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August 27, 2013
2013- 2014 Inside the Issue
Students travel to Signapore
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Who Cares About The Royal Baby?
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2 News
Inklings / August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com PHOTO BY WILL MCDONALD ’14
Homecoming to be Played Under the Friday Night Lights The Administration Acts on Trust WILL MCDONALD ’14 & SIMON STRACHER ’14 Managing Editor & Social Media Managing Editor
LighƟng Up The Night (above): A packed crowd turned out for the first game under the lights last September, a 49-28 victory over St. Joes. Geƫng Rowdy (below): Staples Superfans are sure to show up in full force with their usual “whiteout” attire for this year’s homecoming game. PHOTO BY RYDER CHASIN ’14
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n September 20th, the annual Staples High School senior motorcade will roll into the school parking lot to enjoy a homecoming football game that, for the first time in school history, will be played under the lights on a late-summer Friday evening. While an outsider may view this as a unimportant occurrence – since the installation of the lights last year, Friday nights have become the customary kick-off time for Staples football – the decision to change the homecoming game time reflects not just a change in the football team’s schedule, but a resurging trust that the administration has in the student body. This trust frayed four years ago, when a number of students attended the 2009 homecoming football game after consuming alcohol, with five ultimately sent to the hospital. However, with an entirely different student population now populating the halls of Staples, Principal John Dodig is willing to try something new. “I firmly believe that there’s always room for redemption. Every four years is a brand new world here,” Dodig said. Since 2009, which Dodig described as a “fiasco,” homecoming games have been held in late October at 10 a.m. on a Saturday, with last year’s homecoming moved under the lights on a Thursday due to scheduling conflicts created by Hurricane Sandy. Prior to the first Friday night game last year, Principal Dodig met with the entire senior class and stressed that there would be consequences for any student caught under the influence. According to Dodig, last year’s season of Friday night football passed largely incident-free. After last year’s good behavior, Dodig began asking students if they thought students could handle a Friday night homecoming. Their answers were all in the affirma-
tive. He also met with a group of students from the Teen Awareness Group (TAG) to discuss the potential for underage drinking at a Friday night homecoming. “We told Principal Dodig that we were confident that if given this opportunity, students would stay safe and have a great experience,”
to be,” said president of Superfans Andrew Felmon ’14. While Felmon did find the idea of a night game atmosphere thrilling, he was equally pleased by the fact that the scheduling of the game highlights “that the fans have earned the trust of the administration. It shows how far we’ve come
“(Having the game under the Friday night lights) fits the stereotype of what senior year homecoming is supposed to be,” –Andrew Felman ’14 said co-President of TAG Gabbie Leblanc ’14. “We have already had successful and safe night games, so we believe that homecoming will be a success as well.” The prospect of a homecoming under the lights has students, especially seniors, very excited. “I’m thrilled because it’s something we’ve never had before, and it fits the stereotype of what senior year homecoming is supposed
from a couple years ago.” For anyone looking to violate that trust, Dodig stresses that the consequence will be severe and clear-cut. According to Dodig, anyone caught under the influence at the game will not be walking the stage with his or her class at graduation in June. Leblanc hopes that students are aware that the consequences go further than just being personal.
“If anyone did choose to behave badly at the game, they should know that they would be embarrassing not only themselves, but they would be casting a bad light on the student body as a whole,” she said. Felmon thinks this year’s homecoming will come and go without incident. “I just don’t think anyone wants to be known as the person – or the class – who ruined homecoming,” he said. Dodig stressed that he was not on a crusade to end underage drinking at Staples – he just wants students to have the self-control to regulate themselves in public. “I tell students that I’m old enough and wise enough to know that I cannot regulate what they do in their personal lives,” he said. “All I ask is that for the two or three hours that a school event takes place, they behave and comport themselves according to school rules,” he said. “I’m taking time out of my life to be there, as are other teachers, and we hope that
students respect that and behave accordingly.” While many seniors are excited about the change, for juniors, the excitement comes mixed with another feeling: apprehension. Any potential long-term punishment would impact them during their senior year. “Homecoming for the past two years has provided some terrific games to watch with friends alongside me, and this year should only be better now that it’s under the lights,” said Luis Cruz ’13. “I just hope everyone can have fun and enjoy themselves without getting too rowdy, because I really want and deserve experience the same thing my senior year.” Dodig made clear that a handful of bad-behaving “outliers” would not be enough to merit a change in the way Staples does homecoming. However, if it is clear that the behavior is widespread, Dodig’s choice is simple. “We’d just go back to Saturday morning homecomings,” he paused. “Or no homecoming.”
Back to School Inklings /August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
In Brief
Welcome Back to School From Mr. Dodig
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s you know, this has been a very short summer in which to get everything done to prepare for another school year. Our student population will be about the same as it was last year which means we are at about 100% room use. Most high schools like to operate at between 80% and 85% room use to provide teachers their own classroom. We have created one new space by moving the Social Studies/English Learning Center down the corridor to what was a book closet and making that former space into a regular classroom. The bad news in all of this is that we will remain at full capacity for the next few years. The good news is that people keep moving to Westport and have confidence send-
Class Changes
We will begin our work this September to identify what this indicator really means to students and what specific things we can do to improve. I will be keeping everyone at Staples informed on the progress of this committee and asking for help once we have identified what we can do to improve. I think everyone at Staples and in the Westport community knows how proud I am of our school and the climate that we have created and maintain each year. In my graduation speech I said that, for the most part, Staples students have bought into Mark Elliot’s mantra “live and let live.” At Staples, it is both cool to be smart and also cool to be kind. Without everyone buying into that concept, however, it would be impossible to have the school environment we all enjoy. We all play a vital part and must continue to work together to maintain what we have and improve where we can. I look forward to another great year at Staples and to meeting our new freshmen who have to learn about the culture of Staples.
