Two Guys on Block Island

Pat Cobb truly loves Block Island. Not only has he chosen to make his life here but he also has taken it upon himself to become an expert on the indigineous people who resided here before the island was "discovered" by Adrian Block.

At one time Native Americans lived on Block Island and created a culture rich in tradition. The artifacts they left behind are plentiful and provide a stunning insight into a lost world. A world that was unjustly taken from them. A world in which for hundreds of years they raised families, fished and lived at one with nature.

Quite often when we speak of Block Island's history we talk about the names on Settler's Rock. And while that history is indeed a rich and intriguing one, it is not the only one. Pat walks us through what life was like for Block Island's true native islanders.

And in the process we learn about Pat's incredible life. As a commercial fisherman, Pat worked the waters around Block Island and beyond. His journey was not an easy one. It was filled with struggles. However, for Pat the complications that can come with choosing an island life are far outnumbered by the blessings this place can bestow upon one who devotes his or her life to it. 

Dr. Westchesterson may be the most famous rapper in Western Massachusetts, but he's no stranger to Block Island either. In fact, he just might be more well known here than there by this point. But the Dr. has a secret...he's not really a doctor.

Actually, he's Rich's podcast partner Marc Scortino. Although- we’re not quite sure whether that's really true either. It could be that Marc actually IS Dr. Westchesterson. Or that the alter-ego Marc created in 2012 as somewhat of a joke is slowly taking over. It's confusing. There's a lot to unpack.

And that's what we do as we talk to Marc...or...The Dr. about how the whole thing started. We also chart the mysterious rapper's "career" trajectory over the last ten years and how he went from becoming an overnight cultural icon in Western Massachusetts to Block Island's most ubiquitous Yacht Rocker. Then we talk about the process of how the Dr. recorded his latest masterpiece, a sun-soaked, 70's classic rock tinged Yacht Rock Album titled, "Better Days Ahead". In the process, we take a listen to the tracks that sound straight out of an a.m. radio in a 74' Camaro.

So light up and get ready to be enlightened. Because The Doctor...is in.

Life doesn't always go in a straight line. Sure, there are some things that are the same for all of us. We're born...yada yada yada...we die. But what happens in between those two events is what makes up a life. And what a life Everett Littlefield's had.

And much like Everett's meandering life, our conversation (delightfully, we might add) did just that. From growing up on Block Island transporting luggage for the summer folk to their cottages to finally leaving to see the world...or...Quonset Point at least; we cover a lot of ground with Everett.

So much ground in fact that our conversation lasted over two hours. For that reason we are thrilled to bring you Part One of our two part interview with Everett. He's a guy who not only was to become the patriarch of a  colorful Block Island family but also a gifted writer with a knack for telling amazing stories. 

But deep down, Everett's really just a guy who likes peanut butter. Like...he REALLY likes peanut butter.

PLEASE support the members of the Block Island Tourism Council who are being sued by current president, Steve Fillipi. We are urging you to all write letters to the Block Island Times and ask that Steve step down from the Tourism Council IMMEDIATELY and drop his frivolous lawsuit that is causing undue stress and possible financial harm to these hardworking people who truly have the best interests of Block Island in their hearts.

-Rich and Marc

Allie Kiley's late father, Dick Kiley, was one of the most beloved First Wardens to ever grace the Block Island town council. Although he left us too soon, his legacy can be seen and felt everywhere. Rich and Marc spend a good deal of time discussing this legacy with Allie. It's hard not to as the man who first brought mopeds to Block Island (only to soon after get rid of them at the town's behest) is truly an icon and a sorely missed one at that.

But the episode belongs to Allie whose early days here were filled with babysitting jobs, beach volleyball games and the usual stuff that makes up those halcyon days. However we all have to grow up and after her Dad's passing, Allie took on the huge responsibility of running the Daniel Packer Inn located in Mystic, CT.

Dick purchased the Packer in the 70's when it was a dilapidated mess. Everyone thought he was crazy but after years of hard work, the Phoenix indeed rose from the flames to become one of the most popular eateries along the Southeast Connecticut shoreline. Allie has done some incredible work there. She pours her heart and soul into the family business that continues to hold its own throughout the boom experienced by the Mystic restaurant scene. 

Allie's enthusiasm (and her giggle) are infectious. Give a listen as we talk about what's next for Allie and the Packer as well as the "Mystic-Block Island" connection.

Oh...and the Packer's haunted. Cool ghost stories abound!

Town Council member Sven Risom's jovial demeanor masks a sharp wit and keen intelligence. In this episode we find out about Sven's early days on the island and how he came to found North Light Fibers with wife, Laura. It's a true cottage industry that is unique in many ways. 

Sven then indulges Marc who grills him about growing up the son of Jens Risom. Jens was an innovator of mid century furniture design and manufacturing. The "Risom House" on Block Island is infamous in its own right.

After the sponsor break Rich and Marc talk with Sven about some of the challenges facing Block Island as it forges ahead into an uncertain future. The times they are a changing' and Sven shares his feelings on how we might take on these changes and adapt to them.

It's a great episode with some fun moments and some serious talk. 

Meg Vitacco and Josh Maldonado came to Block Island specifically because they were looking for a place that was dog friendly. While living in Brooklyn a Google search for "dog friendly" beaches returned Block Island as an option.

The self proclaimed club kids packed up their pooch, Radar, and hopped on the ferry. The rest is history! It was love at first sight. While many people visit Block Island and consider a life change- few actually follow through. Meg and Josh took the plunge and now they are an integral part of the community.

Dogs are a big deal on Block Island. Certain canines are as well known as human locals. So when Meg and Josh decided to open The Mutt Hut, it was an instant success. Over the years their operation has continued to provide supplies that focus on a dog's well being with all of the food product offered being of the highest quality.

Enjoy this episode dedicated to all of our furry Block Island friends!