December Blog

 

December Blog

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care)

JW's Bierstube in Oakdale hustling & bustling: Saturday, December 20, starting at 6:00, accordion extraordinaire Dale Grove appears for his annual "Christmas Special Plus." Sunday, December 21, "Authentic" Adrian Peterson or Jared Allen jersey will be given away at the 2 minute warning of the Viking vs. Atlanta game. Along with our usual drink specials & FREE tacos during the game! Sunday, December 28, same Vikings specials & another "Authentic" Adrian Peterson or Jared Allen jersey to be given away at the 2 minute warning. Must be present to win. You can sign up to win the jerseys daily!

 

Opinionated Beef: It bugs me when the so-called ignoramus "professional analysts" (many times former players) question the play calling or the route running on 3^rd down plays when the receiver doesn't always go beyond the 1^st down marker. They more than us Joe Six Packs & Monday morning quarterbacks should know there is a lot more to it than that. What coverage the defense is in, how far the cornerbacks are playing off, is there a blitz & how long does the quarterback have to throw the ball. How many times do we see a quarterback get hit a millisecond after he throws the ball? All the time.

 

Fact: The reason a receiver runs an eight yard out or pattern when it's 3^rd and 10 is because the defensive backs aren't dumb and are ready to pounce at the 10 yard mark making it extremely difficult for the offences to convert. In EVERY offense in the NFL, college, & high school, they are forced to take what the defense gives them & hope that the receiver can break an open field tackle & get the 1^st down, rather than risk a very low percentage play & sometimes a very likely interception

 

Beef #2: They'll show a Joe Theisman type compound fracture or a players arm or leg get bent backwards or nearly broke in half a dozen times, but they won't show a fan or a streaker run onto the field. I understand not wanting to encourage anyone else to be copycats & I definitely would not show a full monte streaker, but how many of us sitting at home secretly wish inside they would show what all of the hubbub was all about?

 

Beef #3: Speaking of copycats, How about the absurdity we see in the news every week? After certain terrorist attacks, they many times practically teach people how to make homemade bombs.

 

Gophers vs. Hawkeyes: Two Hawkeye fans were cited for engaging in sexual activity in a crowded Dome mens restroom. They stood out form the rest of the Iowa visitors, who usually hold off on the romance until they're back in the trailer.

 

Gophers vs. Hawkeyes II: The man & the woman involved were both from Iowa, but did not know each other. Each explained to police they were so drunk they thought they were on a Vikings Cruise.

 

Streaker Sighting!  Before noon on Saturday, November 29, 7 hours before the start of the Hawkeye Gopher game, HUGE Hawkeye fan JOHN BOLLARD('s friend) was seen streaking in the snow the full length of the par 5 #7 at Oak Marsh!

 

Opinion: Wouldn't having a classy, nice state owned casino in downtown St. Paul & Minneapolis & allowing just a couple of slot machines in every bar restaurant make the most common of ALL COMMON SENSE to help our fledging economy, but also help pay for our schools, education, roads, necessary welfare programs, police and countless other necessary areas in need?! By limiting it to just this simple of a plan would allow everyone to share the much needed wealth instead of having it in its now such disproportionate system. By limiting it, the hit to current casinos would be almost unnoticeable & the advantages to the rest of us (the state) would be "ENORMOUS."

 

Fact & Must Be Nice: It must be nice to be 7 foot 1 Minnesota's own Joel Pryzbilla. At age 29, he is averaging just 4.5 points a game & 8.6 rebounds a game. I guess those type of numbers demand 32 million dollars; in which he is currently in the 3^rd year of his 5 year guaranteed contract. Wow! 6.4 million dollars a year for 4.5 points! On an average of if he plays 150 games this year, that's almost $10,000 a point or $20,000 a basket.

 

Fact & Speaking of Joes: The last time an American League player won a batting title & Gold Glove in the same season before Joe Mauer did it this year was in 2004 when Ichiro Susuki did it with Seattle.

 

Fact: In a St. Paul Pioneer Press poll, nearly 90% of the responders blamed Brad Childress for their poor start.

 

Piling On: On another Pioneer Press poll when asked who would you prefer as the Vikings head coach, 85% chose former Viking head coach Mike Tice to 15% in favor of Bad, whoops, Brad Childress.

 

Speaking of Vikings: What's so hard to figure out on "Special Teams" that we need to put in our 1^st teamers. Wouldn't we rather put a little more energy at that point than put so much consistent pressure on our defense starting them off with deplorable field position time & time again? Makes sense to me.

 

Makes Sense to Me Part II: An 8 game college playoff system or at least a minimum of 4. There are several viable common sense options & scenarios while still maintaining & keeping the excitement & integrity of the bowl games. Go get'em Barrock!

 

What Might Have or Probably Should Have Been: Jeff Garcia as our short-term quarterback probably makes a difference of 2 games this year giving us a commanding lead & potential home playoff games. Jeff Garcia = 11 & 5ish to the 9 & 7ish that we'll be this year. At this point, we may as well let Tarvaris play but actually let him throw the ball other than 3^rd down & long; and see what the kid has. He couldn't do much worse than the below average Gus.

Overrated: One of the most overrated players in all of sports is the clueless oaf Bryant McKinnie.

 

Last Viking Tid Bit: If I never see another pass out to the flats to any of our fullbacks, it will be too soon.

 

Joke: One day long, long, long ago, there lived a (insert gender here) who did not whine, nag, or complain. (Comedic pause...) But this was a long time ago & it was just that one day. The end.

 

Congratulations: Dan Morrison of Maplewood Lanes on his 1^st 300 game!

 

Congratulations & Great Job: To all of the participating Bierstubes & especially all the volunteers who helped the needy or people alone on Thanksgiving. We were lucky enough to help around 150 people this year, putting our five year total to over 1,000 people. Once again, we thank all the volunteers & I would like to give special thanks to my wonderful wife Jodi who organizes & makes this event happen each year!

