Somebody asked me...

2016: More Rancher Larry

...if I made New Year's resolutions. I was about to respond with a resolute no, but I then, like I often do, had an epiphany that moved me to respond with a yes. Yes! Yes, I have a New Year resolution for 2016... MORE Rancher Larry in the Gentlemen's Monthly! 

Oh, the things...

Can I get a prospectus?

...the Gentlemen write on their whiteboards! We're told to buy gold by so many people from William Devane... and now... to the residents of 227. If you must know, I am keeping my money in the puppy farm and derivatives. 

The word in the hallway is...

Check back in a week and a half

...well, nothing since everyone is on break. Continue to enjoy your break wherever you may be!

Your Sunday Picture...

A little snow wouldn't hurt...

...from Notre Dame. Here's the University's Nativity scene that has been set up by the Grotto. While Jesus has arrived, the snow has not. Perhaps that's exactly what we needed? Enjoy your Christmastide wherever you may be!

Oh, the things...

Merry Christmas?

...the Gentlemen write on their whiteboards! For a variety of reasons, walking around the Hall is always full of surprises. Something that never fails to make one chuckle is the humor and wit displayed on residents' whiteboards. Here's what one Gentleman wrote on his... a Christmas wish. I guess it's the thought that counts!

Merry Christmas!

The Main Building's Christmas Tree

To "Sted's World," to all Gentlemen, family, and friends of St. Edward's Hall, Merry Christmas! May the Christ Child guide you all to happiness and peace this Christmastide and throughout the New Year!

It's Christmas Eve...

He's probably from Zahm

...and, well, the picture says the rest. Make sure to get that last minute shopping done and those needed groceries... so that you, like our mouse, might be able to have a relaxing drink of your choosing! 

It's back...

GMD: A stocking stuffer for anyone's electric stocking!

Yes! The Gentleman's Monthly Digest: A biannual informational of the life and times of St. Edward's Hall is available for your perusal! In a simple, digestible way you can hear what has been happening at Notre Dame's first and best residence hall, St. Edward's Hall. Something that you will also find in the Gentleman's Monthly Digest is an opportunity to purchase Hall apparel! Whatever else could you ask for??!! Enjoy!!!

To read your Gentleman's Monthly Digest: click HERE.

It's true...

Please stand by.

...we're experiencing technical difficulties. We'll be back when the internets are plugged back in.

Your Sunday picture...

Yes, those white spots are snowflakes! 

...from Notre Dame. It's quiet day, and maybe your Sunday be quiet and restful. Enjoy your Sunday wherever you may be... because I certainly am! 

Saturday's Squirrel.

It's raining cake!

One person's dropped cake is a squirrel's dream come true! Without doubt, this furry friend's dreams came true when a resident of Zahm dropped a cake out of his 3rd floor room. With cake everywhere, North Quad squirrels converged and made the most of this sad accident. On having his dreams come true, this furry friend nonverbaled, "More, more, more..."

The wait is...

...over. What better way to end Finals Week than with the opening of the new Star Wars film, The Force Awakens! Everyday this week, the Gentlemen have been receiving messages counting down the days until the movie's release. The last movie reminder was an appearance by none other than Chewbacca himself in the Steds lobby. On being motivated to see the movie by Chewbacca, Sean Cullen, Steds junior, said, "I am going! It's the first thing I am doing when I get home tonight."

He's a...

But what's he doing next?

...free man! Twelve hours ago, one would be hard pressed to find Alex Schelhorn, Steds sophomore, with a smile. But now, with his last final finished, it's all smiles for Schelhorn. To envy of his friend, Alex is a completely free man, well, until the next semester begins. On being finished, Alex said, "They say freedom comes at a price, and they aren't wrong. In the words of the great Taylor Swift, 'the high was worth the pain.’"

Taking a break...

The 1st floor lounge: an oasis of temporary relaxation

...from their labors. With a Christmas music list generated by AR and wanna a be DJ, Kevin Cornwall, playing in the background, the Gentlemen enjoyed study break at 10pm in the first floor lounge where local barbecued pulled pork and chicken and other seasonal delicacies were served. Still, there was an opportunity to wrap the gifts purchased for the Hall's sponsored Christmas family. On the opportunity to take a break from their books and studying, Joe Trzaska, Steds freshmen, said, "Invigorated by the exquisite ensemble of entrees eaten at the event, I foresee nothing but excellent marks in the near future of my fellow Gentlemen." Indeed...

