,” Stefan Porco, the mathematics co“This year is obviously very difordinator for grades 6-12, said. “Most of ferent, and everyone is still adjusting them will be quarterly and in those cas- to it,” Alexa Lunney ’23 said. “I think es you won’t need as much prep time.” that not having midterms is definiteWhile Porco emphasized that this ly going to be less stressful and with the plan has not been finalized and is sub- two cohorts, it makes the most sense.”

Molly Gold ’21

MASK UP As fourthgrader James Tansley prepares to go off trick-or-treating, all Connecticut kids will have a new costume feature: masks.

inklingsnews.com

opinions

4 inklingsnews STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER www.inklingsnews.com inklingsnews@westportps.org (203) 341-1499 or (203) 341-5192 ...........................

Editors-in-Chief Poppy Livingstone & Claire Redmer Managing Editors Lys Goldman & Remy Teltser Web Managing Editors Lucy Arrow & Rachel Suggs Creative Director Molly Gold Business Managers Brooke Dembin, Margot Stack & Theresa Vandis Associate Managing Editors Chelsea Strober & Carly Kaplowitz Photography Director Eliza Barr Social Media Directors Grace Livecchi & Charlotte Smith Assistant Creative Directors Rachel Greenberg & Claire Hanley Simon Sandrew & Lily Weisz Broadcast Directors Jack Dennison & Ella Stoler Assistant Business Managers Shira Zeiberg & Lucy Zuckerman Breaking News Editor Andreas Lolis Outreach Manager Rebecca Kanfer News Editors Natalie Bandura & Tierney Kugel Finnegan Courtney & Katie Simons Opinions Editors Madeleine Casey & Prasaus Yeager Maya Hruskar & Chloe Murray Features Editors Abbie Goldstein & Betti Kobak Samantha Felner & Karina Murray Arts Editors Lucy Dockter & Tallula Stvan Aidan Rogers & Emma Smith Sports Editors Mishael Gill & Jared Leonard Lily Caplan & Charley Guthartz Web News Editors Giselle Oldani & Anastasia Thumser Web Opinions Editors Allison Gillman & Maria Krug Web Features Editors Ella Alpert & Lyah Muktavaram Web Arts Editors Lauren Hassell & Lea Rivel Web Sports Editors Lexie Moskovit & Maya Reiner Web Photostory Editor Amanda Rowan Advisers Joseph DelGobbo & Mary Elizabeth Fulco ...............................

Editorials and letters to the editor All opinions in this paper are those of Staples High School students. The editorial board determines editorial opinions that are authored by the editors-in-chief. Send signed letters to inklingsnews@ westportps.org. Submissions will not be edited prior to publication.

Advertising Inklings News reserves the right to not publish advertisements that promote products that could be harmful to student health.

Memberships Inklings News is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association and supports the Student Press Law Center.

Distribution Distribution Inklings News, a curricular and extracurricular publication, has a circulation of 1,800 and is uncensored. ...........................

Inklings News is uncensored, unedited by administration and does not allow for prior review. Inklings News serves as an open forum for the public and welcomes letters to the editor and other submissions.

The decisions of Inklings News and Westport Public Schools are made without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or any other discriminating basis prohibited by local, state or federal law.

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Have an opinion about an article?

Write to the editor at inklingsnews@westportps.org.

Graphic by Molly Gold ’21

Election season necessitates objective education, open conversations

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ith a lengthy quarantine behind us and a groundbreaking election ahead, our community finds itself at an impasse. Since the last election, many Staples students have grown increasingly aware of politics due to both their education and the highly polarized political state of the past four years. In order to maintain an inclusive and active political climate at Staples, staff members should be as objective as possible in their teachings, and students should work to engage with these facts actively and openly.

editorial Students with differing viewpoints from their teachers often feel pressured to alter their personal opinions to please the teacher. Multiple students on the Editorial Board cited instances of changing their essay topics in order to adhere to their teachers’ political beliefs, fearing losing points for expressing their authentic opinions. Regardless of their teacher’s intentions, this is both hugely problematic and clearly indicative of Staples’ often oppressively homogenous culture.

Board members have also reported seeing their teachers urge their students to vote for a certain political can-

didate or party, emphatically sharing their views on the upcoming election.

This is both inappropriate and illustrates a learning environment that alienates students of differing viewpoints. Rather than encouraging healthy political conversations, these teachers suffocate them.

With this in mind, teachers should avoid sharing their political opinions with students, at risk of creating a stifling class environment.

That said, the Editorial Board feels that teachers can and should step in on political conversations in certain instances.

