Tag Archives: Paul Lane

Roundup: Downtown Parking, “06880” Insta, Staples Skate Club …

Posted on May 8, 2024 | 11 comments

After several hours of debate, the Representative Town Meeting voted 25-10 last night to appropriate $630,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to proceed with the redesign of Parker Harding Plaza and Jesup Green.

A majority of members felt that the vote was necessary to move the project forward.

They noted that specific votes on, for example, removing trees from Jesup Green and adding a parking deck at the Baldwin lot or elsewhere could come later, once the funds have been appropriated.

Many RTM members indicated that although they approved this appropriation, they would not vote for removing trees from Jesup Green.

RTM moderator Jeff Wieser told “06880”: “We are 36 people and we seldom come away all happy from a discussion. We reached a place which 25 of us could support, and we kept the process going.  And before one chain saw is started, we will have a chance to stop it.

‘The RTM expressed great concern about touching Jesup Green. The RTM got a commitment from the (Tooker) administration to look at the feasibility of parking structures in 3 locations.

“The RTM was told that it would be a year before any plans were solidified to begin construction. The RTM was told that the design will be coordinated with the current review of options for the public safety facilities — which could involve the relocation of the Police Department.”

Meanwhile, a new twist in the downtown parking saga was introduced Monday at Superior Court in Bridgeport.

A lawsuit filed by the owners of 3 downtown businesses — Nômade restaurant, Honeydo Family and Elixir Spa — asked the court to overturn and deny the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recent approval of the town’s 8-24 request to redesign the Parker Harding and Imperial Avenue parking lots.

The lawsuit has a return date of June 4.

Redesign of Parker Harding Plaza may be slowed by a lawsuit.

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Six days after a gasoline tanker fire shut I-95 — and 3 days after the highway was reopened — traffic backups returned to Westport.

This time an accident in Fairfield snarled backroads like Long Lots throughout the east part of town. This was the scene crossing Morningside Drive South on Hillandale Road, in heavy rain:

(Photo/Bob Weingarten)

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Ah, technology!

I included the wrong link yesterday for our new video feature, hosted and produced by Dave Briggs.

It showed just a snipped of the JL Rocks Instagram — not the full 90-second story. Click here to see what I meant to post. Click here for yesterday’s story, introducing Dave’s great work.

Voting is still open to choose a name for our new feature: Which do you prefer: “Vide-06880” or “0688Vide-0“? (The final choice won’t include the hyphens.)  Click “Comments” below.

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The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee holds a public meeting tomorrow (Thursday, May 9, 8:30 a.m., Town Hall Room 201). Remote and in-person comments from the public will be received as time is available. The email address is DPIC-comments@westportct.gov.

The agenda includes the downtown lots design master plan; Parker Harding status, and the Jesup and Imperial lots.

The Parker Harding Plaz plan.

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The bear that was spotted near Merritt Parkway Exit 41 a few days ago — or perhaps another one — was seen yesterday morning around Evergreen Parkway and Tamarac Road.

At both places, it — or they — knocked over bird feeders.

Screenshot from Jeffrey Cuff’s Ring video.

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The Staples High School Skate Club appreciates the Compo Beach Skate Park.

But they know it needs work.

Members, and advisor Jesse Bauks, have worked with Westport Parks & Recreation parks superintendent Mike West, and the owner of Rampage Skate Equipment, to demolish and replace the large ramp.

They also took time from practicing tricks and flips, to raise funds. Among their projects: concerts at Toquet Hall, with local bands The Corduroys and Dulcit.

The Skate Club is donating $1,000 to Parks & Rec for additional repairs and maintenance.

Staples Skate Club (top row, left to right): Tiffany Cheng, Olivia Zhou, Julian Saitz, Kelpin Ramos, JC Ubaldo, Nicolas Blanco. Bottom:: Kimberly Cheng, Freddie Aldridge (president), Juan Nieves, Ally Russell-Laga, Tiffany Cheng, Nora Ismael-Bakkali.

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Does Mom want a box of farm-fresh food for Mother’s Day? (It’s Sunday, dudes!)

The day before — Saturday, May 11 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), everyone is invited to Double L. The Post Road East market — beloved for its commitment to clean, healthy goods from local farms and artisans — hosts a “Build a Box” event.

Everyone is invited to create a special food box, from a curated mix of signature products (“boxed in a thoughtful presentation”).

Double L Market.

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The Westport Garden Club has a long history at Grace Salmon Park.

