For decades pawn shops had edgy and dark reputations where thieves came to swap their stolen goods for cash. Times have changed. Yesterday, TC’s Pawn Company opened their second store in Waterbury, and the brightly lit shop at 3670 East Main Street attracted city dignitaries for a gala ribbon cutting ceremony. Mayor Neil O’Leary, Police Chief Mike Gugliotti, Economic Development Director Ron Pugliese, Greater Waterbury Chamber of Commerce President Lynn Ward and State Representative Selim Noujaim were all on hand to help general manager Jay Sargent celebrate the expansion of TC’s Pawn Company Jewelry & Electronics Exchange. For two decades Sergeant has battled the negative image of pawn shops with tremendous customer service, by supporting community events, and being a generous and active corporate citizen in greater Waterbury. Jay Sergent, in red, is pictured here with Ron Pugliese (l), Lynn Ward, and Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary. Photograph by John Murray