Debates over human rights should not be held in a classroom setting, as these are an avenue for making students feel unsafe and targeted in school. Staff members should also facilitate political discussions when classes seem to express the same viewpoint across all students. In class discussions and debates, an echo chamber can be formed, as many students receive information and form their opinions from the same places. Teachers should bring up the opposing view in these situations, regardless of their personal political beliefs.

Providing primary sources rather than biased retellings of news, or showcasing stories from news sources of different political leanings are helpful ways to balance politics in class. The school should purchase subscriptions to multiple news sources to give students and teachers alike access to these varied views.

Hearing a variety of opinions, or being pushed to explore those that you might disagree with, is a critically important academic exercise. In class debates, teachers should push students to explore and defend viewpoints different from their own in order to understand the other side. The Editorial Board feels as though this does not happen often, if at all.

Despite current efforts, this Editorial Board does not find that Staples’ political climate prepares our student body for political discourse in environments more varied than our school. College, work, online debates; moving outside of Staples’ and Westport’s bubble will introduce our students to more viewpoints than we are currently exposed to. Our teachers, administration and student body should push us to engage beyond our safe political ‘bubbles.’ Allowing ourselves to remain in our ideological corners, though easy, is detrimental to our student body and society in the long term, increasing the polarization we so desperately need to lessen.

The Editorial Board feels it is imperative to leave high school with the skills needed to be an active citizen. Gaining an understanding of politics through respectful discussion and an exposure to varied viewpoints is an important step on the path to meeting that goal.

The Editorial Board voted 23-1 in favor of this opinion.

you think Staples prepares students [inklinations] Do to be politically involved?

FRANCISCO FERNANDEZ ’21 “We should probably be reinforced to vote more. A lot of clubs are doing it, but the school doesn’t […] People need to learn about the issues that are going on politically.”

AVA DEDOMENICO ’23

ETHAN AMBROSE ’24

“It’s a widespread topic that we focus on in our history classes, specifically in US history [but] we’ve learned more about history than the current events of it.”

“Yeah, in Global Themes [...] we’ve been allowed to research current events, if we want to, for class.”

Opinions

5

Oct. 30, 2020

Coronavirus protocols facilitate safe Halloween celebrations Virtual college visits fail to replicate student experience

Eloise Ahl ’21 Staff Writer

Associate Managing Editor

Photo

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Carly Kaplowitz ’21

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understand the safety concerns regarding coronavirus, there are many measures that can be taken that don’t include canceling the holiday, so that Halloween can run safely for everyone.

Halloween is all about creative costumes. This year presents the perfect opportunity to creatively incorporate a protective mask into each outfit. If everyone is wearing a mask, there is no reason people shouldn’t be able to trick-or-treat in small groups.

Parents and police can monitor crowds and ensure that masks are being worn and necessary precautions are being followed.

Additionally, people giving out candy can wear gloves and use tongs to place it in bags rather than use their hands.

Other options suggested by the state of Connecticut include doing a drive by Halloween or leaving a disposable bowl of candy with tongs at the end of the driveway for those who want to be extra cautious but do not want to miss out on the fun.

For those who support canceling the holiday this year, cancellation of Halloween could have unintended consequences.

People may resort to congregating indoors for large parties instead of having small groups outdoors to trick-or-

G

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or decades, Halloween has been a holiday that children all over the country hungrily look forward to. Between dressing up as whatever you want, c o n s u m i n g unlimited candy without Mom yelling and hanging out with all of your friends, it’s a child’s dream.

The pandemic, however, has made Halloween look a little different this year.

If someone were to take away Halloween from me as a child I would be beyond devastated.

While I

treat. In this case, it would be impossible for officials to monitor the size of indoor gatherings, where the virus can spread more easily.

Of course there are risks for going trick-ortreating, but it is actually safer than most alternatives, such as a Halloween party or a scary movie night. As long as everyone is on board with the rules and people are willing to be careful, I do not think outdoor Halloween traditions should be canceled or heavily restricted.

Biden’s optimism, human appeal triumph in final debate Mimi Casey ’22 Opinions Editor

At this point in the election cycle, when, according to Vox, 50 million people have already cast their ballots and many more have made up their minds on the candidates, it’s not exceedingly obvious what “winning” a debate means.

Arguably, victory constitutes different things for each candidate.

Far from running out the clock and relying on his comfortable lead, Biden went on the offensive, avoiding hostility while still posing pressing questions concerning Trump’s taxes, his administration’s response to COVID-19 and corruption.

