FREE
AUG 2017 EXTRA
• SHOPPING • • DINING • • RECREATION • SEASIDE SUMMER FUN
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
From farm to plate Our produce isn’t just locally grown, it’s grown right in our own backyard farm. So you always get the freshest ingredients in every dish you order.
From farm to plate
Our produce isn’t just locally grown, it’s grown right in our own backyard farm. So you always get the freshest ingredients in every dish you order.
The Dining Room
Open daily 6 - 10pm • outside seating available The Dining Room Veranda Café
Get out of daily town6and enjoy the Island’s best kept secret! Open - 10pm outside seating available Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Sunset appetizers 3 - 6pm
Veranda Café
Get out of town and enjoy the Island’s best kept secret! Opens June 18. Victoria’s Serving lunch 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Parlor Sunset appetizers 3 - 6 p.m.
Cocktails 5pm - closing • Bistro menu 6pm - closing • outside seating available
Victoria’s Bistro & Parlor
Cocktails 5pm - closing
Bistro menu 6pm - closing
Martini Night
outside seating available
Martini Thursdays 9:30Night - 12:30 p.m. Thursdays from June 22nd
Our brand new coffee and juice bar Serving garden fresh vegetable juice Light Breakfast Fare
Live Jazz with The WildGreens Every Friday Night 8 p.m.
Smoothies Tazo Tea & Chai Coffee Drinks Daily Selection of Sweets Located in our main Lobby. Open 7 days a week from 7am-11am
Proudly Serving
401-466-5844 • www.springhousehotel.com • info@springhousehotel.com
401-466-5844 • www.springhousehotel.com • info@springhousehotel.com
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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e-mail: mail@blockislandtimes.com webnews: www.blockislandtimes.com The Block Island Times was founded in 1970 by Dan Rattiner, publisher, and Margaret Cabell Self, editor.
The Block Island Times is a member of the New England Press Association, The National Newspaper Association, The Block Island Chamber of Commerce, and the Westerly Pawcatuck Chamber of Commerce. It is printed on partially recycled newsprint by The Republican Company in Springfield, MA.
Pippi Seider Pippi is from Scarsdale, New York and will be a sophomore at her high school in September. She has been coming to Block Island for over thirteen years. She loves the natural beauty of the Island and while on Block Island enjoys running, sailing, spending time with her family, and going to the beach.
Our Staff
Correction Policy
Publisher .......................................................... Michael Schroeder Editor ........................................................................... Kari Curtis Production .................................................Macsperts/CRI Design Contributors .................................. Cassius Shuman, Pippi Seider Aisha McAdams, Alexandra Duggan, Corrie Heinz Keith Lang, Scott Comings, Ruth Perfido and Becky Ballard Sol Schwartz, Susan Bush, K. Curtis, Kim Gaffett Chief Vincent T. Carlone Photographers .....K.Curtis, Kim Gaffett, Alexandra Duggan, Ray Perry, T. Finn Photography,Tiffany Madrano Photography, Pippi Seider, Aisha McAdams, Alexandra Duggan, Judy Gray, Royal Bruce Ink, Malcolm Greenaway Advertising............................................................ Shane Howrigan Advertising Design ........... CRI Design, Macsperts, J.M. Swienton
Advertising: This newspaper does not assume any responsibility for an error in an advertisement. Editorial: This newspaper will correct errors in reporting. Opinions expressed in columns or letters to the editor in this paper are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of this newspaper. The opinions expressed by the cartoonist are not necessarily those of the publisher. The Block Island Times Summer Times insert is published four times in June, July, August and September. Cover Photos: K. Curtis
K. CURTIS
Ocean Avenue, Box 278, Block Island, RI 02807 Phone: (401) 466-2222 Fax: (401) 466-8804
Alexandra Duggan Alexandra Duggan is 19 years old from Weston, Connecticut. She has spent every summer on Block Island since she was four years old, and lives at the end of Dories Cove Road on the West Side of the island. She currently works as a waitress at The Oar, and as an intern at The Block Island Times. She is going into her sophomore year at Hamilton College and serves as Co-Editor to the Opinion Section at her school newspaper, The Spectator.
BY
Aisha McAdams A recent graduate of Stonehill College, Aisha McAdams completed her degree majoring in communication and visual performing arts with a minor in journalism. With past internships with The Standard Times in New Bedford, MA, and her role as the photo editor and reporter for her college’s newspaper, McAdams continues to write as a freelancer. McAdams will finish up the summer on Block Island before heading to Brockton, MA, for a year of service and assistance in teaching at Trinity Catholic Academy.
PHOTO
SUMMER TIMES INTERNS
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
www.blockislandtimes.com
Photo: Elizabeth D. Boepple
AS ALWAYS, FREE AND EVERYONE WELCOME
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Father Daniel Berrigan (left) and theologian and civil rights lawyer William Stringfellow (below) belonged to an old American tradition— faithbased activism. During the tumultuous 1960s and later, they were among the leaders of resistance to the Vietnam War and campaigned for civil rights, nuclear disarmament, social justice, and the environment.
Photos: Bob Fitch
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SEEKING SHELTER EVENTS Tuesdays5:30–7PM IslandFreeLibrary 9DodgeStreet August 1 Film: Seeking Shelter August 8 JimWallis (at Harbor Church) August 15 Library book group discussesThe Sympathizer by VietThanh Nguyen August 22 Film: Seeking Shelter August 29 Panel with local remembrancesr September 5 Songs of Peaceful Protest with Atwater & Donnelly September 12 Bill Kellerman and Jim Reale share reflections …additional events and programming will be announced as scheduled
www.islandfreelibrary.org (401) 466-3233
Photo: Ken Yellis
In the face of opposition from both civil and religious authorities and hostile public opinion, their chosen path exacted a great personal toll. On Block Island, they, like many non-conformists and dissidents before them, found the renewal they sought in a community that accepted, welcomed, and sustained them.
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
d n la s I k c lo B to e m o lc e W A Note from Police Chief Carlone
risks that are unnoticed by most Dear Visitors to Block Island, any natural environment there are In all. for be to e plac fun a and on vacation, your mind doesn’t It’s the busy season xed state of mind. When you are rela y full der won a h suc in are pletely safe. That’s okay, it is people because they impression that everything is com the get you and gers dan e sibl , or save you from injury. always alert you to pos a few things that may save your life ut abo w kno you let to d nee we mostly safe for sure, but accidents. There are lots Island, some seriously from bike ck Blo on r yea ry eve red inju e’s what to do to be safe. 1. Bicycles — People get traffic competing for the road. Her of lots and rs, ulde sho road r under wear them, but of steep inclines, poo law requires that people fifteen and The n. dre chil lly ecia esp et, Wear an approved helm Lock your bikes! STOP signs, ride I recommend that everyone should. law, and for your safety. Stop at by do to ired requ are you ch 2. Obey all traffic laws, whi everywhere. because the curves and hills are fast too e go ’t don and fic traf h wit re present, and be alert that ther or facing traffic, use sidewalks whe fic traf inst aga lk se. Wa plea — y, s full lker 3. Wa r children care close by as you walk. Watch you are all manners of vehicles coming ed if you fail to do so, please mon sum be l (it is the law) or you wil et helm a ar We — s ped Mo tal 4. Ren eatedly blow the hor n. obey all traffic laws, and don’t rep sands of pounds of clay f areas; they are unstable and thou bluf e larg w belo out tch Wa — s 5. Beache too far from a young children near the water; don’t be tch Wa ly. cted xpe une n dow e can com children. ng risk in the ocean for unattended child, there is an extreme drowni lic areas. Drinking in pub all in on any beaches and ted hibi pro is s Thi — l oho Alc 6. Drinking and will summons Off icers will be in plain clothes . way any idea d goo a not is the hot sun nsed liquor sales king anywhere other than in lice drin from ain refr se plea so , or arrest you medical staff and injured k to excess. We have a minimal establishments. Please do not drin ous injuries. n off the island for treatment of seri people end up having to be flow ective clothing when biking or ited lighting, so please wear refl 7. Night Time — There is lim walking. at bars and beaches, and lock s, watch your purse and cell phones 8. Valuables — Lock your bike your cars. officers are friendly and and if you need anything, all of our In closing, we are happy to see you necessary. approachable and will help you if Please have a safe vacation. Sincerely, Chief Vincent T. Carlone NSPD
What’s missing from your evening?
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
August Calendar 1
BIMI Lecture Series. B.I. Maritime Institute. 7 p.m.
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Farmers’ Market. Spring House. 9 - 11:30 a.m.
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Summer Concert Series — Kevin Briody, Emmy-winning songwriter. St Andrew Parish. 7:30 p.m.
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Historical Society’s ‘Old Harbor Walking Tour.’ Meet at statue of Rebecca. 10 a.m. $15
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Night Market on Dodge Street. 5 - 9 p.m.
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Triathlon Check-in. Fred Benson Town Beach. 4 - 6 p.m.
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35th Annual Block Island Triathlon. Fred Benson Town Beach. 9 a.m.
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Farmers’ Market. Legion Park. 9 - 11:30 a.m.
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23rd Annual “Mary D. Ball” Sullivan House. 7 - 11 p.m.
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ConserFest events. Narragansett Inn. 3 - 9 p.m.
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ConserFest events. Fred Benson Town Beach. 12 - 3 p.m.
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ConserFest events. Yellow Kittens. 10 p.m. - 1 a.m.
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Block Island Medical Center 5K Family Fun Run. Fred Benson Town Beach. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. Race starts at 9:30 a.m.
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B.I. Arts and Crafts Guild Fair. Historical Society lawn. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
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Full Moon Cemetery Tour with stone carver Karin Sprague. Meet at Island Cemetery. 7 p.m.
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BINGO. Firebarn. 6:30 p.m.
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BIMI Lecture Series. B.I. Maritime Institute. 7 p.m.
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Farmers’ Market. Spring House. 9 - 11:30 a.m.
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Blues on the Block featuring Four Barrel Billy. 6 - 8 p.m. Fred Benson Town Beach.
10 Historical Society’s ‘Old Harbor Walking Tour.’ Meet at statue of Rebecca. 10 a.m. $15 10 Night Market on Dodge Street. 5 - 9 p.m. 12 Farmers’ Market. Legion Park. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 12 Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival. Harbor Church lawn. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. 12 Block Island Soccer Classic. Heinz Field. 10 a.m. Games all day. 12 Night Sky Viewing. Hodge Family Preserve, Corn Neck Rd. Bring a blanket or beach chair. 8:30 p.m. 13 The Great Toy Boat Race. Benefiting the B.I. Early Learning Center. Ocean Avenue Bridge. 9:30 a.m. 13
Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival. Harbor Church lawn. 12 - 5 p.m.
14 Block Island Arts and Artisans Festival. Harbor Church lawn. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 15 BIMI Lecture Series. B.I. Maritime Institute. 7 p.m. 16 Farmers’ Market. Spring House. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 16 Beane Point Open House. Arrive by kayak, paddleboard , dinghies or walk. 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. 16 Summer Concert Series — Harold Lopez-Nussa trio, latin jazz. St. Andrew Parish. 7:30 p.m. 17 45th Annual House and Garden Tour. Tickets available at B.I. Historical Society. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 17 Historical Society’s ‘Old Harbor Walking Tour.’ Meet at statue of Rebecca. 10 a.m. $15 17 Night Market on Dodge Street. 5 - 9 p.m. 19 Farmers’ Market. Legion Park. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 20 B.I. Arts and Crafts Guild Fair. Historical Society lawn. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 20 Block Party on the Block. American Legion Park . 5 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary. 21 Partial Solar Eclipse of 2017. 1:28 p.m. - 2:47 p.m. Look up! 22
BIMI Lecture Series. B.I. Maritime Institute. 7 p.m.
23 Farmers’ Market. Spring House. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 23 Night Sky Viewing. Hodge Family Preserve, Corn Neck Rd. Bring a blanket or beach chair. 8 p.m. 24 Historical Society’s ‘Old Harbor Walking Tour.’ Meet at statue of Rebecca. 10 a.m. $15 24 Night Market on Dodge Street. 5 - 9 p.m. 26 Farmers’ Market. Legion Park. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 26 Oysta’Fest. Block Island Maritime Institute. 3 - 5 p.m. 30 Farmers’ Market. Spring House. 9 - 11:30 a.m. 30 Summer Concert Series — Jonathan Tortolano, cello and piano. St. Andrew Parish. 7:30 p.m. 31 Historical Society’s ‘Old Harbor Walking Tour.’ Meet at statue of Rebecca. 10 a.m. $15 31 Night Market on Dodge Street. 5 - 9 p.m.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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at the
Atlantic Inn
Tapas Sunset Cocktails &
K. Curtis
Dinner
Serving Nightly Tapas 5 p.m. Dinner 6 - 9 p.m.
401-466-5883 www.atlanticinn.com
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
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Island Shopping Vacation is for relaxing, beaching, and doing a little credit card damage! Check out these hot, summer island must-haves!
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1. East of the River Nile, Chapel Street Hemp Backpack From Nepal, $36.95 2. Photo Dog, Water Street Block Island Porcelain Ornaments by local artist Celeste Halterline, $22 3. True North, Dodge Street Helly Hansen Crew Vest, $129 4. Bonnie & Clyde, Water Street Sugarlips Dress, $78 5. The Wave, Water Street Block Island Anchor Sweatshirt, $39.99 6. Mar Mar, Dodge Street Brackish Feather Bow Tie, $190 7. Full Moon Tide, Chapel Street Zand Amsterdam Skirt, $82 8. Marye Kelley, Dodge Street Large Glass Cutting Board 12”x15”, $58 9. Block Island Trading Co., Water Street Block Island Dish Towel, $22 10. Jennifer’s Jewelry, Water Street Block Island Gemstone Bracelet, $119-$150 PHOTOS BY PIPPI SEIDER
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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ADVERTORIAL
Comfy Kai-Kai Sandals ForKaiKai Costanzo, founding a busiFor Costanzo, founding a business ness has been an odyssey sparked by has been an odyssey sparked by personpersonal need. A triathlete since he al need. A triathlete since he was young, was young, Costanzo collected sandals Costanzo collected sandals as he travas he traveled about the world, surfing eled about the world, surfing and racing and racing triathlons. Yet, he wasn’t sattriathlons. he wasn’the satisfied with isfi ed with Yet, the footwear discovered. the footwear he discovered. They were They were either uncomfortable, uneither uncomfortable, unsturdy or both. sturdy or both. Fed up with the world’s Fed up with the world’s imperfect imperfect sandal sandal selection, selection, Costanzo Costanzo decided decided to to begin producing producing his begin his own own brand brand of ofsansandals. “I “I wanted wanted to dals. to create create aa simple simple sansandal that would stay on your dal that would stay on yourfoot footwell,� well,� he explains. AsAsa arunner, runner,Kai Kaiknew knew“a “a bit bit about about feet� and he drew upon this this knowledge knowledge during his quest for the perfect perfect sandal sandal design. Arch Archsupport support was important, was important, he he decided — flflops at flops would decided — flat would notnot do. do. The initial initial process processtook tookabout aboutaayear, year, The Kai admits. After all, all, he he didn’t didn’t want want to to sell shoddy product. product. He He gathered gathered sell aa shoddy samples fromfive fivecountries, countries, includsamples from including ing and Colombia Peru,Peru, Brazil,Brazil, and Colombia before before finally fiselecting nally selecting design met his a designathat metthat his expectaexpecta-tions. Today, thearesandals are tions. Today, the sandals produced produced in Peru and Brazil. in Peru and Brazil. foundthat thatdevelopment development year year HeHefound frustrating nice because because you you get get frustrating “but “but nice Christmas presents [for your family]� he Christmas presents [for your family]� he says, smiling. says, smiling. In 2004, 2004, Kai-Kai Kai-Kai Sandals Sandalsemerged emergedon on In the market in Montauk, his hometown. the market in Montauk, his hometown. Buyers there were supportive and eaBuyers there were supportive and ger, “repeat customers helped,� says Kai. eager, “repeat customers helped,� says With his sister, Gabrielle, he established Kai. With his sister, Gabrielle, he estab-
Buy a Kai-Kai Sandal and get a free Freefrom Bracelet small scoop Block Island Ice when you try on a Kai-Kai! cream facing the ferry. Kai Costanzo, with sister Gabrielle on the porch of the Inn at Old Harbor, shows off a pair of B.I.-soled Kai-Kais. PHOTO BY BROOKE ORTEL two stores in Montauk. While KaiKaiis lished two stores in Montauk. While the founder of the company, he says is the founder of the company, he says that Gabrielle has provided constant that Gabrielle has provided constant support:“She “She has has been been with with me me every every support: stepof ofthe theway, way,building buildingthe thebrand.� brand.� step Thesandals sandalsare arebest best known known for for their their The comfort, which was Kai’s main obcomfort, which was Kai’s main objecjec-tive in creating them. Sought after tive in creating them. Sought after for for their support their archarch support and and thickthick strap,strap, KaiKai-Kai sandals mold to the feet, but Kai sandals mold to the feet, but do do not have a painful break-in period, not have a painful break-in period, says says Costanzo. They’re “comfy right off Costanzo. the bat.� They’re “comfy right off the bat.� Instead of a warranty, Kai’s “Swap TheyFlop� don’t have creates a warranty, but your program customer Costanzo created a “Swap Your Flop�
loyalty at which all three of his locationstoin program, allows customers Montauk, Block Island, Key West pair and receive 40 percent off of a new soon to be, fourth location, Provincof sandals while their old pairs are etown,toMass. Old pairsDesigned of the brown, given the homeless. to fit are of donated to thesandals homeathick widestrap variety feet, Kai-Kai lessoffered and youinreceive 40% sizes, off a new pair. are children’s various Encouraged by the positive feedwidths, and top out at a men’s size 15! back in Montauk, Costanzo started Encouraged by the positive feedback to wholesale his sandals to stores on in Montauk, Constanzo branched out, Block Island. Two days after his sister’s selling his sandals to a couple of stores wedding, they piloted his new boat to on Block Island. However, Block Island in order to surfthis theyear, hurthat changed when Kai bought theWhile Inn ricane swells in October 2012. at Old Harbor. Now theHarbor, Inn is run by staying at the Inn at Old Kai and Costanzo BOE his GBNJMZ 5IF Tandals his sister, Gabrielle, hit it off with the are sold JO UIF SFBS PG UIF CVJMEJOH ,BJhT
ownerConrad, and a deal quicklyUIF SFBS put into father, is awas fixture PO action. After many trips in an infl atable EFDL PWFSMPPLJOH UIF GFSSZ )e helps to boat, they closed on the property two size customers and is as enthusiastic months about thelater. sandals as his son. “We’ve Kai sandals areinsold in the front hadKai people running flip-flops,� he store, formerly Rag’sand and remarks. “It’s theoccupied Brazilianby rubber managed great arch.� by his cousin Miriam. Kai’s father Conrad helps to size customers Kai says that currently, he and his and is as enthusiastic about the sandals family learning how to running run an as his are son.“just “We’ve had people inn successfully.� That doesn’t mean in flip-flops,� Conrad remarks. “It’s the that he’s not brainstorming new Brazilian rubber and great arch.� ideas When for his brand, though.inHe Conrad’s not helping thehopes store, to he develop some non-thong styles, well can be found eating sweets atas the ice as a greater variety children’s designs cream parlor in theofrear of the building. in the near future.
EARLY BIRD BEACH BAG AVAILABLE WITH THIS AD UNTIL 1PM
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
On The Beach It’s a simple fact: all Block Island vacations include a day at the beach. Block Island has 17 miles worth of unspoiled coastline and pristine beaches. While numerous beaches offer strong, consistent swells for wave sports, others are calmer and more placid, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. There are beaches that are ideal for families with children seeking a low-key spot, beaches where you may be the only one around, or beaches that are more action-packed. Use this guide to help find the best beach for you.
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12 PHOTOS BY K. CURTIS
1. Cow Cove is located near Settlers Rock. Although the shoreline is rocky, it offers some of the best coastal views and also sports the historic North Light. This is not a safe place to swim because of a strong riptide. Be careful where you walk too: the beach is a nesting area for many rare birds.
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2. Mansion Beach lies at the end of a dirt road with the same name. The island’s most stately mansion once sat like a jewel on a hill overlooking Jerry’s Point. Fire destroyed the house and it was never rebuilt. However, the beach fits the name by being the island’s grandest.
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Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion
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3. Scotch Beach is a quarter mile north of Fred Benson Town Beach. Scotch is a sandbox for kids and the place to go for vacationers looking for a hotly contested game of volleyball. There is a small parking lot between the road and the dunes.
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Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion rentals Right smack in the middle of the big stretch of beach on the east side of the island is the Town Beach Pavilion; open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the full season. Beach chairs, boogie boards and umbrella rentals are available daily ($10 chairs, $15 umbrellas). Food is served all day with everything from cold drinks and ice cream to hamburgers and french fries. Bathrooms and token showers are available.
4. Fred Benson Town Beach is home to Block Island’s fully equipped bathhouse. In addition to showers, lockers, food, and rental items, the beach is staffed with lifeguards in the summer months. There is also a small parking lot, which fills up fast.
5. Baby Beach is a well-sheltered beachfront at the south end of Crescent Beach, where children can easily play in the shallow waters. It’s also an ideal place to check out the abundant sea life such as small crabs and starfish and go hunting for shells and sand dollars.
6. Ballard’s Beach is located on the south side of the Old Harbor breakwater and adjacent to Ballard’s restaurant. Staffed with lifeguards throughout the summer months, it is also a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, and volleyball.
7. Mohegan Bluffs beachfront is found at the bottom of the steps that descend from the bluffs. A favorite spot for surfers, it’s also a beautiful and secluded place to swim. Not for the faint of heart.
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Please Help Protect Our Dunes
After Hurricane Sandy and subsequent 2013 winter storms devastated dunes along Corn Neck Road, and in particular those protecting Crescent Beach, volunteers installed snow fences to clearly mark rights of way to the beach from Corn Neck Road and beach parking areas. The fences help the dunes replenish, so please do not move them. And keep to these designated trails, so that new plantings to help anchor the sand have a chance to take root. They are an important line of defense to this fragile ecosystem.
Rentals at The Surf Beach
8. Vaill Beach is a large beach at the bottom of a hollow. The path to it is located at the bend in Snake Hole Road. At the base of the bend turn left and walk for approximately 50 yards. The surf here is rough and rocks line the shallows, so swimmers should exercise caution.
10. Mosquito Beach, also known as “Dinghy Beach,” is located just across the road from Scotch Beach, a quarter mile north of Fred Benson Town Beach. It provides a place for boaters in New Harbor to tie up their rafts and dinghies. There are majestic views of Great Salt Pond, making it a good backdrop for photos.
11. Andy’s Way is the island’s premier clamming spot. Standing at the end of a dirt road that bears the same name, it’s a good place to take a stroll. Just north is Beane Point, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife property that is home to many rare birds.