The former unsightly landfill became a park in 1977 through the club’s fundraising efforts, elbow grease, and partnerships throughout the town. The club continues to maintain its gardens, and recently renovated the plantings as part of Westport’s Pollinator Pathway.

For the club’s 100th anniversary, current and past president chose Grace Salmon Park to commemorate a century of civic beautification.

With the help of Mark Bolduc of Giunta-Bolduc Mason Contractors, and Gault Stone & Landscaping, a sundial was installed in the garden this week.

As members gear up for their annual plant sale on Jesup Green this Saturday, they invite residents to stop by the nearby Imperial Avenue park, and enjoy its newest addition.

The sundial looks like it’s always been part of Grace Salmon Park.

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Yale University won its first-ever women’s lacrosse Ivy League championship on Sunday.

And they have an athlete with Westport connections to thank.

Taylor Lane scored the game-winner in overtime against the University of Pennsylvania, after the Bulldogs battled back from a 9-5 4th-quarter deficit. The tying goal came with just 5 seconds left.

Lane — a Greenwich Academy graduate — has great genes. Her father, Peter Lane, was a noted Staples High School quarterback, in the 1980s. His father — Taylor’s grandfather, Paul Lane — was the Wreckers’ longtime football coach. Staples’ stadium is now named in his honor.

One more connection: Taylor’s first cousin is Max Maurillo. He made the goal line, game-saving tackle last fall, to clinch Staples’ state football championship.

Yale starts its NCAA title quest Friday, at home (1 p.m.). (Hat tip: Chuck Haberstroh)

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Speaking of athletes: Kate Lesch was a star soccer player, in Staples’ Class of 2016. She moved to New Hampshire before graduating, then headed to Washington & Lee University.

Now she’s written her first novel. The official publication date is today.

“A Summer in Nixie” is a teen and young adult coming of age story. It’s about a girl’s last summer before college, a best friend she didn’t know she needed, back porch conversations with her mom, and a guy she doesn’t want to get involved with, but can’t get out of her head.

Click here to purchase, and for more information,

Kate Lesch, with her novel.

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Speaking of Staples: The school has announced its May Students of the Month.

Senior Logan Manchester, juniors Julianna Gallo and Willian Vanamee, sophomore Zoe Glekas and Asher Vengrow, and freshman Ellary Lueker “help make Staples a welcoming place for their peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the Staples community — the type of kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students that keep the high school together, making it the special place that it is.”

“Students of the month are nominated by their teachers, who are asked to think of those students who come to school regularly, are friendly to the staff and to fellow students, and make positive contributions in class as well as the Staples community. In short, these students are all-around good citizens of our school.”

From left: Logan Manchester, Asher Vengrow, Julianna Gallo, Ellary Lueker , Zoe Glekas, William Vanamee.

  =================================================                                                                                                                                                        Sconset Square’s Penfield Collective welcomes NeverNot, a fine jewelry brand from London, for a one-day show (May 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

NeverNot’s Nina Dzhokhadze designs whimsical jewelry for everyday wear. Stock lists include The Webster, Nordstrom, Farfetch, Moda Operandi and Goop.

NeverNot says Westport was chosen because of our “fashion forward, colorful and whimsical shoppers….Our sunglasses and suitcases (will) perfectly complement the holiday vibes Westport women enjoy all year round.”

  

NeverNot jewelry.

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The Greens Farms Association’s annual meeting is May 15 (7 p.m.; Green’s Farms Church).  The guest speaker is First Selectwoman Jen Tooker.

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Yesterday’s Westport Rotary Club speaker was Angela Pohlen, executive director of the Catholic Academy of Bridgeport.

She spoke about their high level of excellence, including a merit pay program that incentivizes teachers to excel. Almost 100% of graduates go on to college or other post-graduate education.

Angela Pohlen

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Today’s very intriguing “Westport … Naturally” photo comes from the very alert nature photographer Johanna Keyser Rossi, at Sherwood Island State Park. She writes:

“From a distance I thought these were turkeys. But then I saw the long beak. First time I ever saw these kind of birds — glossy ibises.”

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

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And finally … this is Teacher Appreciation Week. Have you thanked a teacher yet?

(Today’s lesson: “06880” is free every day. But we rely on reader support to keep going. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Downtown, Local politics

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Roundup: Housing Rally, Yappy Hour, River Dredging …

Posted on August 10, 2021 | 24 comments

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The Town of Westport, Westport Housing Authority and Homes With Hope issue this statement:

Tomorrow (Wednesday, August 18, 2021, 2 p.m., Jesup Green) we invite residents to join legislators, local providers and advocates in a call-to-action rally to address Fairfield County’s growing housing crisis, in the aftermath of and ongoing concerns related to the pandemic.