 

Dad & Mom Stories: I hope you all enjoyed a trip back to memory lane the past couple of months with some "Great" stories about my Dad & Mom. I know I did! Thank you all once again for your terrific contributions during the 25 year Larry Yanz Tribute. We had a resounding response & we appreciate all of you who shared your memories! One last reminder that you can submit stories about my Dad & or Mom until September 2009. Just hand it in to your respective Bierstube's manager or email me jimyanz@comcast.net. It is now time for me to move on & create some wonderful memories of my own.

 

The Bierstube family wishes everyone a very fun, healthy, safe & blessed Christmas & New Year!

Thank You for your continuing loyalty & wonderful support! God bless!!!

November Blog

 

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).

Part 11: November 2008

 

Bierstube wins another prestigious food contest!!! Congratulations to LW's Cindy Shaffer, Wayne Drentlaw, Corrine Cunningham & the rest of their staff for taking the 1^st Place Blue Ribbon for "Best Food Award" at a "Night in Tuscany." The event was held last month at Eagan's YMCA. Just a few of the 15 other reputable competing entrants were: Cherokee Sirloin Room, Kincaids, Cord on Bleu, Old World Pizza & the Black Tie Room. Some entrants brought frozen ice sculptures & several featured a fancier type soup or appetizer. The Bierstube kept it simple & served hardy portions of our brat medallions, spatzle, sauerkraut & of course our "award winning" sauerbraten!

First, my VERY abbreviated rants & raves:

Vikings: Fire Childress! Gophers Basketball: Go Tubby! Optimistic!

Gophers Football: It was a nice run! Let's hope that Brewster's recruits & recruiting ability is as good as advertised. Can't wait for outdoor football!

Vikings: Fire Childress!

Timberwolves: "All we need is Love" & a whole lot more including a new coach, GM. How's OJ Mayo doing idiots?

Gopher Hockey: Never count them out! A "Big Cat says" the frozen four is within reach.

Wild: Marion who? Lemaire keeps them more than competitive; they are legitimate contenders with legitimate talent.

Twins: Fire Chldress! Love the outfield if GoGo can get a clue clue & we're still in desperate need of a legitimate 35 homerun plus guy to be REAL contenders.

Presidential Election: Support our President!!! Impeach Brad Childress!

Vikings & Brad (Ned Flanders) Childress Part 2: Cedric Griffin hasn't had an interception since 2006 & the Vikings will NEVER have better than an ordinary (at best) pass defense as long as he is one of the cornerbacks. Childress, my 2 year old could've figured out that Mewelde Moore would've been a huge asset & the very OBVIOUS choice as our sole kick & punt returner. Brad gets more & more CLUELESS every day!

Childress single handedly not only crushed Tavaris's confidence by not giving him a chance to succeed with his "amateur play calling," but mostly ruined his chances of succeeding probably EVER in the NFL.

 

It's been a busy month for me, so blog fans luck out again & get mostly great stories that were written during the Larry Yanz 25 Year Anniversary Tribute about my Dad & Mom. Incidentally, we will be accepting all Larry & Hilde Yanz or ANY fun &/or interesting Stube stories. For every legible qualified entry (managers discretion), you will receive a Larry's steak dinner. This will be culminated in 2009 resulting in a booklet type form with all the great stories, most likely titled "Stube Stories Since 1962." They are also not limited to just Hastings Bierstube tales. All Stubers at ANY Stube can send their stories to Jim Yanz, 7121 10^th Street N. Oakdale, MN 55128 or email jimyanz@comcast.net. THANK YOU everyone for your participation!

1.       "Larry & Hilde, us & the Conways went to Vegas on a train. The first night at around 11:00 pm, they turned down the lights on the train & everything was quiet. When all of a sudden someone ran down the isle - & then someone else was chasing him. It was Larry & Hilde in one of their "rare" fights. I was afraid one was going to throw the other off the train. The porter had the same fear & told both of them to go back to their barrack. The next day we went to their room to see them & Larry was nowhere to be found. During the night in Utah, the train dropped about 10 cars & another train picked them up & headed for Washington & we were still going to Vegas. We looked in every car & couldn't find Larry, so we were sure that he either got thrown off the train or headed for Washington. About 11:00 am, here comes Larry. He had paid the porter to give him another room during the night." Marian Endres

2.       The year was about 1944. My brother Jake & I were walking home, going past Sieben Drug Store at 2^nd & Ramsey Streets when our dog Skippy got run over by a car. I was crying when along came Larry. "Anybody got a knife?" he hollered. "What do you want a knife for Larry," I asked. "To put that dog out of his misery," he replied. "Oh, don't hurt Skippy!" I said. Jake & I carried Skippy home for burial. That was the Larry Yanz I knew when we were childhood neighbors. Bob Langenfeld

3.       Jimmy & our high school friends used to play a lot of cards during the summer nights. We would try to rotate houses around & would play well into the night or even early morning. In those days, since none of us had much money, we would play $.25 ante poker & losing $10 would have been a terrible night for any individual. On one particular occasion, we were playing our late night card game at the Yanz home on Southview Drive. We played late enough to still be playing when Larry got home from the Bierstube. Larry, well aware of the stakes that we were playing for, would get into pots that he was certain to lose, so that he would play a half dozen hands & leave about $80 on the table so that we all would have a chance of being a winner that night. One of our high school buddies, that I won't name here, got particularly hot playing against Larry head to head over those half a dozen hands & probably won about $50 in 15 minutes. Upon feeling so bad that he was the beneficiary of Larry's generosity, winning about $50, our high school buddy generously tried to pay Larry back about $10...All in quarters. : ) Needless to say, Larry wouldn't have anything of it & went to bed, again, giving all of us the chance to be winners as the card game continued on funded by Larry's big heart. John Klimek

4.       Larry had a motor home & one weekend they decided to come to the cabin so I told Larry that he & John could take the kids in the motor home & I would bring up Hilde. Well, the guys left first & Hilde & I came later. We were going through Sommerset, WI & Hilde noticed the motor home parked there. I tried to convince her it wasn't, but she knew better, the kids told her they went into "Bens" bar (a strip joint). As soon as Larry saw us, he looked straight ahead at the bartender & not at the strippers. Hilde was pretty mad & hollered at Larry, then the bartender asked Larry if he still wanted the flashlight. Hilde told the bartender to shut his mouth or he was going to get kicked in the "arsh" too. Then she yelled at the dancers to get their "damn" clothes on. We left & it was not a happy weekend. Of course, Larry said it was John's idea!!! Marian Endres

