Fairfield Police Arrest Man in August Anti-Semitic Graffiti Case; Hate Crime Charges Filed

John Kuhn, 68, of Bridgeport, turned himself in at Fairfield Police Headquarters and was arrested in connection with a series of anti-Semitic vandalism incidents that occurred throughout August in Fairfield. Multiple locations were defaced with Stars of David altered with swastika-like tails, causing approximately $3,000 in damage; similar incidents were also reported in nearby communities.

Following a comprehensive investigation, Fairfield Police Detectives identified Kuhn as a suspect. After interviews, detectives determined his actions were motivated by current events between Israel and Palestine.

Kuhn was charged with three counts of Intimidation Based on Bigotry or Bias 3rd Degree, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree, and three counts of Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree. He was issued a $30,000 court-set bond and brought to court the same day.

Fairfield Police condemned the acts of hate and thanked community members whose reports and surveillance footage helped resolve the case. Anyone with information about similar incidents can contact the Fairfield Police Detective Bureau at (203) 254-4840, text tips by sending FPDCT and a message to 847411 (Tip411), or submit online at fpdct.com/tips.

Trumbull Library (Sept. 22–29)

Featured (Main Library)

  • Democracy and the Constitution with State Senator Sujata Gadkar-WilcoxWed, Sept. 24, 6–7:30 p.m. Conversation on how the Constitution balances power, what principles matter now, and how current interpretations affect the future of governance.
  • Community Puzzle SwapSat, Sept. 27, 1–4 p.m. Take a puzzle, leave a puzzle (300+ pieces, good condition, all pieces bagged inside box).
  • Shakespeare’s QueensSun, Sept. 28, 2–3:30 p.m. Poornima Kirby’s one-woman play blending Elizabeth’s story with Shakespeare’s life—history, humor, and sparkling poetry.

Children’s (Main Library unless noted)

  • Toddler Time (Walkers–Age 3)Mon, Sept. 22, 10–10:30 a.m. Music & movement; drop-in.
  • Preschool Time (Ages 3–5)Mon, Sept. 22, 2–2:45 p.m. Circle time, stories, craft; no registration.
  • Toddler Time (Walkers–Age 3)Tue, Sept. 23, 10–10:30 a.m. Drop-in.
  • No School Movie MatineeTue, Sept. 23, 11:30 a.m.–1:45 p.m. How To Train Your Dragon (PG live action).
  • New Baby Meet-UpTue, Sept. 23, 12–1 p.m. Casual parent meet-up; no registration.
  • Baby Time (Birth–Walking)Wed, Sept. 24, 11–11:20 a.m. Story, songs, fingerplays; no registration.
  • Preschool Time (Ages 3–5)Thu, Sept. 25, 10–10:30 a.m. With Miss Katie; no registration.
  • PJ Story Time (Ages 3–6)Thu, Sept. 25, 6–6:45 p.m. PJs & stuffed animal; registration suggested.
  • Sensory Scientists (Ages 3–5)Fri, Sept. 26, 2:30–3 p.m. Fun sensory activities; registration required (register children only).
  • Drop-In: Button Making (Merwin Room)Sat, Sept. 27, 10–11 a.m. Make a button pin; supplies provided (bring stickers/drawings if you like).
  • Jurassic Classroom — How Do We Know? (Gr. 2–5)Mon, Sept. 29, 4–5 p.m. Real fossils and paleontology skills to separate fact from fiction.

Teen Programming

  • Teen R&RMon, Sept. 22, 4–5 p.m. Low-key activities (coloring, Legos, simple crafts); snacks provided; registration required.
  • DROP IN: Button Making (Family, Merwin Room)Sat, Sept. 27, 10–11 a.m. First-come, first-served.
  • Teen (P)SAT Exam (Online)Sat, Sept. 27, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Full-length practice SAT with interactive score report; online only.

Fairchild Nichols Branch

  • Tiny Tales 2s, 3s & 4sTue, Sept. 23, 10:30–11 a.m. Stories, music, and a show-stopping craft with Miss Niki.
  • Michele Urban Music: “Dinosaur Roar” (Ages 2–8)Sat, Sept. 27, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. A prehistoric music adventure exploring feelings, diversity, kindness, inclusion—and dino facts.
  • Autism and ParentingMon, Sept. 29, 6–7:30 p.m. Jeremy Farrell on autism, neurodiversity, and parenting with insights and strategies.

Register for events: https://trumbull.libcal.com/calendar?cid=15779&t=g&d=0000-00-00&cal=15779&inc=0

Fatal Crash at Broad & Elm: 71-Year-Old Driver Dies After Striking Pole

At about 12:44 p.m. on Sept. 20, 2025, Bridgeport EOC received multiple 911 calls for a crash at Broad St. and Elm St. involving a black vehicle into a pole with airbags deployed and an unresponsive male. AMR, Bridgeport Fire Engine 1, and Bridgeport Police responded; first responders provided immediate medical aid and transported the driver to St. Vincent’s Medical Center with serious injuries. The scene was secured and the Serious Crash Investigation Unit responded. Preliminary investigation indicates 71-year-old Robert Knuckles of Bridgeport was traveling north on Broad Street in a 2020 Acura RLX when he struck a concrete post at the intersection; he was pronounced deceased at 1:20 p.m. The Bridgeport Police Department offered condolences to Mr. Knuckles’ family and friends.