The goal of the rally is to raise public awareness of the housing crisis and remind State legislators of the urgency to act. We encourage the public to attend as a personal action to combat homelessness. Public participation sends a message to legislators that the community supports the allocation of resources to Fairfield County’s most vulnerable residents.

Housing insecurity affects thousands of Fairfield County families and individuals seeking permanent housing every day. Affordability has become the most significant barrier for moderate and lower-income households to maintain stable housing in Fairfield County. The pandemic has increased the demand for affordable housing, resulting in a lack of available inventory, and dramatically increased rents, leaving many residents without access to safe housing options.

Rally attendees will hear from a range of funders, advocates, and community providers who offer direct services to friends and neighbors experiencing housing insecurity. Research shows that the most effective strategy for solving homelessness is the Housing First approach, connecting households to stable and affordable housing through a combination of supportive services and financial assistance.

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Dredging the Saugatuck River has been a complex (and expensive) topic.

It’s still a long way from happening. But earlier this month, Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal ensured funding for several Connecticut projects in the Fiscal Year 2022 Energy and Water Development Appropriations  Bill. Included is $2.81 for Saugatuck River dredging.

The funding can help “kick start” projects that are stalled, Murphy said. (Hat tip: Robbie Guimond)

Dredging could enable more river traffic at places like Rive Bistro restaurant. 

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MoCA Westport went to the dogs last Thursday.

It was “Yappy Hour.” Canines enjoyed dog-friendly Pupsicles, while owners sipped custom cocktails from Bar MoCA.

Guests also had complimentary access to the museum’s summer exhibitions — and could ask questions of a dog trainer, provided by Pet Choice.

PAWS brought along an adoptable dog, and took home food donations from attendees.

The next Yappy Hour is Thursday, September 2. Before then, a regular (dog-free) Happy Hour happens every Thursday, at Bar MoCA. Happy and Yappy Hours are all 5 to 7 p.m.

Yappy Hour at MoCA.

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The Westport Downtown Association hosts its 3rd (and final) Summer Outdoor Shopping Days this Saturday (August 14), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

This isn’t the traditional “sidewalk sale.” But word on the (Main) Street is that some stores will offer great deals anyway.

Main and Elm Streets will be closed. There will be a food truck, bar and live music all day long.

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The end of an era: 29 Soundview Drive is on the market.

The home — in the same family for years — was owned by Paul Lane. The former Staples High School coach died in June, just days before the football field there was named in his honor.

Generations of Westporters strolling along the beach remember “Coach” sitting on his patio, greeting former athletes, longtime Westporters, and strangers.

This summer, the house was empty. Here’s wishing the new owners as much joy as Paul and his family enjoyed there.

And as full and healthy lives as he lived.

29 Soundview Drive

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Westport Book Shop‘s 1st-ever Back-to-School Story Time features a first-ever reading.

Westport author/illustrator Sivan Hong — whose “Super Fun Day” book series focus on neuro-diverse children who overcome challenges with perseverance and bravery — will read her new book — “Emily D. and the Fearful First Day” outside the popular used book shop, on Jesup Green. She’ll read others, too.

The event is this Saturday (August 14, 11 a.m. Kids and parents should bring a blanket or beach chair. Snacks are courtesy of The Porch @ Christie’s, and Sweet P Bakery.

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David Ader submits today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo. He writes:

“Peekaboo! A curious baby raccoon watched me, Pippa and our dog as we walked past the nursery. I assume the mother was out finding a meal.”

(Photo/David Ader)

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And finally … Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, a saxophonist and founding member of Kool & the Gang, died Saturday in New Jersey. He was 70. (Click here for full obituary.) 

Time to “celebrate” a life well lived!

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Children, Downtown, Environment, Local business, Real estate

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Winning Move: RTM Names Football Field For Paul Lane

Posted on July 7, 2021 | 3 comments

The Representative Town Meeting dealt with 2 non-controversial items last night. Both passed unanimously.

One — naming the Staples High School football field in honor of Paul Lane — is sure to bring a smile to the faces of countless Westporters, present and past.

Here is Peter Gold’s report on the July RTM meeting. He is an RTM member writing for himself, and not in an official capacity.

Paul Lane,

“Coach Paul Lane Field” is a posthumous honor. Paul Lane died last month, at 93. But he knew that town bodies were considering the action. A petition favoring the name was signed by over 1,000 Westporters.