5.       I first met Larry as a little girl in the 1950's. My family lived next door to the Yanz's. My dad still lives next door to the original Bo & Gertrude's! Larry was like the older big brother we always wanted. He played games with us & told us stories almost every day. Our parents wouldn't let us have a dog, so Larry brought his dog "Rocky" over for us to play with every day. Rocky was a great little beagle. I recently came across an old picture of me, my sister & Rocky. Thanks to Larry, I had a dog to love for a little while. Remembering how we missed Larry & Rocky whenever they left home. Childhood memories by Pam Sommers Marquette

6.      When I was 8, 9, & 10 years old, Larry would come over to our house for dinner. These were on the days that dad worked late. When Larry came to dinner, we knew we would have fun. He would steal food off our plates or throw peas at mom & blame it on us kids. He taught us how to eat spaghetti (the fun way). He would eat dinner with the family then he would promptly fall asleep on the sofa. Before we went to bed mom would let us jump on his stomach to wake him up so he could go home. His favorite day to come over was on Sundays because that was the day dad would make a duck dinner. During dinner, we would listen to his stories of what it was like growing up with his brothers & sisters. Sometimes, he would talk about his mom & dad  & how mean they could be, making him walk to school in the winter, even though they lived right across the street, doing the dishes or helping clean the house. He would talk about hunting & fishing with his family. He loved my mom & made her laugh. They had a special relationship. You see mom had two brothers, but she moved away & they were gone. Larry was her new brother & she loved him. We all loved Larry. We still do. There are more: Christmas at the Bierstube, The toys he would bring over, His fancy car, His special friend Hilde, His new wife Hilde & new son Bob (what a special day!) Dorothy Yanz :

7.      I have many memories of Larry, one that stands out every time I think of the Bierstubes, dates back to 1962. I along with a handful of guys were in the Bierstube the first day he opened. One of the kegs went dry & he had to tap another one. He asked me to watch the bar while he went into the cooler. The back bar had glass doors to the cooler then. I don't know what he did while attempting to tap a keg, but all of a sudden, it looked like a geyser hit the glass doors. They were covered with fresh beer. Needless to say, he looked pretty sheepish when he finally came out of the cooler to face his friends. We didn't razz him too much! Dick Bacon

8.       It was 1967 & I was 13. With my mom & dad, we were waiting at the Stube for the bus to show up from my Uncle Dicks bar (the Bar & Wheel in Red Wing). Larry & my uncle would go in on a bus to the Twins games 4 times a year to the Met to see an afternoon game, allowing 70 people aboard the party bus. Larry & Dick were always concerned that everyone had a good time & had plenty of refreshments. We all threw a dollar in a hat and guessed the game attendance & the winner won the pot. I remember waiting each time for the attendance to be posted & hoped that I was close. One time I was finally close to the total & after we got back on the bus, it was announced that Larry had won the pot & beat me by 50. Larry came back to my seat & congratulated me & gave me half the pot. I will always remember the man who made my day that day. Thanks again Larry! Terry Bartels

 

The Bierstube Family wishes everyone a safe, blessed & happy Thanksgiving & Holiday Season!!!

Reminder: For anyone in need, the Bierstubes in Hastings, Oakdale & White Bear Lake are serving Turkey Dinners on Thanksgiving Day from 12:00-2:30.

October Blog

Bierstube Blog

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).

Part 10: October 2008

Congratulations Bloggees (You)! This month you will be mostly spared from rants & raves from the Blogger (Me, Jim Yanz). In instead you'll have the opportunity to read some FUN, SHORT stories about the founder, original Bierstube Guy, my dad, Larry Yanz. Almost as important none of which are written by me. To close out the special Larry Yanz 25 Year Anniversary Tribute month, I hope you enjoy a few of the wonderful stories that so many of you (almost 50!) have so kindly & graciously took the time to remember & write about "the man who started it all." On behalf of my brother Mike, my wife Jodi, me & the rest of the family, we all THANK YOU very much!

 

1.       "For years Larry sold tickets on football games. When his good friend Joe Novak was appointed State Liquor Commissioner he told Larry that part of his job was to enforce anti-gambling ticket sales and that Larry would have to stop selling numbers. Tickets continued to be sold as long as Joe wasn't around. One evening, Joe came in about 6:00 pm and was sitting at a table talking to Larry. One of Larry's regulars came up to the table and asked Larry for two $25 tickets. Larry looked at the regular and said, in front of Joe, 'Oh no, I don't sell tickets anymore.' 'Bull Crap, you just sold my brother one 5 minutes ago.' Larry was speechless and Joe just low ered his eyes and slowly shook his head." Jake Moore

 

2.       Larry Yanz was not the brightest kid in school. Despite his own mother being a teacher, Larry often struggled in class.  My dad said if not for the cookies he regularly brought the teachers, Larry would never have passed. Sometime after high school Larry began to talk about opening a three-two-beer joint up in the Midtown area. My mother and father both told him, "You gotta be nuts! You will never make any money with a three-two joint!" Larry was just dumb enough not to listen and opened the Bierstube anyway. The place was quickly a hit and was soon packed nearly every night. Several years later, Larry told my father he was going to pay $3,000 and get a liquor license so he could sell strong beer and hard drinks. My father said, "What are you thinking?! You can't possibly fit any more people in this place. Why would you waste three thousand dollars?" Once again Larry was just dumb enough not to listen. Over the coming years the Bierstube expanded several times, and each time they managed to pack the place. Eventually opening several more Bierstube's throughout the metro area. Poor old Larry Yanz was just dumb enough to think he could make money selling great food and cold beer at reasonable prices. I suspect Larry is up in heaven still laughing." John McNamara

 