GOVERNOR LAMONT TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: GET GOOD GRADES AND RECEIVE AUTOMATIC ADMISSION TO SEVERAL COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

(HARTFORD, CT) – As the 2025-2026 school year has begun, Governor Ned Lamont today is reminding Connecticut’s high school students that if they earn good grades, they can receive automatic admission to several public and private colleges and universities under a recently launched state program that simplifies the process of seeking higher education.

Established in 2022, the Connecticut Automatic Admission Program (CAAP) is open to all graduating Connecticut high school seniors who have a 3.0 weighted grade point average (GPA) or a 2.75 unweighted GPA. Students need to fill out only one application, and they will be automatically admitted to the program’s 10 participating colleges and universities. The program waives the application fees, student essays, and recommendation letters that are typically associated with the admissions process.

“We created this program because we want to simplify the application process and encourage high school students who never thought that they could go to college that it is possible,” Governor Lamont said. “The only thing this program requires is good grades. There are no application fees, and you only have to fill out one form. I strongly encourage every high school student in Connecticut to seize this opportunity.”

The program is administered on behalf of the state by Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) in partnership with the nonprofit organization Common App.

“The Connecticut Automatic Admissions Program is an example of how CSCU is creating educational access and equity by simplifying the admissions process and making it easier for Connecticut’s students to attend our institutions,” CSCU Interim Chancellor Dr. O. John Maduko said. “CAAP removes barriers to higher education – particularly for first-generation, minoritized, and underserved students – creating a bridge to access, opportunity, and a great postsecondary education.”

Participating colleges and universities include:

  • Central Connecticut State University
  • Eastern Connecticut State University
  • Southern Connecticut State University
  • Western Connecticut State University
  • Albertus Magnus College
  • Goodwin University
  • Mitchell College
  • University of Bridgeport
  • University of Hartford
  • University of New Haven

After applying, Common App sends letters to eligible applicants informing them they have been accepted and encouraging them to make the decision to enroll in one of these schools.

The application period for high school seniors who wish to enroll in a higher education institution for the 2026-2027 academic year has already begun and is open until May 1, 2026.

For more information and application instructions, visit www.ct.edu/autoadmit.

Residents Invited to Participate in Parks Master Plan Public Workshop

Westport, Conn. – The Parks and Recreation Department invites community members to take part in shaping the future of Westport’s parks by attending the second Public Workshop as part of the Parks Master Plan process.

The workshop will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Komansky Room at The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road.

The Town’s consultant, BL Companies, will facilitate the session, which will provide residents with the opportunity to engage directly with the consultants, share feedback, and learn more about the planning process.

“These public forums are a vital step in ensuring public feedback as the Town develops its Parks Master Plan,” said Parks and Recreation Director Erik Barbieri. “Please join us and share your thoughts as we plan the future of our incredibly important Westport parks system.”

Public Workshop Details

  • Location: Komansky Room, The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport, CT
  • Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Walk the Extra Mile at Compo Beach with Rach’s Hope!

Fourth Annual Family Fun Walk – Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 3 PM

Westport, CT — Lace up your sneakers, grab your family and friends, and head to Compo Beach on Sunday, October 5th at 3:00 p.m. for Rach’s Hope Family Fun Walk: Walk the Extra Mile 2025. This heartwarming and lively event combines community, music, food, and fun—all in support of families facing the unimaginable challenges of critical illness.

Hosted by Fairfield County non-profit Rach’s Hope, this one-mile beach walk has quickly become a cherished annual tradition. Walkers of all ages will join together at Ned Dimes Marina to celebrate community spirit, honor the legacy of Rachel Doran (Staples High School Class of 2015), and raise funds to provide food, transportation, and lodging for families with children in Intensive Care Units across the country.

Adding a special touch to the walk, participants are invited to join Rachel’s grandfather as he continues his inspiring personal pledge to walk 1,000 miles each year in her memory.

The afternoon doesn’t stop at the finish line—guests can look forward to:

  • Live acoustic music from Fairfield’s own Ellis Island Acoustic
  • Fresh, hot slices from  Pizza Pie Wagon gourmet pizza truck
  • Beer and wine compliments of Greens Farms Spirit Shop
  • Signature black-and-white cookies
  • Exclusive Rach’s Hope swag!

“This event is about more than just taking steps by  the beach,” said Lisa Doran, of Rach’s Hope. “It’s about walking together—shoulder to shoulder—with families who need our strength, our resources, and our love.”

All proceeds directly support Rach’s Hope’s mission to ease the financial and emotional burden for families during the toughest moments of their lives.

This is a rain-or-shine celebration. Tickets and donations can be made at RachsHope.org.

Event Details:

  •  Sunday, October 5, 2025
  • 3:00 p.m.
  • Compo Beach – Ned Dimes Marina, Westport, CT
  • Tickets, donations & info: RachsHope.org

About Rach’s Hope:
Founded in memory of Rachel Doran, who passed away at 21 after a critical illness, Rach’s Hope, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Connecticut non-profit dedicated to helping families nationwide with children in intensive care units.

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