9. Black Rock boasts expanses of sand and a series of coves at the base of a cliff. Swimming is difficult because of the large number of rocks, but it’s a perfect place for an oceanside hike. The area takes its name from a large, dark rock that rests offshore in about 15 feet of water and has spelled the end for many ships. Located a pace off the main road, it’s best to walk or bike to get there.
12. West Beach is lightly trafficked and has gentle surf. It’s perfect for walking and is close to the North Light.
13. Coast Guard Beach is at the end of Champlin Road and derives its name from the old Coast Guard station that was formerly located there. Don’t swim here, but it’s a good place for clamming and fishing.
14. Charlestown Beach is popular with fishermen because it has a long jetty at its end. Typically uncrowded, it’s a nice spot to watch the boats come into the harbor or explore the former Coast Guard station that is now town-owned.
15. Grace’s, Dorry’s, and Cooneymus coves are secluded beaches on the west side of the island. They are perfect for a challenging hike or for those looking for an out-of-the-way spot to catch a sunset or a moonrise.
These beach rentals are close to town and are located on the beach just below the Surf Hotel. Daily and hourly rentals of beach chairs, umbrellas, stand-up paddle boards and kayaks are available through Labor Day weekend.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Summertime Fun: Kayaking By Corrie Heinz of Pond & Beyond Kayaks
Pond & Beyond Kayaks offers rentals and tours on the Great Salt Pond. PHOTO BY K. CURTIS
Be Safe on the Water: A Beginners Guide • • • •
Be smart, be safe. Have fun; don’t be annoying! Practice defensive paddling. Never assume that a power boat can see you. • Avoid high traffic areas when possible, proceed with caution when you can’t. • Be aware of factors like fog and glare that make it more difficult for you to be seen. • You must have a life jacket (PFD) on your kayak. All children 16 and under must wear a life jacket at all times. While there are some situations where the kayaker has the right-of-way, you cannot assume that other boaters are able to see you or even know the rules. In narrow channels stay to the right, as close to shore
Bioluminescent Tour In the summer, bioluminescent comb jellies (non-stinging and not(PHOTO SUNRISE) true jelly fish) populate the warm coastal waters of the Block Island Sound, including the Great Salt Pond. On dark summer nights these invertebrates may be ‘seen’ when agitated in the water. People of all ages are enchanted by the glow emitted by these organisms — so bring the whole family. A bioluminescent tour will be held on Thursday, August 10 at 6:45 p.m. — but only if comb jellies are present in large numbers. Dress appropriately (layers); headlamp, f lashlight, or glow stick suggested, bug spray — can’t hurt. Reservations required, basic kayaking required and space is limited. For reservations contact Pond & Beyond Kayak at (401) 578-2773.
as possible, and do not impede vessels that must use the marked channels to travel safely. Boats entering waterways from slips or marinas will not see you. Exercise caution in those situations. • Don’t stand up in a kayak. • Do not drink alcohol before or while operating a kayak. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and judgement. • If you paddle out solo, tell someone before you go. Be specific about where you plan to go and when you will be back. Be sure to report back in when you return. • Know the conditions before you set out. Always paddle within your abilities. • In general, kayaking on the Great Salt Pond is safe and fun. Just be smart.
Kids in Kayaks PHOTO BY CORRIE HEINZ
Kids in Kayaks A fun way for youngsters to learn to kayak and discover the natural world of the GSP in the company of other kids (no adults allowed). This intro program covers basic skills,
launching and exiting techniques, and fundamental strokes (forward/ back/turn/stop). For those willing, we will practice assisted rescues. Age 6 to 10. Space limited to 6 children. Reservations are required. This tour is based on the tides and is $40 per kid. Note to parents: believe it or not your six-year-old is ready to learn to kayak. Most kids ‘get it’ within the first twenty minutes. If not, we work with them until they do. The instructor carries along a tow rope to assist those who might need a break. A typical class starts with learning about your kayak and the correct way to hold the paddle. We leave the launch site and head into the shallows of Harbor Pond. Kids are never without supervision and never far from the shoreline. We stop along the way to swim and explore. Please arrive on time. Have your kids lubed up with sunscreen, wearing a bathing suit, appropriate shoes, and fed! Bring water and a healthy snack. Best photo ops are on the return when your kids are smiling and proud of their accomplishment. (Bring money to reward them with a Killer Donut after the lesson.) For reservations contact Pond & Beyond Kayak at (401) 578-2773.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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VIEW OUR WALL DISPLAY
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ACTIVITIES/EVENTS HUB
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SUMMER
Water Bottle Refill Station New on Block Island this year is a water bottle refill station on the Solviken Property just across the street from the beach, and just past The Beachead restaurant, on Corn Neck Road. The water fountain includes a spot to refill your water bottle, and a drinking fountain for both people and pets — there is even a water dispenser at ground level for your four legged friend! Don’t forget to keep your furry friends hydrated — it’s hot! This watering spot was the home to the Solviken Restaurant in the 1950's and early 1960's and many years prior the building housed the Negus family and their blacksmith shop. The building
IS HERE!
was unused for many years and deteriorated to the point it could not be saved. Thanks to the efforts of the many generous donors in the community, the Solviken property was purchased by the Block Island Conservancy and the Block Island Land Trust in 2012. Other spots with public water access include a water fountain next to the public rest rooms at the Ball O’Brien Park on West Side Rd., a water jug-filling faucet at the boat ramp in New Harbor between BIMI and Dead Eye Dick’s, and a rinse off shower and footbath at the Old Harbor Docks near the bike rental shop.
Sophia
Madden Kent, CT
August
Kayak
highlights Do you have your Eat Fish shirt yet?
full moon tour Monday, August 7th Kids in Kayaks Bioluminescence Tour
Saturday, August 19th Stop by Twin Maples on Beach Ave.
And more ... reservations required for tours
It’s summer going-out shirt. Visityour us online at www.eatfishshirts.com
Harrisburg,PA
Pond and Beyond
Chad
Karla
Kansas
Warwick, RI
blockislandkayak@gmail.com 401-578-2773 pondandbeyondkayak.com
Ben
Orlando, FL
THE OAR
Ahoy, everyone! Paddle on over and meet the crew at
BI Boat Basin, New Harbor • Open: 11:30am • Take-out available • Bring the kids! COME AND ENJOY OUR GREAT SUSHI BAR!
466-8820
www.blockislandtimes.com Page A14 THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
ORDER THIS!
July 1, 2017 THE BLOCK ISLAND TIMES Page 15 www.blockislandtimes.com
Salmon and Cod at The Spring House
PHOTOS BY K. CURTIS
T
he old adage “times have changed” certainly applies to The Spring House. In 1989, the first year that the DiBiase family owned The Spring House, they had a limited menu that included hotdogs and hamburgers. Over the years, the menu has expanded and evolved so that today both the formal restaurant and the more informal bistro have extensive, sophisticated menus that include farm-to-table vegetables and herbs, and fresh daily local seafood and fish, including tuna and swordfish. To expand on the “changing times” of this grand hotel that first opened in 1852, Frankie DiBiase, the Hospitality Manager, gave us a tour of
the formal dining room and lobby, which have been beautifully redecorated this past year in a manner true to their original Victorian charm. When you visit, be certain not to miss the extraordinary new swan stained glass windows, made by hand by a Connecticut artisan! After our tour, Brian Hebert, who is in his fifth year as the Executive Chef, served us two very different, but equally interesting and excellent, dishes — Faroe Island salmon (farmed salmon raised in open waters) with horseradish crust, braised kale, new potatoes, saffron mustard cream, and parsley pistou — and pan-seared, roasted native cod over
white beans, rainbow swiss chard and chorizo, and finished with lemon beurre blanc. Needless to say, we cleaned our plates. We then ended our visit with a discussion of some of the new menu items for the season — baby arugula and quinoa salad, yellowfin crudo and crispy duck leg confit — both of which sound delicious. And, remember that Monday night is movie night on the lawn complete with popcorn. The Spring House is open daily through mid-October for lunch and dinner except that it is booked for wedding dinners on each Saturday through Labor Day weekend. But see our review of The Barn for the Saturday dinner alternative. For more information visit www.springhouseblockisland.com or call (401) 466-5844. — Ruth Perfido and Becky Ballard
23rd Annual
Mary D. Ball 126 CORN NECK RD
BLOCK ISLAND 466-2300 tigerfishbi.com
Saturday, August 5, 2017 7 - 11 pm | Buffet Dinner from 7 -9 pm Under the Tent At Sullivan House Music Provided By: DJ Jon O'Neill Walter McDonough • $40 Supporter • $75 Sponsor • $150 Club Mary
Sound Home Inspection, LLC • Inspections performed
7 days a week • 25+ years, over 5,000 houses • Detailed report with photographs
860-445-1236
soundhomeinspections.com Tom Morgan, Member American Society of Home Inspectors
ASHI # 5535
What’s happening at the bookstore this week? Good Reads Plus Sunday, July 2 - 8:30-9:30 a.m. Story hour with Susie Greenlee (ages 4-8)
Sponsored by Sullivan House, Ballard Hall Real Estate, Block Island Recycling Management, Block Island Realty
Sunday, July 2 - 8:30 a.m. and on Come get your New York Times or Boston Globe* (*Papers will be there at 8:30 a.m. as long as New England Air is flying!)
Wednesday, July 5 - 10:00-11:00 a.m. Story hour with Susie Greenlee (ages 4-8) Drop your children off for stories and walk to the Farmer’s Market Thursday, July 6 - 5:00-7:00 p.m. Art class with Sharon Lehman (reservations required)
A Family Friendly Event!
Call for summer hours and details on the programs this week.
Proceeds to benefit the Mary D Fund
466-8878 Post Office Building books | ebooks | art supplies | cards | gifts
Tickets available at the door or send a check made out to The Mary D Fund, Box 303, Block Island, RI 02807
www.blockislandtimes.com
August 2017
Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
L o cal R aw Bar
$1 buck shuck oyster s Mon day - Fr id ay from
3- 4.
Fresh Fish • Lobster
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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Where are Public Restrooms Located? Public Restrooms are located around the island starting with the Visitor's Center in Old Harbor, in the parking lot just as you get off the ferry. Also in Old Harbor you will find a restroom at the Harbormaster's building on the dock near Ballard's. Other locations are at the Fire/Police station on Beach Avenue, the Island Free Library on Dodge Street, the Hog Pen Marina on Ocean Avenue in New Harbor, at Ball O'Brien Park on West Side Road (across from the Island Cemetery) and the Town Beach Pavilion on Corn Neck Rd. Port-a-Johns are at Southeast Lighthouse and Mansion Beach.
The Beachead Crew is looking forward to seeing you! beacheadbi.com Take out 466-2249 Fresh seafood simply prepared in a traditional New England style
Food and cocktails on the deck overlooking the harbor
The largest selection of lobsters on the Island!
FINN’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Call or check our website for hours • 466-2473 • www.finnsseafood.com
FISH MARKET Live lobster • Fresh & smoked fish • Shellfish • Chowder-to-go • Ice Lobster Bakes in a tin. Just add water, cook and enjoy!
(Order one day in advance) www.blockislandtimes.com Call or check our website for hours • 466-2102 •
ORDER THIS!
www.finnsseafood.com
July 15, 2017 THE BLOCK ISLAND TIMES
Page 15
Tapas and entrées at Restaurant 1879
T
he words “new” and “exciting” describe the new chef, the new menus, and the exciting food at Restaurant 1879, located at The Atlantic Inn (which opened in 1879). Executive Chef Adi Mandel is new to Block Island (and is now a proud Block Island homeowner), but he is not new to overseeing sophisticated menus and kitchens like Restaurant 1879 and Eli’s (a story for another edition). During his career, Chef Mandel has participated in the opening of three hotels and seven restaurants. At Restaurant 1879, and Eli’s, he oversees a large staff that includes two sous-chefs, a pastry chef, and, because Restaurant 1879 is a teaching kitchen, six students from various culinary programs. Chef Mandel has developed exciting menus for the indoor restaurant and for the large, gracious porch and sloping lawn (a beautiful site for a wedding) where appetizers, tapas and drinks are served. And, in addition to the standard menus, there is a vegetarian menu and daily specials. The new menu focuses on sea-to-kitchen dishes, fresh vegetables, and homemade pastries, all of which, he explained, showcase his Argentinian background and love of fresh fish and seafood and the Mediterranean style of cooking. As you might suspect, with this introduction, we could not wait for our tasting. It was worth the wait. It was a beautiful day and we were served on the porch from which you can see the neighboring farm, the town and Old Harbor, the beach, the ocean
PHOTO BY ARIEL CARLSON
and the sky beyond. The view was equaled only by the Sizzling Garlic Shrimp appetizer, the amazingly tender and tasty Espresso Bean Filet entrée – espresso-rubbed filet of beef – with sweet potato and ‘Nduja hash, caramelized red onion, blue cheese custard, and a mushroom cabernet jus — all
followed by a (really) chocolate cake filled with strawberry buttercream and coated in toasted marshmallows (presented by Pastry Chef Courtney Segal). Does the meal sound delicious? Indeed it was, in all respects! The Atlantic Inn and Restaurant 1879 are open from the beginning of
May until mid-October. Both dinner and tapas are served seven days a week — dinner from 6 to 9 p.m. and tapas from 5 to 9 p.m. For more information see www.atlanticin.com or call (401) 466-5883. — Becky Ballard and Ruth Perfido
www.blockislandtimes.com Page A16 THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
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July 8, 2017 THE BLOCK ISLAND TIMES Page 15 www.blockislandtimes.com
Sushi bar at Ballard’s Inn
B
allard’s is a big place with plenty of activity, but each year there’s something new, or improved, or simply moved into the spotlight. This year, it’s Ballard’s new sushi and raw bar that got our attention. Comfortably located between indoors and out, this exotic bar has a long list of popular seafood choices and a friendly staff to put it together in tempting combinations. Garfield Lewis prepared the Signature Ballard’s Sushi Roll for us. It’s made of all good things — lobster meat salad, avocado, and asparagus and rolled in tobiko rice. The best. Using chopsticks isn’t a must, but adds to the fun. If you fumble, it’s okay. And when you’re all done, you’ll want a second. Ballard’s assistant executive manager, Lauder Ribero, and his family live year-round on Block Island; his children go to the Block Island School. He knows what we all like to eat. He and head chef Ariel Fontanilla said that after multiple requests for a raw bar and sushi, they knew they had to respond. Also, there’s a new food cart out on the beach serving lobster rolls, hamburgers and hot dogs. Lauder brought out a tray of the Chilled Shellfish Platter from the menu. It’s filled with a whole Maine lobster, crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters and clams on the half shell. “Paradise for seafood lovers.” For evening dining, there’s a more extensive menu, but sushi, and everything from the raw bar, is still available. Guests can dine inside or out under the stars with music by long-time favorite, John Brazil (from 6 to 11 p.m.). And one last thing... there’s the pineapple drink. Any drink of your choice can be served in a pineapple, even beer. And yes, it can be served with a tiny, paper umbrella. Call (401) 466-2231, or visit ballardsbi.com. — Becky Ballard and Ruth Perfido
PHOTO- BY K. CURTIS
NG 54 YEARS CELEBRATI
AN ISLAND TRADITION. Since 1963 island
residents and visitors have enjoyed Doris Payne’s homemade donuts. You will find the delicious treats on Ocean Avenue by the bridge. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee or another of our various morning delights. Nearby are charter boats and the Block Island Maritime Institute. Open daily from 7 AM.
23rd Annual
Mary D. Ball
Saturday, August 5, 2017 7 - 11 pm | Buffet Dinner from 7 -9 pm 126SERVING CORN NECK RD AND BLOCK ISLAND 466-2300 HARD SOFT ICE CREAM • DEL’Stigerfishbi.com LEMONADE Under the Tent At Sullivan House Music Provided By: DJ Jon O'Neill McDonough Celebrating our 40thWalter Anniversary!
Aldo’s
www.CGSPBlockIsland.org Home of the Original Click 2017 Swim to register Block Island Pepperoni Bread
• $40 Supporter • $75 Sponsor
• $150 Club Mary
Ask about our table side flaming Parmigianino cheese wheel!
Sponsored by
Come in and enjoy our
AnforItalian & pizzeria Sullivan House, The Committee the Great restaurant Salt Pond presents A taste of Italy on Block Island
specialty drinks! Ballard Hall Real Estate, Block Island Recycling Management, Having a party? Ask Block Island Realty
Full Air Conditioned Bar • Gluten Free Pasta Available Featuring Fresh Seafood, Choice Veal, Chicken and Beef
about
our catering menu!
Wayof Old Harbor Weldon’s Way Andy’s ~ in the heart 401-466-5871 1 mi swim Music of the 50's, 60's, 70's Daily: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. 11 am A Family Friendly Event! and beyond! Delivery available - powered by SeaPod! Homemade sauces to go The Leone and Papa families serving Block Islanders since 1970 Proceeds to benefit Mary D Fund EverytheThursday & Friday night
Second Time Around
Block Island Swim Event -
Founder ~ Aldo Leone
July 29th
Visit aldosrestaurantblockisland.com for full menu and catering menu.
Tickets available at the door or send a check made out to 6:30 - 10 p.m. The Mary D Fund, Box 303, Block Island, RI 02807
www.blockislandtimes.com
August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
Page A17
Wedding Favors Block Island Chocolates Variety of Fudges
Blocks of Fudge
berly ’s m i K
Since 1991
RESTA U RA N T
Featuring Fresh Seafood and Gluten-free Items
Voted “25th best fudge shop in America!”- msn lifestyle
Kimberly Ward is a Block Island tradition, dating back to 1989. At her restaurant, your dining experience will be enhanced by our friendly, all-island staff who will take your order, mix your drinks, prepare your delicious meal, serve you and your family and friends, make you laugh, and look forward to your return. Kimberly would have it no other way!
401-466-5196
Your only source for Island-made fudge!
Shipping
McAloon’s
RESTAURANT & BAR
Featuring local seafood and island favorites
466-8600 / 401-465-6243 Top-ranked BI Restaurant
Asian, Fusion, Classic, Contemporary Ocean Avenue • www.kimberlysbi.com
Join Us!
g n i r e t a Cby imberly K
We offer elegant on- and off-site catering. And our new venue in New Harbor! Ask Kimberly about: Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Summer Parties, Cookouts, Clambakes and Holiday Festivities.
401~ 465 ~ 6243 www.blockislandtimes.com
ORDER THIS!
Serving lunch & dinner
Happy Hour specials
Rotating taps
Easy walk to the ferries
Selection of Irish Whiskeys
Live Entertainment
Dog friendly patio seating
Watch your favorite teams on our flatscreens!
596 Corn Neck Rd • 401.466.2928 www.McAloons.com June 24, 2017 THE BLOCK ISLAND TIMES Page 11
Award-winning chowder from Winfield’s PHOTOS BY LARS TRODSON
T
his article could be titled “Southern Boy Makes Yankee Chowder and Wins Top Prize Two Years in a Row.” The “southern boy” is Winfield’s (and also Los Gatitos) executive chef Berke Marye, who’s originally from Texas. The wins were from the Block Island Maritime Institute’s annual “Chowda’ Cook-off” held each Memorial Day Weekend. Winfield’s Seafood Chowder is a
whole story in itself. Listed on the menu as an appetizer, this rich chowder is full of everything good — clams, shrimp, lobster, mussels, smoked bacon, grilled corn, and potatoes — with a cream base touched with a blend of Southern spices. It’s the best! Each bite is brimming with aroma, flavor and texture. For some guests, just adding a fresh salad and a good wine makes it a full meal.
Notable is that Winfield’s has a large number of hungry followers who return season after season. This year the Snapper with Coconut Cream Sauce, the Smoked/Braised Beef Brisket and the ever popular Duck Confit are the top choices. But as Berke said, “Still many people look for the same foods — their favorites — every year.” Shawn’s Chocolate Crème Brulee is a perfect finish.
With few exceptions, Berke’s kitchen crew comes back to Winfield’s every year, too. After working together for so long, he “trusts them, relies on them.” He gives them full credit for Winfield’s success. In the photo, top row from left to right, that’s Berke, Angus Gracey. Middle row: Byron Marin, Shawn Cosgrove. Bottom: T. C. Octigan, Hector de Paz. Joshua Diaz is not pictured. On Monday evenings from 9 to 11 p.m. there’s light jazz in the lounge. Cameron Greenlee is on the piano, Bill Sellar on the drums and, when the kitchen slows down, Berke adds his guitar. For more information, please visit winfieldsbi.com or call 466-5856. — Becky Ballard and Ruth Perfido
401-466-5446
Page A18
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
• Island Faces •
Cocktail Hour
Name: Ruby Perry From: Burrillville, RI Years on B.I.: 20 summers Where to find me: I’m the Arts and crafts instructor at the Block Island Club and a waitress at The Beachead. Favorite restaurant: During sunny days and to see beautiful sunsets — The Beachead, and for some great coffee — Persephone’s Kitchen. Ideal Island day: Riding down to Snake Hole and doing clay baths with friends. Don’t miss this: Walking out to the point of the island should be at the top of your list. Favorite thing about Block Island: Enjoying the island with my family and friends.
Blackberry Bellini Simple and refreshing — this libation says kick back, relax, and enjoy summer living. Muddle 3 to 4 fresh island blackberries Add a dash or two of Elderflower liquor Fill glass with chilled Prosecco champagne
EAST OF THE RIVER NILE
An eclectic mix of gifts, jewelry, sea fossils, clothing and home furnishings from around the world. 401-466-9900 401-302-4464
TRADING COMPANY
459 Chapel Street, Block Island
*Fresh island blackberries can be found around the island
Sponsored by Red Bird Package Store On Dodge Street • 466-2441 • Open Daily!
MORE THAN 30 FLAVORS
GOURMET POPCORN BUY 3 BAGS GET A 4TH FREE! Also, visit our three mainland location: • Olde Mystic Village • • Prov Place Mall • • Smithfield Crossing •
popontheblock.com 800-767-9781 Chapel Street Next to Blocks of Fudge
F U LL O F FUN FOR E V E R YO N E !