Lane spent nearly 30 years as a Staples coach and physical education instructor. Though best known for his football teams — including a powerhouse 1967 FCIAC champion squad, and 1975 state champs — he was also a noted track coach.

In fact, he coached a young Laddie Lawrence. The dedication of the Laddie Lawrence Track last month spurred a drive to name Staples’ football stadium for Paul Lane. Lawrence spoke in favor of the move at last night’s RTM meeting.

Paul Lane Field is the 3rd at Staples honoring a beloved coach. The others are  named for Albie Loeffler (soccer) and Virginia Parker (field hockey). All 3 taught physical education together at Staples, from the 1950s through the ’70s.

The fieldhouse is named for Lou Nistico, former owner of the Arrow restaurant, and an avid Staples athletics supporter.

Paul Lane Football Field

Earlier in the evening, the RTM approved $232,000 to replace 3 of the 12 non-fire truck vehicles used by the Fire Department.

Two of the vehicles are used by command staff and the fire marshal. The third is a dive rescue unit used by the Police and Fire Departments. It was purchased in 1996. The other 2 vehicles were purchased in  2007 and 2009. All 3 are beyond their useful life, no longer cost effective to maintain and operate.

Approximately $90,000 of the cost is for fitting the vehicles up for use by the Fire Department, including installing warning lights, radios, cabinetry for necessary storage, and tool racks.  The existing vehicles will be sold, but will likely have little salvage value.

Due to the current shortage of semiconductor chips, the vehicles must be ordered by October, in order to be received by June 2022.

The Fire Department expects to replace 2 or 3 non-fire truck vehicles every year, to help keep operating and fuel costs down. Fire trucks are not expected to be replaced until the 2022-23 fiscal year, starting with 2 engine trucks and the ladder truck replacement in 2024-25.

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Posted in Local politics, Sports, Staples HS

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Roundup: Masks, Music, Arts …

Posted on June 17, 2021 | 3 comments

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Many “06880” readers have asked about funeral arrangements for Paul Lane. The famed Staples High School football coach died this week, at 93.

A private service will be held in Bethel, where many family members are buried. There will be no public service.

Paul Lane

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With more and more people wearing fewer and fewer masks, it may seem like that’s one part of the pandemic now in the rear view mirror.

But unvaccinated children still need them. And youngsters in Bridgeport summer camp programs don’t always have access to nice masks.

Since March 2020, Virginia Jaffe and her crew of volunteers has sewn over 8,500 masks. They gave them all away — and they’re still doing it.

Last month, they donated 200 masks to New Beginnings in Bridgeport. A thank-you note cited the “wonderful craftsmanship,” adding, “Their beauty will bring joy to our students. This donation has provided some of the most vulnerable children in the state with the resources they need to thrive.”

Virginia wants those youngsters to feel that brand new, unused masks show they feel cared for, and just a little bit safer.

To help in any way, email westportmaskgiving@icloud.com.

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Two of Westport’s most creative institutions are the Library and Artists Collective.

This summer, they’re collaborating on a very creative project.

“Piece by Piece” is a grid of 60 12-inch squares. Each of those 60 artists contributes one square. When assembled together, they form one image.

The work represents the artists’ response to the isolation they felt during the pandemic. E

Each square is available for sale. For $100, you can select one or more of the squares from a grid. Proceeds will be divided between the Library and the artist. The name of the artists, and the iconic masterpiece on which Piece by Piece is based, will be revealed on July 10th.

It, and more works by the Artists Collective, will be on display at the Library from July 10 through September 28.

For more details — including how to own a piece of “Piece” — click here.

Own a piece of “Piece by Piece.”

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Speaking of the Artists Collective: Their great live (!) exhibit ends this Saturday, with artist talks.

Works hang in the barn gallery at Westport Country Playhouse. Among the participants: Miggs Burroughs, Elizabeth DeVoll, Charles Douthat, Susan Fehlinger, Noah Fox, Toby Michaels, Nancy Moore, Melissa Newman, Diane Pollack and Ellen Schiffman.

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When PJ Pacifico plays the Levitt Pavilion June 25 (7 p.m.), the Westporter won’t have far to go. He lives right around the corner.

The singer/songwriter’s new single, “Every Little Heartbreak,” speaks to a world eager to embrace a fresh new day after a time of intense challenges. Sound familiar?

PJ’s perspective on the ups and downs of being an indie artist and songwriter are influenced by his experiences as a survivor of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Beating cancer after undergoing months of chemo and radiation, and losing his spleen and part of his liver, made him feel like he had a second chance.