Simultaneously, Biden embraced humanity, as he had done in the first

debate. He made emphatic and effectual on the future of the country, preferring appeals to viewers, assuming the role of a more to criticize Biden. This may have been fellow human rather than a politician. He best exemplified by his response upon bementioned his children, directly addressed ing asked what he would do if re-elected.

Americans, and appeared disarmingly gen- “[Biden] will kill [the economy],” Trump uine in his desire said, failing to discuss “Biden embraced humanity a Trump-led future. “If for a better future. [...] assuming the role of a he gets in, you will have In contrast, Trump seemed fellow human rather than a a depression, the likes almost incapable of which you’ve never politician.” of compassion, seen. Your 401K’s will describing children separated from their go to hell and it’ll be a very, very sad day parents at the border as “so well taken care for this country.” More than categoricalof.” He was callous on the question of ra- ly failing to answer the question, this uncial justice; his answers were an exercise in inspiring cynicism does not make nearly narcissism, pronouncing himself the as strong a case for reelection as aspiraleast racist person in the room, tions for a better tomorrow would have. a statement he followed by It was in answering this question, persaying that immigrants haps, where the difference between the who return for their court two participants — as candidates and hearings have low IQs. as people — was most apparent. Where Trump neTrump appealed to fear and hatred, glected Biden secured his victory by showto foing potential voters a path tocus wards the future, saying, “We’re going to choose hope over fear.

We’re going to choose to move forward because we have enormous opportunities, enormous opportunities to make things better.”

Graphics by Molly Gold ’21

Among the many challenges COVID-19 has forced us to adapt to, college visits have faced a transformation. In order to allow incoming students the opportunity to view and learn about various universities, many schools have turned towards virtual tours and information sessions.

While the coronavirus prohibits potential students from attending the school in person, the virtual visits fail to cover many aspects of what a normal college visit would entail.

As a senior looking to attend college next year, I have been on my fair share of college visits, both in person and virtually. Before the virus, I was able to attend four in-person visits. These experiences allowed me to get a grasp on what the school looked like up close and personal and what the students were like. I was also able to hear first-hand stories from students who attend the university.

Talking to the students gave me a good sense of whether I would fit in at that school or not. While the in-person tour also provided the “boring” information, like average test scores, GPA, the numerous majors and minors they provide and what the application looks like, I always found myself dozing off and instead looking forward to speaking to the students.

Unfortunately, virtual tours prevented me from engaging with current students.

While attending the virtual tour, I struggled to pay attention to the lecture-like presentation of information that was valuable, but could be found easily on their website. It was hard for me to place myself into the school’s environment because it felt so far away.

Although the virtual tours were lacking in many aspects, there were some positives.

Specifically, the rewind and fast-forward features allowed me to watch only the parts of the presentation I was interested in learning about. In person, I would have to walk through the economics building despite not wanting to study economics in college. At home, I was able to skip to the places where I would potentially frequent the most.

Despite these few benefits, virtual college tours ultimately fail to demonstrate what student life is like at different colleges and prohibit incoming students from interacting with those currently enrolled at the school. As an alternative, I would recommend instead checking out the university’s website and trying to connect with a current student.

Graphics by Claire Hanley ’21

inklingsnews.com

featu Davis furthers music passion 6

Graphic by Molly Gold ’21

Photos by Tallula Stvan ’21

Staples High School

ures with business ‘Hummingbird’

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Maya Reiner ’21 Web Sports Editor

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hen not studying for his calculus or chemistry test, Matt Davis ’22 is attending Juilliard pre-college, practicing for the Norwalk Youth Symphony’s brass ensemble or helping his business, Hummingbird, flourish.

Davis has been a trumpet player for the past seven years, and he has taken this passion to the next level with his participation in these extracurricular music groups.

But when COVID-19 struck, Davis and his passion for music were forced to adapt.

“Due to COVID making traditional in-person music activities impossible,” Davis said, “myself and some of my musical peers in the Norwalk Youth Symphony brass ensemble began thinking about cre-

is exactly what the customer wants. ating some sort of virtual music program.”

“Once everything is recorded, I layer all Davis and his fellow musicians had to become technologically sav- the individual recordings together,” Davis vy in order to execute their goal, and said. “Sometimes I just put the recordings the greatest challenge was finding a way together, and they line up fine without any to engineer layered music recordings. further editing, and sometimes I have to Davis’ interest in music production completely edit recordings, manipulating skills were further developed during the the speed and location, articulation, tone, summer program he created, leading him to and intonation. I do all the engineering.”