ing their children to Staples. We have a great reputation. A new state law requires all public schools to conduct School Climate surveys. There are many schools in Connecticut that fail to provide a safe, risk-free environment. Students in those schools and their parents complain about bullying and harassment. Each school must have a plan to improve on its weaknesses. The results of our survey was extremely positive. In fact, the representatives of the company that created the survey presented the findings to our Board of Education. They said that they rarely see such positive results and that all of Westport’s schools had similar results. Our area of weakness (although it was not a negative, but just the lowest of all the scores) was in the area of Sense of Social-Emotional Security. We now have a School Climate Committee with members of the staff, parents and students.
At Staples, it is both cool to be smart and also cool to be kind.
First Day of School Schedule Homeroom
15 Minutes
7:30-7:45
35 Minutes
7:55-8:30
35 Minutes
8:35-9:10
35 Minutes
9:15-9:50
35 Minutes
9:55-10:30
65-80 Minutes
10:35-12:15
35 Minutes
12:20-12:55
35 Minutes
1:00-1:35
35 Minutes
1:40-2:15
Period 1 Period 2 Period 3 Period 4
Aug. 27, 28 Aug. 27: Seniors and Juniors Aug. 28: Sophomores and Freshman Report to the guidance suite during lunch if schedule adjustments are needed. *Bring a note from home if you wish to drop a class.
Picture Day Aug. 28, 29 During English classes, students will take their yearbook and student ID photos.
Homecoming Sept. 20 The football team’s homecoming game will take place Friday night, under the lights.
PSAT Sign Ups Sept.23 - Oct. 11 Sept. 23 - Sept. 27: Tickets $47 Sept. 30 - Oct. 4: Tickets $50 Oct. 7 - Oct. 11: Tickets $60 Approximately 400 tickets will be available for sale in the Guidance Suite during the three lunch waves. *Test for juniors only; no walk-ins
First Contest Day Sept.10 Field Hockey, Football, Girls Swimming, Girls Volleyball, Boys and Girls Cross Country, Boys and Girls Soccer CIAC games commence on this day.
Period 5 Period 6 Period 7 Period 8
Editors-in-Chief Katie Cion Hannah Foley “Silver Crown Award” for Inklingsnews.com from Columbia Scholastic Press Association 2012 “Silver Crown Award” for Newspaper Columbia Scholastic Press Association 2012 “Pace Maker Finalist” from National Scholastic Press Association 2013
All the opinions, news, and features in this paper are those of Staples High School students. Inklings has a circulation of 1,800. The paper is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and supports the Student Press Law Center. All letters to the editor must be signed before they will be published. The editorial board reserves the right not to publish letters and to edit all submissions as it sees fit.
Managing Editors Rachel Labarre Will McDonald Web Managing Editors Ryder Chasin Eliza Llewelyn Breaking News Managing Editors Sophie DeBrujin Aaron Hendel Social Media Editor Simon Stracher Graphics Coordinator Nate Rosen (chief) Liana Sonenclar News Editors Bailey Ethier Claudia Landowne
Claire Lewin Cadence Neenan Opinions Editors Alexandra Benjamin Jackie Cope Larissa Lieberson Claire Quigley
Features Editors Greta Bjornson Zoe Brown Andrea Frost Sophia Hampton Arts & Entertainment Editors Caroline Cohen Olivia Kalb Emma Muro Katie Settos Sports Editors Claudia Chen Gabrielle Feinsmitb Deanna Hartog Zach McCarthy
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For continual updates check www.inklingsnews.com
Web News Editors Ben Goldschlager Jessica Gross Web Opinions Editors Abbey Fernandez Eliza Yass Web Features Editors Luke Foreman Caroline Rossi Web Arts & Entertainment Editors Kaila Finn Nicole DeBlasi Web Sports Editors Bobby Jacowleff Kelsey Shockey Business Managers Elizabeth Camche Staff Artist Olivia Crosby
Advisers Mary Elizabeth Fulco Rebecca Marsick Julia McNamee Correspondence and Subscriptions: Inklings 70 North Ave. Staples High School Westport, CT 06880 Phone: (203) 341–1994 Inklingsnews@gmail.com Printed on recycled paper
4 Back to School Student Curtails Vacation Plans Inklings /August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
Rise in Violence Isolates Egypt Massoud, interviewed last week, added that he is also conSports Editor cerned for the country as a whole, which is suffering. “It’s too bad. But it’s bad for ast year, political turmoil in Egypt erupted into the whole country as well; it rerevolution and developed lies deeply on tourism.” While Massoud acknowlinto more than a year of violence. This summer’s violence, edged his disappointment in the though, leaving hundreds dead cancellation of this summer’s and thousands injured, disrupted trip, he said he does not regret the country further and isolated avoiding any possible danger. “In the last week and a half, the country from the rest of the world, as international travelers traveling has turned to crap. A changed their vacation plans and lot of planes have been cancelled, headed elsewhere. That included and getting out of the country is Nick Massoud ’15 and his family. extremely difficult.” Last week, the U.S. State Massoud, whose father is Egyptian, planned to make a re- Department urged citizens not to turn trip to the country with his travel to Egypt for that exact reason. Accordfamily in ing to USA February of Today, mul2011. But tiple airlines escalating are continualviolence ly cancelling proved too flights, leavgreat a risk ing travelers both then stranded in and more re-Nick Massoud ’15 the increascently, Masingly tumulsoud said. “Up until a month ago travel tuous country. Massoud maintains some was completely possible if you know where you went, but most hope for other parts of the napeople have stopped going any- tion outside of Cairo, the capital way,” Massoud said. “Some, like of Egypt: “I also don’t think that my grandpa and cousins, were violence and travel are mutually able to stay safe, but I think the exclusive. During some of the most recent protests have opened smaller clashes recently, trouble was really limited to the center of a Pandora’s box of violence.” ZACH MCCARTHY ’16
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“The most recent protests have opened a Pandora’s box of violence.”