USGS Maps and NOAA Charts Unique Delightful Jewelry Body Care Home Accessories Fun Summer Accessories Hats, Bags and Clothing
401-466-5161
www.glassonionblockisland.com
TOY STORE Water Street he Ferry Across From T 7 401 466 869
Part of Ned PhilliPs Jr. & Co., Water street, old harbor, bloCk islaNd
www.blockislandtimes.com
August 2017
Into the Fog on a Breeze Sailing Block Island By Cassius Shuman A plethora of sailboats in varying sizes, shapes and colors, propelled by gusting winds, tacked amidst the dwindling haze on a rollercoaster ride of stormy, swelling seas. It was June, but not yet summer. The highly tuned vessels and their crews had survived being tied to their moorings for almost two days, as a thick fog had descended on Block Island taking it hostage. After it lifted, the foggy ocean environs gradually transformed into a sundrenched arena of strong winds, and undulating waves. While not for the faint of heart, these were optimal weather conditions for the seasoned racers who competed in Block Island Race Week 2017 and hoisted main sails, spinnakers and jibs, jockeying for position in what one might call organized chaos. When the harbor signal was given, they rushed down to the docks, gear in-hand, jumping aboard their vessels, and sailing out of the Great Salt Pond through the jampacked Coast Guard channel to the unfriendly, rough Atlantic Ocean. At first it didn’t appear to be a favorable environment for waging a
nautical battle on the high seas, as one by one the boats disappeared into the pea-soup fog that had blanketed the island and put a crimp in their plans. But, slowly, but surely, minute-by-minute, the murkiness began to dissipate into the ethers, giving way to blue skies and sunshine as the clouds parted, creating a window for the sun to shine through like a bright spotlight down on the white-capped nautical arena below. Appearing from the haze, breaking the waves, and hiking out were crews aboard sailboats named Gut Feeling, Morning Glory, Hooligan, Gossip, and Red Sky, to name a few. One of the boats that stood out from the pack was a 30-foot long navy colored C&C 30 with gray sails called Extreme2, which was one of the fastest boats competing in the field. Its crew, dressed in red and black foul-weather gear, looked like they were hanging on for dear life as the sailboat sped through the turbulent surf. The action was captured from motorboats that raced here and there trying to garner the best angle of the race. Photographers framed their photographs while being bounced
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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The racing was fast and furious during Block Island Race Week in June. PHOTO BY RAY PERRY about, as the drivers steered through sizable surf, smashing their bows on the crests over and over again. About 150 sailboats competed in the Storm Trysail Club’s bi-annual event, so the ocean stadium was filled with fleets doing battle in every corner of the racecourse. Everywhere you looked sailboats dotted the horizon, filling the seascape panorama with color and excitement. There were boats from yacht clubs as far away as San Francisco, Texas, Florida, Missouri and Michigan, as well as boats competing in the race that represented the Navy and the Coast Guard. For the racers, days, weeks and months of training boiled down to a few defining moments off the coast of Block Island, where the unforgiving sea and the strong winds present a formidable challenge. The goal of the racing competition: bragging rights, and to be standing at the podium accepting the first place prize at each of the night’s award ceremonies. Before that could happen there was strategy; lots of strategy, as racers trimmed their sails, circling amidst a fleet of combatants, and calculated their tacks, anticipating a perfect
start. The objective was to monopolize the wind, keeping it from an opponent’s sails, while at the same time attempting to outmaneuver and outwit the competition. Prior to the gun sounding, signaling the start, there were tense moments of furious, frenzied tacking that could best be described as confusion mixed with calculated commotion. Crew members scrambled to tweak sails, make tactical adjustments, and shift from side-to-side, tacking their boats on a dime, trying to garner prime racing position. Then the warning would be given, noting that it was time to commence, counting down from two minutes to one minute, and then from 10 seconds, to 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 — and the race would begin; sailboats, which had been jockeying, circling hither and yon, rocketed ahead, surging past the anchored, flag-flying Race Committee boat, across the starting line. It may have been a day-and-a-half late, but the sailors all knew that it was well worth the wait. The competition was underway, and that was all that mattered.
The SHOP@ Payne’s Dock New Harbor Beach accessories Helly Hansen Spear fishing supplies Mahogany Shoals t-shirts
BLOCK ISL
AND
Paynes Dock t-shirts Guy Harvey Surf & skim board supplies Coolers
And much, much more!!
401-864-3832 paynesdock.com
Page A20
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Star Gazing is About More Than the Stars By Kim Gaffett, OVF Naturalist at The Nature Conservancy “I know that I am mortal by nature, and ephemeral; but when I trace at my pleasure the windings to and fro of the heavenly bodies I no longer touch the earth with my feet: I stand in the presence of Zeus himself and take my fill of ambrosia.� ~ Ptolemy, “Ptolemy’s Almagest� Find a dark spot in the evening, set up a comfortable beach chair, and gaze above and away from land-based lights towards the night sky; and, you will be doing what human beings have been doing for millennia. That is, looking to the stars, first, for the sheer beauty of the views, and then with questions of identification, meaning and awe. Night Sky Viewing is too limited a term for the endeavor. If you attend an Ocean View Foundation Night Sky Viewing program, the experience starts with a leisurely amble to a mowed viewing circle in the Hodge Preserve. Your ushers, in the long dimming twilight of August, will be the sound of
settling robins, sparking fireflies, and the silent shadow of a barn owl. When arriving at the viewing circle the buzz of activity – choosing a spot, laying out a blanket or stretching open a beach chair, and dousing flashlights and other electronic devices – gives way to peaceful moments of quiet, as eyes adjust to the growing darkness. Soon the curtain begins to rise, and the firmament is revealed; it is subtle at first, but on moonless nights, the deepening darkness allows uncountable numbers of stars to materialize. At first, only the brightest stars are seen. This is when constellations – a named pattern of stars – are most easily observed, because your eyes and mind are not confused by the great number of other stars looming in the same area of the sky. As a night of sky viewing progresses, the nuances of the celestial tapestry above can be glimpsed, for it is not only stars that can be discerned. The stars and constellations are draped in stories. It does not matter what the civilization or culture is,
Capture a great Block Island Memory? We will print One Free Photo of your choice from your phone or zip drive with each Picture Frame purchased in our store while you wait!
human beings around the earth, and throughout time, have made stories to accompany the night sky. And, some stars, are not stars at all, but rather planets two-stepping with us, in orbit around the same sun. Other observations in a night sky may include smudges of comets, distant galaxies, streaking meteors, satellites, and the marvel of the Milky Way. The gazing and wondering becomes mesmerizing; we are drawn like moths to light. Eventually, while our hearts and minds drifted skyward, the evening chills and the dew tugs us back to the summer field, where the fireflies have retired for the night, and the cricket chorus is summoning a reverse alarm - directing us to bed, and sleep, and dreams. Night Sky Viewing programs will be on August 12 at 8:30 p.m., August 23 at 8 p.m. (or the following night if sky conditions are unfavorable) at the Hodge Preserve, Corn Neck Rd.
Banana Boat Rides
aRe Back!
Est. 1989
Old Harbor Dock
Many designs to choose from.
and as always free gift wrapping!
Parasailing Rides Call 401-864-2474 Banana Boat Rides Parasailing Rides Old Harbor Dock Banana Boat Rides
Rent
beach chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, kayaks, corn hole games, boogie boards and more! Surf Hotel Beach
401-864-2474 established •inwww.blockislandparasail.com 1989
Champlins Water Sports www.blockislandparasail.com
Owned and operated by Block Island Parasail
%PEHF 4USFFU #MPDL *TMBOE 3*
XXX NBSZF LFMMFZ DPN
Bumper Boats, Kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboard rentals Champlins Marina
401-864-1460
www.blockislandtimes.com
August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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C o m i n ? C oming g? ? g n i ? o g G n i r o O G Or On On Block Block Island, Island, it’s it’s often often difficult difficult to to determine determine whether whether you’re coming or going. But either way we’d to On Block Island, often difficult determine you’re coming orit’s going. But either to way we’d like likewhether to say, say, On Block Island, it’s often difficult to determine whether you’re you’re coming coming or or going. going. But But either either way way we’d we’d like like to to say, say,
WELCOME ABOARD! WELCOME ABOARD! THE BLOCK ISLAND FERRY THE THE BLOCK BLOCK ISLAND ISLAND FERRY FERRY
Year Year round round service service Year round service High Speed & round service HighYear Speed & Traditional Traditional High Speed & Traditional Point Judith •• Newport •• F Speed & Traditional PointHigh Judith Newport Fall all River River Point Judith • Newport • Fall River Point Judith • Newport • Fall River
INTERSTATE NAVIGATION INTERSTATE NAVIGATION INTERSTATE INTERSTATE NAVIGATION NAVIGATION Wind Farm
Tours
Visit biwindfarmtours.c om BLOCKISLANDFERRY.COM for more information! 401.783.4613 401.783.4613 BLOCKISLANDFERRY.COM 401.783.4613 BLOCKISLANDFERRY.COM 401.783.4613 BLOCKISLANDFERRY.COM
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5 AUG
www.blockislandtimes.com
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Block Island Sports Lineup for August
Block Island Triathlon The Block Island Triathlon is on Saturday, August 5 at 9 a.m. This event is popular with both seasoned racers and beginners. The race starts with a 1/4 mile open water swim off of beautiful Crescent Beach. After the swim, racers hop on their bikes for a 12 mile ride around the island with stunning views of the Atlantic, old stone walls, pastures and rolling hills. The final leg of the race is back at the beach for a 4 mile run in the sand. Interstate Navigation is running a special 6 a.m. boat from Point Judith that morning to allow you to travel the same day. For those that are on-island the day before, check-in is available Friday afternoon from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Fred Benson Town beach. All racers that are on-island, please check in at this time. Check-in will open at 7 a.m. race day at the Fred Benson Town Beach. For those that are looking to travel to Block Island on race day, you must depart on the 6 a.m. boat. To expedite the process the morning of, please purchase yours and those that are accompanying you,
passenger and bike tickets for the 6 a.m. boat online at http://ticketing.blockislandferry.com/WebStore/ shop/ViewItems.aspx?CG=1&C=3. This will provide you with more time. Please give yourself ample time to unload your bike and belongings, park your car, and board the boat as there will be many of triathletes doing the same. Racers are cautioned to please be aware of traffic, and the public is asked to be cautious of the racers. Slow down and give the racers some space. Sign up by registering online at active.com. Registration is $60. For more information call the Recreation Department at (401) 4663223. BI Soccer Classic This event will be held on Saturday, August 12, starting at 10 a.m. at Heinz Field. Block Island’s own summer soccer tournament! Teams from off-island come over to compete against the best of Block Island. The maximum number of teams allowed to participate in the tournament is eight. Teams consist
Block Island Medical Center 5K Family Fun Run This event takes place on Sunday, August 6, at 9:30 a.m. at the Fred Benson Beach Pavilion. A 3.2 mile/5K run on the most beautiful beach on Block Island. Check-in is located at the Beach Pavilion — a 10 minute walk from the ferry dock. Check in starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Pavilion. Race numbers and t-shirts will be available at the Fred
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Benson Beach Pavilion where the race will begin and finish. First, second and third place for men’s and women’s overall. First place only for men and women for the run: 12 and under; 13-17; 18-24; 25-29; 30-34; 35-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70+; and first place Block Island student. All participants under 12 will receive an award. The race starts and ends on the beach. Get your friends and family together to enjoy this fun run!
AUG
of seven players per side. Each team will play at least five games. The top two teams from each bracket will enter a playoff to decide the winner of the tournament. Bring a beach chair or blanket, some water and snacks and head up to watch some high-spirited soccer action. For more information call the Recreation Department at (401) 466-3223.
Traditional Ferry
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Departs daily from Point Judith and Old Harbor
JUNE 17 - AUGUST 27 *See Holidays Below Day Departs Point Judith Mon 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 4:45p, 5:45p, 7p Tue-Thu 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 5:45p, 7p Fri 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 4:45p, 5:45p, 7p Sat-Sun 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 4:10p, 6p, 7p, 8p
Departs Block Island 8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 6:45p, 7:45p
8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 7:45p
8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 6:45p, 7:45p 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 5p, 6:10p, 8p, 9p ** Holidays Tue, July 4 & Mon, August 14 ** 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5p, 6p, 7p 8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p
AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 3 Day Departs Point Judith Mon-Fri 8:30a, 10:30a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p Sat-Sun 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5p, 6p, 7p
High Speed Ferry
Twin Engine Air Charter (401) 466-2000 • (800) 683-9330
• Weather radar for safety • Air conditioning for comfort • Fully instrumented for all weather operations
Departs daily from Point Judith and Old Harbor
JUNE 17 - SEPTEMBER 4 Day Departs Point Judith Mon-Sun 7:15a, 9a, 11:10a, 1:20p, 4:50p, 6:45p
Departs Block Island 7:55a, 10:05a, 12:15p, 3:30p, 5:50p, 7:35p
www.blocksilandferry.com (401) 783-4613
High Speed Ferry
Departs daily from Fall River and Old Harbor
JUNE 24 - SEPTEMBER 4
Day Mon-Sun
Block Island’s Premier Charter Service
Departs Block Island 8a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p
Departs Fall River to Block Island 8:30a
Departs Block Island 5:10p
www.goblockisland.com (855) 256-2547
High Speed Ferry
Departs daily from Newport and Old Harbor
JULY 5 - SEPTEMBER 3
Day Mon-Sun
Departs Newport to Block Island 9:45a, 12:30p
Departs Block Island 11:15a, 5:10p
www.goblockisland.com (855) 256-2547
Block Island Express
Departs daily from New London and Old Harbor
JULY 5 - SEPTEMBER 3
Day Departs New London Sun, Thu-Fri 8:30a, 11:50a, 3:10p, 6:30p Mon-Wed, Sat 8:30a, 11:50a, 6:30p
Departs Block Island 10:05a, 1:25p, 4:55p, 8:10p 10:05a, 4:55p, 8:10p
NOTE: NO TRIPS TO OR FROM BLOCK ISLAND JUNE 5-8 or JUNE 12-15.
www.goblockisland.com (855) 256-2547
Piper Senecas Piper Navajo Chieftain
New England Airlines Half past almost EVERY HOUR, Every Day!
Day Departing Westerly Day Departing Block Island Sat-Wed 7:30a - 6:30p Mon 7:00a-6:00p Thu 7:30a - 7:30p Tue-Thu 8:00a-6:00p Fri 7:30a - 8:30p Fri-Sun 8:00a-7:00p* *Schedule may vary. Please call/book in advance) www.blockislandsairline.com (401) 466-5881
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
Page A23
Mig’s Rig
TAXI
401-480-0493
On the island, take it slow.
taxi - tours - bike rack - charter service
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To the island, make it fast.
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Get to Block Island in just over an hour via the fastest ferry from the mainland.
860.444.GO BI (4624)
goblockisland.com
The trip to Block Island takes about 12 minutes. We’ve been flying here for over 40 years.
Flights by Reservation 401-466-5881 401-596-2460 800-243-2460 FlyBI@BIRI.com www.blockislandsairline.com
Block Island’s Airline Since 1970
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
On The Dock
www.blockislandtimes.com
So many fish! By Sol Schwartz
Fishing is a favorite island sport. The island hosts many fishing tournaments each summer including the Bluefish Derby Tournament, the B.I.V.F.D. Fishing Tournament, and the Tri-State Canyon Shootout. Both Old Harbor and New Harbor are home to charter boats that are ready to give you a taste of the thrill of hauling in a big fish — anything from a striped bass, a tuna, a bonito, mahi-mahi, bluefish or a shark! Surfcasting is always fun, with plenty of rocky shore or beach to cast from. For those who prefer freshwater fishing, there are ample angling opportunities. Popular fish in the local ponds include: large mouth bass, pickerel, yellow perch and more. Stop by one of the island’s two bait and tackle shops for gear, bait and suggestions on what’s being caught—and where. Twin Maples is on Beach Ave. and Block Island Fishworks is on Ocean Avenue in New Harbor.
What a lot of people get the most excited about in August, is the arrival of the bonito and false albacore (albies). These small tuna typically arrive in second or third week of August and stay through most of September. The main reason that they are so highly anticipated is due to how hard these little fish fight. If you’re lucky enough to hook one, they have the speed and power to completely strip your reel clean before you have a chance to react! If you’re fishing from shore, keep an eye out for the fast moving podsright on the surface. The best place to catch them from shore is at the Coast Guard Channel using thin metal lures. Because of the especially cold winter we had, I believe that our slightly lower water temperatures will only improve fishing in Block Island’s hottest month. Last year striped bass fishing began to slow down in August like it normally does before it picks back up again in late September. But the cooler temps and huge amounts of bait are expected to keep them around longer this year. Additionally, the new lower limits (1 fish 28” per person per day) set on stripers this season will hopefully prove to be beneficial to the stock. In addition to the fish, squidding can be a lot of fun to try out. The warm temps are perfect for the squid, and on any given night you’re bound to do well off one of the piers in New Harbor. You can take your squid and use it as bait for the bigger fish as well! As always, it’s good to review the most current fishing rules and regulations as well as make sure your fishing license is up to date. August is a great month for fishing on Block Island. Give it a shot!
B.I. Fishworks on Ocean Ave. in New Harbor is a place to get bait, gear, and good fishing advice. You can weigh your fish here too. They also host the Striper Kings Fishing Tournament in June.
Fishing Charters Linesider Fishing Charter 2, 3, and 4 hour trips Half & Full Days Capt. Eric Gustafson (401) 439-5386 info@linesiderfishing.com
Pale Horse Charters Light tackle fishing for the whole family. Half and full days. Capt. John Hunnewell (802) 379-0336
Twin Maples on Beach Ave. is a weigh-in station and also has bait, gear, fishing information and Eat Fish t-shirts.
help child happy an 2017 Rhode Island Marine Recreational FISHING REGULATIONS anglers. A classes a available.
www.blockislandtimes.com
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August 2017
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SPECIES BAG LIMIT / MINIMUM SIZE
American Eel
must have the right pectoral fin removed upon harvest.
25 eels/person/day - 9 inch minimum 50 eels/day per vessel for licensed party/charter vessels (no closed season)
Pollock
No bag limit / 19 inch minimum (no closed season)
(Fluke)4 fish/day - 19 inch minimum May 1 to Dec 31
Black Sea Bass
River Herring
Tautog
5 inch minimum May 25 to Aug 31 - 3 fish/day Sept 1 to Sept 21 - 7 fish/day Sept 22 - Oct 21 - closed Oct 22 to Dec 31 - 7 fish/day
(Alewives, blueback herring) CLOSED Possession prohibited
16 inch minimum
Bluefish
10 fish/day - 22 inch minimum (no closed season)
Haddock
No bag limit / 18 inch minimum - no limit 4” and greater - 200 fish/person per day
Menhaden
(Bunker, Pogies) less than or equal to 4” - unlimited 4” and greater - 200 fish/person per day
Monkfish
SPLIT SEASON April 15 to May 31 (3 fish/day) June 1 - July 31 (closed) August 1 to October 14 (3 fish/day) October 15 to December 15 (6 fish/day) In addition there is a 10 fish boat maximum per day
Shore and Private Boat 30 fish/day - 10 inch minimum
To ensure possible e each child limit of 15 session. T sions are LINESIDER FISHING CHARTERS each wee the summ
15 fish/day - No minimum size (no closed season)
Cod
Summer Flounder (Fluke)
Scup
17 inch minimum (whole fish) 11 inch minimum (tail only) Bag: 50 lbs tails/day or 166 lbs whole/day
Special Shore Area Provisions Minimum size of 9 inches for anglers fishing from shore only at Fort Wetherill, Jamestown Fort Adams, Newport India Point Park, Providence Stone Bridge, Tiverton East and West Walls, Pt Judith/Narragansett Conimicut Park, Warwick Rocky Point, Warwick
Weakfish (squeteague)
1 fish/day - 16 inch minimum No closed season
Winter Flounder
Special note: All of Narragansett Bay, and in Potter Pond, Point Judith Pond and the Harbor of Refuge is closed. (section 11.19, RI fish regs) 2 fish - 12 inch minimum March 1 to Dec 31
Party and Charter Boat 10 inch minimum May 1 - Aug 31: 30 fish/person/day Sept 1 - Oct 31: 45 fish/person/day Nov 1 - Dec 31: 30 fish/person/day
Striped Bass
1 fish/day - 28 inch minimum (no closed season) In addition, any striped bass, 34 inches and larger,
• WIND FARM TOURS WITH A BITE OF FISHING! •
• 2, 3 & 4 Hour trips available • 1/2 and full day trips • Leaving from Old Harbor Dock • Stripers, Blues, Fluke, Sharks & Tuna
EXPERT FISHING INFORMATION TACKLE • BAIT Home of the
T-Shirts
Three generations on Block Island AVE • 466-5547 10:23 AM BEACH Page 1
Pale Horse Fishing Charters
Contact Captain Eric: (401)
439-5386
Light Tackle Fishing for the Whole Family Capt. John Hunnewell (802) 379-0336
www.fvrooster.com The Program We created The Fishing Academy with the goal of providing a safe, fun environment for children to learn how to fish or to improve the skills they already have.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
To ensure the best possible experience for each child, we set a limit of 15 students per session. Four sessions are available each week throughout the summer months. Advanced classes are also available.
The fishing
Academy
Phone: 802-688-3654 Mail: Fishing Academy, PO Box 67 Block Island, RI 02807 Email: fishingacademy@gmail.com Online: blockislandfishingacademy.com
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Turtle Crossing! If you see a turtle in the road.... By K.Curtis I saw a little green guy with cool red markings hanging out by the double yellow line the other day. I pulled over, got out of my car, and helped him to the other side. It was a good thing too. He nearly got squashed by an oncoming car before I reached him. This little guy was small enough that I could grab him at the sides of his shell and his back legs barely reached my fingers. His head was also tucked deep inside after that car whizzed past within an inch of him. If you come across a turtle in the road, be safe while helping the turtle — busy roads are dangerous for rescuers and turtles alike. Put on your hazard lights and pull fully off the road. Make sure other drivers see you before approaching a turtle in the road. By all means, help that turtle cross the road in the direction she (or he) was heading, if you can do so safely. But then leave it in the wild where it belongs. One will mostly see turtles crossing roads between April and October. They do this for many reasons. In the spring, male turtles are looking for females and territory to call their own, while females are looking for places to nest. During the late summer and fall, hatchling turtles are digging up from nests, looking for water and later on males and females are heading to places to hibernate. Drive 25 There are many reasons the island-wide speed limit is 25 miles-per-hour — clearly for the safety of all of us, including our island wildlife. There is no reason to drive faster on these roads — especially if you are here on vacation. Slow down, enjoy the scenery and watch out for these creatures in the road — because they love the island just like we do!
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PETER GIBBONS
Bronze Bottle Openers
Spin, Barre, Yoga, and Fitness Classes CLASS SCHEDULE Monday
6:45a – Rise & Ride (35-minute express class) 8:30a – Strength & Stretch * Childcare available* 9:45a – Spin Cycle 5:00P – Sway & Sweat
Tuesday
8:30a – Bootcamp Blast 9:45a – Core Cycle
Wednesday 6:45a – Rise & Ride (35-minute express class) 7:30a – Sway & Sweat 8:30a – Strength & Stretch 9:45a – Biker Barre *Childcare available * Thursday
7:00a – Kundalini Yoga 8:30a – Bootcamp Blast * Childcare available * 9:45a – Biker Barre 5:30p – Spin Cycle
Friday
7:00a – Slow Motion Yoga 8:30a – Meet at the Barre 9:30a – Strength & Stretch
Saturday
7:30a – Biker Barre 8:45a – Spin Cycle
Sunday
8:30a – Island Flow Yoga 9:45a – Biker Barre
Copyrighted Designs
We’ve Perfected The Art of Romance
Block Island’s most romantic B&B… Boston Best Guide
BiIslandFitness.com
biislandfitness@gmail.com
FARMERS’ MARKET OR 401-578-1125
Located at BIMI
For reservations call (800) 992-7290 (401) 466-5891
The Sea Breeze is an intimate B+B located on the eastern coast of Block Island, off the beaten path yet convenient to the town of Old Harbor. Featuring comfortable rooms with authentic island vintage furniture and modern newly renovated bathrooms. Simple and understated. Perennial gardens, wildflower meadow, pond and ocean views. Affordable rates and the best in hospitality, with over 30 years in business. Breakfast included. Please call or email for availability.