3.       "Jim and I have been great friends forever and when I was a senior in high school he called me to see if I wanted to go with him and Larry to a Gopher vs. Michigan State football game at the dome. At that time, the dome was brand new and it may have been the first event I'd ever seen there. Jimmy was still in crutches and a knee brace form his knee surgery that summer. I had no idea when going to the game that we were going to be sitting in Calvin Griffith's Me trodome suite. Well as the night progressed, Larry and the Robertson brothers were having a good time and at the end of the night we got a cab ride, because of Jimmy still being on crutches, from just outside the Metrodome to where we were parked, probably 8 or 10 blocks away. Upon arriving at the Yanz Cadillac in downtown Minneapolis, Larry tossed me the keys to drive home, since he had had a few too many to drink. I had never driven a car that big or that nice and, to make it worse, it was snowing all the way home. I was very relieved to have driven the Cadillac back to Hastings without a scratch." John Klimek.< /o:p>

 

4.       "Every New Year's Day, Larry would shot down the grill & provide free food the customers until it was gone. He would also rent 2 additional TV's to go with the 2 that were permanent, just for the bowl games. One New Year's Day, Larry had the numbers 4 & 3 on the Sugar Bowl. One team scored at eh end of the 3^rd quarter & went for 2 points. They were stopped & Larry won with his 4 & 3, so he thought. After the stop, Larry went into the men's room thinking he was $250 richer. However, there was a penalty on the extra point & they had to redo the play. This time the offense scored & the score became 4 & 5. Unaware of the turn of events & the score change, Larry came out of the men's room to find out the score was 4 & 5. He was totally confused. Finally someone explained what had happened while he was gone. Larry said, "That was an expensive sh--!" Jake Moore

 

5.       "I knew your father well as he was HHS Class of 1950 & I was 1952. In the fall of 1949 I threw many blocks to help him to run from his Right Halfback position. In what I remember as late August or September 1962 I had an extra Viking ticket which I offered to Larry. Upon returning from the Old Met Stadium we went to the almost completed Bierstube. I guess it must have been only days before it opened. Therefore, I claim to be one of his almost first customers. My last two years of college, 1956/57 I was a Hastings Policeman. I worked the 12 midnight shift. Late at night Larry would come over the Bridge at least 25 MPH over the speed limit. I stopped him numerous times giving him warning after warning after warning. Finally enough was enough I gave him a ticket for speeding. His comment was 'It's about time.' Was that the smell of alcohol I detected?" Ron Zastrow

 

6.       Shorty Hild was one of the more colorful characters Hastings ever produced. One quiet summer morning about 10:30, Shorty got up off his stool at the Stube & went to the pay phone hanging on the wall by the back door. Shorty called the Bierstube & disguised his voice to sound like a woman. Larry answered the phone by the till, listened intently & then hung up. He then went & got one bar towel & covered the phone he was talking on & then went & covered the pay phone Shorty had called on. Larry came back scratching his head & muttering that he had just received the strangest phone call. 'The phone company just called & asked me to cover up the phones because they were going to blow the dust out of the lines.' Suddenly it sunk in & Larry realized what had just happened. The guys sitting at the bar exploded in laughter!" Jake Moore

 

Incompetent Umpiring/Officiating Very Close to Ruining Sports!!! Just over this past week I've witnessed a completely unacceptable, incompetent, inexplicable, unbelievable, way beyond unfair, biased, seemingly fixed, the shows about me & not the players, make a call just so you can look at me officiating & umpiring that I've seen in the literally 1000's of sporting events the past 35 years, since I was 8 years old. Many officials & umpires nowadays have bigger egos than most of their harder working, more dedicated players they're working with. In the multibillion dollar business of sports, the officials of whatever sport it pertains should be held especially accountable for their incompetency with warnings, suspensions, fines & termination, just as any other normal job.

 

A Few Examples (Start all descriptions with incompetent, disgusting & unacceptable). Most egomaniacal officials in all of sports: Major League Umpires!!!  

* Completely inconsistent balls & strikes, ie: Twins vs. White Sox, Royals & many other ball games.

* Gopher football game vs. Ohio State: end of 1^st half, Gophers in Ohio State territory - ruling - Gopher fumble on converted 1^st down when momentum was clearly stopped, piling on ensued "A full 5 seconds" after a phantom fumble by the Gophers. Result: Ohio State ball. Halftime score Buckeyes 20, Gophers 7, instead of potentially only 13-10. I turned the game off immediately. If I were Brewster I would have stole one away from the penalty record breaking 1981 North Stars vs. Bruins in Boston, instructed my players to stand up to, go all out until a full 1.5 seconds afte r each & every play no matter how many penalties were called. Incidentally that year & EVERY year after that, the Bruins no longer had the Stars number & from that day forward gained their respect & never had the dominating upper hand again. I think I'll go check one of my boys into the boards right now.  

*18 yard gain by Adrian Peterson nullified by a 100% bogus holding call on Artis Hicks.

*Once again, a 23 yard gain by Peterson nullified by a COMPLETELY phantom holding call on Bobby Wade. (Adrian would've ended up with nearly 150 yards rushing & the Vikings would have had at least a chance to win that game.)

*Lastly, & maybe the most disgusting & disgraceful rulings of the entire weekend or maybe even entire month of September the SUPPOSED forward progress & obvious fumble on the 4^th & goal giving the Titans the ball on the ½ yard line, burning 2 timeouts & allowing them to score an easy ½ yard TD the very next play.

***All rhythm changing, momentum breaking, biased &/or ignorant or incompetent, but mostly "GAME CHANGING officiating" should not be allowed to continue. If it's not an obvious call, leave your "ego-driven" flags in your pocket & "LET THEM PLAY!!!"

A Little More Spewing: *NBA Draft lottery = fixed. *Baseball's division winning coin flip for home field advantage = ridiculous. *AJ Perzynski & Terrell Owens = top 5 biggest donkeys in sports. *College football not having a simple 4 or 8 team playoff = the WORST of ALL!!! Cut our losses & fire Childress already!!!

AHHHHHH!!!...I feel much better now!!!

CONGRATULATIONS on a Great Season Twins! Let's go get a HR hitter for next year!

Don't miss Oakdale's Halloween/Anniversary Party October 25^th!!!

Happy Halloween & don't forget to vote!!!

September Blog

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

 

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).