But...when it came to wrapping, the "exquisite ensemble of entrees" didn't have the same effect. I think this picture with Kurt Roemer, Christmas Commissioner, says it all...

Well, it is the thought that counts...

Guadate Sunday...

Ned (in green sweater) and Ensemble Vogel at the Chapel of Sts. Edward and John

...with a generous helping of Christmas! On the third Sunday of Advent, Gaudate Sunday, and last candle lit Mass, Stedsmen were treated to a "special surprise" by the Hall's music director, Ned Vogel. Using his connections and calling in favors, Vogel assembled members of the Sacred Music program, Music program, and members of various orchestras and choirs to put on a special "Christmas Mass" with the all musical trimmings that one could think of. And this ensemble delivered! On the surprise at Mass, Fr. Ralph said, "The music and voices at Mass this Sunday truly made me forget my troubles and cares, and I am sure it was the same for all those who were there. What an amazing gift... many thanks to Ned and Ensemble Vogel!"


VIDEO: CHRISTMAS MASS CHOIR PRACTICE

The Force is...

Find the Star Wars nerd...

...strong with Fr. Nate Wills, C.S.C! At the recent Star Wars trivia contest sponsored by and held at the Hammes Bookstore, Fr. Nate, Holy Cross priest and in-residence priest at St. Ed's, finished in 1st place. While he "can't recall" the question that secured his victory and place in the annals of the Jedi archives- how convenient- he will tell us what he won... a Star Wars "Sphero BB-8 robot" that retails for $150! On winning, Fr. Wills said, "There were some pretty tough questions. It was somewhat comforting to think the countless hours I have wasted on a fictional (and awesome) universe was rewarded."

Your Sunday picture...

Dropping off presents or lumps of coal?

...from Notre Dame. It's true! Santa was spotted riding a bicycle on South Quad!!! While Santa didn't stop at St. Ed's,  I am sure that he's going to this week since the Gentlemen have been such gentlemen this semester. Enjoy your Sunday wherever you may be!

Christmas is on!

Kurt, Johnny, and Austin unloading Santa's sleigh

Thanks to the generosity of the Gentlemen, Christmas is on! Sponsoring a South Bend family of six this Christmas, the Gentlemen raised funds to not only fill the wish lists of the children but also to take care of the basic necessities of everyday living. With ample funds and more than enough volunteer shoppers, Saturday's Christmas shopping at Target was fun and memorable. On Christmas shopping, Austin Proehl, Steds freshman, said, "It's always nice to get away from studying for a couple of hours, and what better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to go Christmas shopping for the kids!" Indeed, Austin... for the kids, indeed!

Justice denied!

Roman: Watching more Law & Order

At the South Bend Courthouse, with the Honorable Hugh Brenneman presiding, rising second year Notre Dame law student and Steds assistant rector, Tom Roman, tested his legal skills in moot court. Before a jury, our aspiring counselor prosecuted Jordan Peyton for DUI and hit and run. Despite his rigorous preparation, sound legal arguments, and his stylish, yet sensible, attire, Roman was unable to get the jury to convict Peyton. On losing, Roman said, “They say you can’t win them all, but this one really hurts. I used everything Joe Pesci taught me in My Cousin Vinny, but the jury remained unconvinced. One day, the the law will catch up to Jordan. Until that day, I will be watching reruns of Law & Order to prepare for the appeal.”

Once a star...

Vogel: for the joy of singing and... the applause!

...always a star! That's the story with Ned Vogel, Steds junior, who took to the stage of the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center for the University Chorale's rendition of Handel's Messiah. Once again, it was a magical evening, and Vogel's performance not only was memorable but also prompted someone to proclaim "Vogel was a St. Ed's treasure on loan to the University." After all the fête-ing and post concert parties, I had a chance to catch up with this "living treasure," and here's what Vogel had to share...

St. Ed: I hear that you are in the Chorale’s Messiah. How did you land this gig?

Vogel: Basically what happens is the Chorale announces auditions for solos in Messiah. All the undergraduate and graduate voice majors show up on a Monday night in November and compete against each other (and in front of each other) to get the solos they want. It's pretty intense. Think "The Hunger Games", only we're killing each other off with our voices.