Box 141, 71 Spring Street Block Island, RI 02807
seabreezeblockisland.com 401-466-2275
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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How to Rescue Road Turtles According to the Turtle Rescue League • When picking up a small turtle, grasp it on either side of its shell behind the front legs. The turtle will still be able to kick at you, but many will choose to stay safely tucked in, during the short time you are moving them. • Keep the turtle low to the ground when moving them. Even small turtles have surprising strength. If a turtle pushes free of your grip, you do not want it to fall and injure itself. • If the turtle is large (with a long tail), it may be a snapping turtle, they can be a bit aggressive and you might not want to attempt picking it up, but you can still help it across the road. • Never, ever pick a turtle up by the tail — this can injure them very badly. • If you are helping a large snapper, simply push it from behind with a blunt object, don’t use anything sharp or pokey, you don’t want to
hurt the turtle. Although snappers can seem dangerous, they are just protecting the babies they are carrying. Like with any wild animal, you need to exercise caution. • Once you have the turtle across the road, you can sit and watch to make sure it is heading off and not turning back around. • Make sure to put the turtle in the direction it was heading, never turn them around. The turtle is on a mission, and if you turn it around, it will simply go back across the road when you drive away. • Although you may be tempted to relocate a turtle, don’t. Many turtles have “Home Ranges”, a territory they call home, and when relocated, they will search out ways back. Besides risking many additional road crossings, some turtles, if they cannot find their way back will stop eating and just wander listlessly.
COME SEE WHAT’S NEW FOR 2017!!
The Stars of Old Harbor Don’t miss B-Eyes Sunglass Shop located in the Star Dept. Store Building on Water Street.
ALL Sizes!
YOU WANT THESE!
CELEBRATING 61 YEARS Unique & Original designs Diamond & Gold Blocks!
Block rings & charms!
FREE EAR PIERCING! ESTATE JEWELRY! EXPERT REPAIRS!
*Chosen as one of 10 places not to miss when visiting Block Island* New England Tourism Council Winner
independent jeweler
90 chapel street • po box 1450 • bi, ri 02807
S A L T W A T E R T A F F Y
Island’s largest selections of T-shirts • Sweatshirts • Hats • Sportswear Sandals • Kids T’s • Gifts • Toys • BI Stickers
L I F E G U A R D S W E A T S
OPEN 8:30 AM - 10PM DAILY 466-5541
401-466-2611 • www.blockislandgolddiggers.com
RAFTERS • FLIP FLOPS • CROCS
Block Island connection
B-EYES SUNGLASS SHOP
News email - every Monday Features email - every Wednesday Bulletins - Breaking news
Sign up at www.blockislandtimes.com
Name brand sunglasses and accessories for all ages!
NEW: Shwood Wooden Sunglass Collection Oakley, Arnette, Von Zipper, Electric, Bolle, Ray Ban, Serengeti, Native, Peppers, Chillies, Panama Jack, Croakies, Cablz, and more!
9 am to 8pm 401-466-8676 • www.b-eyes.com
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www.blockislandtimes.com
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
On The Trails With The Nature Conservancy & Others Explore Block Island From the gentle hills and open grasslands at Hodge Family Wildlife Preserve, to the narrow paths atop the Clay Head bluffs, to the critter-filled salt marsh at Andy’s Way, there’s something special for everyone to discover. Formed by glaciers nearly 10,000 years ago, Block Island is made up of a diverse array of geographical features and habitats such as beaches, sand dunes, coastal bluffs, morainal grasslands, maritime scrubland, salt ponds, kettle hole ponds, and various other freshwater wetland ecosystems. These habitats support a unique assortment of wildlife, including over 40 species classified as rare or endangered. It is thus one of the most ecologically significant areas in the state and in the entire northeast. Thousands of migratory shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds also depend on the island as a stopover point on their journey north and south along the Atlantic Flyway. Block Island is more than just home to rare and endangered plants and animals. It also supports a vibrant, active human community with a strong sense of its cultural and natural heritage. The overwhelming local commitment to conservation inspired The Nature Conservancy to name Block Island one of the original “Last Great Places” in the Western Hemisphere. With the hard work of many individuals and an assembly of conservation organizations, over 46 percent of the island is protected; protected for plants, animals, and people. Nature Walks — June 19 to August 25, 2017 MONDAY They Grow Like Weeds! at the 4th Graders Garden 9 a.m.: Ocean View Pavilion Calling all (resident and visiting) rising 5th Graders to: meet each other, do light garden chores, and pick the week’s harvest. Block Island Bearings 11 a.m.: Location changes* A different conservation area with a local naturalist each week. Learn about the area’s unique mini environment and its relation to the island’s larger ecosystem. TUESDAY Bird Banding 8 a.m.: Ocean View Pavilion A bird banding demonstration program for all ages. Everything you ever wanted to know about birds. Marsh-Mucking for Kids 9 a.m.: Andy’s Way A salt marsh scavenger hunt for families. (Kids need to wear water shoes and parents must attend.) Hiking Clay Head 9 a.m.: Clay Head Trail Meet at the parking lot, half-mile off Corn Neck Rd, down the dirt road across from the yellow house.
WEDNESDAY Andy’s Way Bird Walk Low tide*: Andy’s Way A bird walk for all skill levels. Bring binoculars and wear shoes that can get wet. Upland Scavenger Hunt 9 a.m.: Hodge Preserve Locate all sorts of species special to Block Island. Meet at the Hodge parking lot on Corn Neck Road. (Parents must attend.) Beach Meet-up & Clean-up 11 a.m.: Location changes* Everyone loves a clean beach. Come for a stroll and lend a hand! THURSDAY Cow Cove Scavenger Hunt 9 a.m.: Settler’s Rock Shoreline scavenger hunt for families. Meet at Settler’s Rock, at the end of Corn Neck Rd. (Kids need to wear water shoes and parents must attend.) Stepping Stones 10 a.m.: Ocean View Pavilion A participatory program building a stepping stone path to the Pavilion. Each stone will be decorated with found objects. Environmental Film Series 7 p.m.: Island Free Library Feature length films. Use side door for downstairs FRIDAY Ebbtide Exploration Low tide*: Ball O’Brien Park Meet at the park on West Side Road for a walk to the shoreline. Participants will identify and record “vital statistics” of the marine, shore-line, and salt marsh habitats. Walk the Walls 10 a.m.: Martin Property Meet at the corner of West Side Road and Old Mill Road. Art & Nature 10 a.m.: Ocean View Pavilion A program for all ages. Basic art materials and natural models will be supplied. You bring the imagination and relaxed expectations.
The Glass Float Project Eben Horton creates “one of a kind” pieces on an individual basis out of his studio that he calls ‘The Glass Station’— a converted 1920’s gas station — located in downtown Wakefield, R.I. This project is funded by the Block Island Tourism Council and a Kickstarter funding campaign. 550 Glass Floats (glass orbs about the size of a grapefruit) are hidden on Block Island. Floats are dated, numbered, and stamped with the shape of Block Island. All floats are clear glass except for 17 (because it is 2017), which are special colored orbs. One super special float is covered entirely in gold leaf. The hunt continues indefinitely....it only ends when all the floats have been found! Floats will be hidden on the beaches and on the Greenway Trails. They will be above the high tide mark but never in the dunes or up the side of the bluffs. They will be within one foot of either side of any Greenway trail they are placed on. This is “finder’s keepers” but you are asked to only keep one per seeker, please. To register a float that you found go to www.blockislandinfo.com/glass-floatproject/register-floats. To see the list of globes that have already been found, visit www.blockislandinfo.com/glass-float-project/found-floats.
Night Sky Viewing — At the Hodge Property on Corn Neck Rd. Bring a flashlight, insect repellent and a blanket or beach chair for your comfort. (Program will be on an alternate evening if sky conditions are not favorable.) August 12 — 8:30 p.m. (alt. date 8/13) August 23 — 8 p.m. (alt. date 8/24) Sense of Wonder Twilight/Night Walk - Locations to be announced. Suggested donation $5/person $20/ family. August 7 — 7:30 p.m. James Stover Exploration Series August — See ad in the weekly Block Island Times. Mystery Walk August 21 (Solar Eclipse) Donations suggested. *For more info: Call The Nature Conservancy at (401)466-2129 or Email BInature@tnc.org to receive automated message of up-to-date program information or stop by the B.I. Conservancy Education Center on Weldon’s Way.
Block Island Conservancy The Education Center is open daily for the summer season with an exhibit on the nature of B.I. and the history of Block Island Conservancy. The Education Center offers trail maps, a free water-bottle refilling station, a schedule of nature walks that are cosponsored with TNC, and a neat series of fun children’s craft activities on rainy days. For news, events and other information visit www.biconservancy.org.
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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1.1. Hodge HodgeFamily FamilyWildlife WildlifePreserve Preserve 2.2. Clay Head Trail Clay Head Trail 3.3. Meadow MeadowHill HillGreenway Greenway 4.4. Greenway: Greenway:Great GreatSalt SaltPond PondtotoBeacon BeaconHill Hill 5.5. Greenway: South of Beacon Hill Greenway: South of Beacon Hill&&Nathan NathanMott MottPark Park 6.6. Turnip Farm & Loffredo Memorial Preserve Turnip Farm & Loffredo Memorial Preserve 7.7. Rodman’s Rodman’sHollow Hollow 8.8. Fresh FreshPond PondGreenway Greenway 9.9. Fresh FreshSwamp Swamp&&Payne PayneFarm FarmTrail Trail 10. Win Dodge Preserve & Lewis-Dickens 10. Win Dodge Preserve & Lewis-DickensFarm FarmTrail Trail 11. 11.Ocean OceanView ViewPavilion Pavilion
Block Island
Nature Walks and Programs 14 walks & programs every week plus special programs throughout the summer!
Premium Ice Ice Cream, Cream, Yogurt Premium Yogurtand and Sorbet Sorbet Homemade Pastries, Hot Fudge and
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Block Island Times
Visitor Center BInature@tnc.org -
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401 466 2129
Real(Regular Freshlyor Whipped Cream Chocolate) (Regular or Chocolate) Freshly Baked Waffle Cones
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Through the Moongate and Left into thethe Bricked Back Yard Through Moongate and
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Famous for our 35 Years of Accolades Homemade Brownie Sundaes, Cookie Crunches, and Walking Famous for our (Waffle
WEDNESDAY’S: 9-11:30am Spring House Garden Lawn
SATURDAY’S: 9-11:30am Legion Park (Intersection of West Side and Center Road)
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
10 Fun Things for Kids on Block Island 1
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By Pippi Seider 1. Abram’s Animal Farm: Abram’s Animal Farm is a must see for kids on Block Island. The farm is home to a variety of species including camels, emus, and llamas. 2. Aldo’s: Aldo’s is right in the heart of town and sells hardpack ice cream and soft serve ice cream. In addition to ice cream, Aldo’s sells a variety of baked goods. 3. Bethany’s Airport Diner: Bethany’s is the perfect breakfast or lunch destination for families. Kids can enjoy chocolate chip, confetti, or fruit filled pancakes while watching planes take off and land at the airport. 4. Building Blocks: Kids can buy fun toys and games for the beach right after stepping off of the ferry. Building Blocks is right across from the ferry dock in Old Harbor and sells a variety of toys and games, especially ones for the beach, such as kites and boogie boards. 5. Blocks of Fudge: Kids can choose from a multitude of fudge flavors at Blocks of Fudge. Blocks of Fudge not only sells fudge, but all kinds of candy and homemade chocolates as well. Fudge flavors include chocolate, cookie dough, and cookies and cream. If you aren’t in the mood for chocolate, bulk ‘penny candy’ is available to fill your own goodie-bags. 6. The Block Island Club: The Block Island Club offers memberships ranging from one week to the entire summer and offers classes for kids of any age. Classes are offered in sailing, swimming, tennis, and arts and crafts. New to the club this summer is a fleet of larger
boats that are available for charter and rental. 7. The Block Island Maritime Institute: With programs running daily, the Block Island Maritime Institute is the perfect place to stop by with kids. Kids can learn about local marine life right next to Block Island’s Great Salt Pond. Afterwards, stop by nearby Payne’s Killer Donuts for freshly made donuts. 8. The Ice Cream Place: Located directly across from Aldo’s, The Ice Cream Place also sells creamy ice cream in a variety of flavors. In addition to regular ice cream, The Ice Cream Place also serves sundaes and baked goods. With many creative flavors ranging from Ginger, to Almond Joy, to Rainbow Sherbert, everyone is bound to find a flavor that pleases. 9. The Painted Rock: By far the most colorful rock on Block Island, the Painted Rock is a huge rock that both kids and adults can enjoy painting. The Painted Rock is located at the intersection of Lakeside Drive and Mohegan Trail. Simply bring your own paint and brushes, and you can paint The Rock. Afterwards, take pictures, because The Rock is painted multiple times a day in the summer. The Rock can be painted for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, or just for fun! 10. The Empire Theatre: Kids can enjoy popcorn and candy while watching movies at the old-fashioned Empire Theatre. A perfect rainy day activity, a trip to the Empire Theatre will never disappoint. PHOTOS BY PIPPI SEIDER AND K. CURTIS
Full Moon Tide
Got Mermaids? Coastal Home Decor, Dresses, Casual Wear, Hats, Menswear Handblown Glass, Accessories, Soaps, Giftware, Sleepwear, Table Linens, Sterling, Seaglass & Pearl Jewelry 459 Chapel street - 401.466.2422 www.fullmoontide.com
fresh foods, baked goods, & fresh foods, baked goods, & locally roasted coffee locally roasted coffee breakfast&& lunch lunch daily breakfast daily visit us at visit us at persephoneskitchenbi.com
for catering, hours, & full menu persephoneskitchenbi.com (401) 466 5070 for catering, hours, & full menu (401) 466 5070
“Block Island Script Ring�
Phone orders 401-578-1125 www.blockislandjewelry.com Showing at the Block Island Farmers’ Market
“Home of the block island cookie" Healthy food ° homemade treats unique accessories ° nautical toys artwork & other curiosities
450 Chapel Street ° 347.453.7116 www.mutthutbi.com
So much to see...
Make the most of your time on Block Island! Quality Mopeds & Bikes • Courteous Service Reasonable Prices • Right Across from the Ferry 401-466-5444
• Housewares • Plumbing • Electrical • Tools • Screen Repair • BBQ Grills
• Glass & Keys Made • Stainless Hardware • Automotive • Garden • Benjamin Moore
Mon. - Sat. 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. .PO 4BU a.m. - 6 p.m. 4VO B N Q N 401-466-5831
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• Island Faces • • • • •
Ice Cream Sundaes Smoothies Frozen Coffee Drinks
Located on Water Street just steps from the ferry!
Air conditioned! 401-466-5430
10% off your order with this coupon. OFFER VALID SUMMER 2017
Name: Cricket Treanor From: Tewksbury, N.J. Years on B.I.: 21 Where to find me: At The Nature Conservancy working as a seasonal Education and Stewardship Assistant. Favorite restaurant: On the rail at The Oar. Ideal Island day: Spent on a sunny day at the beach and on an afternoon sail around the Great Salt Pond. Don’t miss this: The amazing and diverse trails around the island, especially on the Hodge Preserve, which is one of my favorites. Favorite thing about Block Island: How environmentally conscious the community and its visitors are — the fact that the island is over 46 percent conserved and has the country’s first off shore wind farm is pretty amazing for such a small place.
Strings & Things Celebrating 31 Years of Cool!!!
**************************** *Washable Linen. Hemp; and Comfy Cotton Clothing *Seaglass. Shell. Natural Stone & Block Island Jewelry *Incense, Soy Votives, Cards, Giftware and so much 31 Year s other “Really Cool Stuff!!!” 104 Water Street (near Rebecca) 401.466.5666 www.fullmoontide.com In Celebration of our 31st year, come check out our $38 dress rack!
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Acclaimed Dining Open 7 nights a week 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Weeknights 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
Fine dining in a beautiful, refined setting Call for reservations 401 466 9898
www.hotelmanissees.com
Section 2 Aug 2017 Island Living
• REAL ESTATE • • ARTS • • ENTERTAINMENT • SEASIDE SUMMER FUN
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
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Coastal Retreat MLS# 1126581 $3,150,000
Trim’s Ridge MLS# 1102770 $1,385,000
Shir Shalom MLS# 1158208 $2,500,000
Let the Vacation Begin MLS# 1096428 $1,050,000
West Side Contemporary MLS# 1133746 $2,000,000
Mansion Beach MLS# 1157587 $769,000
Mohegan Trail MLS#1158066 $2,150,000
Anchors Aweigh MLS# 1150627 $995,000
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1704 Corn Neck Road MLS# 1156900 $1,295,000
Spring Street MLS# 1143104 $1,800,000
Mitchell Lane MLS# 1101120 $1,130,000
Trim’s Pond Waterfront MLS# 1158822 $1,250,000
LAND LISTINGS Highview Lane • Affordable lot w/ town water & town sewer • Convenient to town and beaches
$449,500
Sands Pond •200 ft frontage on Sands Pond •1.9 acres property on a tree canopied road
$500,000 Mansion Road
• Easy walk to Mansion Beach from this 2.6 acre lot • Engineering/survey done for a 4 bedroom septic
$669,000 Payne Road Bungalow MLS# 1156286 $699,000
Panoramic Views MLS# 1141059 $1,775,000
Mohegan Cottage MLS# 1115481 $1,900,000
Hull’s Pond
• Enjoy all nature has to offer. • Lovely 4+ acre lot offer opportunities.
$575,000
Your Hometown Realtors with International Reach Cynthia Pappas, Broker • Rebecca Pappas Clark, Linda Spak, Associate Brokers Gail Heinz, Shannon Morgan, Tony Pappas, Kathy Mulshine, Lynn Poston, Sales Agents
Telephone: 401 466-5521 • Fax: 401 466-5369 • Email: info@sullivanbi.com
www.sullivanbi.com
Each office independently owned and operated
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August 2017
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Lesley A Ulrich
Where Island Workers Shop!
photography family portraits & weddings
Located in the Lobby of the National, we’re open later than any shop on the Block!
Coolest Shirts Around! Tervis Tumblers & Columbia Logo Wear in stock
If you need it,
we’ve got it!
466-3168
www.lesleyanneulrich.com 401-466-5858
Gear up in style for life’s great adventures
• • • • • •
tees & sweats hats souvenirs stickers sunglasses adults and kid’s sizes
Water Street • At The National Hotel • 466-5977
On the back porch of the National Hotel 20 Dodge Street
401-466-8783
Featuring • Uno de 50 jewelry • Natural Life • Woodstock Windchimes • Coastal & Nautical decor The Shops at The National Hotel 401 466 2558
Block Island Trading Company provisions for island time
National Hotel Fireside Drinks & Food Nightly
Outside Bar
with a View of Old Harbor
Doggy Dining on our Rear Patio
live for the moment, then take it with you... Join our mailing list
Serving Dinner Nightly until 11 PM
401.466.2901 • www.blockislandhotels.com
Dune Jewelry is handmade with sand from Block Island. The perfect way to cherish beach memories all year round. Available exclusively at the Block Island Trading Company. On Island and online year-round!
BlockIslandTradingCompany.com
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Block Island
1. THE NORTH LIGHT is the fourth lighthouse built on Sandy Point. The first, finished in 1829, was washed away in a few years. A second light began operation in 1837, but was not visible to ships due to the shifting sands. The government built a third light near the end of the Point in 1857 and that also succumbed to the sea. At last, in 1867, the present sturdy building of Connecticut granite, hauled to the site by oxen, was completed. The North Light has an Interpretive Center with exhibits on loan from the B.I. Historical Society. The lighthouse building will be open from July 1-3 and July 6 until Labor Day, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. daily except Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tours are available, but it is closed during inclement weather. The lighthouse is located in the Sachem Pond Wildlife refuge and is less than a half-mile walk from Settlers Rock. Please don’t swim at Sandy Point as there are dangerous currents.
2. SETTLERS’ ROCK AND SACHEM POND are at the northern end of the island. The stone memorial was erected in 1911 in commemoration of the landing 250 years earlier of the first European settlers on Block Island. In April 1661, the families and animals of 16 men who had purchased the island for 400 pounds sterling arrived by barque from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Because the island had no natural harbor, they were forced to leave their ship and wade ashore. The cows swam ashore into the cove, known thereafter as Cow Cove. Bird watching, fishing, and sunset gazing are favorite pastimes at this location.
3. CLAY HEAD NATURE TRAIL a.k.a THE MAZE a.k.a BLUESTONE is reached via a dirt road leading off Corn Neck Road across from a yellow Victorian house just two miles north of the Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion. A paradise for walkers, Clay Head Trail leads to the northeastern shore of the island and meanders along the scenic bluffs of Clay Head for more than a mile until it reaches Settlers’ Rock and Sandy Point. Take care not to get too close to the edge of the bluffs for there is constant erosion, which means a danger of falling. Branching off the trail are other trails, which earned the area the nickname The Maze. One trail leads directly to the beach north of Jerry’s Point where one can still see remnants of the glacial formation called Pots & Kettles.
4. MANSION BEACH is located at the northern section of Crescent Beach on the east side of the island. It takes its name from the Searles Mansion that stood there from 1888 to 1963. The mansion, unused in 1963, was destroyed that year by fire. Only the stone foundation and entrance pillars still remain. On good beach days there is very limited parking space available. Beautiful views and bigger surf are found here compared to the southern end of Crescent Beach. No lifeguards are available in this area.
5. THE B.I. HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, GALLERY & GIFT SHOP, at Bridgegate Square across from the bank, was established in 1942. The building, originally known as Woonsocket House, houses an extensive collection of artifacts reflecting the maritime culture of the island from early colonial days to the present. Exhibit rooms include furniture, textiles, boat models, fishing gear, Native American tools and more. This year the 75th Anniversary exhibit is “Surrounded by Sea.” The Gallery is showing oil paintings of artist C. Sperry Andrews, original photographs by Carmel Vitullo, vintage island photographs and historic maps. For group tours, genealogy research or to donate anything with Block Island-related history, please contact Executive Director Pam Gasner at (401)466-2481 or e-mail blockhistory@gmail.com. The museum is open daily 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Labor Day. Off-season open by appointment. Admission: $15 Family/group up to 4; $10 guided tour; Adult $6, $4 seniors and students. Members, free.