But he suffered with survivor’s guilt and “impostor syndrome.” He’s battled through all that — and is ready to rock the Levitt.

Just down the hill from his home.

The event is free, but tickets are required. Click here to register.

PJ Pacifico

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Monday — the first full day of summer — is the longest day of the year.

Recognizing that for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, every day is “the longest” — but also, that art has the power to inspire and excite — RaRa (“Real Art. Real Artists.”) is partnering with the Residence at Westport to produce an art exhibit.

The show (June 21, 3 to 5 p.m., The Residence, 1141 Post Road East), is open to the public. There’s wine and cheese, plus  live entertainment. A portion of art sales will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Can’t get out (even on the longest day)? Click here for information on the virtual version of the exhibit.

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In this hybrid summer, the Westport Library offers 2 learning clubs. Both are “blended” — meaning in-person classes at the Library, and a remote option for distance education.

The program for grades 1 to 5 includes week-lonf literacy, math and STEAM sessions. Grades 6 to 8 enjoy  STEAM, book clubs, and other programs that encourage academic independence. They beginning June 29, and end August 19.

For more information and to register, click here.

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Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo includes a Fresh Mark osprey update.

Carolyn Doan reports: “We checked on the nest Monday and Tuesday. The parents were doing such a great job at shielding the chicks from the rain that they were impossible to see. The next day was a different story. Making lots of noise and waiting for an incoming fish, these two were front and center — literally.”

(Photo/Carolyn Doan)

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And finally … on this day in 1972, 5 men were arrested for burling Democratic National Committee offices at the Watergate complex. The crime drew little attention at the time. Of course …

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Posted in Arts, Children, Environment, Library, Sports, Staples HS

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Paul Lane: “We Give You A Uniform To Look Uniform”

Posted on June 17, 2021 | 8 comments

In 2005 I published a 400-page history of Staples High School. “120 Years of A+ Education” included interviews with many influential educators. 

One of the most interesting was Paul Lane. The legendary football, track and golf coach died Tuesday, at 93. Here’s my 2004 interview with him, conducted at his Soundview Drive home.

In 1954 I was working in my family’s leather tanning business. But as the business declined, I decided to go into coaching. It’s what I always wanted to do.

I took Bob Carmody’s place at Coleytown Elementary School. I met my wife Pat there.

In those days interscholastic athletics was hit or miss. In football you made up your own schedule. We’d play Darien and New Canaan twice in one year. We’d play Stonington – we went all over the state. And we hired our own officials – that did affect the game! We fired our officials too.

You didn’t get paid to coach in the ’50s. It was considered an honor, and we fought to coach. And Doc Beinfield, our team doctor from the ‘50s through the ‘80s – he did it for love, not money.

Paul Lane, 1957.

As a phys. ed. teacher, I took all the sophomores. I tested them in the quarter-mile one day, and the softball throw the next. Our program was geared to the philosophy that athletes should be discovered in gym class, so we trained in the fundamentals there – football, soccer, track, basketball, volleyball.

Albie Loeffler and I ran the intramural program at night. We refereed it too. Kids worked their way from gym to intramurals to interscholastic sports.

The girls had 6-person, half-court basketball, but it was definitely a boys’ world – a football and basketball world. Football had the edge, because it started off the year. We had pep rallies before games, and dances afterward. It really brought the kids together.

Cheerleading was a big deal too. The bleachers at Doubleday only held 200, so fans stood all around the field. We only had 18 or 22 kids in football, sometimes hardly enough to scrimmage. The kids went both ways.

The athletes were also in the choir and student government. A kid like Tommy Dublin – football, basketball, track, head of student government. No one told him he couldn’t do one thing because he was in the other. And the school was big then, too.

That was after we moved to North Avenue. We felt people cared about us; we were no longer in a dungeon. But that first year (1958-59), we still did sports at the old school on Riverside Avenue (now Saugatuck Elementary School). The football field on North Avenue had a huge drain in it – it was a mess – and the track was a big bucket that held water. It took 20 years to get it right.

At the same time, we changed from a single-wing football team to a T-Formation. The FCIAC (Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference) was being formed. Our schedules and officials were handed to us. And at that time, the school was growing by leaps and bounds.

At that time, I helped build the weightlifting program. Parents made the weight racks. They also built the press box, and donated the scoreboard and filming equipment. We formed a Gridiron Club, which met every Thursday night to look at film.