Part 9: September 2008

 

"Olympics Review & Special Events Edition"

 

OKTOBERFEST! The Bierstube's Oktoberfests are starting in grand style at LW's Bierstube in IGH, Friday, September 12 & 13^th, also celebrating this locations 25 year anniversary! There will be tons of specials all weekend featuring our GRAND PRIZE 42 inch Big Screen Plasma TV! (Mostly donated by Plaza TV in W. St. Paul. Thank you Plaza TV!) Drawing will be held September 15^th during Monday Night Football. Must be present to win. You can fill out a slip everyday from now until then. Good luck Bierstubians! Oktoberfest will run every Friday & Saturday starting at LW's, then Hastings, Oakdale, Red Wing & the "Super Grand Finale" at JJ's in White Bear Lake October 10 & 11^th. Check out your local listings & schedules at any Bierstube.

 

Speaking of 25: The original Bierstube in Hastings (est. 1962) will be having a "VERY SPECIAL" 25 year anniversary "Tribute" to the original proprietor & founder, very proud to say my father, Larry Yanz's celebrating of his life on the actual 25 year anniversary of his passing on Sunday, September 21^st. This will coincide with Oktoberfest the same weekend. My Dad lived until he was 51 years old & we will be giving away 51 prizes throughout the weekend, including very special prizes for the top 3 stories about Larry! The story's must be under 125 words, very legible (if not typed) & submitted by Wednesday, September 17^th. Every story needs to be appropriate in language & content. Every single Larry Yanz story will win a prize for just submitting it on time. The top 3 (1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze-in the spirit of this years Olympics & my Dad's love of sports) will be framed & hung permanently in the original Bierstube & many, if not all of the other Bierstubes. You definitely can remain anonymous if you choose. Any questions regarding our Oktoberfest featuring the Amazing Dale Grove (accordion extraordinaire) or Tim Erickson (Host/all around talent & entertaining showman) or our SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS please inquire with our wait staff or bartenders or call me (Jim Yanz 612/868-1305).

 

SPECIAL PRIZES! Just a few of the many, many special prizes include: 25 Larry's Steak Special dinners (for the 25 year anniversary), 51 Larry's Steak Special dinners (for every year Larry lived). Winner will receive one dinner per month (that's over 2 or 4 years worth of dinners!), Vikings vs. Packers tickets, jewelry donated by Johnson Jewelers, CASH!, & much, much more!!! Prizes 1-24 will be given out Saturday, September 20^th, & prizes 25-51 will be given out Sunday, September 21^st after the Vikings game.

 

Highly Recommended Movies: "Walk Hard: The Legend of Dewey Cox" (hysterical), Charles Haley's "Roots."

 

Homerun Champion: Did anyone else notice the inexplicable lack of attention & credit the overrated Joe Buck & the rest of the media refused to give our Justin Morneau? Even during the Pre All Star Game introductions they announced Josh Hamilton the "Star of last night's homerun contest" & didn't mention A THING about the Champion Justin Morneau. Josh did steal the show, but Justin plain & simple was "The 2008 Homerun Champion!"

 

OLYMPICS! Even if you're not a big sports fan, if you put a little effort into checking some events out there's usually at least a couple of riveting, emotional, compelling & especially controversial events that happen pretty much daily.

Fireworks: The Chinese invented fireworks.

Opinion: Michael Phelps is neither the greatest athlete nor the greatest Olympian ever. He is one of the best, if not "the Best" swimmers ever AND in his sport had many more opportunities to win than the other sports. What he did was absolutely phenomenal & great, but to me it doesn't even come close to what most gymnasts (men or women) can do.

Fun to Watch: Women's beach volleyball, especially Misty May (& not just for her bikini or lack there of). Surprising…Table Tennis! My & Jodi's favorite, gymnastics!

Speaking of Gymnastics: Nastia Liuken, Shawn Johnson & others got screwed a few times. How many Chinese gals either fell down or took huge steps & cross steps on their dismounts, while our Americans were nailing their routines & sticking their dismounts. They virtually had the exact same degree of difficulty only to be cheated on their final scores. Oh, & I'm SORRY CHINA, but multiple winner He Hexin is not even close to being 16 years old. People might say what does it matter if she's the best she deserves it. To that I say "yes," but how many other rule abiding countries may have left their underage & better athletes at home? A rule's a rule, & hopefully this farce is justified by the IOC & the proper winners move up a medal where they belong.

"Real Greatest Athletes" Jim Thorpe, Wilt Chamberlain, Dave Preiner's wife Jill, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Joel Varburg, Lebron James, Jessie Owens, Bruce Jenner & many decathlon winners including USA winner Brian Mays, top gymnasts (like Mary Lou Retton, Nadia Comanechie, Olga Colbert, Rod Insland), Usain Bolt, Mike Yanz (TV commercials "Bierstube Guy"), many pro football, hockey, baseball & basketball players, Babe Ruth, Mike Montcreif, Muhamid Ali, Tubby Biskupski, Bo Jackson, Don Saatzer, Doc Louden & of course Murph…you get the picture.

Did you know? The historic China Drum Tower, in which Minnesota's Todd Bachman (fatally) & Barbara Bachman (stable condition) were stabbed while on a guided tour, was built in the 13^th century. Back then, when people screwed up on their job or showed up late, the Chinese government would kill them & bury them within the concrete slabs of the building.

Best Story: The emotional roller coaster it must have been for the "Gold Medal Winning" coach of the exciting "Gold Medal Winning" volleyball team. Just 2 weeks after losing his father-in-law & almost his mother-in-law, while his traumatized wife witnessed the crazed knife wielding killer, his underage, underdog team goes out & wins the gold. Most of them admitted winning the gold was for their visibly grieving coach Hugh Mucuteon.

USA in the NBA Stands for: Unparallel Spoiled Adolescent Narcissistic chest pumping look at me Babies All day long (for many but NOT ALL). Have any NBA basketball players EVER committed a foul EVER since the 1980's? Boy do I miss the Larry Byrds, Magic Johnsons, Kevin McHales, John Stocktons, Dr. Js, Moses Malones, John Havilechecks, Bill Russells, Dave Cowens & MANY more of the quieter & respectful, raise their hands when they committed a foul (or not) but didn't whine or cry after every single foul era. What a great example our current NBA punks are leaving for our kids these days. Not to mention most of their selfish & lazy play. Was their very many others out their rooting for Spain in the closely contested gold medal game? Who else pines for the old fashioned days of true sportsmanship? A good start; zero tolerance for demonstrative whiney complaining after fouls called or an automatic technical and ban all controversial hip hop rap during all NBA games. I could go on, but I think my blog readers get the picture.