6. OLD HARBOR is the year-round docking point for boats coming in from Point Judith, and accommodates seasonal ferries as well as the high-speed ferries. Prior to the breakwater it was known as Pole Harbor as islanders pulled ashore and secured their classic double-ender fishing boats to the poles in the sand. There is limited anchoring space within the breakwaters for pleasure craft and a maximum anchorage of seven days. It is nestled within the bustling downtown, where the majority of the island’s hotels, restaurants, and retail shops are located.
7. OCEAN VIEW PAVILION is a place for rest and reflection. The Ocean View Foundation is a nonprofit that secured this Old Harbor plot for the enjoyment of the public. The site features a finely crafted pavilion and remarkable views. The largest hotel on the island, the Ocean View, once stood on this site until fire destroyed it in the summer of 1966. The pavilion is dedicated to the concept of expanding the public’s awareness of environmental issues. Visitors must walk in from Water Street across from the ferry parking lot just to the left of the Post Office building. The site is open from dawn to dusk.
8. THE STATUE OF REBECCA formally stands in stark white at the intersection of Water, High, and Spring Streets. Named after the biblical Rebekah-atthe-well, the statue originally featured water troughs for horses and dogs and once had running water for human consumption. Installed in 1896 by the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, the statue is dedicated to abstinence from spirits. The much-loved statue was recast and reinstalled to celebrate her 100th anniversary and is on display at the B.I. Historical Society.
9. 1661 FARM & GARDENS has a diverse collection of exotic and domestic animals maintained by the owners of the 1661 Inn. The small farm between Spring and High streets is home to camels, llamas, emus, sheep, donkeys, goats, swans, and ducks. Visitors are free to view and pet the animals, which are accessible from Spring Street. Open to the public from dawn to dusk.
10. SOUTHEAST LIGHTHOUSE sits 200 feet above the sea on Mohegan Bluffs. When its powerful light was turned on in 1875, the beams reached 21 miles out to sea, farther than any other light in New England. When the National Historic Landmark was first constructed, a large field separated the house and tower from the cliff’s edge. By the late 1980s, the bluffs had eroded to within 60 feet of the building. Funding was obtained through federal, state and local channels to move it to safe grounds. The move took place in August of 1993 and a large stone now marks where the tower once stood. The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Guided tower tours are available daily 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. through Labor Day. Museum exhibits and gifts are available at the base of the tower. Group tours available by appointment. Info: (401) 466-5009.
11. MOHEGAN BLUFFS, to the west of the Southeast Lighthouse, has a magnificent view of the southern coast and its high cliffs, with Montauk, N.Y. often visible 20 miles away. At Payne Overlook, you’ll find a wooden stairway that was built by the R.I. Department of Environmental Management. It is a difficult climb for the elderly and the unfit, and the footing at the bottom can be extremely difficult. This beach can be crowded and swimming is sometimes dangerous.
13. ISAAC’S CORNER, at the intersection of Center Road, Lakeside Drive, and Cooneymus Road, is named for Isaac Church, the island’s last surviving native Indian, who died in 1886. Nearby (to the east of the four corners) is an Indian burial ground where the headstones (small fieldstones) are set closely together. Indian custom dictated burial of the dead in an upright position, with a pot of clams or oysters beside them to speed them on their way to the next life. The Town’s Heinz Recreation Playing Field, where summer camp and sporting events are held, is located just north of the corner. Take the first right. Parking available on the grass. There are also Greenway trails accessible across the street that meander around Fresh Pond.
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15. BEACON HILL, with its stone tower, is visible from almost any part of the island. From a height of 210 feet above sea level, it commands unsurpassed panoramic views. The Indians held tribal councils there, and watches were kept on Beacon Hill during the American Revolution and the War of 1812. The tower was designed as a memorial to the island’s seamen. It is now a private home, so you’ll have to enjoy the site from a distance.
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Block Island State Airport
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12. RODMAN’S HOLLOW, named after the island’s first doctor, is a wild and beautiful cleft in the rolling southwestern terrain left from the glacier, and is the haunt of hawks, white-tailed deer, and several rare species of wildflowers. In the 1960s developers bought it and proposed a dozen houses on the slopes. This so dismayed island residents that they formed the Block Island Conservancy, with the late Captain Rob Lewis as their leader, and raised enough money to buy it back so that it could be forever wild. Walking trails lead to Black Rock Beach.
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14. SMILIN’ THROUGH is a gambrel-roofed cottage situated on Cooneymus Road, where composer and poet Arthur Penn and his wife Nell resided in the 1920s. Penn’s musical works include a song about the B.I. home, “Smilin’ Through.” The original cottage was built in the 1700s by Trustrum and Dorcus Dodge and was remodeled in 1950. The privately owned house sits on the edge of a sloping hill, which leads down to the waters of Fresh Pond.
16. THE COAST GUARD STATION opened in 1938 as one of the first Coast Guard stations on the East Coast. The station was one of two on the island, with the second one once standing at the site of the present-day Beachead. Before its reopening in the 1990s, the current station was boarded up by the U.S. Transportation Department that oversaw the Coast Guard before the creation of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In the late 1980s the town worked with the federal government to transfer control of the property to the Town of New Shoreham. The Coast Guard returned and initiated regular summer patrols of the harbors. The local police, who lack their own boat, appreciate the help on the seas.
17. NEW HARBOR is the first stop for those coming in on the Montauk ferry and is the docking and anchoring spot for most private boaters. New Harbor was, in fact, the site of the island’s first protected harbor, but the expense of keeping a breachway open between the Great Salt Pond and Block Island Sound caused it to be abandoned in 1705. A new breach was cut and a breakwater was constructed to establish a permanent access point in 1897. Docks, marinas and anchoring sites await boaters in the southwest corner of New Harbor, as well as shops, restaurants and hotel accommodations. Pumpout services are provided by the town Harbormaster, as discharge in the pristine waters of the Great Salt Pond is prohibited.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
SPONSORED BY
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whalers Rhode Island
Rock The Block
Yellow Kittens
Ballard’s August 1-6,8-10,12-19,21-31 ..........................................................John Brazile August 4,5 ............................................................................................. Pop Rocks August 6,7 ....................................................................................................... Sugar August 4, 5,11,14,18,19,25,26,27 ..........................................................DJ Libre August 1-3,8-10,15-17,21-24,28-31 ................................................ Royal Blue August 11,12,13 .................................................................................... Radio Riot August 12 .................................................................... 94 HJY Rocks the Block August 16 ........................................................................................Lite Rock 105 August 19,20.......................................................................................Those Guys August 25,26,27 .................................................................................... Hot Date
August 1,8,15,22,29............Honky Tonk Tuesday August 2,9,16,23,30 .................................. DJ Dugan August 3,10,17,24,31............................ Root Steady August 4,5 ...............................................Those Guys August 6 ................................................... Conserfest August 7,14,21,28 ................................... Marc Philip August 11,12 .................................. 7 Day Weekend August 13 .................................................... Soul Shot August 18,19 ............................................Uncle Jesse August 20 ....................................................... Anthem August 25,26 ..................................The Complaints
Mahogany Shoals
(at Payne’s Dock)
Walter McDonough- Live Folk/ Irish acoustic music 9ish p.m. ...................... Thurs., Fri., Sat., Sun. Izzy Malek ........................... Mon, Tues, Wed. Live Music - 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. ..Thurs. - Sun.
The National Hotel Live Music: Friday and Saturday 8 to 11:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 3 to 5:30 p.m.
The Spring House Aldo’s
Thursday: Live music at Martini Night 9 p.m. Friday: Wild Greens (Jazz) 8 to 10 p.m.
Thursday & Fridays: Second Time Around (50’s, 60s, 70’s) 6 to 10 p.m
Club Soda Monday: Trivia Night 9 p.m. Tuesday: Karaoke 9 p.m. Wednesday: Open Mic Night 9 p.m. Thurs., Fri., Sat.: Live Music 10 p.m
Captain Nick’s August 4,5 .......................The Blushing Brides August 6,13,20,27 ...............The Young Guns August 11,12 ..............Darik and the Funbags August 18,19 ..........................West End Blend August 25,26 ................. Neal and the Vipers
Poor People’s Pub Every Week: Tuesdays: Service Industry Night (SIN Tuesday). Contests, deals, prizes. Thursdays: DJ ESP SWITCH 10 p.m. Electro, New Wave, 80s/90s Hip-Hop and R&B Fridays & Saturdays: 10 p.m. Dance Party w/ DJ Libre.
Every Week: Monday: Disco Night Tuesday & Wednesday: Piano Bar Thursday: So Fresh Thursdays Thursday - Sunday: Fathead Sushi 5 to 9 p.m.
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August 2017
ConserFest 2017 August 5,6 Music on a Mission Originating on Block Island, ConserFest is focused on raising funds and awareness for environmental conservation and stewardship. ConserFest is a strictly grassroots effort that relies heavily on volunteers for events and year-round staff as the driving force in raising awareness about local environmental issues. The proceeds and donations from all ConserFest events help to support and fund local efforts dedicated to protecting Block Island’s natural environment and for the conservation and preservation of local land, heritage and culture. This year, ConserFest takes place on August 5 and 6 at various locations on the island. On Saturday, August 5, head to the Narragansett Inn in New Harbor from 3 to 9 p.m. for music, local artisans, vendors, environmental groups and lawn games. On Sunday, August 6, head to the Town Beach Pavilion for more music from 12 to 3 p.m. The main
event takes place at Yellow Kittens on August 6 from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. and is a 21 and up show. Proceeds from the 2017 events will go towards the ConserFest school scholarship awarded to current and graduated Block Island School students in honor of Stephen Record, past Block Island Conservancy president. 2017 Artist Line up: Roots of Creation (NH) Freddy Loco (France) James & The Giants (Narragansett, RI) Root Steady (Block Island, RI) Geraldine(Providence, RI) Jay Lew (Pawtucket, RI) Homeslice (Block Island, RI) The Little Compton Band (RI) Kelly & the Cunninghams (Block Island, RI) Loveday (Providence, RI) Phil & David Turano (Westerly, RI) Mac Brown (Block Island, RI) Silas Monje (Block Island, RI) PHOTO BY T. FINN PHOTOGRAPHY
Join in on the fun! MONDAY: Trivia Night and 50 cent Wings All Night! TUESDAY: Karaoke and $2 Tacos WEDNESDAY: Open Mic and $6 Pizza AUGUST 3: Super Dope AUGUST 4: The Silks AUGUST 5: Morgan Macia Gallery Showing @ 7 p.m. AUGUST 5: 007’s AUGUST 18-19: The Bluff Crumbs AUGUST 20: Pig Roast SEPTEMBER 1: z boyz SEPTEMBER 2: The Silks SEPTEMBER 3: Pig Roast Noon - 1 a.m. Daily Takeout 401-466-5397 • clubsodabi.us • 35 Connecticut Ave.
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Island Arts & Galleries
Spring Street Gallery Jessie Edwards Studio
(401) 466-5314
(401)466-5374
Spring Street Gallery is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday Artist receptions:
Second floor, Post Office Building jessieedwardsgallery.com Through August 2 William T. Hall ~ “Block Island Nautical Life and Historical Views” Hall’s watercolors of old draggers, ferry boats, and sailors bring us back to an earlier time in Block Island’s sea faring days.
August 1 — Berke Marye, Paintings August 5 — Tom Kalb, Photography August 8 — Joan Kocak — Photography August 12 — Eileen Miller, Paintings August 12 — John Warfel, Ceramics
August 22 — Felicia Cinquegrana Puckett August 26 — Kate Bird, Paintings August 29 — Neil Lang, Paintings September 4 — Amy Ryan, Paintings
Artists Receptions 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays. Visit springstreetgallery.org for the summer show schedule.
August 4 - August 16 Kate Knapp ~ New Images of Block Island Opening reception: August 5, 5-7 p.m. In her latest oils on canvas, Knapp finds new angles of vision in familiar Block Island scenes. August 18 – September 8 Peter Michael Gish ~ Recent Paintings Opening reception, August 19, 5-7 p.m. Gish, at 91, always has something new and fresh to show us in his subtly layered oils depicting his love of nature, especially on Block Island.
Historical Society Museum and Gallery (401) 466-2481
Malcolm Greenaway Gallery (401) 466-5331 Open Daily. Water Street
Gallery and museum open daily, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Celebr atin Research & Tours by appointment. 75 yea g Admission to the Historical Society is $6 per person, rs! $4 seniors/students. Members, free. Visit blockislandhistorical.org Featured summer exhibit: “Surrounded by Sea” August 7 — Full Moon Cemetery Tour with stone carver Karin Sprague. 7 p.m. $15. Meet at West Side Road entrance to the Island Cemetery. August 17 — 45th Annual House & Garden Tour – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring seven homes and gardens along Spring Street. Tickets also available on day of tour: $40 Adults; Members and Students $35. Thursdays — Old Harbor walking Tour with Tour Guide – meet at the statue of Rebecca across from the theater. $15/person; member discount. 10 a.m.
malcolmgreenaway.com
Farmers’ Market
Legion Park and the Spring House Garden lawn are the places to be on Saturday and Wednesday mornings. Dozens of vendors are a part of the Block Island Farmers Market that sets up shop two days a week. Crafters and bakers, painters, photographers, jewelers and more — selling their hand crafted items. The season runs through October at two different spots. Every Saturday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Legion Park on West Side Road and every Wednesday, 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Spring House Garden lawn on Spring Street.
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August 2017
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Block Island Artists Wildflower Honey Cinnamon Honey Honey Mustard Beeswax Candles Available at B.I. Farmers’ Markets and Craft Fairs www.blockislandhoney.com 401 466 5364
Block Island Naturals
All natural & organic balms, salves, & essential oil perfumes.
Healing Salve Muscle Rub Sleep Salve Vapor Rub Drawing Salve Citrus Deodorant Bug Off Lip Balm Essential Oil Perfumes Sunblock
Sabra Glen, Owner 401-466-2596 sabra02874@hotmail.com Sold at the Block Island Farmer’s Market Saturday at Legion Park
“Block Island Bracelet” Available at BI Farmers’ Market 401-996-9373 www.rachellemoine.com
Phone orders 401-578-1125 www.blockislandjewelry.com Showing at the Block Island Farmers’ Market
Emily Marye Pottery Unique Handmade Ceramics
Visit me at the Farmers Market
Saturday at Legion Park & Wednesdays at the Spring House Or by appointment emilymaryepottery@gmail.com
emilymaryepottery.com
Certified herbalist and aromatherapist 100% free of chemicals Available at the Block Island Farmers Market islandmistnaturalproducts.com 401-864-5563
Leah Robinson Watercolors & Giclée Prints
Available at: Block Island Arts & Crafts Guild Fairs The Spring Street Gallery BI Farmer’s Market 508-331-3280 www.leahswatercolors.com
PAINTINGS • PRINTS • CARDS
“Block Island Wire Outline Ring” By hand - One at at time - On island - 43 years
At Watercolors and BI Guild Shows
etsy.com/shop/ClaireMariStudio or www.clairemarschak.com
GREENAWAY GALLERY
Phone orders 401-578-1125 www.blockislandjewelry.com Showing at the Block Island Farmers’ Market
J J
julia’s jewelry
Exquisite Photos of Block Island
www.blockislandboards.com i l db handcrafted uniquely shaped cutting boards earrings & necklaces
www.OMstack.com handmade stone stack jewelry
On the corner by the Empire Theater 401-466-5331 • 800-840-5331 www.malcolmgreenaway.com
SEAN HARTNETT
AVAILABLE @ B.I. Farmers' Markets and Arts and Crafts Fairs
by appointment 401-466-2310 seanhartnett.com
CONTACT US: 401-864-1987 EMAIL US: omstack@gmail.com
Stone Sculpture
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Ben Wohlberg
Partial Solar Eclipse on Aug. 21 Will be visible if weather cooperates By K. Curtis By now you've probably heard that on August 21 something epic is going to happen. We're talking about a solar eclipse like we've not experienced in a longtime and for some — never. If you will be on Block Island during this time, if the weather cooperates, we may be in for a pretty spectacular viewing. Solar eclipses occur when the Earth, moon and sun are aligned in the same plane and the moon passes between the earth and the sun, partially or completely covering our closest star. There are four types of solar eclipses: total, annular, partial and hybrid. In this area, a Partial Solar Eclipse will start at 1:28 p.m. with the maximum view at 2:47 p.m. and ending at 4:01 p.m. A partial solar eclipse occurs when only the partial shadow passes overhead. In these cases, a part of the sun always remains in view during the eclipse. It is strongly recommended to wear special eclipse viewing glasses — regular sunglasses will not be safe for your eyes. Be smart — do not damage your eyes, your kid’s eyes, or even your pet’s eyes by trying to look at the eclipse. You can order special viewing glasses online, Amazon. com sells them in multiple packs. For more information visit eclipse2017.org. Remember these safety tips: • Never look directly at the sun, even when it's partially covered by the moon. This can cause serious eye damage or blindness. • Use proper eye protection. Find out how to view the eclipse safely at eclipse2017.org. • Consider protecting pet’s eyes, as well.
Artist’s Studio 806 Payne Road
by appointment through Labor Day (cell) 401-787-3843 • 466-2004 • www.benwohlberg.com
HIP
OR
KNEE PAIN ? Mako™ Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology Now for Total Knee Replacement • South County Hospital is first in the world to offer Mako Technology for total knee procedures
CELEBRATING OUR 10TH ANNIVERSARY!
• Highly-advanced Mako Technology for total hip replacement, partial knee resurfacing, and now total knee replacement offers unprecedented level of precision to help restore mobility • Consistent pinpoint accuracy, optimal implant positioning, superior outcomes
“gifts for pets and their humans”
For a consultation with a physician at Ortho Rhode Island South County, call 401 789-1422.
Block Island collars, leashes & treats ▲ Toys & treats for cats and dogs Fun pet themed items and gifts for humans Water St., Block Island
www.blockislandog.com
401-466-5666
Just A Friendly Reminder you may need a new bookmark
A partnership of South County Hospital, Ortho Rhode Island South County, and South County Home Health
www.blockislandtimes.com
www.southcountyhealth.org ~ www.orthopedicsri.com Physicians offices in Wakefield, East Greenwich, and Westerly.
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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LIVE MUSIC
POOL TABLE
DANCING
GAMES
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE SUNDAY
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TUESDAY
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CREATION
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Soul Shot 20
Anthem
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Marc Philip 21 Marc Philip 28
Reggae w/ DJ Libre 3
Closed for Employee Appreciation
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FRIDAY
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THURSDAY
HOnkytonk
Marc Philip 6 ROOTS OF
WEDNESDAY
w/ DJ ESP 5
Closed for Employee Appreciation
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GET YOUR YELLOW KITTENS T-SHIRTS, TANKS, HATS & HOODIES WHILE THEY LAST! FRESH MEXICAN CUISINE
FR OZEN
MARGARITAS & MUDSLIDES B LO CK ISLAN D’S
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11:30AM – 7:30PM
CORN NECK ROAD, NEXT TO YELLOW KITTENS • OPEN AT 6 P.M.
ON T H E D EC K AT Y E L LOW K I T T E N S
F O R TA K E O U T C A L L 4 6 6 - 5 8 5 5
VISA/MC/AMEX/DISCOVER CARDS ACCEPTED • AIR CONDITIONED RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED • 401-466-5856 • WINFIELDSBI.COM
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Inc.
RENTAL/MORTGAGE NUMBERS WORK
STRONG RENTAL & INVESTMENT PROPERTY This well appointed multi-level residence can also be enjoyed as a family compound. Relaxing, 6 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom sunfilled home with island charm. $1,175,000
PHENOMENAL WATER VIEWS
PHENOMENAL GREAT SALT POND VIEWS Walk to the beach with this private year-round 3 bedroom home with plenty of room to expand. Extremely desirable summer rental! $1,710,000
PRICE REDUCTION
YOUR FUTURE AWAITS S.E. Lighthouse & ocean views featuring eco-friendly wind turbines. Inverted Lindal Cedar home boasts an airy and spacious great room w/ cathedral ceilings. $1,289,000 $1,190,000
UNDER CONTRACT
UNPARALLELED VIEWS Seeing is believing! Embrace the wonders of this dramatic setting. A 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house on the bluffs with sprawling ocean views. $729,000
WALK TO BOTH HARBORS Centrally located with beautiful water views with great yard and deck. Open living area with loft. Rental apartment on lower level. $1,095,000
WATERFRONT FAMILY COMPOUND
Nestled in the heart of New Harbor and close to the island’s prime destinations. Sweet 2 bedroom cottage & larger 3 bedroom home. Private Dock. Sold together or seperately. Asking $2,024,000
RISE TO THE TOP 2.7 acre parcel to find this sun-filled home with sweeping island & ocean views. Architectural plans for tasteful home expansion available. $935,000
ENCIRCLED BY OVER 9 ACRES OF PRESERVED LAND Cozy appeal resounds from this property! 3 bedroom, 1 bath home with plenty of room to grow. Beautiful ocean & sunset views. $1,175,000
NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
LAND LISTINGS OLD MILL ROAD 2 acre parcel in a country setting with long-range views from the east and north to Clay Head. PRICE REDUCED! $615,000 $490,000 PRESTIGIOUS SOUTHWEST POINT LOCATION Large glass doors in 5 of the 7 rooms opening to a 1,000 sq. ft. deck. Dazzling ocean and sunset views. $1,299,000
Jennifer Phillips, Broker
AMY DODGE LANE 1.1 acre parcel atop Amy Dodge Lane with pond & ocean views. $499,000
Celeste Helterline, Hanna Greenlee Martin, Carolyn Clouse, Sales Agents
TOPSIDE CAFE Commercial condo in prime location to be sold with a turn-key cafe/restaurant. Includes equipment & beer + wine license. Great for year round business! $679,000
Located Above the Post Office 401-466-8806 www.phillipsonbi.com
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Island Weddings The Perfect Place For a Wedding
I
t’s no secret anymore about how much fun it is to have your wedding on Block Island. Every year more and more couples choose the island for a close-to-home, but worlds away destination celebration. Whether it’s just the two of you on a dock or on a beach, or hundreds of friends and family members renting houses together for a week of parties, you’ll have a picture-perfect time. Pick up a copy of Block Island Weddings for useful information while planning your island wedding and to read about other couples’ weddings — both big and small.
CELEBRATE OUR 26TH ANNIVERSARY
& TAKE HOME A BLOCK ISLAND MEMORY
PHOTO BY TIFFANY MADRANO PHOTOGRAPHY
TAKE HOME A BLOCK ISLAND MEMORY Beautiful Home Decor An eclectic mix of island rustic charm
Fashion jewelry custom Block Island jewelry found only at My Oyster Flower shop Fresh bouquets daily. Delivery available. Beach Provisions both fashionable and essential
Painted Rock Design wedding floral studio located at My Oyster Wedding rentals including farm tables and chairs.