We had a great team in 1963. The number of transfers was phenomenal. It hit its peak in 1964. John Bolger went on to West Point, Buzz Leavitt to Wake Forest, and Bill During to Syracuse.

Steve Doig carries the football.

In the 1970s the phys. ed. department grew from Albie, me and Jinny Parker to 11 teachers. But in the ’60s gym was still a foundation for our sports program. We had boxing, wrestling, tumbling – to teach athletes how to fall – track and field, including high jump and pole vault, weightlifting – with demonstrations at halftime of basketball games, to “sell” it to parents – and a great touch football program.

But the high school just didn’t work. The environment was so disruptive. Still, we were always rated in the top 3 schools in the country. But from day one, the facility was horrible.

Stan (Lorenzen, the principal) had asked us about smoking. We had coaches smoking on the sideline. But we told Stan to start the new school clean. He said he’d try an experiment for a month. He created a smoking plaza, with a custodian to clean up after the kids. It took 30 years to get rid of that.

Paul Lane’s 1967 team won the FCIAC championship, in a memorable game. Stamford Catholic was riding high — and lost 8-0.

Before Staples was built on North Avenue, we put in for a fieldhouse. The only other one at the time was in Florida. But that one had a clay floor, and people were worried it would get tracked through the school, so they didn’t include it in the plans. The gym, the cafeteria and auditorium were all built for 1,200 kids. We blew past that number quickly, and it was not enlarged for years.

That was the era when we started recruiting coaches: George Wigton for basketball, Chuck Smith as a line coach from Ohio State – he started the wrestling program too – and Frank Henrick for baseball. They were good coaches, who could also teach.

During the drug era – the ’60s and ’70s – kids were told not to buy into “the system.” Well, to have a good team you have to buy into the Paul Lane, Albie Loeffler or Brian Kelley system. The kids with long hair were thumbing their noses at us. That was a horrible time to try to coach.

Some coaches just let them run wild. Some tried to oversell “values.” I said they could have their hair as long as they wanted, but it had to be in their helmet. It’s a team. We give you a uniform so you can look uniform. Some believed it, some didn’t.

We had kids pass out doing their physical fitness tests, from drugs. There were 2,000 kids in the school, and hundreds were on drugs. A certain number of adults liked that freedom of expression. We weren’t all on the same page at all times. The ability of teams went down, especially in the suburbs. City teams started beating us then. Bright suburban kids were reaching out for another world, but the city kids kept playing sports.

Paul Lane in 1969, with assistant coaches Saul Pollack and Dick Agness, and co-captains Dana Williams and Jono Walker.

Title IX – it was evident that girls were not being treated fairly in terms of the number of teams, things like that. By then Westport had come up with a complicated 10-point system for coaching pay. The girls’ coaches got less than the men – that was a time when all the athletic directors were men, many of them former football coaches.

Westport jumped on Title IX. They decided to equalize the numbers in gym classes, even though the law didn’t say they had to. We forced girls to play with boys, who didn’t want them and thought they weren’t capable. We cut out not only wrestling and boxing, but also Ann Rabesa’s, Judy Punshon’s and Jinny Parker’s fabulous tap dancing program. Boys’ and girls’ basketballs are different sizes, and the volleyball nets are different heights. So we started doing things in gym that had nothing to do with the sports we play. Boys used to run to phys. ed. class, because it was an outlet. Now they were going to play things like street hockey, but they couldn’t have physical contact.

The girls gained in basketball, but the boys stopped playing. It was a total waste of a gym period. We built big shower rooms, but no one sweated enough to use them.

But the good things – the FCIAC is a great league. It’s definitely improved the coaching. There’s been the introduction of soccer, hockey, skiing, lacrosse, wrestling, and about 10 girls sports. And there’s been the addition of junior varsity and freshman teams. And the facilities now – artificial turf, lights….

Paul Lane and assistant coach Earl Smith on the sidelines in 1977.

But the athletes haven’t changed. Sure, they know more now, because they see it on TV. The kids I coached in the ’50s, most of them hadn’t seen football. We had to teach them how to tackle and throw.

The best teams always stay together. They have reunions, and stay in touch. Success bonds them. That doesn’t change. There was no difference between my 1963 and ’75 teams. In the ’80s kids could throw and catch a little better, because of all the advantages they had, but a lot of success is the luck of who moves into town together.

One thing that was a real big blow for all sports was losing junior high interscholastics (when the 9th grade moved to Staples in 1983). That had been a real feeder program for us.

Let’s see – what else – well, uniforms in phys. ed. went out with the drug era. Gym classes became a lot less structured. They did away with mandatory showering. That was probably a bad policy; the lack of privacy was overdone.