Kudos: To USA Olympian David Neville for diving at the finish line for the bronze in the 100 meter hurdles & making it a clean sweep for the USA in that event. (That's what I'm talking about NBA primadonnas!)

 

Vikings Comment: If the Vikings win one of their 1^st two very difficult games at Green Bay & home vs. Indianapolis, in my mind it will be considered a great start.

 

A big birdie says: The blog has learned that the great Usian Bolt would have to go through a whole NFL process including entering the Draft & could not just be signed as a free agent.

 

"In Memory of My Dad Larry Yanz"

"Dad, as the 25^th Anniversary of your death approaches Sunday, September 21^st, I find myself thinking about you even more, & that's saying a lot. You've done so much for me & your family, not to mention your other family the community of Hastings. You helped many other individuals, including complete strangers who were simply down on their luck. Dad, in my heart, I could not have asked for a more supportive, loving father! I wish my wonderful wife Jodi would have had a chance to meet you. She hears so much about you that she always tells me what a great guy you must have been. Max, Sam & Maci obviously never had a chance to see or be with you, for physically you were long gone. You are, however, somehow with them much more than I EVER would have believed or thought possible. Just recently 5 year old Max has been asking more questions about Grandpa Larry. A few times when he has seen me in deep thought or a little sad, he would seemingly detect my feelings & help me. With some very timely and meaningful hugs, kisses & even clings at somehow just the right times. They have all helped me very much to move on. If it wasn't for you Dad, there wouldn't be them, which (to me) makes me the luckiest man in the world! Along with being sad & missing you much more these days, I also am SO grateful to God for allowing me such a great Dad, who unconditionally loved me & has filled me with countless happy memories that I'll always have & cherish for the rest of my life. As the song goes, "Only the Good Die Young" and you were (in my eyes) 'THE BEST!' I love you Dad! Your son, Jim."

Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).   Part 8: September 2008

August Blog

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

 

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).   Part 8: August 2008

 

Hard to Believe: The Vikings pre-season home opener is already this coming Friday night vs. the Seattle Seahawks. Also, keep a close eye on our "GREAT" Viking Specials during the regular season!

 

OKTOBERFEST!: The Bierstube's Oktoberfests are starting in grand style at LW's (Lawrence William's) Bierstube in IGH, Saturday, September 12 & 13^th, also celebrating this locations 25 year anniversary! There will be tons of specials all weekend featuring our GRAND PRIZE 42 inch Big Screen Plasma TV! (Mostly donated by Plaza TV in W. St. Paul. Thank you Plaza TV!) Drawing will be held September 15^th during Monday Night Football. Must be present to win. You can fill out a slip everyday from now until then. Good luck Bierstubians! Oktoberfest will run every Friday & Saturday starting at LW's, then Hastings, Oakdale, Red Wing & the "Super Grand Finale" at JJ's in White Bear Lake October 10 & 11^th. Check out your local listings & schedules at any Bierstube.

 

Speaking of 25: The original Bierstube in Hastings (est. 1962) will be having a "VERY SPECIAL" 25 year anniversary "Tribute" to the original proprietor & founder, very proud to say my father, Larry Yanz's celebrating of his life on the actual 25 year anniversary of his passing on Sunday, September 21^st. This will coincide with Oktoberfest the same weekend. My Dad lived until he was 51 years old & we will be giving away 51 prizes throughout the weekend, including very special prizes for the top 6 stories about Larry! The story's must be under 125 words, very legible (if not typed) & submitted by Wednesday, September 17^th. Every story needs to be appropriate in language & content. Every single Larry Yanz story will win a prize for just submitting it on time. The top 6 (2 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze-in the spirit of this years Olympics & my Dad's love of sports) will be framed & hung permanently in the original Bierstube & many, if not all of the other Bierstubes. You definitely can remain anonymous if you choose. Any questions regarding our Oktoberfest featuring the Amazing Dale Grove (accordion extraordinaire) or Tim Erickson (Host/all around talent & entertaining showman) or our SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS please inquire with our wait staff or bartenders or call me (Jim Yanz 612/868-1305).

 

Fact: LW's Biestube's golf tournament (The Leonard Schaffer Memorial) was a huge success because of Cindy Schaffer (Hannah's Grandmother) who helped run, organize & promote the charity event. The tournament for Hannah (who was born very premature & faces several developmental challenges) & her family raised over $1,600!!! Hannah's family is deeply grateful to the sponsors. My brother Mike & I were incredibly honored to be able to help such a great family & look forward to helping the family for as many years that are necessary. God Bless & good luck to Hannah & her family in the challenging journey ahead! (P.S. Mike Yanz did a fantastic job emceeing the event, also donating his upcoming Twins tickets!)

 

Speaking of Sports & Hard to Believe: It's not often us sports fans are lucky enough to witness one or two epic battles every one or two years, but basically within the last 4-5 weeks we've witnessed three! #1) Tiger vs. Rocco in the US Open. Probably the first & last time I ever or will ever root against the "history in making" (see it, witness & enjoy it) Tiger Woods. The 46 year old charismatic short hitting Rocco Mediate was just too personable & more importantly just plain "unbelievable!" Of course, Tiger with his injured knee just added that much more mystique & magic even more so than he usually has. (And that's saying a lot about the "once in a lifetime" Tiger in itself). According to Tiger, that was "the greatest tournament or win he has ever been a part of. If ever there was a time to feel particularly proud for coming in 2^nd, this one's it. What a story to be able to tell your Grandkids!" #2) The truly epic, grueling battle of wills between Roger Federerererer and of course the amazing successful efforts and talent of Rafael Nadal. This had everything-Great comeback by one of the greatest of all time in Federer, Tie breaking saved set points & even more nail bighting saved match points with unbelievable gets, saves & passing shots. Not to mention a marathon championship 5 hour match! Roger work on your backhand & numerous unforced errors or your not going to get up to or surpass Pete Sampras's total of 16 (record) major tournament wins! Roger now has 14. #3) The British Open & as I referred to very boldly & very correctly (I hate to brag) the always exciting, "Always fun to watch" (is how I believe I stated it exactly in last months blog) Greg "The Shark" Norman. The 53 year old actually held the lead with only 6 holes to go in the 3^rd Major Tourney of the year, The British Open, before the very solid Padraig Harrongton caught fire & defended his title for another year. Something the Shark should feel completely proud of & not one bit ashamed. For 66 holes & at age 53, he was the best in the world.