Get hooked on Block Island with Jennifer’s catch of the day, hook bracelet. New Block Island Designs for 2017 Sterling Silver & Gold Selections Block Island Jewelry in Sterling Silver & 14K www.jennifersjewelry.org
Located on Water Street (Under The Harborside)
Open 10am – 9pm 401-466-7944
Melissa Sitbon Philip, Owner & Designer
Open 10-6
(401) 466-2076 cell (631)-704-3221
106 Corn Neck Road (across from Crescent Beach)
www.MYOYSTERBI.COM PAINTEDROCKFLOWERS@YAHOO.COM
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Check out our new line of Craftsman Lawn and Garden Equipment. THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES yourself August 2017 Come down and drive them
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Don’tHuge Trashclearance the Island sale on appliances.
What to do with your household garbage
Sears Hometown Store is here for you with delivery to Block Island! Ed Gregory, Owner
Lenny Traficante, General Manager
Contrary to rumors, Sears Hometown Store in Wakefield is not closing! The entrance to the Transfer Station is at the end of West Beach Road. PHOTOS BY K. CURTIS By K. Curtis Officially called the Town of New Shoreham Transfer Station, run by Block Island Recycling Management, it is still what many people on the island affectionately refer to as “The Dump.” It is where to take all of your garbage — big and small, a lot or a little — and all of your recyclables. The trash cans in town, and around the island, are not where home renters, owners, or long term visitors should be leaving their garbage after a week long (or longer) stay. The dumpsters you may see around town are for private or commercial use only, and not a place to leave your garbage. You need to bring your trash and recyclables to the Transfer Station. Along with regular household garbage, there are many items that you can bring to the recycling center and drop off, for a fee. Your bags of garbage will
be weighed in at the scale house and you will pay 12 cents a pound to dispose of it — recyclables are free. Located on West Beach Road, head north on Corn Neck Road for about two miles until you come to West Beach Road on the left, where you will also see the Transfer Station sign. The Transfer Station is located at the end of West Beach road on the right. The new website will give you all of the pricing for items big and small — from household trash to appliances and cars. If you have any questions, give them a call. You can even call for a onetime garbage pick-up if you don’t have time to bring it to the Transfer Station yourself. The Transfer Station is open every day except for Thursdays, from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call (401) 466-2864 for hours and information, or visit blockislandrecycling.com.
Hurricane Season is upon us… Are you prepared?
The scale house at the Transfer Station is where you weigh and pay.
SMART ADVICE
CLIENT FOCUS®
Fiduciary? Means we’ve got your back.
We offer the largest selection of appliances in South County.
Our fiduciary standard ensures we put your interests first. As our clients’ fiduciary, we subscribe to a code of ethical conduct that mandates we act for their sole benefit and interest at all times. Are your advisors held to the same standard? Don’t you deserve the added protection, especially in today’s complex financial markets? To learn more, contact Holly M. Knott, CFP®, Vice President & Planning Officer, at 401-348-1572 or hmknott@washtrust.com.
Conveniently Located In South County Commons Wakefield, Rhode Island
401-782-0009 www.washtrustwealth.com
We Deliver To The Ferry!
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BUYING YOUR FIRST NEW HOME JUST GOT A LITTLE SWEETER.
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$500
CREDIT AT CLOSING
Call us today at 888-806-2872 for an appointment at our convenient Block Island loan office, located at 90 Chapel St., New Shoreham, R.I. Or apply online at BayCoastBank.com Member FDIC Member DIF Applies to purchase transactions only. All loans are subject to credit approval. $500 closing cost credit cannot be combined with any other offer. Must apply by October 31, 2017. The $500 credit will be issued at the time of settlement.
®
NMLS# 403238
401-466-5446 401-466-5446 offprop@verizon.net offprop@verizon.net www.offshorepropertyllc.com www.offshorepropertyllc.com
NEW LISTING!
1680 SPRING STREET
$2,800,000
Located Southeast Locatedhigh high on on aa hill overlooking the Southeast Lighthouse, wonderful propertyhas hasspectacular spectacular Light, thisthis wonderful property ocean in several Sixthespacious ocean views views from nearly directions. every room in house. bedrooms and four large baths make this home Six spacious bedrooms and four large baths makea perfect placeatoperfect gather place friendstoand family. The third this home gather friends and floor boasts a sitting room/copula with 360-degree family. There is ample space to spend time together island thesome house is a time twoin theviews. large The mainlower livinglevel area,ofor quiet bedroom suitein with ample with a book the private cupola entrance. with 280 There degreeisviews. room to be together around a large main living room The lower level of the house is a two-bedroom and plenty of cozy spots to relax. You can see the suite with open living space and private entrance. ocean from nearly every room in the house. This This property encompasses 2.6 acres with a 4,000± property encompasses 6.2 acres with a 4,000± sq.an ft. sq. ft. house, an accessory studio/gazebo, and house, an accessory studio/gazebo, and an additional additional small lot of record. With the Mohegan small ofarecord. The away, Mohegan just Bluffslot just short walk this Bluffs specialare spot is aa short 5-10 minute walk. Asking $2,800,000 must see! Asking $2,800,000
1267 WEST SIDE ROAD
1629 PILOT HILL ROAD
MLS #1158847
MLS #1159300
Located ocated off Pilot Hill Road on Seaweed Lane this wonderful 4 4-bedroom, bedroom, 22bathroom bungalow sits on 3 acres with a large yard, long range ocean views, and screened-in patio. Nice kitchen with maple cabinets, dining area, and an L-shaped living space make this home comfortable and easy for entertaining. Full, unfinished basement, with laundry, boasts plenty of storage and a recreation area. 5-bedroom septic allows for expansion. Asking $1,195,000
Beautifully designed contemporary home nestle nestled on the shores of Trim’s Pond boasts 5 en-suite bedrooms, an open living/dining room and a gourmet kitchen. Porches and decks encircle the curved home allowing for outdoor enjoyment in any wind direction. Attention to detail and energy efficiency, including solar panels, make this home economical to maintain and heat. Private access to the water and Great Salt Pond. Mature landscaping. Come discover this hidden gem. Asking $2,250,000
794 MOHEGAN TRAIL
1069 BEACON HILL ROAD
MLS #1139731 #1139731 MLS
MLS#1164185 MLS#1164185
This well maintained two bedroom, one bath “Kingston Cottage” has been loved and well cared for. Small renovations over the years have kept this low maintenance home comfortable and current. The large lot, with a yard that rolls down to the top of the bluff, is a great gathering place for family and friends. The unobstructed ocean views from both inside and outside of this home are incredible and must be seen to be believed. Asking $1,300,000
Robin Lewis Lewis Vila, Vila, Principal Principal Broker Broker // Owner Owner Robin Corlies Black, Black, Sales Sales Associate Associate Corlies
Private setting on Beacon Hill, with boat boat-builder builder details and a beautiful kitchen on the walkout level. Comfortable and unique, this home is filled with incredible character and craftsmanship. Three bedrooms – one on main living level and two on third level. Full bathroom and one half bathroom. Central stereo system with speakers in private outdoor shower surrounded by lush gardens. Beautifully planted, and meticulously maintained, completely fenced grounds. Asking $1,350,000
Susan Susan Black, Black, Broker Broker // Owner Owner Kerri Kerri Gaffett, Gaffett, Sales Sales Associate Associate
Edith Edith Littlefield Littlefield Blane, Blane, Associate Associate Broker Broker Krista Krista Vila, Vila, Sales Sales Associate Associate
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
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Island History
A Stroll up Spring Street & Southeast Road August 17th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Annual Historical Society House & Garden Tour The Block Island Historical Society is hosting the Annual House and Garden Tour on Thursday, August 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets will be available on day of tour: $40 adults; members and students, $35. The tour will begin near the Spring House Hotel at the Theve house (ca. 1891) and end at the home of Susie Wright on the right side of Spring Street, with spectacular views of Old Harbor and the Clayhead bluffs in the distance. The tour will highlight old and new architecture, including recently designed summer cottages. Each year, the Historical Society asks a small group of homeowners to open up their doors to over 200 participants with self-guided access in order to get a rare glimpse into the Island’s historic and architecturally inspiring homes. This annual event has been a tradition that helps support the Society’s operations and educational programs. This year, seven homes and select gardens have been chosen along Spring Street and Southeast Road. This area of the island was originally farmland and Spring Street was extended to Southeast Road after the breakwater was built in 1871 to allow delivery of materials to build the Southeast Lighthouse (1873) on Mohegan Bluffs. Potato fields lined the roadway where the Newhouse cottages now stand. The cow photograph on the poster for the Historical Society’s current exhibit was taken from a point just below the Spring Cottage. The Robison Cottage and Green Hill Cove Cottage are located off Southeast Road. According to folklore this area was deeded to Nathanael Greene in the 1700’s thus the name Green Hill Cove and Greene Farm. General Greene was a major general of the Continental Army under George Washington in the American Revolutionary War. He was also married to Block Island’s Katy
Littlefield. In his “History of Newport County RI (1888)” Richard Bayles writes “As a place of rest, Block Island has been comparatively unknown to the pleasure seeker till within the past few years. Hotel enterprise has however done much to disseminate a general knowledge of the place and the little sea girt isle with its natural charms, its equitable climate and its many superior advantages as attractions, receives now a host of tourists every season.”
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Houses on the Tour: 1. Theve House (1891) Built in 1891 for Arthur D. Ellis, a successful manufacturer of woolen textiles from Massachusetts, who was a regular patron of the Spring House in the 1880’s. He eventually decided to build a cottage on a nearby lot to accommodate his large family. The house was later owned by the island doctor, Dr. Carroll Ricker. The classic two-and-a-half story Queen Anne Style house cost $10,000 at the time to build. It has a distinctive circular porch, and includes much of the original furnishings found in the house when acquired by the Theve family in the early 40s’. The old horse barn behind the house has been converted into an apartment, and the main house is used as a summer rental property. 2. Newhouse Cottage (Cyr Family Cottage, 1924) A short walk past the driveway and across the street from the Spring House Hotel you will find the Sea Breeze Inn and former Gallery established in 1981 by the late Mary Newhouse. The main house is nestled among beautiful gardens. Owned since 1979 by husband Dr. Robert Newhouse and family, the Sea Breeze complex is still running after 35 years as a lovely B & B by daughter Andrea. All three daughters have helped develop the property into a very special compound of artistic excellence. 3. Spring Cottage (circa1888) Nestled into the bend of the road just south of the Spring House is the Rountree family cottage. Linus Dodge (1892-1991), who lived just up the hill, recalled that the Spring Cottage served ice cream in the horse and buggy era. During the years 19531972, the Spring Cottage served the overf low of guests for the Spring House Hotel, which was owned and operated by the Mott family. In 1972 the cottage became the summer residence of Venetia Mott Rountree. The cottage is of the American Gothic Victorian style, with vertical board-and-batten siding –the only building of that
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construction on Block Island today. 4. McManus House (Welcome Dodge and Bathshiba Littlefield Dodge house, 1865) This 1865 classic farmhouse boasts original ash floors and many other historic details. This house is a fine example of the one-and-three-quarter story house form that is so prevalent on Block Island (see exhibit in second-floor galleries of the Historical Society museum for details). These houses allowed more head room in the second story and also allowed space for small windows close to the floor in the second floor rooms. This fiveacre property on Old Harbor Point has wonderful views of Old Harbor. 5. Robison Cottage (Greene Farm, circa 1850 -1900) The Robison cottage was originally built as a classic island farmhouse on land originally owned by Nathanael Greene. In 1884, Victorian writer Pettee wrote: “Besides the houses already enumerated, there are many farmhouses where a few boarders are taken during the summer months, and some of which afford superior accommodations, at a very moderate rate. In addition to the usual varieties of food, the tables are generally abundantly supplied with fish and lobsters, fresh from the sea. The Block Island mutton has always been famous, and excels in flavor to that found in other sections of this country; no doubt owing to the peculiar climatic conditions and excellent grazing.” One can imagine sheep grazing in the fields below and adjacent to the ocean. The front porch with its sweeping views and the beau-
tiful interior carpentry are not to be missed. 6. Green Hill Cove Cottage (2017) Captain Faile’s 1925 cottage overlooking Green Hill Cove has been completely rebuilt with exquisite detail and construction by Scott Heinz and his crew of craftsmen and fine wood workers. Though a simple upgrade was originally planned, the house was in such poor condition that local architect, Dan Costa, Scott Heinz and friend and design consultant, Rick Foreman combined their skills to make this a new “classic” Block Island cottage. 7. Wright House , “Over the Hill” (1858 renovated farmhouse) This compound includes three buildings – a caretaker’s cottage (not on the tour), the Main house, and a guest cottage. The house was built in 1858 and is the year-round home of Susie Wright. It sits high on the crest of a hill and is named “Over the Hill”. This renovated farmhouse can be traced back to the Dodge family –one of the original European island families. Built as a 4-bedroom farm house it was renovated in 1992. This is a great place to start or end the tour – with commanding views across the ocean to the northeast. NOTE: House markers at the roadside will identify each house. You may enter the tour at any point; you are not required to follow the tour in any order. The Historical Society’s 75th Anniversary exhibit “Surrounded by Sea” will be open to all House Tour participants. Please show your ticket at the museum entrance.
Beach Real Estate
www.biBeachRealEstate.com
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“Let us show you the most beautiful properties on Block Island.” Nancy, Mary and Sandra
FEATURED LISTING
SANDS FARM ROAD: 3+ bedroom w/2 fireplaces. Abuts open space, views of Clayhead. $889,000
SOLD WEST SIDE CHURCH: The West Side Church, renovated 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, patio, views! $1,565,000
CENTER ROAD: Charming rebuilt farmhouse, views, porch, deck, walk to Harbors. $880,000
CORN NECK ROAD: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, garage. Close to north beaches, views. $925,000
SOUTHWEST PT: Family Compound with main house, guest house. Western views. $2,450,000
AMY DODGE: 1.1 acre lot, views.
Mary Stover, Principal Broker-Owner & Nancy D. Pike, Broker-Owner Sandra Hopf, Associate Broker 84 Chapel Street, Block Island, RI 02807 • info@biBeachRealEstate.com • 401-466-2312
$499,000
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Island Living
A glimpse of real estate opportunities to make Block Island not just a vacation destination — but your home.
Swede Hill Location: 1062 Dunne Town Road House size: 3616 Sq Ft Lot size: 4.1 Acres Price: $4,700,000 Contact info: Lila Delman Real Estate (401)4668777 Kaylan.McAleer@LilaDelman.com (401)8291595 Or Rosemary.Tobin@LilaDelman.com (401)741-1825
Peaceful West Side Location: Fire # 1027 West Side Rd., Plat 16, Lot 50 House Size: 3,128 sq. ft. Lot Size: 2.96 acres Price: $935,000 Contact Info: Ballard Hall Real Estate info@ blockislandproperty.com (401) 466-8883
Setting: One of Block Island’s premier properties, nestled between two tranquil coves, ‘Swede Hill House’ is set on one of the island’s highest elevations offering panoramic ocean views. Inside: This stunning four-bedroom home offers more than 3600 square feet of impeccable living by award-winning architectural firm Estes/Twombly. Built to the U.S Green Building Council’s LEED Gold standards, Swede Hill was recently recognized with an AIAri Honor Award, 2013 for outstanding achievement in architectural design. Outside: Ascending the tree-lined driveway to this hilltop retreat, uninterrupted ocean views abound throughout this private four-acre sanctuary. The stone-walled entry garden warmly welcomes guests into this architectural masterpiece. The great room offers a spacious living room with stone fireplace and dining area with custom millwork and state of the art kitchen. Just outside, a spacious deck doubles as a breakfast and grilling area, while a sliding barn door offers added privacy. Beyond the glass wall of the great room rests a spectacular infinity pool, immaculate stonework and beautifully manicured lawns and gardens. Adjacent to the swimming pool and blue stone courtyard is the home’s separate guest suite that delivers light and airy living, expansive storage and the convenience of an additional full bath. The guest suite has it’s own private deck complete with a Maine cedar hot tub. The master suite is an extension of the home’s seamless design with custom cabinetry, private balcony, soaking tub and limestone shower.
Setting: Classic pastoral west side setting with spacious home and two-stall horse barn. Limited water views, sunset skies, and walk to Dorries Cove Road and beach. Property is currently fenced for horses. Inside: Spacious light-filled open floor plan on two levels. Inverted plan with master bedroom and updated en suite bath on main living level along with an additional bedroom, updated hall bath, home office, living room, family room, new kitchen and dining room. The walk-out first-floor level offers a large family/media room, a smaller sitting room, a bedroom, updated full bath, large laundry room, and mudroom as well as a two-car garage, storage and utility areas. History: Meticulously maintained and improved by the current owner since 1999. During their ownership, the roof and siding have been replaced, front and rear decks have been replaced, kitchen and baths have been remodeled. Newly installed hardwood floors, new septic system with 5-bedroom capacity, and new gas lines. The pastures were cleared and new barn built with underground 100 amp service and water pump. This is an ideal home for a year-round or vacation homeowner looking for quiet surroundings and space for family & guests alike!
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Photo ©Royal Bruce Ink
August 2017
Corn Neck Dream House
©2015 ROYAL BRUCE INK
Location: 1708 Corn Neck Road House size: 2763 sq. ft. Lot size: 5.1 acres Price: $3,100,000 Contact info: Attwood Real Estate, (401) 466-5582 Susan Weissman (401) 447-3569 info@attwoodrealestate.com
Setting: A dream-come-true island property located off Corn Neck Road with 360-degree water views and a private deeded path to the coveted beach nestled between Scotch and Mansion beaches. A wonderful base from which to enjoy all that the island has to offer. Inside: Island time all the time – this turnkey year-round, four-bedroom,two-and-a-half bath home has it all. Additional recreation room, office, and project room make this a perfect owner-occupied Block Island dream or a wonderful rental. Open living/kitchen flowing out to wrap-around decks are perfect for entertaining or privately enjoying family-time sunrise to sunset. Custom woodwork, hardwood floors, windows in every direction, and a third story cupola make this home unique and comfortable. Outside: Conserved land, selective mowing and plantings combined with height of the lot offer exceptional privacy and views. Easy approach to home and two-car garage add to making this an all-season home. Outdoor shower, large well maintained yard and covered porch greatly expand seasonal outdoor living space. Lot size is large enough to allow for possible auxiliary structure and/or footprint expansion.
It doesn’t get more Block Island than this! Since 1912, the Narragansett Inn, overlooking the Great Salt Pond, has been welcoming guests, making them comfortable, feeding them well, and offering them the best sunsets on Block Island. Come join us at the Sunset Lounge & Restaurant.
The Narragansett Inn • New Harbor • 401-466-2626 www.narragansettinn.net
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Walk the Trails By Keith H. Lang and Scott B. Comings from “On This Island” The Greenway trail system is comprised of walks numbered four through nine. The Greenway runs east to west and north to south. The continuous system of trails makes it possible to walk from place to place from the shores of the Great Salt Pond in the north to the sea at Black Rock in the south and cross over only two paved roads and two dirt roads. Along the way are lots of side trails going towards the east and the west. For ambitious hikers, walking the entire Greenway is well worth the effort. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, pick out one section at a time and savor the experience. What follows are descriptions of the individual sections that comprise the Greenway and information and maps that illustrate how the segments interconnect to form a total of about 13 miles of walkways.
WALKING TIME
1 hour
DISTANCE
1 mile round-trip
FROM OLD HARBOR FERRY LANDING
3.2 miles
Degree of Difficulty
Easy
Hodge Family Wildlife Preserve Location This preserve is one-quarter of a mile north of the Clay Head Preserve entrance directly off Corn Neck Road. Look for the parking lot outlined in split-rail fencing. The parking lot entrance is through a stonewall gap marked by a wooden post on either side. History of Trail For more than 20 years, the Hodge Property was a priority for conservation groups on Block Island. Finally in December 2002 the Block Island Land Trust, Block Island Conservancy, Town of New Shoreham and The Nature Conservancy purchased it from members of the Hodge Family. Conservation staff and volunteers constructed the trail and parking lot in March of 2003, and the Hodge Family Wildlife Preserve was dedicated in May of 2004. Description of trail This trail proceeds directly from the grass parking lot into a large meadow that is mowed annually in the spring and then is alive with wildf lowers thereafter. It is a wonderful place to come at any time, but especially in the spring at dusk to watch the ritual display of the American woodcock. This plump 11-inch bird has bulging eyes and a long bill, making it one
Roadways 0
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Trail Coastal Features E
Trail Entrance
of the strangest looking animals on the Island.With its wings whistling, the male f lies in widening spirals rising up to 100 feet, circling at the highest point, and then abruptly zigzagging to earth like a falling leaf. When he reaches the ground, he releases a nasal sounding “peent.” He then begins the process again; it is a display that is repeated many times in succession. When you reach the former house site situated next to a tall tree, there is a superb vantage point for observing the conserved land that continues from there to the North Light in the distance. Continuing on, the trail turns west (left) through a coastal shrub habitat important for migrating songbirds and raptors. When the trail reaches a spur, we recommend the right-hand route because it affords some of the most spectacular views on Block Island.
While walking through the meadows, watch for milkweed in the highest density found on the Island. Upon reaching the stonewall, the trail turns again to the west (left) and follows the stonewall boundary of the Breed Land, one of the first gifts to conservation in 1972. The spur trail eventually connects to the main trail and the opportunity to turn back east (left) to the parking lot or proceeding right (west) and a continuation of the walk. The extra effort is well worth it as the trail ends at Middle Pond, which is strikingly beautiful in its own right and also a great spot to see egrets, herons and bitterns in the spring and fall. It is also a wonderful destination in winter as this coastal pond provides shelter for wildlife from the ocean beyond the western dunes. On the way to Middle Pond, you may note houses for east-
ern bluebirds built by Island resident George Dodge.While this species does not currently nest on the Island, the hope is these boxes will inspire them to do so in the future. One of the nice aspects of this walk is the ability to take spur trails that make it possible to traverse different ground going and returning. If you desire a longer walk after arriving back at the parking lot, just walk out to Corn Neck Road and proceed south (right) for 150 feet where you will find the entrance to the Long Lot Trail, described separately in the Clay Head section of this guide. Views If you never left your car upon arriving in the parking lot, the reason why this property was so important for conservation would be readily apparent. There is hardly a place on the property where there is not an exceptional view. This is an especially beautiful hike at sunset because of the way the light unfolds across the landscape. From this preserve, you can see towards the north the U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s National Wildlife Refuge along the West Beach, Sachem Pond, Cow Cove, North Light and Middle Pond, one of the most pristine examples of a coastal salt pond remaining in Rhode Island. Straight across Block Island Sound is mainland Rhode Island, and to the west, Connecticut. Natural and Historic Features One of the reasons this property was so desirable for conservation is because more than 150 acres of preserved land abut it, running unobstructed to the ocean. All of this is visible from the parking lot and one of the Island’s main roads.When pausing at the former house site, you can see across the fields towards the northeast to a house that is attached to a concrete observation bunker used to search for German U-boats during World War II. These virtually indestructible towers were scattered all around the Island during the war; the few that remain are incorporated into houses, like the one here. Many of the historic houses in the area represent different styles of East Coast architecture, from simple “Capes” to elegant Victorian cottages and “story and a half ” farmhouses.
