Community Ties

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 open up about what it looks like to build this work together as a couple while balancing careers, family life, and a strong commitment to their community. Through it all, they continue to grow their impact with initiatives like the R.Y.T.E. Program.Their story reflects perseverance, purpose, and creativity. It shows what it means to move through challenging moments and still find a way to pour into others.

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 leadership and advocacy. She reflects on the power of being authentic, the selfless nature of showing up for community, and the pride that comes with supporting local youth as they exercise their rights and find their voices.The conversation also explores the balance of being a parent, a spouse, and an active presence in the community, as well as what it takes to sustain that work with care and integrity. Recorded during Women’s History Month, this episode honors the ways women lead with purpose, courage, and deep commitment to community, right here in Norwalk.------En este episodio de Community Ties, la presentadora Romney Donald conversa con Iliana, esposa, madre, defensora comunitaria y creadora de Latinos Unidos, en una charla reflexiva sobre la voz, la autenticidad y el cuidado comunitario en Norwalk.Iliana comparte cómo las expectativas sobre quiénes se supone que debemos ser pueden formarse desde una edad temprana, y cómo elegir hablar con intención ha influido en su liderazgo y labor comunitaria. Reflexiona sobre el poder de ser auténtica, la naturaleza desinteresada de presentarse por la comunidad y el orgullo que surge al apoyar a la juventud local mientras ejercen sus derechos y encuentran su propia voz.La conversación también aborda el equilibrio entre la maternidad, la vida en pareja y una participación activa en la comunidad, así como lo que se necesita para sostener este trabajo con cuidado e integridad. Grabado durante el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer, este episodio honra las formas en que las mujeres lideran con propósito, valentía y un profundo compromiso con la comunidad, aquí mismo en Norwalk.

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.Not only did he beat Senator Boucher, but he notched an endorsement from President Obama along the way, who Will credits for inspiring him to run. He published a book, 100,000 First Bosses: My Unlikely Path as a 22-Year-Old Lawmaker, chronicling his experience campaigning and governing, and left the office in 2023 optimistic about the direction of our politics.But since then, our politics, even on the local and state level, have taken a turn. Whatever you think about what's going on in our country, it reflects peoples' deep cynicism with political systems' ability to deliver. That sentiment is particularly prevalent among young people. Will perhaps best represents what we thought Gen-Z was in 2018 -- but does does that identity still make sense in 2026?

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 etiquette classes to young teens through Parks and Recreation. Eva shares her journey into community service. and the defining moments that led her to work with senior populations.In this conversation, Eva reflects on community care, accessibility, and intergenerational connection, as well as what it means to live Black history through service, leadership, and joy. This episode invites listeners to consider how showing up for one another across age, ability, and experience strengthens the fabric of our city.

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 and President Obama's 2012 campaign. Host Jack Pavia and Michelle discuss all of it, from the importance of seeing and hearing from your local government to honing the voice of the Mayor of Norwalk as she works to represent him publicly.

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 vision for a more engaged and connected city.

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, spirituality, and community continue to guide his path. He reflects on the misconceptions people have about him, the responsibility of representing District B, and why creating spaces for young people to see their own potential matters now more than ever. This conversation is honest, grounded, and a reminder of what leadership looks like when it comes from lived experience.

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 been interested in building relationships and identifying goals in the world of local organizing, this episode is for you.

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, legacy, and empowerment. Together, they explore what it means to build community through mentorship, creativity, and the determination to make a difference.

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 "New to Town Meetup" or a weekly "Bike Party" as part of Sustainable Streets Norwalk, an urbanist advocacy group. In the conversation, Jack and Tony covered everything from the damaging effect of social media algorithms to the breakdown of our civil society and the loneliness epidemic.

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 on recent frustrations around the Ely Avenue mural selection process and what a more equitable approach to public art could look like. More than anything, this episode highlights the power of creativity to spark dialogue, build pride, and strengthen the ties that connect us in Norwalk.

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 insecurity in her adult life until Open Doors in Norwalk stepped in and gave her a helping hand. Host Jack Pavia dives deep with Davette, asking her about her reflections on her trajectory, the system, the American Dream, and what Open Doors did to assist her.Disclaimer: This episode includes profanities, discussion of mental illness, violence, suicide, and sexual assault. Not suitable for all audiences.

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 like these.

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 city and nature to the process of searching for a grant and reacting to the Covid-19 pandemic.

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.