Inflation precedes holidays

4 | NEWS

Graphic by 07 Kuhner ’24

impairs holiday spending, family traditions

Siena Petrosinelli ‘25 Web News Editor

Prices of food and gifts have soared due to inflation in the United States, leaving families worried about high expenditures during this holiday season, particularly for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cost-inflation occurs when the cost of producing materials increases, which, in turn, increases the prices of the products themselves. For instance, Investopedia analyzed that oil had risen from $3 to $12 per barrel due to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) banning their exportation of oil in America. As a result, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, consumer prices for food rose 11.2% from September 2021 to September 2022.

Jayme Stevenson, Republican candidate for Congress, discussed the impacts of the current inflation on residents at the Candidate Town Hall, which took place at Staples on Nov. 1.

“This is going to be a tough holiday,” Stevenson said. “To a person, the cost of living and affordability in Connecticut and across the country is really scaring people.’’

According to the Wisconsin State Farmer (WSF), prices of food have risen dramatically in the last year. Turkey prices have increased by 112%, from $3.16 a pound last year to $6.70 a pound this year. Eggs are another standout example, considering they are a key ingredient in so many holiday recipes. They have increased by 27% from around $1.70 for a dozen grade-A eggs to $2.34 this past year.

In light of anticipated expenditures, families are beginning to reconsider their plans for this year’s holiday season. Math teacher Kevin Cuccaro reflects on how his family will manage their spendings for Thanksgiving.

“We have discussed skipping the turkey on Thanksgiving and roasting a chicken instead because the price of turkey is so ridiculously high,” Cuccaro said. Westport parent Meredith Anand emphasized how she will be careful with her spendings on family members and friends for Christmas this year. “I will be more specific this season about my gift buying,” Anand said. “What I mean by that is I will make sure I know exactly what family members and close friends want and not buy superfluous items.” While many were excited by the holidays finally being free of pandemic restrictions, it is clear that this holiday season will have other factors potentially making it less than festive, especially for those who may have more limited funds. “[Low income families] won’t be able to get as many gifts under the Christmas tree,” Taylor Brunetti ’25 said, “and families won’t be able to purchase as many foods for Thanksgiving like turkey and stuffing.”

Infographic by Alex Gaines ’25

Prices

Local Briefs

Meg Enquist ‘23 Business Director

Dec. 2

Holiday Tree Lighting

The annual holiday tree lighting ceremony at Westport Town Hall will be held on Dec. 2 at 4:30 p.m. The Staples Orphenians will sing carols at the event.

Dec. 8 SHORT CUTS Film Festival: Narratives II

The Westport Public Library is hosting the 12th annual SHORT CUTS Film Festival on Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. Five narrative films will be shown, followed by a conversation with Director Harris Doran.

Dec. 16-17

Candelight Concert

The annual Candlelight Concert will be held at Staples High School on Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 3 and 8 p.m. The concert will feature the Staples symphonic orchestra, symphonic band and choir ensembles.