Important Things To Keep in Mind While Enjoying These Trails By Keith H. Lang and Scott B. Comings • Bicycles and horses are prohibited on trails. Biking and horseback riding are a wonderful way to enjoy Block Island—but not on these trails. Both activities contribute to erosion and present safety concerns. These uses are prohibited on all walking trails and constitute trespassing. Biking and horseback riding are allowed on all publicly accessible dirt roads. • Lyme disease is common to Block Island. It is strongly suggested that you take proper precautions before setting out so that you avoid deer ticks, which are carriers of Lyme disease. It is advisable to wear long pants tucked into socks, stay clear of tall grass and overhanging vegetation, and check for ticks after any outdoor activities. Lightcolored clothing is also recommended, as it makes it easier to spot ticks. Further information about the disease
is available at the Medical Center or The Nature Conservancy office. • Observe rights of property owners. While much of the trail system proceeds through public land, a significant portion is open to the public through the generosity of private landowners. Please respect their privacy by staying on the trails, keeping noise to a minimum, and observing the rules for appropriate use. • Keep pets leashed or under control. If not properly monitored, pets can kill or harm wildlife and disturb the ability of others to enjoy the trails. They also can get lost or transport disease-bearing ticks indoors. Please clean up after your pets. • Beaches, dunes, and bluffs are fragile. Beaches, dunes, and bluffs are part of the island’s natural defense against storms and the sea. Please stay clear of
dunes and bluffs, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation, which holds these features in place. Many plants and animals that depend on the beach cannot survive without your help. • Keep trails clean. If you bring paper, cans, bottles, or other items with you, please be sure to dispose of any trash or waste properly. If you see litter on the trails, you can help out by picking it up and taking it with you. • Be aware of Poison Ivy. Poison Ivy flourishes on Block Island and is located in many places along the trails. For those unfamiliar with it, Poison Ivy is a vine with three leaves that are often shiny. The best approach is to follow the maxim “leaves of three, let it be.” If you do come in contact, wash the infected area as soon as possible with a strong soap and water. As with ticks, if you stay in the middle of the trail and
avoid direct contact with any vegetation, you will minimize your risk. • Hunting policy. Hunting is only an issue on weekdays between November and February. Hunting is allowed at Clay Head with landowner permission, and this area should be avoided during the week. On all other trails hunting is not allowed. To play it safe, it is best not to walk on the trails on hunting days. If you decide to walk anyway at these times, please where orange. Keep in mind, the beaches and roadsides are wonderful alternative places to walk, especially at this time of year. If you have any questions regarding hunting on Block Island, we advise you to call the police department, town hall, or The Nature Conservancy office. • Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellent.
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August 2017
Turnip Farm & Elaine Loffredo Preserve Trails Location As in Nathan Mott Park, there are four ways to enter and exit Turnip Farm and Loffredo Preserve. The main Greenway trail comes in from Nathan Mott Park, winds through the farm, and then joins the path to Rodman’s Hollow on Old Mill Road, three-tenths of a mile from the West Side Road end. At about the midpoint of Old Mill Road is the main Turnip Farm entrance, where there is a parking area and a bike rack. To enter Turnip Farm from the west, look for the dirt lane at the bend of West Side Road east of the former West Side Baptist Church that is marked by a large rock with the words “Dodge Cemetery” engraved on it. Follow that lane to Dodge Cemetery and look for the turnstile leading to the trails. History of Trail Turnip Farm was the first purchase of the Block Island Land Trust in 1987. The farm was preserved with the generous help of its owners, Burt and Melanie King, for passive recreation and protection of wildlife habitat. Elaine Loffredo Preserve was protected by The Nature Conservancy with the help of Robert Loffredo and neighboring landowners. This land is preserved in remembrance of his wife, Elaine, whose life was tragically cut short in the crash of TWA Flight 800 off Long Island, New York, on July 17, 1996. Other properties in this part of the preserve include Shirley’s Pond, dedicated to the memory of Shirley Wood, who together with her husband, Peter, donated the pond and land surrounding it to The Nature Conservancy. This
is the site of the annual ecumenical service sponsored in August by conservation groups. Further to the west are properties protected to expand Turnip Farm Preserve and connect it to the historic, town owned Dodge Cemetery. There is also a walking easement generously donated by Dan and Jean Larkin, which provides a vital connection in the Greenway trail system. Description of Trail The Greenway trail enters Turnip Farm from the north at the boundary with Nathan Mott Park. As it winds through the farm, it runs primarily east to west. Look for signs where paths intersect with the main trail. One path connects to the main Turnip Farm entrance, which is the best place to park or leave a bike in this area of the Greenway. Another spur goes west into Loffredo Preserve where it comes back on itself or joins a path to the west and the trail to Dodge Cemetery. Further west along the main trail, there is an intersection by a small, wooden bridge. To the south is the through trail to Rodman’s Hollow. If you continue west at this point, the path leads out to West Side Road or connects to Loffredo Preserve and makes a circuit back through Turnip Farm. If you enter from Old Mill Road using the Turnip Farm entrance, look for the sandy soil, which provides ideal habitat for many types of wildflowers. Look for many small yellow flowers with hairy leaves: the mouse-ear hawkweed, which blooms in June. That is also the time of year to find another yellow flower: the bushy rockrose. The state-endangered northern blazing star, a spiked purple plant, blooms here in the fall. The domestic version of this plant, the gayfeather, can be found in many gardens. Autumn also finds
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
WALKING TIME
2 hours one-way
Degree of Difficulty
DISTANCE
1.7 miles one-way
FROM OLD HARBOR FERRY LANDING
2.5 miles
Easy/moderate, a few steep slopes
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Roadways 0
0.25
0.50
0.75
1
Trail Coastal Features E
Trail Entrance
migrating monarch butterflies filling the open fields by the trail’s edge. On Loffredo Preserve, the land climbs higher and you will come to a memorial stone, which sets the tone nicely for this part of the trail. The vegetation here is rich with black cherry, bayberry, and shadbush. Listen for the “Chickadee, dee, dee, dee” of the black-capped chickadee, and keep an eye out for owl pellets, regurgitated
fur, and bones left by barn owls, which hunt in the vicinity. Other raptors can also often be seen overhead looking for prey. When the berries are ripe in the fall, this is an excellent spot to go birdwatching. At Shirley’s Pond, the sound of green frogs calling can be heard in the summer. There are also large dragonflies See Trails, Page B29
Ahh... summer on Block Island. Sunset brings the promise of a beautiful tomorrow, and an opportunity to enjoy a quiet cocktail while the two of you pick up that ever-tempting discussion: “Wouldn’t it be great to own a place out here.”
©2017 Royal Bruce Ink / Photo: SPW
And perhaps you’ll decide that a little house-hunting in the morning would be time well spent!
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
By Alexandra Duggan Every year since I was four years old, my parents would pack me and my three siblings into our old blue Suburban to make the drive to the Point Judith Ferry in Narragansett. We would play the old Pac-Man games they used to have on the Traditional Ferry as we made the rocky ride to Block Island. My older sisters and I would spend hours at the Great Salt Pond collecting and painting the backs of crabs with nail polish, only to search for them the next day. We would play capture the flag with our family friends in the backyard only to make our way to the Ice Cream Place for dessert when we finally tired of chasing each other through the grass. Whether we were spend-
My Block Island
ing nights at The Oar on the lawn, or waking up early to get Payne’s Killer Donuts with my dad, Block Island was my favorite place to vacation for the summer. As I got older, the island I knew as a kid began to change. It was no longer a spot to vacation for a week, but where I spent the entirety of my summer. My too-short summers were filled with work at The Oar, bonfires on the beach, and late nights at the docks. My diet consisted of the Ice Cream Place’s ‘Walking Sundae,’ Rebecca’s Monster Veggie wraps, and the chocolate covered gummy bears from Blocks of Fudge. Days off were spent at the First Post at the beach, with only a small break to walk down to the Pots n’ Kettles food truck. Nights
were often spent watching the sunset from my porch with take-out from Sushi Bob’s. Unspoken traditions of meeting at the Old Post Office for bagels and coffee after a night out were created, and, before I knew it, my ‘friends for the summer’ became my best friends. There is an old saying that reads, “the place is formed by the company you share it with.” While I am lucky to have shared my memories of this island with my family and best friends, I believe this island is magnificent on its own accord—from the endless dirt roads and Greenway trails that snake their way through the island, to the endless number of perfect places to watch the sunset and sunrises. Block Island is filled with hidden paths leading to beauti-
ful views and maybe even one of the infamous glass orbs. Despite all the treasures Block Island holds, many people have asked me why my family chose to make this our home for the summer. Why not Nantucket, the Hamptons, Montauk or the infinite number of other places that seem to be like Block Island from an outside perspective? We chose Block Island because it is the kind of place where you feel comfortable making conversation with anyone around, because you know that they love this island just as much as you do. It is a place where you can be as you are and everyone knows your name. To me, Block Island is a place that easily and seamlessly became my home in just a matter of months.
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August 2017
• Island Faces •
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
BLOCK ISLAND
HEALTH & GENERAL STORE Everything that you would find in a mainland drugstore... except the prescription department.
Beach Items! (Chairs, towels, toys and games, sunblock, sunglasses) Name: Gabrielle Leone Alves From: Block Island Years on B.I.: 21 Where to find me: You can find me behind the bar or serving at Dead Eye Dick’s. Favorite restaurant: That’s a hard one — I love the bistro menu at The Spring House. But I also love Poor People’s Pub and Winfield’s for a good date night. Ideal Island day: My ideal day off is a full day spent at second path in the water and in the sun with friends and cold drinks. Don’t miss this: I think that when on Block Island you must see the bluffs — they are truly one of a kind. The island is a magical little place. Favorite thing about Block Island: My favorite thing about Block Island is that no matter where you go, you can feel at home here. Everyone makes you feel so welcome and comfortable. Everyone truly knows your name.
OPEN Every Day CHE 7 Days a Week! CK O O UT U R 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. 466-5825
100 yards up from Rebecca On High Street
Surfing • Standup Paddleboarding Lessons • Rentals • TOMS Beach Accessories • Apparel SURF CAMP - July and August 401-466-3145
www.diamondbluebi.com Corner Dodge Street and Corn Neck Road
Great Salt Pond Boat Rides
Island Time [ time for food ]
www.blockislanddiningguide.com
PRICLOW ES!
NEWPORT
breakfast • lunch • dinner • snacks • catering
Tag-A-Long Tour with Oldport Launch Adult - $10 Children - $5 On The Dinghy Dock at Block Island Boat Basin ON THE HOUR 8am - 4pm daily
Summer Exhibit: “Surrounded by Sea”
Surrounded by Sea: Block Island Historical Society 75th Anniversary Exhibit
Farming, Fishing, Life-Saving, Lighthouses, and more.
Photo by Judith Watts
House Tour Celebrating 75 years of collecting and sharing Block Island History
July 1st - December 1st, 2017
Block Island Historical Society Corner of Ocean Ave. & Old Town Road
Museum, Shop & Gallery
Hours and Admission: 11am - 4pm Daily / July 1st - Labor Day Adults $6 / Seniors & Students $4 Members & Children free TEL: 401-466-2481 www.blockislandhistorical.org email: blockislandhistory@gmail.com
Thursday, Aug. 17 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Touring Spring Street area Tickets $40 / $35 members
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Beach Reads The Immigrant Experience Revisited By Susan Bush from Island Bound Bookstore
Island Bound Bookstore The place for all your summer reading
The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2016, “The Sympathizer� has been characterized as the breakthrough novel of the year. The novel has the pace and suspense of a thriller and is a sweeping epic of love and betrayal. The narrator, a Communist double agent, arranges to come to America after the fall of Saigon, and while building a life with other refugees in Los Angeles, is secretly reporting back to his superiors in Vietnam. “The Sympathizer� is a rich and hugely gratifying story that captures the complexity of the war and what it means to be of two minds and two nationalities.
Salt Houses by Hala Alyan From a dazzling new literary voice, a debut novel about a Palestinian family caught between present and past, between displacement and home. “Salt Houses� speaks to the specificity of the Palestinian diaspora, but it also mirrors the experiences of immigrants and exiles all over the world, making it very much a book for every reader.
books | ebooks | art supplies cards | gifts Open Daily 466-8878 Post Office Building
The Leavers by Lisa Ko Mother and son: two identities. Peilan is the pregnant young woman who escapes China, arriving in New York and leaving behind the life she was destined to live in rural China. She ultimately becomes Polly, a married career woman in China who has not had any contact with her son since he was 11. Deming is the son who was born in America, sent to live with his grandfather in China and returned to America and his mother when his grandfather dies. He eventually becomes Daniel, an adopted child of two professors, who has never felt like he belonged. Both mother and son search for their identities as they try to conform to the names they have taken or been given, ultimately finding identities that resonate with their
longings. It is a story of immigration, deportation, transracial adoption and cultural expectations with twists and turns that keep it engaging as a read.
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid “Exit West� is an astonishingly visionary love story that imagines the forces that drive ordinary people from their homes into the uncertain embrace of new lands. The novel follows two young people as they emerge into an alien and uncertain future, struggling to hold on to each other, to their past, to the very sense of who they are. Profoundly intimate and powerfully inventive, it tells an unforgettable story of love, loyalty, and courage that is both completely of our time and for all time.
“Fishbone Ring�
Inspired by Rebecca’s Logo & Great Food
Phone orders 401-578-1125 www.blockislandjewelry.com Showing at the Block Island Farmers’ Market
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•3 BEDROOM HOME WITH ROOM TO EXPAND •WALK TO MANSION BEACH •WELL MAINTAINED $849,000 MLS#1117042
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Block Island
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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• Island Faces •
Boats ashore in Rat Island at New Harbor. Photo courtesy of the Block Island Historical Society.
Hurricane Planning for Residents and Visitors Everyone should be aware that the National Weather Service is warning the East Coast that a major hurricane will strike within the next few years. We are asking everyone who owns property on Block Island or will be visiting during hurricane season to create an individual plan for the eventuality of a hurricane warning being issued for Block Island.
Please read the following carefully and make your plans in advance. A) If you are a visitor in our hotels or B & B’s, please heed the directives to leave the Island if they are issued. All our ferries will cease operations and move to a safer harbor well before the hurricane arrives so you must react immediately when you are advised to leave. All hotels and B & B’s will be alerted and we ask that you cooperate with all directives.
Name: James Williams From: Detroit, Michigan Years on B.I.: 5 summers Where to find me: The Oar (Kitchen Manager) Favorite Restaurant: Poor People’s Pub — the food is great and it has a very relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss: All of the great photo opportunities. Favorite thing about Block Island: My favorite part of being on this island is taking beautiful pictures. And, Wednesdays are the best day to have off, because I play basketball.
B) If you are renting a house on the Island, the same directives apply. Our capacity for shelter facilities is limited. Please leave the Island if that request is made. Ferries will try to get as many people and vehicles off the Island as possible, but they will cease running well before the hurricane arrives. C) If you are an Island resident, observe the following home preparedness: UÊ iV Ê Ü À }Ê V ` Ì ÃÊ vÊ > Ê i iÀ}i VÞÊ iµÕ « i ÌÊ y>à } ÌÃ]Ê L>ÌÌiÀÞÊ powered radios. UÊ >ÛiÊi Õ} Ê«iÀ à >L iÊv `Ê> `ÊÜ>ÌiÀÊÃÕ«« iÃÊ Ê > `Êv ÀÊÎ xÊ`>Þð UÊ ÜÊÜ iÀiÊÌ iÊ/ Ü Ê- i ÌiÀÊ ÃÊ> `ÊÜ iÌ iÀÊÞ ÕÊ >ÛiÊ>ÊÃ>viÊÀ ÕÌiÊÌ Ê Ì]Ê vÊ necessary. UÊ À }Ê Ê> Ê ÃiÊ Ìi ÃÊ>À Õ `ÊÌ iÊ« ÀV iÃÊ ÀÊ«À «iÀÌÞ° UÊ > iÊÃÕÀiÊÞ ÕÀÊÛi V iÃÊ >ÛiÊ}>ð UÊ vÊÞ ÕÊ >ÛiÊ>Ê«À «> iÊ}À ]ÊÃiVÕÀiÊ ÌÊ> `Ê ii«ÊÌ iÊ«À «> iÊÃÕ«« ÞÊvÕ ]ÊLÕÌÊ secured outdoors. UÊ ÛiÀÊ >À}iÊÜ ` ÜÃÊÜ Ì Êà ÕÌÌiÀÃÊ ÀÊ« ÞÜ `° UÊ >ÛiÊ>ÊwÀÃÌÊ> `Ê ÌÊ«Ài«>Ài`° UÊ ÊL>Ì ÌÕLÊ> `Ê >À}iÊV Ì> iÀÃÊÜ Ì ÊÜ>ÌiÀÊv ÀÊÃ> Ì>ÀÞÊ«ÕÀ« Ãið UÊ/ÕÀ ÊÀivÀ }iÀ>Ì ÀÊÌ Ê ÌÃÊV `iÃÌÊÃiÌÌ }ÃÊ> `Ê ii«Ê` ÀÊV Ãi`° UÊ i` V iÊÀi iÜ> ÃÊ Ê >ÛiÊi Õ} Ê vÊÞ ÕÀÊÀi}Õ >ÀÊ i` V>Ì Êv ÀÊ£ ÓÊÜii ð UÊ vÊ Þ ÕÊ >ÀiÊ V ViÀ i`Ê >L ÕÌÊ Þ ÕÀÊ V>Ì Ê Ê >Ê ÃÌ À ]Ê V à `iÀÊ } }Ê Ì Ê >Ê friend’s house in a safer location. Corn Neck Road may not be passable due to } ÊÌ `iÃ\Êy ` }Ê> `Ê>VViÃÃÊÌ Ê/ Ü Ê> `Ê ÀÊÌ iÊ/ Ü Êà i ÌiÀÊ >ÞÊLiÊVÕÌÊ vvÊ for some time. UÊ > « Ê, >`ÊÜ Ê ÃÌÊ i ÞÊiÝ«iÀ i ViÊÃÌ À ÊÃÕÀ}iÊ> `Ê«i « iÊÃ Õ `Ê evacuate from Champlin’s Farm seaward.
If you have questions, please call Police Dispatch @ 466-3220, but please DO NOT CALL except for an emergency once the storm hits. Stay inside until the storm has passed. Do not venture out in the calm when the eye is overhead and do not go walking on any breakwater during the storm.
,JOHTUPXO 3PBE 8BLFGJFME 401.789.1700 • www.scsv.net
Audio | Video | Satellite | Data | Surveillance
The Bird is the Word for Barbecues on Block Island. Come in and see our wide selection of wines for any occasion. Or, let us order exactly what you want.
Heavy rain may undermine bluff areas, so please do not walk along any bluffs during or following the storm. Use common sense; make sure family members know where you are.
EMERGENCY PREPARATION FOR PETS Complete these preparations in advance of visiting Block Island: UÊ >ÛiÊÛ>VV >Ì ÃÊÕ«ÊÌ Ê`>ÌiÊ> `Ê>Ê} `ÊÃÕ«« ÞÊ vÊ> ÞÊ i` V>Ì ÃÊÕÃi`° UÊ >ÛiÊÌÀ> µÕ âiÀÃÊ vÊ«iÌÊLiV iÃÊÕ«ÃiÌÊ ÀÊ>} Ì>Ìi`Ê ÊÕ ÕÃÕ> Êà ÌÕ>Ì Ã° UÊ >ÛiÊ `i Ì wV>Ì Ê ÊÌ iÊ> > \ÊÌ>}Ã]ÊÌ>ÌÌ Ê ÀÊV «° UÊ*ÕÀV >ÃiÊ>Ê«iÌÊV>ÀÀ iÀÊÌ >ÌÊ ÃÊ >À}iÊi Õ} Êv ÀÊÌ iÊ> > ÊÌ Ê iÊ` Ü ]ÊÌÕÀ Ê around and stand up comfortably. Do not house different species in one carrier. UÊ/> iÊ} `Ê« VÌÕÀiÃÊ vÊÌ iÊ> > ÊvÀ Ì]Ê ivÌÊ> `ÊÀ } ÌÊà `iîÊÌ >ÌÊà ÜÃÊ` Ãtinguishing marks. UÊ *ÕÌÊ « VÌÕÀiÃ]Ê Vi ÃiÃ]Ê i` V> Ê ÀiV À`ÃÊ > `Ê Ü iÀà «Ê «>«iÀÃÊ Ì }iÌ iÀÊ Ê >Ê waterproof bag. Just before leaving home, assemble a pet disaster kit which contains: UÊ L ÛiÊ i Ì i`Ê i` V>Ì Ã]Ê« Ì ÃÊ> `ÊÀiV À`ð UÊ >ÛiÊ>Ê i>à Ê> `Ê«À «iÀ ÞÊwÌÌi`ÊV >ÀÊ ÀÊ >À iÃÃÊv ÀÊi>V Ê«iÌ° UÊ Ã« Ê ` à iÃÊ > `Ê >Ê ÌÜ Ê Üii Ê ÃÕ«« ÞÊ vÊ v `Ê > `Ê Ü>ÌiÀÊ Ê Õ LÀi> >L iÊ containers. UÊ > Õ> ÊV> Ê «i iÀ]Ê vÊV> i`Êv `Ê ÃÊÕÃi`° UÊ À }ÊÃÕ«« iÃÊ> `Ê i` V> Ê ÌÊv ÀÊ ÕÀ ið UÊ/ iÊ«i̽ÃÊL > iÌ]ÊV v ÀÌÊ Ìi ð UÊ Ìi ÃÊÌ Ê > ` iÊÜ>ÃÌi]Ê V Õ` }Ê«>«iÀÊÌ Üi ]Ê« >ÃÌ VÊL>}Ã]Ê` à viVÌ> Ì]ÊV i> Ãer, litter box and litter or newspaper to shred. Information provided by Block Island Volunteers for Animals
The Red Bird Liquor Store Fine Wines, Liquor, Kegs, Cigars, Soda Case Discounts! HOURS Mon.-Thurs. 9am - 9pm Fri.-Sat. 9am-10pm Sunday 10am-6pm
466-2441
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
On The Water
Block Island is the perfect place for those who love the water. Whether you prefer the exciting surf of the ocean, or the gentle waters of one of the island’s 365 ponds, you will find activities that make the most of each entity. On the water adventures are a favorite activity in the summer and there are plenty of options including sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing or parasailing, among others.
Parasail and Banana Boating
Block Island Parasail & Watersports is easy to find, right in Old Harbor on the docks between the ferry landing and Ballard’s Inn. Parasailing is a great, fun way to see the beautiful historic downtown and the beaches. The Banana Boat is a fun activity for groups or on your own, but be prepared to get wet! This is also a super fun way to see the waterfront. Call Bob at (401) 864-2474 for reservations.