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY NICK MASSOUD ’15
Too dangerous to travel: Massoud and his younger brothers pose near the pyramids during their last family trip to Egypt in 2009. The violence has prevented families like Massoud’s from returning.
Cairo…Over the next six months it’s possible for the protests to become smaller and secluded.” Egyptian unrest began more than a year ago, and more than 600 Egyptians have been killed in the most recent string of protests. Earlier this summer, the country’s armed forces forced
then-president Mohamed Morsi out of office, leading to violence between supporters of the coup and supporters of Morsi. Massoud said he chooses no side. “There are different protests, and I think they individually can do good or bad.” And like many other observ-
ers, Massoud doubts that Egypt can return to normalcy within the year. “You have to remember that these revolutions and changes in the government take years to fully mature, and then, even after that, the country is still generally unstable.”
Back to School
Inklings / August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
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Students Spell Out Compassion in Summer Play
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MICHAEL MATHIS ’15 Staff Writer
uly 13 was a magical night at Toquet Hall. Laughs soared to the rafters, applause thundered aggressively. The whole event closed out with a tear-fi lled crowd watching on as a large check was given out to the rightful winner. It was the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Only, it really wasn’t a spelling bee. For starters, the winner was Best Buddies. On the weekend of July 12 and July 13, a cast and crew of over 10 students performed The “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a musical which takes place at a spelling bee competition, where six quirky students ages 8-12 compete to spell their way to the championship. “It’s more about each of the spellers learning new things about themselves and gaining knowledge that won’t necessarily help them in a spelling bee, but will help them for life,” says Alexandra Rappaport, who was assistant director for the show. The show was done in an effort to raise money for Best Buddies, Staples’s largest club, which creates one-on-one
GͳIͳVͳIͳNͳG BͳAͳCͳK: Students take part in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee in order to raise money for Best Buddies.
friendships between students and other students who have developmental or intellectual disabilities. The show raised $2510.80, enough to send three Best Buddies members to the International Leadership Conference at Indiana University. Jack Bowman ‘15, who played Leaf Coneybear, recounted giving the
check as “magical.” Gregg Bonti ‘12, who directed, and Sami Schwaeber ‘12, who both co-produced and acted in the show, are both studying at University of Vermont and were both former leaders of Best Buddies. While away at school, they had begun to miss their organization. “During our freshman year,
Sami and I were looking for a club similar to Best Buddies that could keep us busy during the year, but unfortunately we couldn’t fi nd anything similar. Throughout the year we both really missed Best Buddies and couldn’t wait to visit the club and the buddies on our school breaks,” Bonti says. After learning that the Best
Buddies budget was “rocky,” Sami and Gregg felt compelled to give back to the organization, and so decided to put on Spelling Bee. Bonti, who formerly acted in the show, had fallen in love with the musical, which he and Sami agreed was perfect for their cause. The show operated on a shoestring budget. The lighting equipment was provided by Staples High School and Bedford Middle School, while the costumes and props came from donations by Guilford High School, and even just objects found around the house. The cast consisted of student actors who were simply asked if they wanted to perform. Bryan Gannon ‘14 jumped at the opportunity. “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to make people laugh for a good cause,” said Gannon. Although the show has ended, Rappaport insists that the memories and experience have taught her a lot. “I’d say the biggest thing is that it’s so easy to give back and to make a difference. It hardly ever felt like we were working; we were just putting on a piece of theatre and were able to make such a huge difference doing so,” said Rappaport.
“Bye Bye Birdie” Flies High JUSTINE SELIGSON ’15 Staff Writer For Staples Players, there wasn’t much time to relax once school ended in June, as rehearsals started soon after for the summer production of “Bye Bye Birdie,” a 1960s musical. With the premiere on July 26, Players were in a time crunch. “I believe this rehearsal time was the shortest we’ve ever had to do a summer show,” said Maddy Rozynek ’14, who played Mae Peterson. “We were still running scenes days before it opened.” Despite the strenuous hours of preparation for an
early opening, reviews of the experience from cast and crew were all positive. “I love spending my summer doing this,” said Vig Namasivayam ’16, an assistant director. “Even though it’s hard work, it’s so much fun.” Because of its summer timing, the community of Players expanded to include students from other parts of Fairfield County, as well as incoming freshman – and a seventh grader. Players needed someone to play young Randolph, and Nick Rossi ’19, was a perfect choice. Noa Wind ’15 who played Nancy described Rossi as “awesome in learning the ropes.” Overall, Players said the production was a major success. “The lights, the sets, the singing, the dancing,” said Namasivayam. “It turned out extremely well.”
