The UUN sings: “California, Here We Come.” (UUN #14-19)

Dear Relieved, Yet Exhilarated Johnnie Fans —

Question of the Week: What happens when the two best quarterbacks in Division III meet on the gridiron?

Answer: A shootout of gigantic proportions, won in this case by the Advancing-To-Round-Two Johnnies by the incredible score of 51-47.

And time ran out on the Spartans. How sweet it is! But getting there was sure a hand-wringing, heart-pumping adventure.

 What a game!  Pat Lilly ’79 of the Lilly-Wozniak Clan table summed it up in the jammed and noisy back room of La Playette postgame when he said, “That was the best $8 value ever.” ($8 meaning the NCAA price of a playoff game ticket last Saturday; it's $10 out at Chapman University.) The way he said it, I believe that it would remain true even if we had not come from behind and won in the closing minutes of a wild back and forth offensive exhibition. 

Two talented teams, led by outstanding quarterbacks, went toe-to-toe for the entire game. It left us spectators, not to mention our players and especially Gary Fasching ’81 and the coaches, breathless...particularly when the Johnnies fell behind by as much as two touchdowns for a large part of the game. The best part, in the end, is that the Johnnies did not cave to the unexpected pressure. They never gave up. They sure could have, for much of the game we seemed outclassed and bewildered by their laser-sharp plays and speed. But our guys stood up to the test, turned it around and brought home one of the hardest-fought wins in recent memory. Without being condescending, hats off to both teams...it was a helluva game and, if Aurora hadn't squandered its 2nd half time-outs so early, the result could have been different.

Senior quarterback Jackson Erdmann passed for 481 yards and four touchdowns in the exciting, exhausting win (Photo by Rafael Alvarez).

Besides being an exciting game, it was also puzzling on a few accounts. First, although the Aurora University Spartans won their conference pretty handily, nobody (outside of Aurora coach Don Beebe and his players no doubt) foresaw their ability to play mano-a-mano so successfully with the 8th-ranked Johnnies. To quote Butch Cassidy, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kbTbg00AJU   (.25 seconds)

Second, how could a team so talented, so fast and so explosive not have been ranked higher, maybe even much higher, by the pretty knowledgeable coaches and sports media directors who run the d3football.com Top 25 Poll? How did Aurora slip by relatively unnoticed? One answer might be is that it’s Beebe’s first season. Another might be that they hadn't played a ranked "legacy" team like SJU right down to the wire.

Third, In watching them play us I have to wonder if they could not also have defeated every team listed in the Top 25 from us all the way down. By the way, we play them in Collegeville for the first game of a two-game home-and-home series starting next preseason and at this moment I’d bet on Aurora taking us, what with Jackson Erdmann and most of our O-Line gone and their junior QB back. In fact, I think we might be seeing the start of a new dynasty in the Mount Union, Whitewater and Hardin-Baylor mode enter into the scene. You saw it here first, football fans.

Aurora’s shifty, speedy, accurate junior quarterback Gavin Zimbelman was chased by SJU defenders all over the field, most times to no avail. Did we mention he was a junior!

I think it could be a good idea to use some of the Gagliardi Legacy Fund collected and allocated for team improvement to send some of our defensive backs, new O-Line, new quarterbacks and running backs to Don Beebe’s House of Speed training camp next summer. [ https://www.beebehouseofspeed.com/about-us ] In the linked-below NCAA postgame interview with the Aurora coach and some players after our game you will hear a couple of the kids talking about the benefits of that training and how it helped them against us. Just saying...those guys were so fast, at times they made us look slow, which isn’t the case in reality. That’s just how good they were.

Aurora Press Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDgpI0uMSFo

SJU Press Conference:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_3RZ4CmeaM

* *

This issue of the Unofficial Underground News is shorter than usual (could be a relief to many) because of your editor’s need to catch a plane; ditto for the following week for the same reason. So the usual format will be different and information is thrown in however I come across it. 

