Episodes

  • On The Scene Ep 58 John Lyons

    On The Scene Ep 58 John Lyons
    Jan 16 2026
    This episode of On The Scene delivers a thoughtful, community-first conversation focused on West Hartford’s present and future. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome West Hartford Town Councilor John Lyons for an open discussion on growth, development, and what it truly means to serve a community. The conversation explores housing challenges, smart redevelopment, transit access, and the importance of keeping local government focused on people, not politics. Lyons shares candid insights from his time in town leadership, offering clarity on zoning, affordability, taxes, and why collaboration matters more than party lines. Throughout the episode, the focus stays on real issues facing residents today and how informed dialogue can shape better outcomes tomorrow. With a positive and conversational tone, this episode gives listeners a clearer understanding of how decisions are made and why community engagement matters. If you care about West Hartford and the direction it is heading, this is a must-listen conversation.
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    31 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 57 Dennis House

    On The Scene Ep 57 Dennis House
    Jan 2 2026
    On this episode of On The Scene, hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome longtime Connecticut journalist Dennis House for a wide-ranging, community-focused conversation that connects local stories to the bigger picture. Dennis shares behind-the-scenes moments from a career spent telling Connecticut’s stories, from memorable interviews to the curiosity that drives real journalism. The discussion highlights Dennis' work as a journalist, the Denise D’Ascenzo Foundation and its growing impact across the state, along with thoughtful reflections on history, infrastructure, and the people who shape our neighborhoods. As always, Tom and Bob keep the tone warm, conversational, and rooted in what matters most to residents of West Hartford and surrounding towns. This episode offers insight, perspective, and a renewed appreciation for community storytelling done right, straight from voices that know Connecticut best.
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    28 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 56 BK and Co

    On The Scene Ep 56 BK and Co
    Dec 12 2025
    Stay connected to the pulse of West Hartford with this engaging episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with Barbara Karsky of BK & Company for an inspiring conversation about fashion, community, and the ever-evolving life of West Hartford Center. Barbara shares the real challenges local retailers faced during construction, how customer habits shape business success, and why the center remains vibrant and resilient.

    You will hear smart insights on how West Hartford’s demographic is shifting, why digital content like virtual styling has become a powerful community connector, and how local businesses continue to adapt with creativity and optimism. Tom and Bob bring their signature conversational warmth and motivating style, making this a must-listen for anyone who loves West Hartford and the neighborhoods that make it thrive.

    Tune in for honest stories, practical takeaways, and a deeper appreciation for the businesses that shape our hometown.
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    26 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 55 University of St Joseph

    On The Scene Ep 55 University of St Joseph
    Nov 21 2025
    Step inside the conversations that shape West Hartford with a new episode of On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr bring their upbeat, community-focused style to a lively discussion with University of Saint Joseph President Rhona Free. This episode highlights the energy, innovation, and growth happening right in our backyard. From new academic programs and expanded student life to community partnerships, athletics, arts events, and even future ice hockey teams, every topic shows how USJ continues to evolve with purpose.Tom and Bob guide listeners through a motivating, down-to-earth conversation that spotlights the people, ideas, and institutions making West Hartford stronger. If you care about local progress, education, or the stories behind what makes this community thrive, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Tune in and stay connected to what’s happening On The Scene.
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    20 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 54 Benchmark Auctions

    On The Scene Ep 54 Benchmark Auctions
    Nov 7 2025
    West Hartford comes alive in this inspiring new episode of On The Scene with hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr. Joined by Chamber of Commerce President Chris Conway, the conversation celebrates the creative spirit and community pride behind the Best of West Hartford and its beloved outdoor art project—Benchmark 2025. From the vibrant Pride Bench to the heartfelt Survivor Bench, each piece tells a story of connection, creativity, and local collaboration. Listeners will discover how local artists, sponsors, and residents unite to support the Chamber’s mission of strengthening businesses, nonprofits, and community life. The episode shines a spotlight on West Hartford’s unique ability to blend art, commerce, and compassion into a thriving local culture. Hear how these benches bring people together—literally and figuratively—while raising funds for the Chamber’s continued community programs.

    Listen now on your favorite podcast app and stay On The Scene in West Hartford.
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    23 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 53 Jewish Ledger

    On The Scene Ep 53 Jewish Ledger
    Oct 31 2025
    In this inspiring episode of On The Scene with host Tom Hickey, listeners are invited to celebrate the incredible 95-year journey of The Jewish Ledger — a true testament to dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Joined by editor Judy Jacobson and Digital Marketing Manager Hilary Pasternak Sarrasin, Tom explores how the Ledger has endured through decades of change, from the Great Depression to the digital era, while remaining a trusted voice for Jewish life in Southern New England. Listeners will hear powerful stories of leadership, perseverance, and purpose that remind us why passion and community commitment never go out of style. It’s a conversation about legacy, teamwork, and the drive to create impact that lasts. Tune in and discover what it really takes to keep a mission alive for nearly a century.
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    27 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 52 Benchmark Artists

    On The Scene Ep 52 Benchmark Artists
    Oct 10 2025
    Step into the heart of West Hartford’s creative scene in this engaging episode of NBT Bank's On The Scene. Hosts Tom Hickey and Bob Carr sit down with artists Sam FerrI and Kelly Kelly to explore the story behind the town’s most talked-about public art project: the vibrant bench installations that have transformed community spaces into living galleries. Discover how these artists overcame unique creative challenges, from designing on complex surfaces to making art people can literally sit on. Hear their personal stories, artistic inspirations, and how public art builds stronger connections between people, place, and purpose. Plus, learn how these installations support local nonprofits and why the West Hartford Chamber’s work is vital for small businesses and the community. Whether you’re an art lover, entrepreneur, or just curious about how creativity can shape a city, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on the power of public art.
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    24 mins
  • On The Scene Ep 51 Hitchcock Priniting

    On The Scene Ep 51 Hitchcock Priniting
    Sep 26 2025
    On this episode of On The Scene, Tom Hickey and Bob Carr welcome Justin Cote, Vice President at Hitchcock Printing in New Britain—celebrating 120+ years in print. Justin reveals how a legacy shop stays future-ready: an apprenticeship pipeline with New Britain High School and CCSU, cross-training that builds true craftspeople, and steady capital investments—from a 40" four-color press to high-speed digital with inline book finishing and pharma-grade folding.

    They unpack common design pitfalls (hello RGB vs. CMYK and the importance of bleeds) and share practical tips for creators using tools like Canva to get print-perfect results. Justin also dives into the resurgence of direct mail—why tactile pieces drive stronger response—and how Hitchcock’s pre-sort mailing operation can cut postage and push over a million pieces a day. Speed, transparency, and service tie it all together.

    If you care about quality, timelines, and ROI—from business cards to major publications and high-volume mail—this conversation shows why Hitchcock has endured and how they help brands win in print today. Presented by NBT Bank, proud supporter of local business.
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    26 mins