WE LOVE YOU CONRAD: Conrad (Jack Siegenthaller) is embraced by his fan club members. PHOTO BY KERRY LONG
- Gabrielle, U. Penn
PHOTO BY KERRY LONG
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Back to School Inklings /August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
Moving In
New Teachers Prepare Fo
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flyer? quent e r f al of a as ear. Surviv y ? k Years th o in o my n uideb This is our go-to g n Moalem y s venaro ’ t h Wha Dr. S new ad let y a b t r s o e f k the Sic you prepare to prepare, I h o e me How d o not do muc venture driv d d a I e ? ture t of th r itemen id you the exc here d W lk . . s a d r le w forwa t Stap years at Nor lowe d nded a You la iginate? Two Fairfield Lu r at o ix t s h t s ig fl pa chool; nning, High S ool. ry? Ru a h r c e S in h Hig ur it s on yo . What’ out, crafting g workin
Cody Thomas Years as a frequent flyer? 0 – I’m a first year teacher! What’s your go to guidebook? Ulysses by James Joyce How do you prepare for a new adventure? I don’t pack much and trust my English sense of direction. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? As a journalist at Revolver Magazine and The Stamford Advocate. What’s on your itinerary? I play bass guitar and write creatively.
Rebecca Marsick
Scott Lee
English
Science
Years as a frequent flyer? 15 What’s your go-to guidebook? A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving How do you prepare for a new adventure? I read a lot and ask a lot of questions! You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? Bedford Middle School What’s on your itinerary? Reading, cooking, and spending time with my kids.
Years as a frequent flyer? Thr ee. What’s your go-to guidebook ? Hard to say, there are so many. How do you prepare for a new adventure? I study and learn about all the possibilities. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? Joel Bar low High School in Redding, Ma suk High School in Monroe What’s on your itinerary? Ma king music, restoring musical inst ruments.
Alycia Dadd
Colin Neenan
Library
Rob Papp
Math
Years as a frequent flyer? 18 years. What’s your go-to guidebook? Blood Meridan by Cormac McCarthy How do you prepare for a new adventure? Deep breaths. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? Trumbull High School. What’s on your itinerary? I like to read, write, and argue.
Years as a fr equent flye r? T for second se mester last ye his is my first full year. I was at Sta ar. What’s you ples r go Lamb, The C -to guidebook? I Know ompass of Z This Much is en by Zen M True by Wal How do you aster Seun S ly prepare for ahn a new adve people as po nture? Speak ssible. Go in to as many to things wit to learn. h an open m ind and enth You landed usiasm at Staples. Wh Staples last spring and di ere did your flight orig inate? I was d my studen School last t teaching at at fall. New Canaa What’s on n High your itinerar y? Tennis, ch yoga. ess, skiing, meditation an d
PHOTOS BY BEN GOLDSCHLAGER AND JUSTINE SELIGSON
Special Education Years as a frequent flyer? Eight years What’s your go-to guidebook? “Oh the Places You’ll Go” – Dr. Seuss. How do you prepare for a new adventure? Observe, listen and be courageous. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? I have been at Pleasantville High School in Westchester County for the past 8 years. What’s on your itinerary? My itinerary includes spending time with my two young daughters, gardening and playing golf. I am also a rather enthusiastic Giants fan.
Not Pictured: Danielle McRedmond (Social Studies), Jeff Doornweerd (Physical Education)
Back to School
Inklings / August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
or Their Stay at Staples r
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Science Years as a frequent flyer? One – long term sub and homebound tutor. What’s your go-to guidebook? Hard to choose. Many different Biology texts. How do you prepare for a new adventure? Planning, lists, look at all the “what ifs” – then be flexible to allow things (the best laid plans) to change. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? Private Agriculture Company Corporate America New Fairfield District What’s on your itinerary? Golf, two teenage daughters, coach (assist) youth cheerleading.
Thomas Brown Years as a frequent flyer? Two years What’s your go-to guidebook? I read Atlas Shrugged recently and enjoyed it very much, however, if you are asking about a guidebook I think I more often reference Guidance the Duct Tape Book for its numerous and creative uses of Duct Tape for dealing with life’s circumstances. How do you prepare for a new adventure? I check my pockets for my cell phone, wallet, and keys. After that I am out the door, all in and ready for whatever opportunities come my way. I try to constantly challenge myself as a means of continuous learning to acquire as many skills as I can. You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? I worked as an intern for one year at Greenwich High School, in Greenwich, CT and one year at Blind Brook High School in Rye Brook, NY. What’s on your itinerary? I have quite a few hobbies, here is a list of some of them: Ultimate Frisbee (I like playing almost all sports), theater (acting/directing), guitar, volleyball, pool, rock climbing, backpacking, yard work, wood working, and movies. I also recently took a class in fire spinning which was really cool.
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Eight. uent flyer? eq fr a House of s a Years idebook? u g to o g r u What’s yo anielewski enMark Z. D a new adv Leaves by repare for p t u h o y ig n o d e How sleep th ng a lot of cat ture? Getti iving my malevolent g so he d ) an ts , it exis before – atonin (yes el m ty it k some up. your waking me doesn’t try Where did s. le p ta S t g a h ed ted teac in You land ? I first star te a in g ri o flight oke, MA. English al ool in Holy ch S h ig to get critic H vel, trying Technical ading, o n n re , ea y el D m av n J. o tr orking ational W rn at William ? te in ry , a g er in hik ur itin ry journals, What’s yo ed in litera sh li b u p es articl g and cookin
Social Studies Years as a frequent flyer? Eight years. What’s your go-to guidebook? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee How do you prepare for a new adventure? I plan, I think, and then I get started! You landed at Staples. Where did your flight originate? It was a short trip! I worked at Bedford. What’s on your itinerary? Reading, spinning and chasing after my two kids.