St. Ed: If I remember correctly, you have been in the Messiah before, correct?

Vogel: Yes, this is actually my third year as a soloist. This year I was lucky enough to land one of Messiah's best arias, "The Trumpet Shall Sound", which is a fantastic duet with a solo trumpet player. It was a lot of fun to perform.

St. Ed: Well, performing in the Messiah so many times, how do you keep it “real”?

Vogel: Well, what I like to do is mix things up from year to year. In the Baroque style of music, there's a lot of room for "ornaments"; eighteenth-century riffing, if you will. It's like seasoning a meal: a little of this, a little of that, a little somethin'-somethin' on top. I have my go-to ornaments, of course, but I like to keep myself on my toes and always try new things, sometimes even on the fly in the middle of the performance itself.

St.Ed: As a performer, who do you draw inspiration from? Jay Z?

Vogel: I always try to channel the musical depth and versatility of Michael Bolton, and of course the sheer power of Beyoncé. When it comes to ornaments, though, I typically look to the expert styling of Mariah Carey.

St. Ed: Don't forget Kenny G. He's someone to channel as well. Pardon the pun- on a different note-if I wanted to become "a patron of the arts", how would you suggest going about that?

Vogel: Look no further than the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center! They are always hosting amazing concerts, plays, and movies for all tastes and interests. It's a great place to go to whet your artistic appetite. And they have the best popcorn in the world, so you can also whet your regular appetite.

St. Ed: Congratulations, and continued well wishes for the future! How about a free ticket next time...just saying.

Finally!

A day long in the making...

Finally, Francois Moyo is on the Steds map! The Steds map, located on the first floor, is a map which denotes where the various Stedsmen come from with each class having a different color push pin to mark their home town. When it came to Francois Moyo, Steds freshman, to place his push pin, well, there was a problem. What was the problem? Well, the map was of the United States...there was no Zimbabwe, Francois' home country. It was a problem indeed, but the solution was easy. Fr. Ralph printed a small map of Zimbabwe so that Francois, but the problem was that Fr. Ralph forgot to tell Francois of the map solution. So, after much patient waiting and a chance encounter in the hallway, Francois and Zimbabwe got their day. On being on the Steds map, Francois said, "It feels really good to get on the map because that means that my presence here in Steds is being acknowledged. It makes me proud to see the map of Zimbabwe, and know that I am here representing my country."

Finally, Francois and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe are on the map!

Attention to detail...

Ready for Finals and Advent to be over...

...both on the inside AND outside. Just as the Gentlemen have given great attention and care to the decorating of their rooms, common spaces, and chapel, so too have they to the exterior of the Hall. Christmas trees have been placed atop the south side porticos while wreathes with bright red bows have been hung which all give a subtle, yet elegant, Christmas look. On the decorations, Fr. Ralph said, "The decorations fit the Hall well, and the neighbors have noticed it too. They have done the same thing, but it's just not the same. It's all very much like trying to replicate a Monet, Van Gogh, or some other famous artist... you can do it, but in the end, it's a just a fake, spiritless, and unmoving attempt at being original."

Spotlight RA.

Having an Arnold Palmer afterwards?

Again, the real secret to St. Edward's Hall is its staff, particularly its resident assistants (RAs). These dedicated, undergraduate seniors are to the Hall as Arnold Palmers are to Arnold Palmer. Who are these seniors? Let's put the spotlight on one of them... the 1st floor main resident assistant, Dawson Robinson.

St.Ed: Why did you become an resident assistant (RA) for your senior year?  As a senior and the University’s "Irish Bachelor," wouldn’t you just want to be that- a bachelor- free of commitments and responsibilities… waking up at the crack of Noon, eating mac and cheese, and lounging in your pjs until dinner time?

Robinson: I’m really just in this for the name-tag. On day one of my “RA-ship”, Father Ralph bestowed upon me a beautiful, magnetic name-tag. I wear it with unabashed hubris. Everyone knows that name-tag = power.

St.Ed: Since you haven’t seen Star Wars- unbelievable- you can’t cast your fellow staff members in roles. Still, using WHATEVER movie you HAVE SEEN, how would you cast your fellow staff members?

Robinson: I think I’ll take this opportunity to cast my fellow hall staff members in NBC’s hit comedy, “The Office”... 