 

Sorry all of you Non Sports Fans! But it was a month of Sports involving Golf & Tennis that "You will most likely NEVER see again!" And yes, Golf & Tennis are every bit the sport that football, baseball, hockey & basketball are. However, football is & always will be my favorite.

 

Fun Fact: 45 years ago thing month, Warren Spahn of the Milwaukee Braves vs. Juan Maricheal of the San Francisco Giants each went the distance pitching 16 innings until Hank Aaron won the game with a walk off homerun in the bottom of the 16^th to win 1-0. The odds of that ever happening that way again at any level: ZERO!

 

Fun Fact 2: The two kids &/or young gentlemen patting Hank Aaron on the back (on the field after his all-time record breaking homerun) between 2^nd & 3^rd base went on to become very successful doctors & occasionally speak with Aaron either at charily events or the old fashioned phone call.

 

Hank Aaron Fun Fact 3 & 4: Even though Hank Aaron (in my book) still has the all time homerun record for a career, his best season in home runs rank #69 all time & his best RBI total doesn't even crack the top 100.

 

Overheard: An example of "The Law of Attraction" Mother Theresa once said NO to an antiwar demonstration, but immediately followed with "Let me know if you're going to have a pro peace rally & you can count me in."

 

Fact: Roger Maris's total homeruns after 154 games in which Babe Ruth hit his then record 60 homeruns was still at 59. Our guy needed the now & then official total of 162 games to accomplish his record of 61 homeruns. One might say semantics, one might say asterisk, one might say so what. Not to take "any" credit from the great Roger Maris & his great year, but I still say Babe Ruth is the greatest #1 dominating player of any sport of "All Time!"

 

Great Quote!: "Beer is proof that God loves us & wants us to be happy." -Ben Franklin (Does anyone know if he was German?!)

Nice Quote: "Honor is defined by what you do when nobody is looking." -Herb George

 

Did You Know? In 1975 Fran Tarkenton's Dad died of a massive heart attack while watching his son during the Vikings Cowboys Playoff game at the old Met Stadium. The same game, Drew Pearson clearly pushed off Nate Write in the final seconds to advance to the NFC Championship game. This according to Bud Grant & MANY Vikings players was the Vikings best team & best chance to win the Superbowl, despite the 4 Superbowls they were actually in from 1969 to 1977. AHHHH…The Glory Years!!!  

 

Last but definitely not least: Also as I predicted word for word way back in the April blog: A trade of our #1 draft choice for Carolina's Julius Peppers or someone equal to or better than, & Tavaris just plays OK, that automatically makes us Superbowl contenders! This would be 2008's version of the "Purple People Eaters," especially with the William's Wall (Kevin & Pat). You heard it here 1^st …Again! (Just insert a better, younger, healthier, quicker, more dominating Jared Allen for Julius Peppers & it improves our chances that much more!)

 

Vikings: Keep your eyes & ears open for every Bierstube's Vikings Game Day & Monday Night Football's awesome specials! Starting with FREE tacos for everyone during all Vikings games, except for Red Wings (which will have their own specials). Any questions call me (Jim 612/868-1305)

 

Fact: Former Governor Jessie Ventura has a Porsche with a sticker on the back that reads "9-11 was an inside job." Then stated, "I prefer Al Jezeera to the Minnesota Media. I'll talk to them, I won't talk to you." Jim Yanz's comment: Either that's the straw that broke Ventura's nimble headed brain & all credibility or No Comment!"

Shave my head update: I wasn't able to do it last month because of injuries & knee surgery. I will definitely have it done one Friday this month at 8:00 in the Larry's Lounge & Smoking Patio in Oakdale.

July Blog

"According to Jim" (Jim's rants & raves)

 

 

News, Notes, Facts & Opinions from the owner Jim Yanz (if you care).

Part 7: July 2008

 

Saints Fun Bus!: Come join us for our Annual German Heritage night at the Saints game, Monday, August 4^th. $30 includes fun transportation (bathroom on bus), beer & pop on bus, tailgating under a huge outdoor tent with more free beer & brats, reserved seating & a chance to see the one & only "Utube Bierstube Guy star" Mike Yanz throw out the 1^st pitch for the Saints & then attempt to go 9 innings before getting thrown out himself by security…

 

Strong Opinion: I've thought the NBA was fixed ever since the mid 80's when it installed the inexplicable (behind closed doors) ping pong ball lottery. Guess who had the worst chance to get the pick that year with under a 3% chance. One hint; the #1 ranked market "New York" Knicks of course. And who did they take with that pick? The supposed greatest center to come out of college in many, many years, the player who was supposed to bring the Knicks back to their prominence & win multiple championships (never won a single one) Georgetown's 7 foot Patrick Ewing. Now this year the #2 market Chicago with a 1.5% chance wins the #1 pick (still done before & behind closed doors). Why do the supposed powers that be stand by & keep letting this happen? This along with the officiating scandal, the ESPN Era of needing to make the top 10 highlights instead of the Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, John Stockton & Steve Nash unselfish proper way of playing, the rap music before, during & after the games, the punk attitude of 95% of all the players, high fives after every free throw (made or missed) the unbalanced officiating for the star players & the home teams, allowing not just 2 steps but 2 ½, 3 & most of the time (Ginoble, Kobe, etc. 3.5 steps when the rule is clearly a foot & a half. "AND MOST OF ALL" because as you can tell I could go on forever the DISGUSTING, FOUL, DISGRACEFUL, DISPICIBLE, COMPLETELY LOUD PROFANITY that is aloud by every & any players ALL THE TIME! When I was 13 to 23 to 33 & now 43 years old I've always found it to be disgusting, shameful & classless behavior. My Dad instilled that in us as kids. My Dad Larry not only ever swore, but as a bar owner, also did not tolerate ANY excessive bad language within his restaurant. The tradition continues nearly 25 years after his passing (neither do any of the Bierstubes now or never will!). The #1 offender, the disgusting Kevin Garnett! David Stern; this is a great way to teach our kids proper etiquette, self control & sportsmanship. How about concentrating less on the soon to be flopping rule & more on the completely more obvious problem & install a new rule of no more "f"inghimers & childish outbursts in your supposed Pro Basketball league. Right now, the pro in Pro Basketball stands for Profanity Basketball. Clean up this league now & have a no tolerance rule like your equally silly leaving the bench rule that ruined last years entire playoffs! (Hint Amar Stodimiar) Better yet, move on David Stern & see if Roger Goodell would like to moonlight a few hours for the NBA!