For instance, here’s a review of the game by one of the backroom-La-guys — Ron Tomczik ’65 — who actually put his views down for us. He has rarely if ever missed a home game and very few away-games since he returned from his Army officer stint in the Vietnam era 1960s. He studies the game constantly and has known many of the players and coaches through the years. Ron makes it a habit to visit with team members on the field after each game. Here is his take:

Certainly a shock to the Johnnie Nation as few if any predicted this kind of result. At the morning Tailgate, almost all were predicting a 3/4 TD margin victory. Heck, even the Massey Prediction was SJU 45, Aurora 19.

So what were the causes of this shell-shock?

*Super Aurora quarterback, Gavin Zimbelman, only 5'10", 185 lbs. -- per the Johnnie players I spoke with -- was by far the best quarterback we have faced this year. Until about the 4th quarter, our D-Line could not sack him--but fans around me were constantly shouting "Holding/Holding" but few flags were thrown. (Yet we received 15-yard penalties for questionable Pass Interference). Zimbelman's throwing accuracy, the velocity of throws, running and scrambling was amazing.

*Per Johnnie D players -- their receivers "were slippery, short and fast."

*Very well-coached Aurora Team. Except they used their time outs early in the 2nd half--really could have used those time outs late in the 4th quarter.

*Johnnie half time adjustment was going to a nickel backfield. By the 4th quarter, we started seeing positive results. Even though we were behind about 85% of the game, we turned the game around with a few minutes left in the 4th with our own super quarterback, receivers, runners like Kai Barber, and our Big D, which really came "alive" in the final quarter.-- e.g. "hurrying up" Zimbelman, some sacks, and good pass defense.

*Per players, the Johnnie 2nd-half home crowd support really helped SJU player spirits and disrupted Aurora. Our home crowd "noise" was about as loud as we have heard at home in a very long time--and that alone was exciting for many of us!

In summary, on about as nice-as-could-be late November day, we experienced a very "hard on the heart" football game that ultimately sends us into the Second Round.  Go Johnnies!

* * * *

Ron spoke of the fan noise. That was true...on both sides of the field; a loud, spirited Aurora fan base stayed very much into it until the end. But I was most pleased with the voluble SJU student support that caused disruption throughout the fourth quarter. The official headcount was a paltry 2,262. Last week for Rose-Hulman the number reported was over 3,800.  I sure would have thought it was more for Aurora, not only from the noise but from the number of people present, especially students who showed up with considerably higher attendance than for most of the season, and compared with those that attended the Rose-Hulman game.
 

St. John’s students stormed the field at the breath-taking conclusion of the Aurora-SJU First Round Playoff game, despite the continued announcements from the press box to “Please keep off the field” due to NCAA regulations. Here they are shown reluctantly obeying.

* * * *

A Gifted Mechanic —

A Chapman Panther football player was telling his friend how his uncle tried to make a new car for himself... "So he took wheels from a Cadillac, a radiator from a Ford, some tires and fenders from a Plymouth..."

"Holy Cow," interrupted his teammate, "What did he end up with?"

The Panther replied, "Two years."

* * * *

Johnnies Advance in NCAA Playoffs With Wild 51-47 Win —

In the aftermath of his team's 51-47 first-round playoff victory over Aurora (IL) Saturday afternoon, Saint John's University senior cornerback Chris Harris readily acknowledged there was not much left in the tank.

"I'm drained," he said. "But these are the kind of games you live for as a competitor. They did a really good job. Their quarterback is a really talented guy. He played a great game."

Indeed, Aurora University junior Gavin Zimbelman, who entered play leading all divisions of NCAA in passing touchdowns with 51, gave the Johnnies all they could handle and more. (Read and watch more:)  https://gojohnnies.com/news/2019/11/23/football-johnnies-advance-in-ncaa-playoffs-with-wild-51-47-win.aspx

Video Highlights of the Aurora Game:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rHl7HlZ6Mo  (2:58)

 

Our Offensive Line is leading the charge to Orange, CA for the Second Round of the NCAA Playoffs against Chapman University.