Once Davis finishes the engineering develop a company with Steven Nugget, the aspects of the redirector of brass ensemble at “Music seems to be an cording, additionNorwalk Youth Symphony.

Davis and Nugget integral part of his life and al musical effects founded Humminghe puts a lot of work into it can be requested by the customer. Once bird about a month ago. in and out of the company.” these final pro“Hummingbird pro-Camilo Garcia ’22 cesses are completvides a layered recording ed, the final prodproduction service,” Davis said. “An ensemble comes to us with a uct is then sent to the customer.

Davis’ love for music extends bepiece of music, and we first split the piece into recording sections [...]. We then pro- yond his business or the schools he atvide weekly Zoom coaching and written tends; it also carries through to his conprotocols to teach the ensemble exactly versations and interactions with friends.

Aaron Cheung ’22, a friend of how they will execute each recording.”

There is a long editing pro- Davis, often converses with Daabout his musical identity. cess that Davis and Nugget must go vis “I always knew he played the trumthrough to ensure that the end product

pet and was very invested in music,” Cheung said, “so we’d have conversations about music in general a lot.”

Another friend of Davis, Camilo Garcia ’22, knows about Davis’ musical aspects of his life. Davis’ hard work, which plays a huge part in his success, is very apparent to many of his friends.

“It seems like it’s hard for Matt to turn down a task,” Garcia said. “He accepts most tasks presented to him, even if it comes with an unexpected workload.”

Garcia notices how vital music is for Davis, as it shines through in their conversations and interactions.

“Music seems to be an integral part of his life,” Garcia said, “and he puts a lot of work into it in and out of the company.”

Davis’ passion for music has enabled him to connect with various types of people on a highly cooperative and artistic level and meet new individuals.

“Music has allowed me to meet people from many diverse backgrounds and beliefs, and our mutual passion for music creates very strong bonds,” Davis said, “bonds which I would have never had otherwise.”

Graphic by Poppy Livingstone ’21

HUMMINGBIRD Matt Davis ’22 started his music company, Hummingbird, over quarantine when rehearsing in large ensembles became impossible. His music aspirations are unlimited, from his involvement in Staples’ band to the Juilliard Pre-College to Norwalk Youth Symphony.

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Oct. 30, 2020

Features

First time voters recognize their influence Anna Diorio ’23 Staff Writer

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or Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y, voting is second nature; but for the younger generation, it’s a whole new experience. This year, 63% of Americans aged 18-29 have confirmed that they will be voting in the November election, which is a 16% increase from the 2016 presidential election, according to a new Harvard Youth Poll. As reflected in national polls, many young people in Westport are also getting ready to cast their vote for the first time this year.

While some young adults who are eligible to vote are not overly invested in politics, many Staples students in particular feel that it’s important for them to stay informed and educated about the intensely political world that affects the lives of so many.

“By informing yourself about politics,” Brian Campbell ’21 said, “you can actually get your representation out there in the world and actually make a difference that most aligns with what you believe in.”

To some young voters, voicing your opinion through voting is not only viewed as important, but as an obligation as an American citizen.

“Voting is a civic duty and it’s the only way that you as an individual can have your exact voice heard by the government,” Yale University junior Malini Wimmer ’18 said.

However, many young people, even if they are interested in politics, fail to follow through with the voting process.

According to an article by the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia, 18–29 year-olds account for nearly 22% of the voting-age population, but they make up just 13% of the voting electorate in 2018.

One possible reason so many young voters do not actually vote on Election Day is due to voting hindrances. For instance, many young people attend college out of state, which requires them to take the added step of requesting that absentee ballots be mailed to them at school.

Voter identification laws, restrictions on who can mail in a ballot, requirements for having a witness signature on an absentee ballot and closed polling stations are other examples of the structural barriers faced by young voters.

Yet, Thomas Mande, a sophomore at Duke University and organizer of Flip NC (a grassroots organization that uses direct voter outreach to elect progressives in North Carolina) feels the youth population should not succumb to these obstacles because they can make real change with their vote.

“As a collective voting block, we can have a huge influence on elections,” Mande said, “so it’s really important we all go out and vote because it really does make a difference.”

In addition to young voters such as Mande, political figures are confident in the impact of the youth vote.

Westport’s Second Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker is passionate about the importance of youth voting in any election and is confident in its significance.

“To be able to have conversations around details, around policy and how it will affect them, and how it will affect their lives and their future is incredibly powerful,” Tooker said, “and I think that their voices will be heard. I know as an elected official, I listen and I know others do too.”

Young people who vote do not only have the opportunity to address current issues; they also can shift how we approach those issues in the future.