 

Shave My Head Update:  Yes, I am a man of my word & will be shaving my head Friday night, July 11^th at approximately 8 p.m. in the Larry's Lounge Smoking Patio in Oakdale. I DON'T look forward to seeing you there!

 

Congratulations: KG on your 1^st & hopefully only NBA Championship. There's no denying there probably has never been anyone who has given more effort or intensity on the basketball court & deserves immense credit for a league that doesn't come near that type of effort until maybe the final minute of the 4^th quarter. Speaking of the 4^th quarter and KG; There is also very little doubt that there's probably never been a so called superstar like Kevin Garnett who has been so afraid & so bad at stepping up during crunch time as him. So congratulations KG, you hustling, choking, spineless, profanity punk! (Jodi, where'd you put my razor?) All other jobs in America have to be held with a certain decorum, self control & common courtesy, so what's so different about sports? Especially basketball P.S. By the way Kevin, act like you've been there before instead of majorly embarrassing yourself.

 

IMPORTANT REMINDER: The Leonard Schaffer Memorial (LW's Bierstube) Golf Tournament is coming fast, Monday, July 21^st 12:45 shotgun start scramble at River Oaks. 100% of ALL of the proceeds will go towards medical bills for Hannah O'Halloran. Hannah is Leonard's Great Granddaughter & LW's manager Cindy's Granddaughter. She is 18 months old & was born premature & has already accumulated unbelievable excessive medical bills. If you are unable to participate in this very worthy & necessary fundraiser for her but would like to help, please contact Cindy (651/428-1361). Your participation &/or help is UNBELIEVABLY APPRECIATED!

 

Overheard: "The Church is not a museum for Saints, but a hospital for Sinners."

 

Who Said It? "No man stands s tall than when he stoops to help a child." Abraham Lincoln

 

Speaking of Children: Wayne Deilke (a very good Bierstube customer) took his daughter Cassie to her 1^st Twins game 19 years ago when she was 5. They got there a little early & Cassie was already getting bored. It seemed like Cassie's only saving grace would be to catch a foul ball from Kirby Puckett, so Cassie hoped & hoped. In the mean time Dad Wayne continually trying to entertain his daughter but warning not to get too disappointed if one doesn't come her way tries to explain the odds to his daughter being very unlikely but let's have a good time & you never know. Almost needless to say, a Kirby Puckett foul ball comes their way; Wayne drops it & Cassies had nightmares ever since! Just kidding! Wayne catches it & immediately hands it to his daughter to a standing ovation from the nearby crowd. Cassie, now 24, still displays that ball proudly (hopefully more because of Dad than Kirby) & also is an accomplished ice skater, skating with Disney on Ice the past several years! Way to go Deilkes!!!

 

Who Said It #2? "We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give." Winston Churchill

 

Set Your DVR or Tivo: JW's  Bierstube in Oakdale bartender Jimmy will be on a Wheel of Fortune replay Monday, July 7^th. Asked how he did he said, "I'm still schlepping drinks for you ain't I? You'll just have to tune in & see." (Game Show network at 9:30 a.m.)

 

Misc. Sports: Twins remain contenders hovering about 1 ½  back. 1^st time their starting pitchers have won six in a row since 2006 when it was Santana, Radke, Liriano & Baker. The current Twins streaks ERA in the last 9 games has been a remarkable 1.76, winning 8 of 9. Vikings definitely on the right track. T-Wolves better take a chance on Mayo (could be a blessing in disguise getting rather unlucky with the 3^rd overall pick); Gophers have to show me something positive fairly early before I start caring again; Wild or Gopher Hockey ask my friends John Klimek, Rob "Tally Wacker" Talofous, or Scott Berg (they know a little bit more about hockey than I do). Rob is Dean Talofous's (9 year NHL veteran) younger brother. None the less, Rob is over 10 times the athlete his older brother Dean was. Rob made honorable mention in synchronized swimming his senior year.

 

Rocco Rocco Rocco!!! What can we say about this year's US Open besides WOW! That tourney goes down as one of the top 5 Golf tournaments & top 50 sporting events of "all time!" I used to be against the 18 hole playoff, but for just he US Open what the heck. We all seen (or hopefully a lot of you          ) That was & maybe (unless there's another affable smiley easy going fun 45 year old guy who's never won a major challenging Tiger) the last time I'll ever root for anyone else but him. It's fun watching history unfold before your very eyes. With Tiger's bad knee & Rocco just being Rocco, to me & I'm sure the audience & the sponsors there definately was no loser. What a story for Rocco to tell his Grandchildren! He gave Tiger, in Tiger's own words, "his greatest win, tournament & challenge than any he's ever played."

 

Enjoy: the Masters of Golf, Superbowl of Football & the World Series of Baseball. Enjoy the Wimbeldon Championships (both men & ladies) this Holiday weekend & more importantly have a safe & fun holiday & a blessed & hopefully warm & sunny July!

 

God Bless: Shannon Robinson (my sister-in-law) & her family. Shannon had surgery to remove a brain tumor & everything went great! Tumor was malignant & she's going to be fine. She's getting back to her normal, happy self. Thanks for all your prayers!

 

God Bless: Bonnie Sylvester & her entire family. Bonnie was simply the sweetest, nicest, classiest person I've ever met.