* *
 

The Aurora game, from their vantage point —

The Aurora University Spartan football team battled valiantly in the first round of the 2019 NCAA Division III Football Championship playoff at #8 Saint John's University. The Spartans took their high-powered offense to the Johnnies but fell just shy of victory, falling 51-47.  (Read more:)
https://athletics.aurora.edu/news/2019/11/23/football-spartans-battle-johnnies-in-memorable-ncaa-first-round-contest.aspx

* * * *

NCAA Division III Playoffs — Round 2 —

Johnnie Football Coming to Southern California!

Congratulations to the Johnnies on their win over Aurora University on Saturday in the first round of the NCAA Division III football playoffs! The next stop for the Johnnies is a showdown against Chapman University on Saturday, November 30 at 12 p.m. PST in Orange, California.

For those planning to make the trip to Orange (near Anaheim), please know there is no charter aircraft available from Minnesota. Our host hotel is Delta by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove (12021 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92840). The hotel is about three miles from Chapman’s stadium. To reserve a room, please visit www.Marriott.com/SNADE.

All Johnnie fans are invited to a pregame social on Saturday, November 30 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at our host hotel Delta by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove. The game kicks off at 12 p.m. PST at Wilson Field on the campus of Chapman University. The field is approximately three miles (10 minutes by car) from our host hotel.  

(Note to those staying at the hotel or close by the night before: We will also have an informal gathering at the hotel Friday evening.)

Safe travels and Go Johnnies!

* * * *
 

About the Chapman University Game —

Listening To/Watching The Game:

Radio Network:

The Bear 660 AM WBHR

- Sauk Rapids

* Covering central and northern Minnesota

KDIZ-1570 AM

* Covering the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin

KOWZ-1170 AM

- Waseca

Covering southern Minnesota and northern Iowa

Listening via the Internet:
https://portal.stretchinternet.com/csbsju/
(Coverage begins at 10:30 am)

Live Streaming:
https://portal.stretchinternet.com/chapman/  2 pm (12 noon PST):

Keep apprised on all NCAA 2nd Round games: 
https://www.d3football.com/videolink/bracket-blitz-2019

* * * *

Let’s Talk Playoffs, Round 2 —

Here is the 2019 NCAA D-III Playoff Bracket:
https://www.d3football.com/playoffs/2019/bracket

We are mostly concerned right now with the West portion of the NCAA Div. III bracket. Wow! There were really some great games last Saturday. Starting with our amazing shootout with Aurora and moving right on to Chapman’s startling three-OT win over Linfield 68-65.  Then Central (IA) slipped by UW-Oshkosh 38-37 in OT, and you get the idea that the committee did a pretty good job of pairing up the first round.  Only Wheaton had a laugher over hapless Martin Luther, 51-7. 

In the West for Round 2 this Saturday we have Wheaton hosting Central and, of course, St. John’s traveling to Chapman. Who will emerge winners on Saturday? After last week, who knows? I’m sure as heck not saying, for our game anyway; I think Wheaton will handle Central though.

Elsewhere, in games of interest, to me at least, we saw Mary Hardin-Baylor taking it to Redlands with a convincing 43-14 victory. Huntingdon upset Berry 27-24. Not surprisingly, UW-Whitewater took Monmouth pretty easily 35-10. And Wartburg had less trouble with Hope than I thought they would, winning 41-3. Finally, Mount Union shellacked Hanover 65-21. So those big games on Saturday are Whitewater hosting Wartburg (and those of us who remember what it’s like down there will have to pick UW-W as the favorite), with Mount Union hosting North Central (IL) and Mary Hardin-Baylor taking on Huntingdon. It’s not difficult to imagine UMU and MHBU winning their games handily.