Kayaks
Block Island Maritime Institute (BIMI)
BIMI Daily Programs & Sea Life Observation Tanks 7-days-per-week, through August 26, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at BIMI in the New Harbor. Daily programs are oriented toward students of all ages and include activities like: Plants and Animals in the Great Salt Pond, Dockside Critter Collection, Squid Dissection, Beach Botany, Be a Kid Scientist, Battling Boats (to teach stability, buoyancy, and speed), Nautical Knots, Kites and Wind Power, Aqua Art, Shell Art, and Japanese Fish Printing. Check out bimaritime.org, BIMI on Facebook, and in The Block Island Times for schedules and more details. Questions? Call (401) 500-3501
Kayaks at Fort Island have a “peek-a-boo” see through bottom. Pond and Beyond Kayak is located behind the BIMI Center in New Harbor. Pond and Beyond offers rentals, tours, and basic instruction via kayak. Also, upon request, other beyond the pond adventures such as hiking, bird watching, clamming 101, and snorkeling. For reservations, rates or more information call Corrie at (401) 578-2773 or visit pondandbeyondkayak.com. Fort Island Kayaks is located adjacent to Block Island Fishworks and offers one of the best Block Island activities to try during your visit. Explore the Great Salt Pond via stable and beginner friendly sit-on-top kayaks. Single and tandem kayaks available (some accommodate 2 adults and a child). Kayak Fishing trips — Available for up to two anglers, each with their own kayak and accompanied by a fishing guide. Kayak Storage — If you are visiting for a week or two and need a place to store your kayak we can provide locked rack storage and use of our water access. $10 per day.
Shell Fishing Want to have some local clams for dinner? Go dig your own! Just be sure to follow the rules and regulations below. The Town of New Shoreham is authorized to regulate the taking of shellfish and other fish in the Great Salt Pond. • No one may take shellfish from Great Salt Pond without first obtaining a license. To obtain a license, you must appear in person at the Harbormaster’s office at the Boat Basin in New Harbor, with a photo ID. You must have your license on you while shellfishing. • You may not store or hang shellfish in any container anywhere in the pond. • You may not dig in or take shellfish from any of the closed areas. • Digging in barrier grass is prohibited. • You may only dig between sunrise and sunset. • Using SCUBA equipment or breathing apparatus to take shellfish is prohibited. • Shellfish must be measured before being placed in a basket/bag/container. • Harbors Department employees patrol the grounds daily and will enforce all regulations. • To find out what areas of the pond are open to shellfishing, and hours for obtaining a license, contact the Harbors Department at (401)466-3204.
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
Finding more than just an Orb By Aisha McAdams Floating by from the breeze on a typical foggy Block Island morning, a monarch butterf ly f luttered past me only minutes into my journey. With plenty of snacks, a water bottle and an overfilled backpack, I began the same hunt, that many intend on doing while on the island: finding a glass orb. According to Block Island Tourism Council’s website, 550 glass orbs were hidden throughout the island in early June for people to discover while exploring the island. In addition, over 600 glass orbs are still out there that had been hidden in prior years. So, like many, it became my goal that I would find one before the summer was up. I knew I was always the reigning champion during our annual Easter egg hunt so how hard could it be? If anything, I would have to be courteous and only take one of the orbs I discovered. To my surprise though, and probably many others, finding a glass orb is not as easy as it seems. I found myself bobbing my head up and down every time I went for a run, scanning the rock walls, stopping mid-stride to peek under a bush or scrummage through what I thought “definitely had an orb underneath it.” No luck. So, I decided to dedicate one morning strictly for orb hunting. No other distractions. Just orb hunting. I found myself close to home, on the trail around Fresh Pond. Only about 15 minutes into my journey I found myself sitting on a rusted-through bench looking out at the water, ref lecting on my past month on the island. Moments later a forgotten wrist-watch that laid next to me reminded me I had lost track of time,
a concept that is often lost here, and continue my search. 10:39 a.m. — the arms ticking away, just like my time here left on the island. I gathered myself and my belongings and continued on my merry way. Looking left, looking right, looking up, looking down, and all around. No luck. Curious to the rustling in the brush around the path I followed I soon discovered a muskrat friend. We had a stare off for nearly a minute and then we both continued on our ways in search of two very different things. Part of me wondered though whether it had come across any orbs. As I continued on, I was fortunate to meet a family who had never heard of The Glass Float Project. Coming with their daughter from Massachusetts, I explained to them how they could hunt for the glass orbs. We ended up teaming up to tackle the search. I looked on the left, they looked on the right and we both scanned up in the trees. We parted ways as the sun came out and they were on to their next adventure- Vail Beach. After parting with them, my snacks depleted, and my internal clock reminding me that it is far past lunch time I decided to wrap up my journey around Fresh Pond. As I hopped on my bike, two gold-finches swept by almost as if they were dancing. I went home empty-handed but finished my journey feeling full of positive energy and the beauty of Block Island. With just about one month left on the island I hope that luck may find my way to an orb. But for now, I am perfectly content with finding the other hidden gems of the island.
PHOTOS BY AISHA MCADAMS
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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Lesson from the Snails: Move Slowly and Look Closely By Kim Gaffett, OVF Naturalist at The Nature Conservancy “To develop a complete mind, study the science of art, study the art of science. Learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.� - Leonardo Da Vinci This summer I became aware of two more (new to me) critters on the island, and both were snails. Smooth periwinkle (Littorina obtusata) is a marine snail living among the common periwinkles (Littorina littorea) in the New Harbor. Unlike the introduced common periwinkles, smooth periwinkles are native to New England. This native periwinkle is a bit smaller than the common and can be found in a variety of colors, including a beautiful yellow. To find this rarer, native periwinkle you have to look closely. The second snail that I’ve been aquainted with on the island is a land snail, brown-lipped snail or grove snail (Cepaea Cepaea nemoralis) nemoralis). Until a photo of this snail was sent to me I didn’t know there were terrestrial snails on Block Island. The brown-lipped snail is another introduced species from Europe (like the common periwinkle), but is now very common in North America. So far, I’ve only had reports of this snail on Block Island in
Trails
Continued from Page B21 on the prowl called common green darners. This beautiful pond is a good spot to see the American black duck and wading birds, such as the green heron and great blue heron. In the winter, it is outlined in black alder or winterberry, a shrub in the holly family. The bright red berries are a very important food source for wintering birds, especially ringnecked pheasants, during the cold weather months. The trail to the west passes by the site of an old sail-powered windmill, which gives the nearby dirt road its name. The mill’s foundation can be seen from the trail during the times of year when the vegetation thins. The trail ends at Dodge Cemetery, then the walk continues along the dirt road that connects to West Side Road, near the former West Side Baptist Church. Dodge Cemetery is an excellent example of the numerous small cemeteries on the Island, which harken back to the time when families were born, lived, and buried in the same area of the Island. Views The upper part of Turnip Farm is among the highest points on Block Island.As a result, there are wonderful views from the trails on the farm and the Loffredo Loop. To the south is Shirley’s Pond with the fields of Lewis Farm in the distance. Looking to the west, one
the area between Sands Pond and Fresh Pond. If anyone has run into this species on other parts of the island I would welcome the information. The only way to find a specific snail is to slow down and look closely, which seems like an apt lesson for every day life – especially if you happen to be on vacation. August is a time for slowing down and looking closely. Are the blackberries black yet? Have you found a Monarch caterpillar? What color is that periwinkle? Will it be a good year for beach plums? Can you see Orion in the eastern sky just before sunrise? Are the marsh mallows blooming? Are there stripers among the sand eels? Look closely and you can tell the difference between early and late August: are you still seeing fireflies in the evening, or have the beach rose hips turned deep, dark, red? The Nature Conservancy has several weekly programs (Block Island Bearings, Ebb Tide Exploration, Art & Nature, etc.) that are ideal for slowing down, looking closely, and thereby seeing the natural world in perhaps revealing ways. Background photo: Smooth Periwinkle (yellow) with Common Periwinkle found during TNC's Ebb Tide Exploration, New Harbor, BI. Foreground photo: Brown-lipped snail near Sands Pond Rd., Block Island. PHOTOS BY JUDY GRAY
can see Long Island Sound and, on clear days,Montauk Point at the tip of Long Island. It is a great spot to watch the sunset. The higher elevations also provide a wonderful prospect for seeing the preserve. This, combined with Nathan Mott Park, is one of the largest preserved areas, and it is possible to get a sense of the openness that was once common throughout the Island. Natural and Historic Features The rolling hills here are clear evidence of the glacial formation of this area of the Island. The open fields of Turnip Farm, which are mowed regularly, look much as they have for generations. There are numerous, globally imperiled morainal grasslands on the farm, mostly concentrated near the Old Mill Road entrance. Enclosures are erected there frequently to protect rare plants, such as the northern blazing star and purple needlegrass, from the deer. If these species of plants are not enclosed, they can be damaged by the browsing of deer. Dodge Cemetery, at the western end of the preserve, contains the grave of a veteran of the Civil War. Though the cemetery is named for a member of the Dodge Family, the majority of those buried here were Roses, another family of the earliest white settlers, who made their homes on the West Side. The mill, which once existed on the hill to the east of Dodge Cemetery, operated in the Nineteenth Century to grind the grain from neighboring farms.
West Beach Compound Own your own Block Island oasis. This hidden gem of a property abuts over 50 acres of protected open space. Property highlights include: main house, guest house, plunge pool, fruit orchard, beautiful grounds & lovely views of the Block Island Sound. Newly priced at $1,495,000
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
IMPORTANT: THE DIALING OF 911 IS FOR EMERGENCY USE ONLY! An emergency is when immediate police, fire or rescue assistance is necessary. 911 should not be dialed for non-emergency calls that do not involve or require immediate assistance.However, if you feel that there is an emergency occurring, but don’t know for certain, presume it is an emergency and use 911. IF IN DOUBT, USE 911!
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS Do exactly what the 911 operator tells you to do. Give the operator all necessary information, including the fire number on the house. (There are no street addresses on B.I. Instead all buildings have fire numbers clearly marked on the outside of the house.) Remember, your assistance could make the difference between serious injury, life or death.
Block Island Nature Rules VEHICULAR BEACH RESTRICTIONS Vehicles are permitted to drive on Crescent Beach only from 6 p.m. until 9 a.m. No motor vehicle shall be allowed on the beach without a valid, updated permit from the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC). Permits are available at the police department for $100 for residents, $200 for non-residents. Call police station for hours and a list of requirements. All motor vehicles of any description are prohibited on dunes except on trails marked expressly for vehicular use. Vehicles are also not allowed on any lands designated “Open Space” and maintained by the town for the benefit of the general public. DUNE PROTECTION The dunes offer a home to countless species of plants and animals that, like the beach itself, need our protection if they are to survive. To help save the life of our dunes and beaches, we urge you to: • Use designated access paths and parking lots only. • Keep off dunes and beach vegetation. • Keep all vehicles off the beach, as they destroy vegetation and cause beach erosion. • Do not sleep on the beach overnight. BEACH FIRES Beach fires are prohibited without a permit. Permits are available at the Police Department, and are valid for one day, expiring at midnight. Fires must be at least 25 feet from dunes. Please clean up and dispose of all trash properly and extinguish fires completely before leaving the beach. DO NOT burn wooden pallets.
than $200, or forfeiture of motor and equipment, or both. WILDLIFE REFUGES Protected wildlife areas Wildlife refuge areas on Block Island include Sachem Pond, Payne’s Farm, the Southeast Lighthouse, Rodman’s Hollow, Lewis-Dickens Farm, Beane Point and Cormorant Cove. No one may hunt, shoot, trap, or annoy wildlife, or destroy or disturb the eggs, nest or nesting area of any wildlife within designated areas. Penalty for violation Any person violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be punished by a fine of not more than $100, or be imprisoned not more than 10 days, or by both such fine and imprisonment, together with costs of prosecution. SHELLFISH ORDINANCES A license is required for shell fishing. Beds are currently closed to the harvesting of scallops and oysters. The harvesting of clams is restricted. For more info, call the Harbors Department at 466-3204 or stop by the Harbormaster’s shack in New Harbor (adjacent to the Boat Basin), where shell fishing licenses are sold. ANIMAL ORDINANCES Dogs must be licensed and wear tags on a collar. Unless in a vehicle or on property of its owner, dogs must be leashed with a cord not exceeding 6 feet in length. For problems contact the Police Department at 466-3220. Horses: please refrain from riding in the downtown area.
POND PROTECTION Gas motors banned All forms of gasoline or diesel fuel-powered motors on boats are prohibited on B.I.’s freshwater ponds. Pollutants and contaminants banned No discharging of any sewage, petroleum products, detergents, pesticides, or any other form of pollutants or contaminants is permitted. Penalty for violation Any person violating this ordinance shall, upon conviction, be subject to a fine of not more than $100, or confinement for not more than 10 days, or both such fine and confinement. Any person convicted of a second violation shall be subject to a fine of not more
Useful Island Information RECYCLING. All trash must be separated for recycling. Deposit your sidewalk trash in the recycling containers marked for bottles, cans or trash only. These special containers are not for household or boat trash. Those renting houses should use the Transfer Station, located on West Beach Road. Recyclables (newspaper, glass, cardboard, plastics, aluminum and tin cans) are free. Glass, cans, plastics and aluminum should be clean. Other trash is deposited at a charge of 12 cents per pound, paid in cash, by local check, or credit card at the Transfer Station (466-3234). RABIES NOTICE. State law and town ordinances require that all pets (cats, dogs or ferrets) brought to the island be vaccinated against rabies. In addition to vaccinating pets, people should stay away from all wild and stray animals. Rabies is always fatal unless treated before symptoms develop. Rhode Island Rabies hotline: 1-800-482-7878, ext. 3. PLEASE CONSERVE WATER WATER. While the island’s municipal water company has been producing a lot of good water this summer, water conservation is still encouraged, and the water is a precious island resource. Please don’t shock such systems with paper products (including baby wipes), fats, oils and greases.
Advice for Visitors from the Block Island Medical Center LYME DISEASE: Don’t get ticked off. Lyme disease is a serious health threat on Block Island. Visitors should make a daily “tick check.” Look for attached ticks, no bigger than a pinhead, red areas and itchiness. Symptoms include rashes, headaches, joint stiffness, chills, fever, and nausea. Not all ticks carry the disease; not all people bitten catch it. Infection is uncommon if the tick is removed within 24 hours. Consult your physician if you suspect you may have become infected. Treatment after early diagnosis is generally effective, but becomes more difficult if symptoms are left untreated. Long pants and sleeves and insect repellant are suggested for forays into wooded areas, brush and meadows.
Important Island Phone Numbers Block Island Medical Center Police (non-emergency) Fire Department / Rescue Squad Coast Guard (Block Island) Coast Guard (Galilee) 24 hours RI Poison Control Block Island Airport Harbormaster (401) 466-3204 Town Clerk (401) 466-3200 Recreation Department Interstate Navigation (Block Island) Block Island Express Block Island Hi-Speed Ferry Transfer Station (401) 466-3234
(401) 466-2974 (401) 466-3220 (401) 466-3220 (401) 466-2086 (401) 789-0444 (800) 222-1222 (401) 466-5511
(401) 466-3223 (401) 466-2261 (401) 466-2212 (401) 466-2261
Town Ordinances Prohibit: • Drinking alcoholic beverages on streets, on docks, and on beaches. • Camping, except by special permission. • Sleeping overnight in vehicles or on beaches. • Operating motorcycles between midnight and 6 a.m. • Beach fires and/or driving on the beach without a permit. • Dumping refuse on roads or in harbors. • Shell fishing without a license. • Charcoal fires on boats tied up at docks. • Disturbing the peace. • Unleashed dogs. • Littering.
Block Island’s Rules Of The Road PEDESTRIANS. Pay special attention to traffic while in the downtown area. According to Rhode Island law, pedestrians must walk against traffic (on the left side) on roads without sidewalks. BICYCLISTS. Please take care when cycling the unique roads of Block Island. Ride with the traffic, obey traffic signs and adhere to all rules of the road. Hand signals are very helpful to other traffic and can prevent accidents. Keep on the right side of the road and ride single-file whenever possible. For nighttime riding, a light is required for the front of the bicycle and a reflector should be attached to the rear. Bicycles are not permitted on Greenway trails. Helmets are required for bicyclists age 16 and under, and strongly encouraged for adults. AUTOMOBILE DRIVERS. Please exercise extreme caution when traversing Block Island roads. The speed limit is 25 mph island-wide. Pass bicyclists and mopeds only when you are certain it’s safe. ROLLERBLADES, SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS. Due to heavy congestion and safety concerns, rollerblading, skateboarding and scootering are not permitted in the downtown area or on Ocean Avenue. Skating and scootering is allowed north of Town Beach, south of the Spring House and on the west side of the island. Please travel with the traffic and adhere to all rules of the road. Scooters with helper motors (electric or gas) are not allowed on roads by RI state law.
Bicycles And Mopeds. Bicycles are the preferred rental vehicles. You can explore dirt roads with them. If you do rent a moped, please note: • Mopeds are not allowed on dirt roads. • By law, a helmet and eye protection must be worn. • Do not leave the training area until you are sure that you know how to operate the moped and its controls. • Once you are on the road, proceed slowly enough to examine oncoming road conditions. Do not drive on the shoulder of the road. Driver inexperience, heavy traffic flow, sandy shoulders, sharp curves, and uneven pavement are common causes of accidents on Block Island. • Mopeds may be operated from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. only. • Passengers must ride behind the operator. ACCIDENTS. Do not hesitate to seek help from the Rescue Squad if you have or witness an accident. First aid and ambulance service is rendered at no cost to you. A portion of the Rescue Squad budget is met by town funds, but the Rescue Squad relies heavily on donations to cover the full costs of training, equipment, supplies and maintenance. Any contribution made to support this work will be welcomed and acknowledged. Donations are tax-deductible. Mail donations to: Block Island Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 214, Block Island, RI 02807.
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August 2017
THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES
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* N E W P O RT
NARRAGANSETT
PROVIDENCE
JAMESTOWN
WAT C H H I L L
BLOCK ISL AND
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1033 CORN NECK RD Water Views 401.466.8777 Web ID: 1064974 $6,900,000
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1357 SNAKE HOLE RD Water Views 401.466.8777 New Listing $4,200,000
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1079 CORN NECK RD Ocean Views 401.466.8777 Web ID: 1113176 $1,999,000
4
1805 HIGH ST Sea Winds Condo Web ID: 1161577
401.466.8777 $995,000
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1657 PILOT HILL RD Turtle Pond Web ID: 1157211
401.466.8777 $1,175,000
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966 DORRY’S COVE RD Beachfront 401.466.8777 Web ID: 1133066 $5,900,000
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1181 CORN NECK RD Great Salt Pond Views 401.466.8777 Web ID: 1121212 $2,595,000
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708 CORN NECK RD Ocean Views Web ID: 1166663
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1272 COONEYMUS RD Cooneymus Beach 401.466.8777 Web ID: 1166478 $575,000
DICKENS RD 10 1413 Ocean Views Web ID: 1159218
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401.466.8777 $697,000
401.466.8777 $1,725,000
BLOCK ISLAND
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61 DODGE STREET
9
401.466.8777
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* #1 LUXURY RANKING BASED ON HIGHEST TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME OF THE TOP 10 HOME SALES IN THE STATE OF RI FOR 2016. ALL REPRESENTATIONS IN THIS PRESENTATION ARE BASED IN WHOLE OR IN PART ON DATA SUPPLIED BY THE STATEWIDE MLS. THE MLS DOES NOT GUARANTEE AND IS NOT IN ANY WAY RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS ACCURACY. DATA MAINTAINED BY THE MLS MAY NOT REFLECT ALL REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY IN THE MARKET.
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THE BLOCK ISLAND SUMMER TIMES August 2017
Top Selling Realtors on Block Island
for the 5 th Consecutive Year*
Ballard Hall
REAL ESTATE
NEW LISTING
NEW PRICE
1267 West Side Road | MLS ID 1159300 | $1,945,000 Architectural Contemporary | Waterfront | 6 BR & 5 BA en suite
720 West Beach Rd. | MLS ID 1166064 | $929,000
Near Corn Neck Beaches | Great Salt Pond & Ocean Views | 4 BR & 2 BA
NEW PRICE
NEW LISTING
1023 West Side Rd. | MLS ID 1162616 | $935,000 Pastoral 3 ac Site with Barn | 4 BR & 3 BA | Light-Filled Interior
822 Beacon Hill Rd | MLS ID #1100352 | $990,000
Historic Charm & Character | Near Greenway Trails | 4 BR & 2 BA
NEW LISTING
1545 Lakeside Drive | MLS ID 1162960 | $1,350,000 Panoramic Views | 4 BR & 2.5 BA | Impressive Modern Design
403 Seaweed Lane | MLS ID 1138016 | $1,275,000
4 BR & 2 BA | Views of Clayhead & Atlantic Ocean | Landscaped
NEW PRICE
1043 Pilot Hill Road | MLS ID 1157750 | $1,250,000 5.21 ac | Panoramic Ocean, BI Sound & Crescent Beach views
1047 Coast Guard Rd | MLS ID 1103723 Near Charleston Beach | $1,347,000
1604 Payne Rd | MLS ID 1156572 Architectural Tri-Level | $1,475,000
525 Connecticut Ave. | MLS ID 1100442 Near Town & Beaches | $875,000
168 Old Town Rd | MLS ID 1133289 Heated Cottage & Barn | $795,000
COMMERCIAL LISTINGS
54 Dodge St. | Gables Inn MLS ID 1066476 | $1,950,000
33 Ocean Ave. | Topside Cafe MLS ID 1144369 | $679,000
LAND LISTINGS 2.7 Acres | Corn Neck Rd | MLS ID 1073622 | $845,000 Private location /Near nature trails & beaches / See Website aerial video. 3.4 Acres | Champlin Rd | MLS ID 1048391 | $678,250 Ocean Views | Cleared Lot | Permitting Underway | Pond on Property 2 Lots | Mohegan Trail | MLS ID 1133938 & 1133940 | $500,000 each Close Ocean Views | Have 3BR & 4BR ISDS Permits
BALLARD HALL REAL ESTATE Corner of Ocean Ave. & Corn Neck Road (Between the Bagel Shop and the Bank) Principal Broker: Gail Ballard Hall Associate Brokers: Blake Phelan, Judith Cyronak Licensees: Michele Phelan, David Graham, Chelsea Phelan Redd, Laurel Littlefield, Diane Kildea and Elizabeth Carlson (RI & CT) Office Assistant: Heidi Tallmadge
4.59 Acres | Center Rd. | MLS ID 1135940 | $800,000 Expansive Ocean Views | Site plan available | Private | Near Trails
Phone: 401-466-8883 Email: info@blockislandproperty.com Fax: 401-466-3119
www.blockislandproperty.com *Based on information from State-Wide MLS for total sales volume during the period 1/1/2012 - 12/31/2016.