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8 Staples Goes Global Back to School
Inklings /August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
Students Study International Awareness in Singapore Eliza Llewellyn ’14 Web Managing Editor
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highlights of my ten days in Singapore,” Cody said. The trip was more than just a good time, though, as it emphasized social awareness and international communication. The trip stems from a partnership between the prestigious Hwa Chong Institute and the Westport schools through Columbia Teachers College. Director of Secondary Education Lisabeth Comm coordinates this partnership. As a direct result of this initiative, Staples was invited to send two top students to Hwa Chong’s International Leadership Institute, Comm said. Social Studies Department Chair James D’Amico and World Language Department Chair Maria Zachery chaperoned the trip. Each day at Hwa Chong
in other activities, from a river cruise around the city to tea with the president of Singapore. The evenings were time to socialize and work on group presentations dealing with social issues. The theme of the conference was “Global Inclusion, Shared Responsibility,” with a focus on solving global issues and encouraging socially active students. The summit’s website emphasized the importance of priming young leaders as “catalysts of change.” In accordance with this goal, each country created a presentation on a global issue. Cody, Schorr, and students from Scarsdale, NY and Sterling, VA made up the United States team and presented on the R2P Doctrine, an anti-genocide legislation. Other countries tackled issues
n a country 9,500 miles, 22 hours, and an ocean away, two Staples students spent ten days meeting students who represented 13 countries. Jack Cody ’14 and Warren Schorr ’14 traveled to the Hwa Chong Institute in Singapore from July 20 through July 31, participating in the Hwa Chong Asia-Pacific Young Leaders Summit. Involved in everything from paintball to presentations by ambassadors, the students forged global bonds with their international peers. Students said riendships were fortified through fun activities, which allowed them to loosen up after scheduled ambassador visits and presentations. Schorr enjoyed the chance “The ultimate take away is the need for global commuto do outdoor activi- nication and cooperation in order to strengthen both ties, like kayaking and the more ex- the education system in Singpapore and the education otic dragonboating. system in Westport. ” Cody’s favorite ac-Lisabeth Comm, Director of Secondary Education tivities were paintball, hip-hop dancing, a fashion show, and a night safari at a nearby zoo. started with a guest speaker, for like national disasters or gender “Some of the activities were example a business leader or inequality. so weird and I could have never the editor of a major SingaporAlthough the presentations imagined taking part in them be- ean newspaper. Then, students were grouped by country, stufore my trip, but they all were the toured the city and participated dents integrated to discuss the issues, fulfilling the global aspect of the summit. “It was pretty surreal,” Schorr said. “The kid on your left is from the UK, the kid on the right is from Oman, and the kid directly opposite you is from Japan, and you’re all in a country you’ve never been to before talking about issues you never thought you’d discuss.” FIT FOR EXCELLENCY: Teachers and students from around the world attending Students from the Hwa Chong Asia-Pacific Young Leaders Summit pose for a picture with the schools worldwide president of Singapore, Tony Tan Keng Yam. shared the same ap-
preciation for the program. “It was unity in diversity,” said Arjun Praveen, a student from India and Schorr’s roommate. “Even though there were differences, we shared many of the same interests.” Melissa Hinkley, a student from England, roomed with a student from China. “I was feeling pretty daunted STANDING IN FOR STAPLES: Schorr and Cody were initially, but afthe only two Westport students representing the ter sitting and United States among 13 other coutnries at the Hwa talking with her Chong Insitute. and teaching her some English, her showing me postcards from the Xi’an prov- Hwa Chong is one of the best ince, and watching her play pia- schools in Singapore. “The ulno, we became close friends so timate take away is the need for quickly despite how different in global communication and copersonality and culture we were.” operation in order to strengthen Beyond unique activities both the education system in and international friendships, Singpapore and the education students encountered the unique system in Westport,” Comm said. culture of Singapore itself. Hwa Chong and the West“The lack of any visible litter port Public Schools will continue on the ground pretty much any- their partnership: each received where you go is kind of an anal- a $100,000 research grant from ogy for their approach to things,” the Singapore National Institute Schorr said, describing Singa- for Education for a comparative pore’s disciplined atmosphere. study of the school systems. “You can get fined for This fall, Columbia Teachers so many things,” Cody add- College and Singapore National ed. Offenses include spitting, Institute researchers will have a chewing gum, eating on the presence in classrooms both at subway, and feeding birds. Staples and Hwa Chong. Both students agreed, howStaples will be invited to ever, that Singapore offers a cul- send two students to next year’s turally rich experience. summit, Comm said. “The culture is far from sterCody and Schorr, the first ile,” Schorr said. “There’s vibran- Staples students to attend, had cy behind everything coupled highly positive reactions overall. with a remarkable efficiency that “Anyone who has the chance to has contributed greatly to the na- represent Staples at the summit tion’s rapid growth.” next year should seize the opporThe nation excels in educa- tunity,” Cody said. tion, and according to Comm,
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY JAMES D’AMICO
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n u d o r T A h l l eW A m o o r r l F
79
Total delegates
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A mer ic a n high schools
13 Countries
41 38 Girls
Boys GRAPHIC BY RACHEL LABARRE ’14
Fierce Four: Staples Gymnasts Train Over the Summer ALE BENJAMIN ’15 Opinions Editor
O
ver the summer, teenagers fi nd thousands of ways to fill their time, from wrangling 8-year-olds at day camps to lounging under the scorching sun at Compo beach. But imagine spending the long awaited school holidays with 20 or more hours a week on the balance beam, uneven bars, the vault and the spring floor. This summer, four Staples High School girls committed their days to gymnastic training. Twin sisters Kristen and Pamela Onorato, ’15, along with fellow Staples students Eliza Donovan ’16 and Hannah Rose ’16, all train and compete at Arena Gymnastics in Stamford,
Connecticut, both during the school year and over the summer. According to their website, Arena Gymnastics offers practices for students anywhere from preschool age onwards. The gym’s primary goal is providing an environment in which students develop individual skills, with emphasis on fun, sportsmanship and safety. The Staples representatives at Arena can certainly attest to these qualities. “[Everyone at Arena Gymnastics] is focused, works hard everyday and wants to do their absolute best,” Rose said. “Having that energy around the gym is really motivational and en-
PHOTO BY LIANA SONENCLAR ’14
Chalk It Up: Gymnasts chalk their hands in preparation for practice.