“My hope for politics, [...] as kind of a student of political theory, is really that we move away from abject partisanship and [...] move towards learning facts,” Wimmer said, “[towards] deciding what our own stance on the facts are, and then creating a robust system that takes those facts and makes them into legitimate change that is beneficial.”

The first step in achieving change, Mande believes, is for young people to participate in politics and vote to not only make their voices heard, but to shape the future of the country for the better.

“I think voting is the most powerful thing that young people can do,” Mande said, “to create the kind of world they want to see.”

will be trusting that students at home will be respecting the honor code.”

By now, this has been a well-established routine in some of hybrid classes, as teachers continue to administer the same closednote exam expectations and test formats for both remote and in-school learners.

These teachers stress the importance of academic integrity and the honor code; however, many students have little trust that their peers will uphold these standards.

“I think that it gives the people at home an advantage because they can cheat much easier than the people at school can,” Shawn Zhai ’22 said. “They could have their notes right next to them and no one would know.”

To address the issues with in-class versus at-home testing, teachers have att e m p t e d different testing strategies.

Some teachers, for instance, have made all of their assessments

open notes, so that all students, both remote and in-school, can have full access to any notes or worksheets they wish to use.

“I feel like that is a very smart move,” Srushti Karve ’23 said, “because it’s pretty obvious that many people are going to go and check their notes if they can.”

In another attempt to create a fair testing environment both in the classroom and virtually, some teachers are having students show their hands and paper while taking a test, trying to eliminate unfairness and the factor of cheating.

“I think this is one of the best attempts at making test-taking fair for everyone and I wish all my classes did this,” Romy Nusbaum ’22 said. “Kids at home would have to go through extreme measures to cheat.”

Other teachers are having students only take assessments when they are in-school by creating different tests for Cohort A and B. And still another method teachers are taking is

Graphic by Rachel Greenberg ’22

“

I vote

because our political leaders won’t care about an issue until you make them.”

- Brian Campbell ’21 Photo contributed by Brian Campbell ’21

“

I know how conflicting and important this election is because of the current situations in the world so it’s important to vote. In my mind it signifies me becoming more grown up.” - Josh Leon ’21

Photo by Logan Gornbein ’21

“

I’m looking forward to vote this upcoming election because this first year I am able to vote, which is exciting, and being an American it is exciting to be able to use one of my American rights.” - Max Shutze ’21 Photo contributed by Max Shutze ’21

Testing process creates disadvantages due to hybrid model Mishael Gill ’23 Sports Editor

Abbie Goldstein ’22 Features Editor

The bell rings and the teacher makes her way to the front of the classroom.

“Clear your desks.

It’s now time for the exam.”

Anxious eyes flicker around the room and on the screen.

“And remember,” the teacher warns, “this is a closed-note assessment, so I

Graphics by Betti Kobak ’22

Staples High School

testing student’s through discussion or writing assessments rather than multiple choice.

But with so many different kinds of assessments, some students find it difficult to properly prepare. As such, some wish there was a testing protocol followed by all subjects that would regulate exams and ensure they are fair for everyone, both virtual and in-school.

“There should be a uniform plan followed by all of the teachers on how they should monitor their students on Zoom to make sure they’re not cheating,” Sophia Mechanic ’21 said. “This would eliminate all of the advantages virtual kids have over the kids in school.”

arts taples’ annual concert season survives COVID-19 protocols

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Lucy Arrow ’21

Web Managing Editor

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ith the ever-changing world around us, music is one of the parts that has stayed constant throughout the pandemic. The music department at Staples is working hard to keep it that way by producing the annual concerts that students and staff look forward to each year. However, they may look a little different. Instead of just their instruments, musicians may have to bring one more crucial item on stage with them: a mask.

There are usually two concerts within the first semester of school.

The annual fall concert has been canceled for this year. The annual Candlelight concert in December gets students in the spirit for the holidays. Around the Staples black box theater, there are winter decorations including fairy lights, fake snow and trees, which Photo by Natalie Bandura ’22

paints the perfect winter wonderland scene. This concert will be performed close to normal, aside from the fact that it will be broadcasted virtually.

“We will have a livestream performance [of Candlelight] on Saturday, Dec. 19,” Carrie Mascaro, Director of Orchestras, String Lessons and Chamber music, said. “This year is the 80th Annual Candlelight so it will be extra special.”

When it is time to record the concert, the entire chorus, band and orchestra will come together, despite rehersing in their respective cohorts.

“We are pre recording all the pieces and then they will be edited together to create a Candlelight performance that people can watch,” Ruby Coleman ’21 said.