Rector, Father Ralph as Michael Scott- ever the jokester, and the “World’s Best Boss”

Assistant Rector, Tom Roman as Oscar- most likely to “Feel the Bern”

Assistant Rector, Kevin Cornwall as Dwight- Assistant Rector? Sounds pretty close to 

                 “Assistant (to the) Regional Manager” to me…. 

RA Vaishnav Murthy as Creed- our local comedian. Like Creed, V flies under the radar, but                    every once in a while, comes up with a zinger 

RA Dan Meehan as Ryan- Dan, who I think was the first to get a job for next year locked- 

                down, is our staff business school (soon-to-be) grad

RA Chris Hecht as Stanley- Chris loves fantasy sports almost as much as Stanley loves his                 daily crossword

RA Frank Spesia as Roy- Pam’s initial Boyfriend- this one just feels right...

St. Ed: Many times those who live on the first floor feel like they have lost out in the lottery called life… and in a certain way, yes, they have. How can you not feel that way with those low ceilings? Yet, how do you make your residents feel that they and the floor are still special?

Robinson: Although the ceilings are on the second floor might be tall, the gentleman on the first floor lift my spirits twice as high. What I try to tell my residents is that what we might lack in ceiling height, we more than make up for in amount of stairs not walked.

St.Ed: Rumor has it that you are an actor. Is that true? What have you starred in?

Robinson: Remember, I do mock trial, and so, I am, indeed a highly trained actor. I do most of my best work when Tom Roman constantly asks me who my favorite AR is and I have to respond: “You, of course!” 

St.Ed: Being an RA for over a semester now, what’s something that you learned about the Hall?

Robinson: No one can rock a sorority-shirt like a Stedsman. The recent “spirit jersey” demonstrates that.

St.Ed: What would you want your legacy to be at Steds?

Robinson: Sticking with “The Office” theme… like Michael Scott, I want to be remembered for my weaknesses: “I work too hard, I care too much, and sometimes I can be too invested in my job!”

Thanks for all that you do Dawson!

Your Sunday photo...

Will there be a beautiful sunset in Phoenix?

...from Boston. Remember Boston was a home game... so in a way this was our campus away from campus. Wherever the sun sets upon you, may it be beautiful like this one. Enjoy your Sunday wherever you may be!

Saturday Morning.

Warming hearts with smiles and blankets

With home football games over and campus squirrels taking a break in their tree nests, the Stedsmen have found some extra time on their hands. What have they done with that time? Taking breakfast at Noon? Lounging in pjs until 5pm? Hardly! Like the Hall, the Gentlemen are on the move, and some of them joined others at South Dining this morning for a special Christmas project- making blankets for hospital patients. While the craftsmanship of these blankets is questionable, no one can question that they have been made with much affection and Christmas cheer. On making blankets, Tim Sherman, Steds sophomore, said, “The blankets are warm, not only because of the fleece, but also because of the warm hearts and hands of the Stedsmen who made them!”

Folks, we have...

Counselors: I am going to allow it, but you better be going somewhere with it.

...our Christmas tree! How is that possible? Who knew the Hall not only had a RA comedian in Vaishnav but also a Christmas tree expert in one of its assistant rectors, Kevin Cornwall (above, right)? Surprised, I decided to sit down with Kevin and hear this guru's knowledge on Christmas trees, learning how it guided him in selecting the Hall's Christmas tree this year. Here's what I learned...

St.Ed: How did you become such an expert on Christmas trees? After all, you’re Californian.

Cornwall: People think I'm "crazy for Christmas trees," but the thing is, I never really had a choice--Christmas tree watching is a lifestyle I was born into. Like myself today, my father has been a card-carrying member of the National Christmas Tree Association for over thirty years. His father was as well. When my son, Nicholas Klaus Cornwall, is born, he'll have a membership card waiting for him. It's just part of my family's history. Visit http://www.realchristmastrees.org for information on how you, too, can become a member of the National Christmas Tree association.

St.Ed: Aren’t all Christmas trees the same? They’e all conifers, having cones and needlelike leaves that are evergreen?

Cornwall: Well, there are differing characteristics you can learn more about from the National Christmas Tree Associstion, but each Christmas tree has its own personality, it's own story, that makes finding the right tree for your family extremely important. I mean, by the same logic, you could say former Sacramento Kings point guard Jason Williams was the same as former Sacramento Kings point guard Mike Bibby, given their bald heads and purple wardrobes, but I think everyone knows that although Jason Williams was a human highlight reel, Mike Bibby was a better fit for the Kings. The tree that the staff picked out is the best tree for this particular hall--the Mike Bibby of Christmas trees.