* *

What Gives? —

From Eric Chalmers '92

Bob/Rob – Happy Thanksgiving!  Any idea why SJU is jetting off to CA this weekend rather than welcoming the Panthers to our more challenging climate?  Aren’t we the 2 Seed in our part of the bracket?  Certainly, #12 Chapman wasn’t given top billing over #8 SJU?  What gives?!? — Eric

(Editor's Reply: Many, many Johnnie fans are asking the same question. The first part of an answer is that we are actually the No. 3 seed in the West, Chapman over us at No. 2 seed because they (1) were undefeated while we lost one to the Cobbers;  and (2) did not have to share their SCIAC championship as we did the MIAC crown with the Summit Avenue Bullies.  The second part of the answer is really confusing for a lot of people: we are ranked #8 by the d3football.com people but it's the NCAA people, using different qualifiers, who determine the West part of the bracket and they were not impressed with either our d3football ranking or [so-so] strength of schedule or the fact we lost a game. You didn't ask this, but I've been led to believe that the team really is looking forward to flying out to Southern California, playing in warmth, eating in restaurants, and staying in a nice hotel all on the NCAA's nickel. I'm sure the Panthers would not feel the same way about playing in Central Minnesota.)

* *
 

From Denny Bracco ’75, Oak Park, IL —

Wick, heckuva game Saturday...we were lucky. 

Looks like Chapman had the same experience, and we could have just as well have been hosting Linfield next week. Orange County in November can't be all bad, though.  Hope we get a few fans there. — Denny

https://www.chapmanathletics.com/landing/index

* * 

From Conrad Macina, East Coast SJU fan, Landing, NJ —

I couldn’t watch the game, but I followed it online at d3football.com. Congrats to the Johnnies on a major victory! But 51-47? What happened? Did the teams agree at the coin toss to give both defenses the day off? And couldn’t either team have scored two more points to make it an even hundred?!?

On to Round Deux! Go Johnnies!! — Conrad

* *

From Drake Dierkhising SJP ’59/SJU ’63, Sonoma, CA —

Wow!! What a great win and come back, maybe BEST ever!!  Where were all the the usual Johnnie supporters?  Was game on regional TV ?  I turned the game on at 10:30 & heard the score as 14-7 Aurora.  Then a few minutes later 14-14 ., but quickly it was 21-14, then 28-14 at the half.  I got on again, off again voice commentary.  I will admit my attention wained when we fell behind.

The second half kept my attention “All-the-Way!”  Well, when it was 47-35, some doubt came in, but you could see the Johnnies still had their ‘dobber‘ up!  A Never Quit attitude.  So now Chapman at SJU again?  I truly missed not being at the ‘LA’ again...with Dirk standing at the Door:  you could only get in...if someone left!  Even Gag will be watching!!!  — Drake

* *

From Jason Good ’06, Excelsior, MN —

How about that game yesterday? Uffdah! I don’t know I’ve ever seen a team score like that on us. I was listening to the postgame driving home yesterday and heard we play them first game next season. They lose their top two receiving targets but QB is back. 

I watched the end of Chapman/Linfield when I got home. Should be another stiff test for us next weekend.  Take care. — Jason

* *

From John Chromy ’64, Washington, DC —

Just checked the website on the results of today's game---Wow, talk about "cardiac arrest" time. I am glad I am out on the East Coast and could not see/hear the game---I would be dead or in the hospital emergency room now. Well done, Johnnies!!! — John

* *

From Harry Acker, Honorary Member of Class of ’64, Virginia Beach, VA —

I watched the streaming today...what an exciting game. Hope our defense does better next week. Thanks for the newsletter...I really enjoy it. Happy Thanksgiving... and good luck next week. — Harry 

* *

From Jim Weiss ’64,

Never in doubt. We kicked their a**es. “In the name of the Father, and...”

Footnotes:

1. Our offense was unbelievable - quick strikes one after another.

2. Sure sure glad that Aurora used all of its 2nd half timeouts early.  

3. Kudos to SJU’s kicker.

* *

From The Football Whisperer —

Looks like SJU will be at Chapman U (CU) in California next Saturday. 

CU has been playing two QBs in almost ever game. Reed Vettel (#12, Soph) and Jonston MacIntyre (#14 Junior). The QBs have been playing about the same amount of time in each regular season game and in the Linfield game. Vettel has 147 completions and MacIntyre 144. 

The real controversy has been off the field. CU is about two miles from Disneyland. Both QBs have been competing for the hand of Minnie Mouse. Mickey is not happy. Goofy and the gang will be at the game cheering for the Johnnies as a protest in support of Mickey. Real drama here.