Each chorus, band and orchestra class is functioning a little differently due to the different Connecticut State Department of Educa-

tion (CDSE) guidelines. The distance between each musician is determined by whether or not the student is playing a wind instrument or singing.

For all chorus classes, the “Addendum 7” guidelines state that students must “maintain [a] minimum indoor physical distance of 9x6 between non-wind instrumentalists, each singer and/or player, instructors, and any other people such as conductors, other musicians, audiences or accompanists.”

In addition to these guidelines, there are also restrictions on the amount of time that students can sing for, as well as a change for the virtual students.

“I can safely rehearse up to 20 students in the choral room with a maximum of 30 minutes total singing time before taking a break and allowing the HVAC system to cycle the air in the room or moving

Graphic by Molly Gold ’21

DIFFERENT LOOKING REHEARSAL Jameson Russel ’24 (left), Alex Markus-Malone ’22 (right) and the rest of the band and orchestra continue to rehearse in smaller groups.

to a new space,” Luke Rosenberg, Director of Choral Activities said. “Virtual students are using new software through MusicFirst to learn repertoire as well as developing their sight-singing and aural skills.”

Due to the popularity of the concert, it has been difficult in the past to purchase tickets and have the opportunity to see the musicians perform. However, now that it is virtual and no tickets are being sold, more people will have the chance to hear the performance than ever before.

“By having the livestream there won’t be a limit on tickets,” Mascaro said. “Everyone will be able to get tickets and a link to the concert.”

Photo by Jared Leonard ’22

Graphic by Rachel Greenberg ’22

Outdoor dining faces uncertainty with dropping temperature Rebecca Kanfer ’21 Outreach Manager

Usually, fall is a time of year that is celebrated with cozy fires surrounded by family and friends and restaurants filled to the brim with hungry guests. But with the COVID-19 pandemic, this year will look different.

Restaurants are unable to serve the max capacity of guests inside, resulting in continued outdoor dining for this fall season.

“We currently have a bunch of tables outside and we plan to keep using them throughout the season,” Dana Noorily, owner of The Granola Bar, said. “Due to COVID indoor restrictions and spacing, we are very limited with our indoor dining. Even as we entered phase three last week we were unable to add more seats inside.”

To make up for the restrictions, restaurants are taking the rest of their tables to the streets.

Graphic by Aidan Rogers ’22

Along with the uncertainty of the Coronavirus, Staples students and other Westport residents are uncertain when their next restaurant visit may be. With the temperatures continuing to drop, there is reluctance to bear the chilly temperatures while dining outside.

“Throughout quarantine, my family would order dinners to support local restaurants in Westport,” Emily Greenblatt ’21 said. “Even during the summer I would still order in or go to drive-throughs as opposed to sitting down at a restaurant because, during these unprecedented times, it just still feels much safer.

I think throughout the winter I will continue to do this too.”

With their normal source of revenue shrinking, restaurants are working to attend to their customers’ needs as the seasons change by investing in additions such as heat lamps to keep their guests warm.

Even so, some restaurant-goers are skeptical that outside dining in the winter will be possible.

“I just don’t think that I can see myself in winter going outside to eat dinner with piles of snow surrounding me,” Carrie Everett ’21 said. “I definitely will be doing more ordering in than going out to eat.”

Restaurants are continuing to implement either delivery options or curb-side

SCREENED IN Restaurants like Romanacci (directly below) have built screened-in dining areas to cope with the cold weather.

pickup to appease their customers reluctant to dine outside as cooler weather approaches. Both delivery and curb-side pickup options increased business for restaurants during quarantine when indoor dining was unavailable and these options will continue to be present in the majority of Westport restaurants.

“We are hopeful that customers will continue to patron The Granola Bar,” Noorily said. “It can be anything from takeout enjoying our food on the go, at home or eating outside.”

LOCKED OUT Forced to host most of their guests outside, many restaurants in Westport have upgraded their outdoor seating.

Photos by Lea Rivel ’22

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Arts

Oct. 30, 2020

Trend alert: new styles spice up fall fashion Julia Kasabian ’21 Staff Writer

A 90’s-inspired trend is wide-leg, baggy jeans. Influencers have been wearing these jeans nonstop, often with chunky boots or dad sneakers. Many have raved about Zara’s Wide Leg High-Rise Jeans, saying that they are incredibly flattering on lots of body types. Baggy jeans are surprisingly versatile, as they can be paired with different types of tops such as sweaters and sweatshirts.