St.Ed: As a Christmas tree salesman, have you ever sold a Christmas tree that you yourself wouldn’t have bought? In short, have you ever sold the proverbial “Charlie Brown” Christmas tree? If so, how did you feel after making the sale?

Cornwall: Call my hometown a bastion for hipsters, but the "meek is chic" attitude can be a blessing, especially when it comes to selling Christmas tree.  You see, when you recognize something is of poor quality but you decide to enjoy it ironically, the thing ceases to be of poor quality--it's like watching Star Wars: Episode 1 in a year that isn't 1999.

St. Ed: Say, I hear that you are in charge of selecting the Hall’s Christmas tree, the tree that will be in the chapel and decorated as donations are made to provide Christmas gifts for a South Bend family of six. What did you end up choosing?

Cornwall: Well, ideally I would have liked for us to have found a Noble Fir. Known for its beauty, the Noble Fir has a long keepability, and its stiff branches make it a good tree for heavy ornaments, as well as providing excellent greenery for wreaths and garland. Unfortunately, Noble Firs are exclusive to Northern California, but we found a closely-related Fraser Fir which will be almost as good. Find your own favorite tree type when you become a member of the National Christmas Tree Association today!

St.Ed: What’s something that everyone needs to know BEFORE they go Christmas tree shopping?

Cornwall: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately one tenth of one percent (0.12%) of residential fires involve a Christmas Tree -- both real and artificial. Luckily for us, the National Christmas Tree Association has provided safety tips that will help keep us ho-ho-hoing through the holidays. Read more at http://www.realchristmastrees.org/dnn/AllAboutTrees/CareTips.aspx

Who knew?

Nothing new: Spesia bungee jumping

We all know Frank Spesia (above) went bungee jumping in South Africa, but who knew that Frank's compatriot and fellow RA, Vaishnav, was a comedian? Who knew? Yes, who knew that this computer science major had a sense of humor? So, imagine the Hall's surprise when V revealed to the Hall Staff that he was performing tonight at Legend's. Suffice it to say, it caught many off guard and left many wondering if they were "material" for V's set. On seeing Vaishnav at Legend's tonight, Spesia said, "Vaishnav Murthy has more animal puns than anyone I know. The idea of seeing him do stand up gave me a sense of 'deja moo', because I've heard a lot of his material. But then, I remembered that 'good neigh-bors'  support one another, so I promptly bought a ticket. His show should be 'rebbeting!'"

Something new: V doing stand up!

That's a...

...great question. I am not sure. I'll have to get back to you on that. Still, sounds like we have another "Hall sage" in our midst. Folks, as Johnny Carson would say, "More to come..."

A chance Steds...

Ray Wise '85, Bill Novack '85, David Oh '16 and Tom Pieronek '85

...encounter at Boston College. That's what Steds senior, David Oh, experienced when he decided to go to the proverbial lion's den, Boston College's campus, on game day. Crazy? Absolutely crazy, but what David experienced was even crazier. What happened? In David's own words...

                 As a photographer for the Scholastic, I decided to take a trip that would take me deep into

                 enemy territory. Yes. I decided to make a visit to BC's campus. Why not? What could

                 happen? After the long trek, I decided to get lunch at a restaurant frequented by BC

                 students. Why not? What could happen? Of course, I saw a lot of Eagles fans, but yet,

                 there was a table of Notre Dame fans!  What's more unbelievable was one of them was

                 rockin' a Steds sweatshirt- a bona fide old-school sweatshirt- the likes of which my

                 generation have only seen in past Hall class photos. Amazed, I couldn't help but go over

                 and introduce myself. It turned out they were all classmates whose freshman year was the

                 year AFTER the Great Fire of 1980.  Since graduating, they've been getting together every

                 year since 1996 for a "Guy's Weekend," seeing home and away games.  I was told that the

                 sweatshirt is worn only on those mini-reunion game weekends.  Well, now I know what

                 I'm going to start doing after graduation next year. Still, my chance encounter with these           
                 Steds alums further proved what I've always believed to be true--that St. Edward's Hall is 
                 home to a brotherhood for life!