couraging.” Kristen has a similar attitude. “The training I have received [at Arena] has helped me excel as a gymnast and a person.” The Onorato twins practiced five hours every day for seven weeks this summer, with only two week-long breaks at the beginning and end of summer. Rose and Donovan also trained five hours a day, but only four days a week. The girls’ staggering workloads would leave many exhausted at the mere thought of them. But when thinking about what motivation and drive she needs to keep up this rigorous schedule, Kristen has no trouble coming up with an answer. “It’s simple,” she concludes. “The love of the sport.” Pamela agrees. “It’s something I love to do, so I enjoy spending time there.” Pamela also benefits from the nature of constant evolution that gymnastics presents. “I like setting goals and achieving them,” Pamela says. “With gymnastics, you can improve every day, and there is almost always something you can do better.” Even with these strong beliefs, the girls still face many challenges with this commitment. “Summer prac-
Back to School
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Inklings / August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
PHOTO BY LIANA SONENCLAR ’14
Balancing Act: Deanna Baris ’14 practices on the balance beam at Arena Gymnastics.
tices are tough,” admits Rose. “Practices are longer and the gym is hotter, but they are also the most fun because it’s when we can start working on new skills for the next competition season.” Kristen agrees that the level of intensity over the summer is well worth it. “I love learning new skills and working harder to become the best I can be.” The Onoratos have been
practicing and competing in gymnastics at Arena since they were in second grade when they started at the gym’s fi rst compulsory level (four). The twins have since progressed to level nine, the second highest level a. Hannah and Eliza are close behind their older teammates, both currently training for level eight. With all their progress and achievements, the girls show no signs of stopping anytime soon. “We would both love to do gymnastics in college,” Kristen said of herself and her sister. “We’ll train longer and work harder academically to make this a possibility.”
“With gymnastics, you can improve every day, and there is almost always something you can do better.” -Pamela Onorato ’15
10Back to School
FI FIRE REFL FLY Y LE LEAD ADSS TH THEE WA WAY: Y: Bartaco Bart Ba rtac aco o si sign gn ssho g hows ws customers ccus usto tome mers rs tto o the the new new restaurant rest re stau aura rant nt scene ssce cene ne FIREFLY LEADS shows
Inklings /August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
Bartaco Shows Westport A Little Flavor KACEY HERTAN ’16 & KAILA FINN ’16 Staff Writers
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his summer, Westport had it’s fair share of trendy, new restaurants. Including options like Terrain and Spotted Horse, residents flocked to farmto-table eateries complete with almost all-organic menus and gourmet freshness. But with all of the hip restaurants that were popular this summer, Bartaco seemed to win over everyone’s hearts, and stomachs. After opening about three months ago, Bartaco keeps things very busy with a menu mixing traditional Mexican f lare with lighter, luxurious f lavors. Or, as their Facebook page puts it, “tacos and tequila on the water”.
An outside afternoon meal was the perfect way to appreciate Westport’s beauty by the Saugatuck River at Bartaco on Saturday. The friendly atmosphere was welcoming from the beginning, and the serene blue and white décor, similar to the staff ’s fashionable uniforms, invites guests to sit down for a long and enjoyable meal. A fresh take on ordering, Bartaco uses little cards to choose the dishes you want and a special “Dragonf ly” card, the restaurant’s logo, as a sign for assistance. These numerous instructions of how to order were overwhelming at first but resulted in pleasingly efficient service and a playful part of our meal. The menu presented many
tacos, of course, tamales, other small-plate style tastes, and was dotted with classics updated to have a Mexican twist such as the Chile Slaw. We settled on ordering the Chicken and Pork Tamales, lime and cojita corn, several tacos, the Chicken Rice Bowl, stewed beans, and the Chile Slaw. The food came out promptly, within 15 minutes of ordering. From the first bite of perfectly seasoned chicken taco, we could taste the authenticity. The few simple ingredients of the Chicken Taco combined seamlessly. The Curry Shrimp Taco was no exception; it boasted a wonderful combination of textures and expertly mixed f lavors. In addition, the
Chicken Rice Bowl tasted like authentic paella with creamy rice, fresh peppers, and the same f lavorful chicken from the tacos. Disappointingly, the Chicken Tamale was a bit dry and lacking in f lavor, but the Pork Belly Tamale was filled with succulent meat and had a luscious corn shell. Even those not typically fans of pork enjoyed this meal because of its excellent preparation. Bartaco’s modern vibe not only shines in the food, but also the atmosphere and staff. There are several Staples students, adding to the young demeanor of the restaurant. In a phone conversation with Bartaco’s manager, Phillip, it was evident PHOTOS BY KACEY HERTAN ’16
YOU’VE BEEN SERVED: Alanna Zavoico ’14 works as the hostess at Bartaco throughout the week.
that Staples students had a large part of Bartaco’s staff. Some of the students who had worked or are working at the restaurant included Bailey Valente ’13, Matt Mula ’13, Alanna Zavoico ’14, and Ben Root ’12. With f lavorful food, fun service, and a fresh vibe, Bartaco has certainly added to Westport’s food scene. Bartaco’s f lavorful food, fashionable decor, and prime location on the river make it the perfect place for Westport Residents to enjoy the town’s beauty and some great food!