The fieldhouse made a huge difference.

And I remember taking track teams to the Penn Relays and the New York Armory. That was tremendous for our kids. It’s probably the reason Laddie Lawrence is still involved in track!

Paul Lane, 1984.

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Posted in Categories, Looking back, Sports, Staples HS

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Remembering Paul Lane

Posted on June 15, 2021 | 55 comments

Last month, Paul Lane had a seat of honor at the dedication of Staples High School’s Laddie Lawrence Track.

Lane spent nearly 30 years as a Staples coach and physical education instructor. Though best known for his football teams — including a powerhouse 1967 FCIAC champion squad, and 1975 state champs — he was also a noted track coach.

In fact, he coached a young Laddie Lawrence. The dedication last month spurred a drive to name Staples’ football stadium for Paul Lane.

Town boards will make the decision soon. But now the honor is posthumous. Lane died this afternoon. He had been in good health, until a recent fall. He was 93 years old.

Paul Lane, by the Staples High School football trophy case.

Naming the field should be a slam dunk.

Between 1962 and 1987 Lane led the Wreckers to 4 FCIAC Eastern Division championships, 2 FCIAC crowns, and 122 victories. His 11-0 1975 squad was the last single state champion — determined by sportswriters — before the current playoff system began.

In the 1967 FCIAC title game, Staples snapped Stamford Catholic’s 30-game win streak, 8-0. The Crusaders — ranked #1 in Connecticut – had outscored their opponents 333-66. The Wreckers stopped them twice on the goal line, in the last quarter.

Paul Lane at a 2016 Staples High School football game. He is flanked by his sons Peter and Skip. Both played for him as Wreckers.

Lane started coaching football in the Army in 1950. He then served as an assistant to Frank Dornfeld for 8 years, before taking over the top job.

At Staples, Lane also won state championships coaching indoor and outdoor track — and girls golf.

He grew up in Bethel, but his family has long ties to Westport. He was a Compo Beach resident nearly all his adult life. Former players — and of course his sons Skip and Peter, both of whom played for him — often dropped by to chat with their former coach.

He entertained them — and anyone else who passed by — with a constant stream of stories. Lane remembered every game, every athlete, and every bit of Westport history.

Service arrangements are incomplete. Arrangements for the naming of “Paul Lane Field” will begin soon.

The Staples High School football field may soon be named for Paul Lane.

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Coming Soon: Paul Lane Field?

Posted on June 12, 2021 | 9 comments

The Staples High School soccer field honors Albie Loeffler. The field hockey turf next to it is named for Jinny Parker. Last month, the track was dedicated to Laddie Lawrence.

What’s missing?

Paul Lane.

If a group of former athletes and fans have their way, the football field will soon bear a new name.

That would be fitting. Lane — now 93 — was not only the Wreckers’ longtime football coach. He also headed the track program. In the 1960s, one of his runners was a young Laddie Lawrence.

Paul Lane, by the Staples High School football trophy case.

A petition circulating throughout town says:

Paul Lane has served his community for as long as he has been alive.

His leadership, skills and determination has demonstrated that the dreams and abilities he has instilled on others, ripple through the world.

We have many coaches in our town, but no one other then Paul Lane is called, “Coach.” Paul Lane is a patriarch of coaches, the father of Staples High School sports, who laid the rails for Wreckers football and it’s legacy of success known throughout the Northeast.

The Staples High School football field may soon be named for Paul Lane.

Paul Lane’s biggest win was against Stamford Catholic High School in 1967, beating them 8-0 and crushing their 30 game winning streak.

Paul Lane not only served this community by being a coach and second father to many of his athletes, but also served his country in the Korean War, stationed in Germany.

Football wasn’t the only sport he coached and won state championships in, Paul Lane also coached Staples Boys Track and Staples Girl’s Golf teams.

30 years of coaching, Paul Lane would later on coach American Football in England and Italy.

Coach Paul Lane can be found everyday at his home on Soundview where he has been for decades, surrounded by his four children, ten grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Paul Lane is staple to Staples and this community and should be honored with his name, added to the Fifth Lane of the track as proposed by Laddie Lawrence who was coached by Paul Lane too.

The petition can be signed here. It will be presented to the Board of Education at this Monday’s meeting. It would go next to the Representative Town Meeting.