Sounds like craziness runs in the Steds family and that a new tradition is about to be started!

V-M Day!

Stedsmen: We have not; yet begun to fight!

Victory! Steds has declared victory in its battle against malaria! While there were some dark days during the campaign and while enemy may not have been completely vanquished, malaria has been dealt a severe setback as the Stedsmen and their mullets raised $6,657.97 for malaria prevention. Take that malaria! As fresh battle plans are drawn up and as they wait for their hair to grow out again, the Stedsmen have made it clear that this war isn't over. On the victory, Corey Gayheart, Steds freshman and "mullet head," said, "Yes, we may have won the battle against malaria; however, it’s not over. Next year, we continue to wage war to stop malaria. Next year, we must advance on all fronts against the enemy, showing no mercy and especially no fear! Next year, we must once again courageously don mullets or the cause… and we will. Together we fight, together we fall... but together, Steds can win it all!"

Thanks to all who supported the Gentlemen... many, many thanks indeed!

Your Sunday Picture...

A really quiet Sunday

...from Notre Dame. After a heartbreaker of a game last night, it's a quiet and lazy Sunday here at St. Edward's. Wherever you be may be, may your Sunday be the same, restful and relaxing!

Saturday Squirrel(s).

But will he see his friend?

They're always up to something... burying a nut for later, begging, or some other silly antic. Still yet, sometimes, our furry friends are simply playing games. On God Quad, two squirrels were seen playing an afternoon game of tag. When asked who was it, one of the squirrels paused and non-verbaled, "food please."

Not everyone got...

Next year kid... next year.

...a mullet. It's true. Not everyone who presented himself to be "mulleted" receive one. Why? Because in the end the final call was in the eyes of the stylists.  Yes, their trained eyes prevented some, who had the spirit but not the hair, from making a terrible mistake... being sent off to the front with a subpar mullet. Kurt Roemer, Steds sophomore, was one of those held back, and when I caught up with him, here's what he had to say...

St.Ed: What happened Kurt? Why don’t you have a mullet or at least a mohawk?

Roemer: I let the team down. I don't have a mullet because I don't have enough hair. I pleaded with them that I do, but they didn't buy it. I was rejected for mulcting.

St.Ed: Sad. How are you dealing with the embarrassment?

Roemer: I am struggling to deal with the embarrassment. While all the other Sted's guys have walked around with their beautiful mullets flowing in the wind, I have had to hide my lame haircut.

St.Ed: Did the stylist suggest a hairstyle that might be more appropriate given your hair’s volume and texture? 

Roemer: Given my hair's minimal volume and lack of texture, the hair stylist suggested a skullet for me. However, I had already seen Corey Gayheart's skullet, and I was aware that mine would not compare to the elegance and beauty of his, so I didn't dare try.

St.Ed: Still, how are you showing your support for the boys fighting malaria?

Roemer: In spite of my shameful effort with my hair, I have still tried to do my job in supporting the cause. I have worn my t-shirt around, donated money and spoken with others to spread the good news of our efforts. You have to remember that we are fighting malaria “for the kids”, and this is something I truly believe in!

St.Ed: What are you going to do differently next year so that you aren’t know as "that guy,” that guy without a mullet?

Roemer: I don't think my little ol' heart can take another year of being "that guy...that guy without the mullet." That being said, I may need to avoid cutting my hair until next year’s mullets. That would make up for my sad showing this year.

St.Ed: Good luck!

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Gentlemen, as I am too, are thankful for all the laughs, Yacht Dances, and memorable times associated with this special place, St. Edward's Hall. Thank you to all who help make the traditions and high jinxes carry on. God's blessing upon you all!

Spotlight RA.

Hecht: "That Guy"

Again, the real secret to St. Edward's Hall is its staff, particularly its resident assistants (RAs). These dedicated, undergraduate seniors are to the Hall as Babe Ruth was to the Yankees. Who are these seniors? Let's put the spotlight on one of them... the 4th floor main resident assistant, Chris Hecht.

St.Ed: Why did you become an resident assistant (RA) for your senior year?  Shouldn’t your last year be as easy a slam dunk?

Hecht: Well, I would say that choosing to be an RA has been one of the easiest decisions I have ever made.  When the opportunity presents itself for you to take on a leadership role that allows you to make a lasting impression on the lives of your peers, it’s one that you just can’t say no to.  And just because I’m tall, it doesn’t mean I can dunk.

