Community Ties

On this episode of Community Ties , we sit down with Diane Jellerette, Executive Director of the Norwalk Historical Society, for a conversation about the stories that shape Norwalk and the importance of preserving history in ways that feel relevant, honest, and connected to community. Together, we explore Diane’s journey from a career in computer engineering and information technology into museum...

In this episode of Community Ties , we sit down with Jasmine Prezzie, Director of the Norwalk Mentor Program, Board of Education member for Norwalk Public Schools, and a licensed clinician providing mental health services. Together, we explore the critical role mentorship plays in shaping the lives of Norwalk’s youth, how mental health support is evolving within our schools and community, and what...

In this episode of Community Ties , we sit down with Anavivian Escalante, CEO of Norwalk ACTS, and Anamilena Lonergan, Social Emotional Health Initiative Manager at Norwalk ACTS, for a conversation about mental health, leadership, and the systems that shape community well-being. As Mental Health Awareness Month approaches, we discuss the work being done to support children and families across Norw...

In this episode of Community Ties, host Romney Donald sits down with Jalin Sead, Majority Leader of the Norwalk City Council and Commissioner of the First Taxing District of Norwalk. The conversation explores his path into public service and what it means to serve in a local government role where community voice, accountability, and compromise all play a critical part in decision-making. He shares...

In this episode of Community Ties, we sit down with Fritzsa Gilmore and Tremain Gilmore to talk about the heart behind EJ's H.E.A.R.T. and the journey that brought it to life. They share how, in the face of unimaginable loss, they were able to build something that now provides scholarships, programs, and opportunities that support healthy, fun, and connected families throughout Norwalk. They also...

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk podcast, Jack talks with NancyOnNorwalk Managing Editor Ashley RK Smith about her background in media, the issues with a corporate-controlled news environment, and how NancyOnNorwalk is run and has diversified its output.

In this episode of Community Ties, podcast host Romney Donald sits down with Iliana, a wife, parent, community advocate, and the creator of Latinos Unidos, for a reflective conversation about voice, authenticity, and community care in Norwalk. Iliana shares how expectations around who we are supposed to be can take root early in life, and how choosing to speak up with intention has shaped her lead...

In 2018, Will Haskell declared his intention to run for the 26th District of the Connecticut State Senate. Running on gun control, a stronger transportation system, and paid family leave, among other progressive causes, he would be going up against Republican incumbent Senator Toni Boucher, someone who had served in the state legislature for decades. And the thing was, he was only 21 years old. No...

In this episode of Community Ties, podcast co-host Romney Donald sits down with Eva Beau, Director of Social Services at the Norwalk Senior Center, where she has worked for the past 10 years. Eva’s work in Norwalk spans generations. Beyond supporting older adults with dignity and care, she has created and led spaces as an American Sign Language instructor and worked with the city to teach etiquett...

2026 is an incredibly interesting time to be a political communications professional as changing technology, politics, and generational differences have never been more clear.  Outgoing Communications Director at City Hall Michelle Woods Matthews has extensive experience in the field, from working as the spokesperson for former Connecticut State Treasurer Shawn Wooden to reproductive rights work a...

In this special co-host episode of Community Ties, Jack and Romney start the New Year by introducing themselves and sharing how the podcast came to be. They reflect on the experiences that shaped who they are, why local government and community care matter so deeply to them, and what they hope these conversations can spark in Norwalk. With a focus on connection and collaboration, they share their...

In this episode, host Jack Pavia has on Norwalk's first-ever Director of Sustainability and Resilience, Jodi Trendler. They dive into not only her job in City Hall, but her thoughts on the evolution of the environmental movement and the long-term trajectory of ensuring there exists a healthy and habitable planet for all humans to continue to exist on.

In this episode of Community Ties, host Romney Donald sits down with newly re-elected District B Councilman, newly appointed Constable, and community leader Dajuan Wiggins. From growing up in Norwalk, rebuilding his life after a turning point that required courage and accountability, to becoming a father, mentor, entrepreneur, and founder of the Youth Business Initiative, Dajuan shares how purpose...

Tanner Thompson has spent years as an organizer for pedestrian and bike infrastructure, public transportation, housing, and tree canopy in Norwalk. In this episode, host Jack Pavia dives deep with Tanner into his background and how he gained the confidence necessary to bring politicians, bureaucrats, and fellow advocates in, advocate for tangible goals, and change policy in Norwalk. If you've ever...

In this episode of Community Ties, host Romney Donald talks with Dr. Julia Moore, salon owner, entrepreneur, and founder of YL Trapped, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Norwalk. Once a week, she transforms her Wall Street salon into a space for young women to grow, learn, and lead. From advocating as a single mother to earning her Doctorate in Humanitarianism, Dr. Moore’s story is rooted in purpose,...

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk podcast, Jack interviews Tony Bacigalupo, a local community organizer. In 2008, Tony founded New Work City, leading a global movement towards co-working. Ever since then, he's been laser focused on creating community wherever he goes; in the last few years, he's been living in Norwalk and bringing people together here, whether it be through a "Ne...

In this episode of Community Ties, host Romney Donald sits down with Norwalk native and artist Jahmane Artz, whose work spans painting, photography, fashion, and large-scale murals. Together, they explore his artistic journey, the inspirations behind his themes of spirituality, mythology, and social awareness, and the role of public art in shaping community identity. The conversation also touches...

Davette grew up in Norwalk and Stamford. She got into trouble at school, was sent to jail as a teenager, and has been working towards a better life ever since. However, along the road has been a considerable amount of struggle; being fired from jobs because of her record, getting burned by broken promises of help, and getting caught up in the scene of selling drugs. Davette faced housing insecurit...

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk Podcast, host Jack Pavia speaks with Norwalk Art Space Executive Director Duvian Montoya. In his role, he fosters relationship with artists, shapes educational programming, and leads collaboration with nonprofit organizations and Norwalk Public Schools to strengthen community. We talk not only about his day job, but the importance of art in times...

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk Podcast, host Jack Pavia speaks with Connecticut State Representative and co-founder of the End Homelessness Caucus Kadeem Roberts and director of DesegregateCT Nick Kantor. Jack asks them about Connecticut's interconnected housing and homelessness crisis, HB 5002 being vetoed by the Governor, and the status of the American Dream in 2025.

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk podcast, host Jack Pavia speaks with Norwalk River Valley Trail (NRVT) Executive Director Andrea Gartner and NRVT board member and Chair of the Norwalk Bike/Walk Commission Emily Burnaman. Jack asks them about the trail, which, when complete, will run 30 miles from Norwalk to Danbury; they discuss everything from its history and connectivity to c...

In this episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk podcast, host Jack Pavia speaks with Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, who decided against running for re-election this year after serving the City in that role for over a decade. They cover everything from his experience in the Police Department and City Hall to his thoughts on the future of the Democratic Party and Norwalk itself.

In the first episode of Community Ties, a NancyOnNorwalk podcast, host Jack Pavia speaks with Norwalk teacher Rachael Carson and student Conny Galvez to review the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as it pertains to Norwalk Public Schools.