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Board Of Ed: COVID Down, Elementary Enrollment Fluid

Posted on June 8, 2021 | Comments Off on Board Of Ed: COVID Down, Elementary Enrollment Fluid

The Board of Education heard good news on several fronts last night. Reporter Brian Fullenbaum says:

Meeting for the first time since 2020 in person, members began with an update from Westport Public Schools supervisor of health services Suzanne Levasseur. Staples High School has not experienced a COVID case since May 2, and there have been no reported cases in the district since May 25.

In fact, there were no cases at all in Westport this week.

At this point, local schools will not require COVID vaccines for the fall. The state is not expected to mandate them either.

Summer schools will have a nurse in the building this year, and masks will be needed.

Director of human resources John Bayers reported that for the coming school year, 112 sections are budgeted at the 5 elementary schools. As of June 3, confirmed enrollment suggested 115 sections. Principals of Kings Highway and Long Lots are also predicting one more section each, which would bring the total to 117.

Enrollment at Long Lots Elementary School — as at the other elementary schools — may rise this fall.

Bayers speaks with the principals every day. All school buildings can handle the predicted extra classes.

Assistant superintendent Anthony Buono noted that Tri-State — the professional network of 55 area districts — said that while the district faced numerous daily obstacles during the pandemic, it provided students with a positive experience.

The board engaged in a long discussion about learning loss. Board members brought up the amount of screen time, lack of socially rich experiences, and frustration with technology.

In other matters, the board postponed a decision on a provision in the proposed “deadly weapons or firearms policy” about allowing a registered and accepted gun on campus. Members also discussed the hate-based speech policy.

Educators also established tuition rates for out-of-town students, including children of school employees and those in other circumstances.

Currently, 35 children of employees attend school here; the number is expected to be approximately the same in 2021-22. They are charged 25% of the tuition rate for various grade levels. A 3% increase for the coming year was approved.

World Language Department coordinator Marie Zachery described the success of Westport’s exchange programs in Singapore and France, and suggested expanding opportunities to Spain, Germany, Greece and Panama.

The board will move forward on a proposal to name the Staples stadium for former football and track coach Paul Lane.

 

 

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Pic Of The Day #1496

Posted on May 22, 2021 | 5 comments

Irises on Soundview Avenue (Photo/Molly Alger)

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Staples Football Honors Past, Present

Posted on December 24, 2019 | 6 comments

“06880” seldom covers sports. There are way too many leagues, teams and games. Besides, newspaper sports sections, and plenty of websites, already do a good job of this.*

But “0688o” is also about people — and “the story behind the story.” So when the Staples High School football team recently named 2 new awards after legendary adults, my ears perked up.

And when I heard who the first honorees were, I knew this was “06880”-worthy.

The Coach Paul Lane Award goes to a senior who displays “the highest levels of positive energy and an unbreakable positive spirit.”

Lane served as head football coach from 1962 to ’86. His teams won the 1975 FCIAC championship and 2 FCIAC titles, and in 1967 ended Stamford Catholic’s 30-game winning streak. After retiring, Lane coached professionally in Italy and England.

Lane also coached Staples track and girls golf — and won a state crown in both. As in football, he led by quiet example.

The recipient of the Paul Lane Award is Adam Petro. A football player since 3rd grade, and last year’s leading receiver, this year he suffered a career-ending ACL injury during preseason practice.

Gridiron Club president Jim Adrian says that Adam “embraced the reality that sometimes life deals you bad breaks, and unlucky consequences beyond your control.” Yet he always encouraged his teammates from the sideline. He “never let the positive energy or pride for his teammates wane.”

Adam Petro, flanked by Paul Lane and his son Skip.

The Dan DeVito Community Citizenship Award is presented to a senior player who consistently exemplifies commitment to the team over self, has strong character and leadership, and benefits the program, school and community.

DeVito — who had a long career with Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department — helped reestablish Staples’ Gridiron Club in 1994, and served as president and chairman for over 20 years.

He helped create the Wreckers Wall of Fame, chaired the Field of Dreams turf field project, and led a long campaign to install lights at Staples. He has also coached youth football, basketball and baseball.

Dylan Curran received the Dan DeVito Award. Despite disabilities, Dylan was an integral part of the Staples football program. Starting freshman year he was on the sidelines at every practice, every bus ride, every game, every team event.

Adrian said, “Dylan’s passion lifted up his teammates.” He always brought “contagious energy to the team.”

Dylan Curran (right) and Staples High School assistant football coach Garret Lederman.

Both awards were presented at the annual banquet, held earlier this month at Giovanni’s in Darien.

*  And I say this as the head coach of the Staples High School boys soccer program, which really deserves tons of publicity.

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