St.Ed: So, besides your height, what are you bringing to the Steds Hall Staff this year

Hecht: Not to redirect the question, but I feel like I’ve been under appreciated as the resident light bulb changing expert.  Just wanted to get the word out there for awareness.  But anyway, I feel like I bring some raw, unadulterated talents to the Hall Staff this year, including the ability to set a baseball lineup, the ability to roll a sixteen pound ball 60 feet down a lane, and the ability to create soothing guitar rhythms (at a reasonable volume, of course).

St. Ed: So besides being the more popular floors in the Hall, what makes the 4th floor so special?

Hecht: “Those who know [the 4^th floor], no explanation's necessary. Those who don't, no explanation will suffice” – Lou Holtz.

St.Ed: Rumor has it that you are the ringleader of the Hall Staff’s Fantasy football league. Can you share how the league is shaping up?

Hecht: In an intense battle to secure a coveted spot in the Hall Staff Fantasy Playoffs, a four-way tie for the remaining two spots has emerged.  This could possibly be the most balanced league I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen just about everything in this business.

St.Ed: Being an RA for over a semester now, what’s something that you learned about the Hall?

Hecht: Legends aren’t born here, legends are made here.

St.Ed: What would you want your legacy to be at Steds?

Hecht: I want to be the guy who is remembered as being more than just a baseball coach or a bowler or an actuary.  I want to be the guy who people will talk about years down the road and still say ‘I remember that guy.  Too bad he had to graduate.  If he would have just failed all of his classes, he might still be here right now”.  I wish it was as easy as failing my classes, but creating a lasting legacy in the remaining six months I have here is a goal still in the forefront of mind.  Do or do not, there is no try.

It had to come to an...

The first snow fall...

...end. The recent spate of mild weather, with sun and warm temps, had to run out, and it finally did this past weekend. While many people were away in Boston, the heavens clouded up and dropped five to seven inches of snow on campus. On the recent snow fall, Tom Roman, Steds AR, said, “The recent snow fall has warmed the hearts of Gentlemen throughout the Hall! Although, I have heard talk of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, reminder: open fires are NOT permitted in the Hall.”  

It was a game to...

A Steds postgame gathering 

remember! Yes, Notre Dame's game against Boston College was a game to remember if not for the fumbles then certainly for the location... Fenway Park! Fenway was a great venue and a nice home away from home for the Irish. In the end, the Irish prevailed 16 to 13 making all Irish fans breathe a sigh of relief! Still, the game was a time for the "Steds World" to contact and renew the bonds of brotherhood. Of the Irish win and Steds post game gathering with six "generations" of Stedsmen in present, Andrew Blonigan '15 said, "It was an ugly win, but being reunited with my brothers from Steds helped keep our fires lit and our cabins warm" while Andy Thomas '11 said, "The game was way too close for comfort, but the atmosphere at Fenway was phenomenal. And there's no way any other hall could replicate the post-game get together -- Steds Alumni representing 6 graduating classes!" 

Your Sunday picture...

Loving El Nino.

... from Notre Dame. Here's a gorgeous view of Mary and Main Building with the Basilica from the Jesus statue. If only it could stay this way. Enjoy your Sunday wherever you may be!

A Special Tree.

If you take two of these, you better call a doctor.

This is not the "tylenol tree" that drops safe and effective acetaminophen. Instead, Fr. Terry Ehrman, C.S.C., theologian and botanist, informs that this is none other than Celastrus Scandent, or more commonly known as American Bittersweet. The Bittersweet, found on campus around the lakes, has bright yellow-orange fruit that ripens in October to November. When asked if the Bittersweet berries could be eaten, Fr. Ehrman said, "You'll be better off using it in your Thanksgiving and Christmas flower arrangements."

Getting ready...

Fenway Park: Notre Dame's home away from home

...for tomorrow. Yes, Boston, which is already very Irish, has become even more so with the influx of Notre Dame Irish fans. It's hard to walk about Boston without running into an Irish Fan or someone sporting the blue and gold, and yes, the green too. On being in Boston for the game, Fr. Ralph said, "With so many of the Stedsmen, past and present, here, I wonder if I can receive a field commission and be appointed temporary 'Rector of Boston?'"

A little extra firepower...

