mcsledgehammer-blog1

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SalAlf Obsession

At the start of the semester, we were given the task to become “obsessed” with something. An antique piece of technology, a media producer, a skill, etc., were our options. Right away I knew I was ready to become obsessed with everything 1980’s. From the sounds of A-ha to the 80’s themed Netflix hit, Stranger Things, I had my obsessions all panned out. However, when I began to think of what to archive, I looked around my house and found that what was remotely 80’s in the Sledge home was lackluster. But, what did stand out to me were the countless pieces of art, records, old photos, books, etc. that we have been sifting through since my Uncle Lou passed away on Father’s Day in June.

Although these objects may have no significance to some, many whos lives were touched by my Uncle would understand the great importance and story behind the items my uncle left behind for us. My uncle was unlike any other person you will ever come across in your lifetime and that is why, I have chosen to shift my obsessions to commemorate him.

In order for me to fully convey the significance of these items found on Omeka, let me tell you a little bit about my Uncle, Lous Evangelisto.

My Uncle Lou was born in New Britain, Connecticut, in July of 1928. He was born of Italian immigrants who came to the United States to start a better life. He was raised in great faith and love of family. Living through the Great Depression, my uncle worked hard to support his family until he was old enough to join the seminary. My Uncle became a priest and studied in Rome. When he returned home he pastored many parishes all over the North East. He touched many lives, especially those of young soldiers at the start of the Vietnam war. In spite of his age, my Uncle joined the army and was sent over to Vietnam as a Chaplain. He prayed over wounded soldiers, offered solace to those who were homesick and said mass in the middle of the jungle to those who wished to attend. He remained in the Army as a chaplain and worked his way up to being a Colonel. It is in the army where my Uncle Lou met my dad, at Fort Devens. My dad was eighteen at the time and my uncle, he was 52. They became best friends and from then on he became family.

After retiring from the military, my uncle was the campus chaplain at Quinnipiac College where he taught theology to students. What started out as a small, bleak class at the start of the semester turned into a standing room only class that had to be moved to the campus stadium because so many students just wanted to hear him speak. From his time at Quinnipiac, he made friendships with many of the students who continued to visit him and keep in touch, some even became close friends with him. He became the pastor of a poor, struggling church in New Haven where he rebuilt the community with his desire to befriend everyone. After Quinnipiac, my uncle stayed in new Britain until we moved him down here to be closer with us. He resided in his cottage in Northport until last winter. My uncle wasn’t what you would call the typical priest and I truly believe that’s why everyone loved him.

He was cool. He loved movies, music, culture. He addressed people as “dude” and “man,” even in his 80’s. Many of the items found in this archive reflect his love of life, faith and friendship.

Please listen:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtDE5dIj834

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Linear Plot Structure “What’s For Dinner? “

Mom

Dad

Grandma 

Brother

Puppy

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My Summer ‘16

Summer 2016 was certainly one I will never forget. 

After the hustle and bustle of finals week was finished, I was looking forward to an eventful, memory-filled summer.

This summer, I traveled to England and Ireland with my family! I had never traveled to out of the country before so I was truly an incredible experience for me. On June 30th, my Grandma, Aunt and I boarded Aer Lingus for a six hour flight to Dublin, Ireland. From there we took a shorter flight to Heathrow Airport in England.

When we arrived in London we toured the city, taking in its culture and history. The architecture of the building and the streets were stunning. It was amazing to see so much green (trees and plants) in the heart of such a bustling city.

When in England we made many trips to different historical sites such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, Windsor Castle, Trifalgar Square, Centerbury,etc. My Grandma was traveling with her church choir so we stopped in many of the old churches and cathedrals as well. The age of some of the buildings in England were astounding. Some of them dated back to the 1200′s.

My family and I spent five days in London. The history and food was very enriching but my most anticipated part of the trip was to come, Ireland!

Ireland was incredible! Ever since I was a little girl, I had always dreamed of going to the land where my family came from. After we landed in Shannon, we explored the rural countryside while listening to classic Irish folk music. The countryside was breathtaking. The locals were friendly and funny and the food, the food was delicious (contrary to popular belief!)

When in Ireland we went to the Cliffs of Mohr, Ring of Kerry, the Blarney Castle, Dublin, etc. We also stopped at many small quaint towns.

My tirip to the United Kingdom was absolutely unforgettable. I am so grateful to my family for giving me the opportunity to come with them.