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all is now in full swing, and with it comes a set of new, fun styles. For months many have lounged around in sweatpants and Dorito-stained T-shirts since going into quarantine. However, the fall season has turned a new leaf for many people’s wardrobes. These trends have spotted by celebrities and influencers on Instagram and TikTok.

Sweater vests are back in a big way. While formally worn by golfers or your grandfather, they now are a staple in fall style. Popular brands such as Brandy Melville have been putting out vintage-inspired sweater vests that are often layered over turtlenecks, paired with straight leg jeans or worn with pleated skirts. Girls, you can also think outside the box and find sweater vests in the men’s section of a local thrift store.

Graphics by Molly Gold ’21 Leather is also a trend this fall. It’s incredibly versatile and can be worn in the form of anything from pants to jackets to shoes. Colored leather is also extremely popular, especially in colors such as maroon, brown or the ever-classic black. Street style icons such as Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber have been spotted wearing 90’s-inspired leather blazers on many occasions. You can find leather clothes at stores such as Urban Outfitters or H&M, which have great leather jackets, tops and pants.

Pleated mini skirts are no longer just for school uniforms. Style influencers have been pairing these skirts with a collared shirt and an oversized sweatshirt for a relaxed look. For a take on athleisure, the skirts are also worn with vintage t-shirts and sneakers. Fashion changes as the seasons change, and this year the trends couldn’t be better. One can only hope that next fall’s styles will hold up to the ones of 2020.

Photos by Julia Kasabian ’21 & Emma Smith ’22

Staples High School

sports

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Lack of superfans impacts athlete experience Carson Kranz ’21 Staff Writer

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or years now, fans have had an influence on sports all over the world, but now the bleachers are close to empty due to COVID-19. While there has not been much of a football season, which normally draws the biggest crowd, sports like soccer and field hockey are usually able to pack the stands as well.

Not having fans cheer players on can impact the momentum of a game and who wins. At Staples, the student section shows out for a lot of games, and with a home

crowd, it gives players the upper hand.

A statistic from ESPN indicates that in college football games from 2008 to 2019, the home team won 78.3% of the time. While there are multiple factors that influence this percentage, having a home crowd is one of them.

“Half of the fun of the game is being able to enjoy the family culture with the fans,” football player Jake Luffman ’21 said.

“Not having that does not take away from the enjoyment of the game, but it affects the mental aspect of home games.”

This year there are restrictions on who can attend games. For the fall season, each high school athlete is given two lanyards to give to whom-

’22 hel Greenberg Graphic by Rac

ever they choose. Only spectators with these lanyards are allowed, which drastically cuts down on the size of the crowd.

“It is definitely different not having a crowd. When it comes to senior day it will be really sad because it is always such a big game for seniors,” soccer player Abby Greenlee ’21 said.

With limited fans allowed at the games, Staples has given alternatives to watching the competitions, like livestreams.

The boys’ and girls’ soccer teams have started to livestream each game along with the field hockey team.

Even though these alternatives help stop the spread of COVID, nothing compares to cheering with the superfans at soccer or football games.

“We all love the spirit and energy of going to games and cheering, so I think we’re all just hoping to get some of that back by the spring,” Superfans Captain

Dean Morro ’21 said.

While spring sports remain up in the air, all fall sports, and most likely winter sports since they take place indoors, are going to be played with very limited fans in attendance.

“We definitely miss not having a crowd,” football captain Sam Milberg ’21 said, “and it could be tough being it is my senior season [...] but it is for the best for our community.”

PARENT SPECTATORS On Tuesday Oct. 19, the boys’ soccer team played Ridgefield at Staples High School and won 3-0. Most fans were watching with masks on and social distancing. Each student is allowed two fans in the crowd.

Photo by Maria Krug ’22

COVID-19 prompts outdoor pasta dinners, other changes Logan Gornbein ’21 Staff Writer

Teams searching for success know that team chemistry is crucial to winning.

And what better way to bring a team together than with pasta and garlic knots?

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing how teams operate outside of school.

Photo by Jalen St. Fort ’22

This includes the tradition of pasta dinners. This year, most pasta dinners will be held outside rather than in.

Staples girls’ soccer uses pasta dinners to boost camaraderie on the team by sharing laughs and stuffing their mouths with penne alla vodka and chicken parm.

“We talk about the upcoming game,” Abby Greenlee ’21 said, “and we strategize our gameplay and style of play depending on the matchup.”

Pasta dinners give the team a great opportunity to prepare to go out and get a win. Despite fewer opportunities to load up on carbohydrates and strategize, captain Gaby Gonzalez ’22 doesn’t think there will be negative consequences.