P.S. Linfield led in time of possession 44:08 to 37:06 but had three turnovers to zero for CU.  Wishing for Saturday: SJU, Central and Wartburg to keep winning.

* *

From Mike Scherer ’66, Wayzata, MN —

O Great Columnist!  I wanted you to know that Tommy Deters is back and starting on Saturday so his replacement is available for nickel back. Go Johnnies. We will see a different defense and the warmer weather should fit us just fine. — Mike

* * * *

So, Who is Chapman University? —
 

Chapman University is a private university in Orange, California. Chapman University offers 110 areas of study (49 majors and 61 minors) and encompasses ten schools and colleges: Business and Economics; Educational Studies; Film and Media Arts; Health and Behavioral Sciences; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Law; Engineering; Performing Arts; Pharmacy; and Communication.

Founded as Hesperian College, in Woodland, California, the school began classes on March 4, 1861. Its opening was timed to coincide with the hour of Abraham Lincoln’s first inauguration. Hesperian admitted students regardless of sex or race.

In 1920, the assets of Hesperian College were absorbed by California Christian College, which held classes in downtown Los Angeles. In 1934, the school was renamed Chapman College, after the chairman of its board of trustees (and primary benefactor), C.C. Chapman. In 1954, Chapman College moved to its present campus in the city of Orange on the site formerly occupied by Orange High School, which relocated to a nearby campus. 

Currently, Chapman U. has approximately 8,500 students, including 6,400 undergraduates and 2,100 postgraduates. In this regard, they are much like the University of St. Thomas vis-a-vis the rest of the MIAC. See this link to the SCIAC schools and enrollments. Interestingly enough, Chapman at one time was in NCAA Division II and moved back down.
[ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_California_Intercollegiate_Athletic_Conference ]

Chapman University competes in 21 sports at the NCAA Division III (non-scholarship) level in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). They are known as the Panthers; their mascot is, no surprise here, Pete the Panther. Their school colors are cardinal and gray. They have won seven NCAA national titles. As a member of the NCAA Division II, the Panthers won one baseball title (1968) and three men's tennis titles (1985, 1987, 1988). After moving to NCAA Division III, the Panthers won the 1995 Division III softball championship and later the 2003 and 2019 Division III baseball championships. 

In the 2014 and 2017 seasons, the Chapman University Panther football team ended their season undefeated in their conference and won the SCIAC championship. The 2019 men's baseball team defeated Birmingham-Southern College to become the DIII NCAA National Champions.

Chapman University appears to be a wealthy institution with handsome, relatively new buildings. This stadium certainly is no slouch. Johnnie fans, however, will have to sit on the opposite side.

* * * *

Twin Cities and St. Cloud Area Fans
Can Watch Together —

There will be two viewing parties will be available for SJU alumni and friends at 2 p.m. CT:

- Jax Café (1928 University Ave. NE, Minneapolis) (J-Club sponsored)

    - The event is free, please RSVP for planning purposes.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15BSeP1pm9n3OeO_P-Fi190zdOKKI00fiTZXJjLndd10/viewform?edit_requested=true

- Great River Bowl & Partners Pub (208 2nd St. South, Sartell)

    - Limited capacity is available. Please reserve a spot here. https://www.facebook.com/events/890153141386131/

The game will be video streamed live via Chapman and the game will be broadcast by WBHR-660 AM and aired by its affiliates (KOWZ-1170 AM and FM 106.3, Owatonna; KDIZ-1570 AM, Twin Cities).

* * * *

Acting Class —
 

A Chapman defensive lineman was asked to leave his studies in the University’s College of Performing Arts because of his very poor performance of an Arnold Schwarzenegger impression.

As he gathered his books and materials before leaving he told the teacher and his classmates with a poor accent, “Don’t worry...I’ll return.”

 ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgLfOrVJJMg ) (.03 sec.)
( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIvcD6MAk0g ) (1:24 min.)