Fr. Ralph: it's all about fundamentals

...never hurts, and that's exactly what the Notre Dame Men's Basketball team had on Tuesday night when they hosted UW-Milwaukee at the Joyce Center. Despite a slow start, the Irish rallied, even leading the Panthers by 20 points. No doubt that superior skills were behind the rally and ultimate win, but there was something else at work... the team's game chaplain, Fr. Ralph. On Fr. Ralph's performance as game chaplain, a university official, speaking on the condition anonymity, said, "When I saw Fr. Ralph sitting the bench, I knew that a win was a "slum dunk"... there was no way that Milwaukee could repell prayer power that magnitude!"

Spotlight RA.

Spesia: Researching for Ed's

Again, the real secret to St. Edward's Hall is its staff, particularly its resident assistants (RAs). These dedicated, undergraduate seniors are to the Hall as the Jedi Knights were to the Old Republic of Star Wars. Who are these seniors? Let's put the spotlight on one of them... the 4th floor wing Resident Assistant, Frank Spesia.

St.Ed: Why did you become an resident assistant (RA) for your senior year?  As a senior wouldn’t you just want to roam the hallways as a “traveling troubadour,” playing sweet nothings on your guitar? 

Spesia: I became an RA after I failed the tryout for the Irish Troubadour Club Team. I was so devastated- I felt like my dreams had been crushed forever. Naturally, I wanted to become an RA so that I could train the future troubadours of Notre Dame, and continue helping the Club Team that I loved, even after they spurned me.

St.Ed: If the Hall Staff was the cast of Star Wars, who would you be? Still yet, who would your fellow staff members be?

Spesia: I am not a huge Star Wars buff, so don't expect anything insightful here. I picture myself as the Han Solo of the hall staff- my heart is in the right place, but sometimes I have to play by my own rules. Obviously Chris Hecht is Chewbacca, due to his incredibly long arms, and Vaishnav is Princess Leia due to his excellent (some would say noble) posture. Dan Meehan is Lando, who I just learned about. Sometimes does sketchy things, but it doesn't matter because he is the mayor. Dawson is C3P0 witty, and has the sneaky one liner at the ready. And finally, Fr. Ralph told me, "You must say that I am Yoda" so... Yoda he is.

St.Ed: The fourth floor of Steds is the most popular floor in the Hall, but what makes the 4th floor wing the most special part of the floor?

Spesia: As a 4 year resident of the 4th floor, I can attest to the special nature of the highest level of the building. 4 Wing is extra special because it has all of the attractions- the bathroom, the water fountain, the elevator, and my room are all on 4 Wing. It comes down to location, location, location. And we on the wing have all the locations.

St.Ed: Rumor has it that you are a member of the Hall Staff’s Fantasy football league. Can you share how the league is shaping up?

Spesia: This year's fantasy football league is an absolute thriller. It has everything- rivalry, trash talk, betrayal, treasure maps, and forbidden romance. I wish I could say that I'm winning the league, but unfortunately I've been really focused on my studies this semester, so I've had basically no free time to invest in my squad. I also took some bad intel and drafted several players who retired in the late 2000s. 

St.Ed: Being an RA for over a semester now, what’s something that you learned about the Hall?

Spesia: Man, and I thought the Star Wars question was hard. I learned that the number of keys needed for an RA to do their job is complete overkill, and that when in doubt, you should print your paper the night before.

St.Ed: What would you want your legacy to be at Steds?

Spesia: I want my Steds tombstone to say, "He was always generous, and he strove to please. His heart was big, but his funny bone was bigger. Those who knew him often called him the coolest cat on campus, but those who didn't know him probably weren't missing too much, in the grand scheme of things. He was a terrible singer, but he sang in the hallways anyway, and he did it for the love of the game."

St.Ed: Frank, thanks for all that you do!

The mullets continue...

Trzaska with his hawk

...to make an appearance on campus, but there is another 80's haircut lurking about as well- the fabled mohawk. They may not be the classic or modern versions. They may not even be the most recent variation- the faux. Still, some Stedsmen sport, well, a special hawk- "Edwardian-hawk" for the cause against malaria. On getting his Edwardian-hawk, Joe Trzaska, Steds freshman, said, "When I took my perch upon the hairdresser's stool, she scoffed, proclaiming that I lacked the hair enough to be emboldened. Clearly, she underestimated my dedication to the cause." Indeed she did Joe... indeed she did!