A New Series Honoring our Local leaders, Unsung Heroes, and Everyday residents the Headlines Miss

Waterbury, CT- In every corner of our city, there are people making history—not with fanfare, but with heart. They’re the quiet giants, the everyday icons, the ones who show up for their community long after the cameras leave. Their stories deserve to be told—with honesty, with pride, and in their own words.

This is “Our Stories, Told Our Way”—a new series celebrating local legends, unsung heroes, and the moments that define who we are.

We’re kicking things off with a sit-down conversation you won’t want to miss.

From the Heat of the Fire to the Heart of the City: Mike Banks, WFD

Mike Banks is no stranger to challenge. As a firefighter with the Waterbury Fire Department, he’s just celebrated three years on the job—three years of training, grit, and service. But Mike’s story goes deeper than the uniform. In our first feature, he talks perseverance, purpose, and what it means to be a firefighter in today’s world.

Through his journey, we explore not just the work—but the weight, the pride, and the passion behind it.

🔥 Coming soon: “Three Years Strong – The Fire, the Fight, and Mike Banks”

This isn’t just about firefighting—it’s about forging a path, showing up for your people, and standing tall when the heat is on.

This article series is being brought to you by the Parker Jane PBC’s parent of The Waterbury Times mission and initiatives to report on the untold stories of our communities