In case you missed them, here are the top five news stories in Stamford from the week ending July 20, 2013.
Assistant Fire Chief Smith Quits
Assistant Stamford Fire Chief William Smith quit on Friday, the day after he was involved in an apparent hit-and-run accident while he was driving a city vehicle.
Smith, a 35-year veteran of the department, is the subject of a Stamford Police investigation for the incident that occurred on July 18. In a press release Mayor Michael Pavia said, "This is a clear message to all employees of the City of Stamford, regardless of whether or not you are a 35 year veteran with an exemplary service record, as is the case with Assistant Chief Smith, the City will not tolerate this type of behavior."
Beaches closed
Cummings and West beaches were closed to swimmers for two days last week after raw sewage was found in the water. The closures couldn't have happened at a worse time...when the city was embraced in a weeklong heat wave with temperatures in the mid- to high 90s all week.
Heat Wave Melts Outdoor Dining Biz
Local restaurants were feeling the pinch of the unrelenting heat wave. Diners who usually enjoy al fresco dining at lunchtime opted to stay indoors, away from the plethora of outdoor dining spots in downtown, several restaurateurs told Stamford Patch.
Ex-Stamford Resident Faces Jail Cocaine Trafficking
Former Stamford resident Scott Veltri, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall to six months in jail for his part in a county-wide drug trafficking ring. He's also to forfeit $30,000.
Stamford Teacher 'Flip Flops' for a New Career
Former Newfield School teacher Karen Breault has a new career that fits perfectly with her stress-free, self-proclaimed 'beach bum' lifestyle. She's opened a shop devoted to flip flops in Fairfield.
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