“I don’t think this year will affect how close the team can get,” Gonzalez said. “We are still hanging out as a group and using other methods of team bonding.”

Field hockey is looking to win its fifth Class LL state title. Most of the

starters have been playing together since they were freshmen. In the beginning of the season, usually all of the members of the team have a pasta dinner together.

It is tradition to write down hopes and goals for the season on the bottom of every plate. Once each teammate has done this they all go around sharing what they said. At the end of the season, they share once again what their goals were for the season to see if they achieved them.

“Unfortunately, we can’t have as many as we usually have,” Julia DiConza ’21 said. “The team bonding that occurs during pasta dinners is what makes us a family.”

Team bonding activities are going to have to use social distancing

BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY PASTA DINNER Several sports are conducting COVID-19 safe pasta dinners where the players remain socially distant and the food is individually handed out to the players.

as a way to secure safety and continue having a season. The boys’ soccer team traditionally uses their first pasta dinner to give the seniors on the team a chance to speak to all the parents and players. The seniors talk about what they love most about the game and what their goals are for the season.

They also play a game of “head it catch it” where a person throws a soccer ball at you and if they say head it you catch it and vice versa. The winner of the annual game gets bragging rights over the whole team. But like most things, this year might be different.

“Pasta dinners are happening a lot less frequently,” Haydn Siroka ’21 said, “so we are going to have to come up with new activities for team bonding.”

Graphic by Rachel Greenberg ’22

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Sports

Oct. 30, 2020

Graphics by Claire Hanley ’21

Staples welcomes back long-awaited fall sports season Gabriella Gerig ’23 Staff Writer

T

he excitement of a goal. The rush of a block. The exhilaration of crossing the finish line. COVID-19 has forced the world to miss out on these blissful feelings for too long. Staples’ long-awaited fall sports season has finally begun. Numerous regulations have been put into place to follow coronavirus guidelines. Although the future of sports remains uncertain, for now it has provided balance and normalcy to the Staples community.

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Cross country athletes are placed in small groups of six to 10 to ensure social distancing.

A majority of their practices are in masks, making exercising more demanding. Tyler Kocadag ’23, a member of the boys’ cross country team, agrees that new adjustments to their season are inconvenient, but he also remains hopeful.

“It is safe, and I’m still able to improve as a runner and enjoy it with my friends,” Kocadag said.

The future of sports and its safety continues to divide teams and remains unknown.

Future changes in terms of policy are a very real possibility, but for now the resume of sports has provided some stability during these chaotic times.

by to o Ph

G

e els h C

r be o r t aS

’21

Girls’ swim is also experiencing modifications in order to have a safe season.

Social distancing measures have been established as a precaution since the team is not able to wear masks in the pool.

The swimmers stand six feet apart, and if possible participate in dry-land exercises outside.

Despite these new obstacles, Ali Chodash ’23, a member of the swim team, finds stability in belonging to a team, particularly during the pandemic when social interaction is limited and uncertainty persists.

“I like just being a part of a team,” Chodash said. “I really enjoy having somewhere to go after school.”

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Photo by Lys Goldman ’21

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Being undefeated and nominated for the Ruden Report team of the week, the girls’ volleyball team is having a strong season.

In their first game against Danbury, co-captain Linnea Jagenberg ’21 played an important role in the victory.

Jagenberg has conflicting feelings about her senior volleyball season.

Changes like full time masks, fewer members on a team and limited spectators are hard to adjust to, but at the same time, she feels lucky to play and is optimistic about potential policy changes.

“I have mixed feelings about it.” Overall, I am happy about it because at least we got a season,” Jagenberg said. “Of course, I would always love to play a lot more teams, but I’m just happy that we have the chance.”

Photo by Jess Leon ’22

Photo by Giselle Oldani ’22

FALL ATHLETES (left to right) Annabelle Iannone ’21, Lucas Dimyan ’21, Sarah Corneck ’21 and Kate Smith ’22 are able to play fall sports despite COVID-19 restrictions.

The girls’ soccer team is coming off of an exceptional 2019 season.

This season started off slowly with four weeks of tryouts and limited physical contact.

In spite of this, the team opened with a 2-0 win over Danbury.

Captain Gaby Gonzalez ’22 is optimistic for the upcoming season and saw their first game as a promising start.

Regardless of the team’s modified season, Gonzalez just wants to play.

“I am very happy with the soccer season we are having,” Gonzalez ’22 said.

“Although it is different from past years, I am fortunate enough to have any season at all.”