WHAT’S ALL THE TACO ‘BOUT? Customers enjoy their lunch sitting outside on Bartaco’s patio. One of their popular specialties is the Chile Slaw.
From Staples to the Silver Screen Staples Alum Produces Successful Film JORDAN GOODNESS ’16 Staff Writer
Every year at graduation, friends and family cram into the noisy field house to send another class out into the dark and scary world. But what actually happens after they walk out the doors of Staples High School? Many students in fact accomplish great, exciting things. A prime example of a student who did this is David Kaplan ‘03. Once graduated from Staples, Kaplan waved goodbye to his family and said “hello” to pursuing his longtime dream of film producing. “David always took produc-
CONTRIBUTED BY STAPLES YEARBOOK
CONTRIBUTED BY ADAM KAPLAN ’16
ing seriously” Stephen Rexford said. At Staples until this year and Kaplan’s teacher when he attended school here, Rexford now teaches 8th grade Language Arts
at Bedford Middle School. “I think it’s great when former students like David contribute to the arts.” So, after studying film at
Colgate University, Kaplan went on to co-own Animal Kingdom Films, a film production company that released “Short Term 12.” The movie was a resounding success in the film festival circuit, and is now set to be released to the public at large. Kaplan was an executive producer for the film, which tells the story of Grace (played by actress Brie Larson), a supervisor at a foster care center. As the film proceeds, Grace struggles with her difficult past and tries to create a better future not only for at-risk teenagers, but also for her boyfriend Mason (John Gallagher Jr.) and herself. “The movie was about children and foster homes,” Rexford
said. “To be an executive producer who takes risks supporting tough stories for the mainstream public is really cool.” The film was praised for its real and touching story line and received the Grand Jury Award and the Audience Award at the South by Southwest Film Festival. “I’d like to think, in baseball terms, that the movie is a walk-off grand slam,” Kaplan said. “It’s been doing really well in the Indie genre.” The acting in the movie has also been praised. Brie Larson’s performance was deemed “Oscar worthy” by Vanity Fair. “Short Term 12” began playing in select theatres starting August 23.
STAPLES GETS STARS: www.imdb.com gave “Short Term 12” 7.7 out of 10 stars
Back to School
DRAWINGS BY OLIVIA CROSBY ’15
Inklings / August 27, 2013 / inklingsnews.com
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Brandy Melville Ever since Brandy, a clothing store, opened in Westport in the spring, Staples students have been going crazy. Everyone has been wearing Brandy head to toe, and this summer is no exception. “It almost creates unity when every girl in Staples High School is wearing the exact same thing,” Noah Prince ’15 said. Look out for hipster crop tops, floral sundresses, and loose shorts throughout the hallways.
LARISSA LIEBERSON ’15 Opinions Editor
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hat’s summer without a bunch of trends that burn out before the leaves can change color? Every year there’s something new–whether it be a shocking music video, an absurd fashion accessory or a delicious new treat. This year is definitely no exceptio exception, and here’s a list of 10 of them.
Rainbow Loom We’ve seen them everywhere– the colorful bracelets crafted from rubber bands, braided together by every kid in town. The wristbands are sold at most toy stores and swept the nation this summer in particular, since people make them at camp.
We Can’t Stop by Miley Cyrus I’m sure most people can say that this hot song of the summer has been in their heads at one point or another, mainly because it’s so catchy. Plus, what’s better than surveilling a girl who used to be Hannah Montana try and rebel in the R rated music video? “It’s pretty much an advertisement for Beats and Eos,” Mikaela Dedona ’15 said.
Twerking As Urban Dictionary puts it, “twerking” is “the rhythmic gyrating of the lower fleshy extremities in a lascivious manner with the intent to elicit sexual arousal or laughter in one’s intended audience.” And that’s pretty much the only way to describe it:there have been hundreds of YouTube videos posted this summer of people “twerking” in any place imaginable, like Walmart, night clubs, the beach, and even weddings.
Royal Babies Between Kim’s new baby princess, and Kate Middleton’s heir to the throne, this has definitely been a summer full of celebrity gossip. “I think Kate’s baby should have been named Spencer because it was Princess Diana’s maiden name,” Marianne Garcia, a secretary at Staples High School said. “I’m just going to call him Spencer anyways.” Although these children have only been kicking for a few months, they have starred on many recent magazines and tabloids.
BAILEY ETHIER ’15 News Editor
I spent five weeks at my summer camp down in Marble Falls, Texas this summer, isolated from the rest of the word. No phone, television, or Internet.
Who Cares? Upon retrieving my phone, I wanted to get checked up on everything that had happened for the past five weeks. The first story I saw wasn’t that George Zimmerman was found not guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin or that Edward Snowden, the National Security Agency (NSA) whistleblower, was granted temporary asylum in Russia. No. It was that an eight pound six ounce baby had been born in London, England, and was now
third in line to the British throne. Let me sum up my thoughts in two words. Who cares? The world had nine months to prepare for the birth of Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge. It isn’t like the birth came out of nowhere to shock the world. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, but I fail to understand all the interest in the birth of their son. According to journalism. co.uk, on the day of the royal birth BBC News had 19.4 million visitors, the second most visitors the news agency has ever received in a day. And on CNN.com, a story about photos of the new prince has over 1,300 comments and over 2,000 Facebook recommendations. Another story on CNN. com about how Egyptians are coping with the violence in their country, that was posted the same
day as the photo story, has 35 comments and seven recommendations. The fact that more of us are concerned about a baby than a revolution is almost embarrassing. For starters, someone who is a little over a month old doesn’t need his own Wikipedia page. And whoever is updating daily the prince’s age needs something better to do with his or her time. It isn’t that I hate the baby, only horrible people hate babies, and I don’t consider myself a horrible person. I simply don’t understand all the media attention he is receiving at a time when there is debate across our country about gay rights, the legalization of marijuana and ObamaCare. Maybe we as a society are trying to ignore all of the problems in our world and simply turn our attention towards something less negative. Why think about the conflicts in the Middle East
when you can think about a baby? And if the media is going to focus all of its attention on a baby and his parents, who wouldn’t rather have it focus on Prince George and his parents than North West, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian. Or maybe Americans are just really creepy and want to know everything there is to know about a baby halfway across the world that they will probably whom never come into contact with. Most likely the latter.
DRAWING BY OLIVIA CROSBY ’15
The Royal Baby is a Royal Pain
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Westport Little League Shines on the World JIMMY RAY STAGG ’16
PHOTOS BY JIMMY RAY STAGG ’16
Staff Writer
M
att Brown rounds third base, the crowd on their feet, slows up just before home, and finally slaps his hand on the plate before being swarmed by his teammates after a long home run to give Westport their only three runs of the game. Unfortunately, this wasn’t enough to get the win against California in a thrilling 6-3 game that went nine innings. This Wednesday night loss put Westport in a game against Washington Thursday night, for the right to play in the American championship against California on Saturday night. The winner of that game was then to go on to the World Championship Sunday. However the series ended, though, players, coaches and Staples siblings agreed that the season that led to last week’s exciting and sometimes heartbreaking games was an enormous success for the team and town as well. One of the most important aspects of the team’s success through the summerlong playoffs is their pitching. Ben Rogers ’15, the brother of Little League starting center fielder Drew Rogers, is confident enough to say, “With the two aces they have and a solid back up in [Max] Popken, I think their pitching staff is the best in the tournament.” The two aces are Harry Azadian and Chad Knight. Both of these boys are shutdown pitchers, capable of silencing teams. Both of these boys have been on the Sports Center Top 10. Even Harry’s big brother Zack Azadian ’15 can’t believe it. “It still shocks me every time I see Hairball on TV. I’m just so proud.” However, with this success comes a question. What will change in Westport baseball? Rogers has an answer. “It proves to kids that Fairfield isn’t always the powerhouse.” Rogers was referring to the allstar teams chosen in Fairfield, who made it to the LLWS last year, as well as in 2010. Fairfield has long been the team to end Westport’s season in the early rounds, which, according to Offenberg, helped the team. “They lost heartbreakers to Fairfield for three straight years. But they
Sibling Nerves: Connor Whelan ’15 (son of Assistant Coach Tom Whelan) looks on as Nick Drbal ’14, Ben Rogers ’15, Topher Brown ’15, and Ian Offenberg ’16 watch their siblings during Sunday’s 9-7 nailbiter.
took those horrible memories and turned them into motivation.” This motivation took the form of hard work and desire. Nick Drbal ’14 helped his brother Chris, the team’s leadoff hitter, improve and strengthen his hitting. “I would throw him around 2 hours of BP a day. He would continue to ask for more and more rounds,” said Drbal. “All the boys are like that and [they] are all driven.” There is no doubt that Westport’s 1-2 punch of Knight and Azadian is a force to be reckoned with, but Azadian also looks at it from the flip side. “It’s just a question of [what they can make] happen offensively against such elite arms.” In their first LLWS game against Tennessee, Westport was losing but then managed a come-from-behind victory. According to the coach of the
A Little League team does big things
team, Tim Rogers (father of Ben and Drew), the team wasn’t always this composed. “This is one of the things the boys have learned over the last three years -- to compete until the end,” said Rogers. Topher Brown ‘15, brother of Little Leaguer Matt, attributes the team’s success to their patience. “This team doesn’t always start off hot, but they know the game isn’t over until the final out is made.” In the end, the one point that seemed unanimously agreed upon was that these boys earned their way here with hard work and talent. Drbal, put it simply. “These kids deserve every ounce of stardom they are currently receiving.” For Drbal and others, the outcome of the LLWS doesn’t matter that much. Ian Offenberg ’16, brother of the smoother-than-silk shortstop Ricky, put it this way:. “They’ve got all the talent in the world and who knows, maybe they bring it back to Westport, but that’s not the point. The real point is that they got here. They did it and they achieved their goal together. Anything else from here is just the cherry on top.”
Swinging Away: Ricky Offenberg takes a swing as Christopher Drbal leads off first base.
Quick Stats About Little League
4 8 13 18
Number of Connecticut teams that have won the Little League World Series in 55 years (Trumbull in 1989, Windsor Locks in 1965, Norwalk in 1952, and Stamford in 1951). Number of teams from America that qualify for the Little League World Series. Age limit for a player to be allowed to participate in Little League as of May 1, 2013. Number of consecutive games Westport won in order to qualify for the World Series.