* * * *

Ever wondered why we play the Star Spangled Banner before athletic events? —

https://www.youtube.com/embed/RW2Wo9ChiEg  (2:38 min.)

* * * *

The UnCasual Fan —

Review of the 51 – 47 Win over Aurora on Saturday, November 22, 2019

OK everyone, take a deep breath. We survived round 1 of the playoffs.

Looking back on my statement from last week, “Aurora should test us but not too much,“ what the heck do I know? Talk about being totally wrong and not doing enough research. I just went with the prevailing consensus and thoughts.

There is one thing I would like to go on record about. Even though Aurora scored a lot of points I do not think the defense played a bad game. We ran into a great QB who could throw. He was extremely quick and could extend plays. His receivers made some great catches. But our defense came through twice when we needed them too. They did a great job and closed it down when it was all on the line.

One other thing: I remember saying our identity was as passing team and a downfield passing team at that. As if to emphasize my perspective, Erdman attempted seven or eight bombs in the first half. We also are starting to develop a nice power running game inside the 20 to go with the fades and bullets to receivers running crossing patterns.

True Johnny football fans (or any football fans for that matter) could walk away from that game feeling like they got to watch a truly fun game. Glad the guys in Red won. In truth, we all won. A bright sunny day, some good football and a Johnnie victory.

It was not all unicorns and rainbows, but a win is a win is a win. We get to keep on playing
.

On the plus side:

·        51 points by the offense

·        Some great catches

·        480+ yards of passing

·        Some strong running inside the 20 by Kai Barber

·        5 extra points and a 28 yard FG (no blocks or misses)

·        Defense when it counted

·        A big interception by Chris Harris early in the game
 

Kind of surprising:

·        Jackson Erdmann being sacked 5 times

·        Giving up six passing TD’s (but they were really good and seemed to have a great game plan)
 

Needs some work:

·        Missed some tackles in the secondary, especially in the flats

·        Giving up some yardage on the outside edge on some kickoffs

·        Punting – too many short 30-yard punts
 

The Ugly:

Trying not to be too critical, but the refereeing lately has really been brutal. I know being a referee is a tough job and kind of thankless. We all hope that missing an obvious penalty call or tossing a flag on a non-penalty will be limited but in recent games, the obviously missed punt interference last week and the missed interference call this week is starting to get a little ridiculous. Some of the holding during pass protection by Aurora was absolutely blatant. The refs also seemed to absolutely forget about the rule for lineman being downfield during pass attempts. To be fair we could have gotten called for a couple of late hits on the last drive and did not, so I guess we had that going for us.

Moving On:

It was easily noticeable that the team has significantly improved the kicking game. There are some new people involved and not just the actual kicking. The timing of the XP’s and the accuracy on the snaps are getting better and better. It is almost as if they got some extra assistance and guidance from someone.

Next up is Chapman out in California. I will not be able to make the trip but will be glued to the video feed. I will let other people talk about Chapman. I know nothing at this point. I hope the guys get to play in some warm sunny weather.

I am confident our Johnnies will make a good showing and put up a strong effort and that is all we can really ask of them.  Go Johnnies

* * * *

More Scenes From Stearns County —

The dispatcher at the St. Joseph Police Department answered a call from St. Benedict's Monastery about a strange object circling overhead. When the officer arrived to take the report, he asked the Prioress what kind of object it was.

"I can't say," she replied, "but Sister Elizabeth says she knows exactly what it looked like. Would you like to speak with her?"

"That's OK," said the policeman. "I'll just put it down as a nun-identified flying object."


(Ed's Note: Badda-Boom.)

* * * *

Sliding...er, Sledding into Christmas —

From Gabriel Harren ’10, Warrord, MN —

Good Morning, Mr. Wicker!  We’ve met a few times over the years. I’m a 2010 grad, played hockey and worked in the Alumni office in my junior and senior years. I’ve appreciated being a part of your Underground Newsletter for over a decade and always admire your consistency and depth of Johnnie intel in each one!

Your name came up when brainstorming some ideas with Raj Chaphalkar ’08 in how to spread the word about a project my family business (Northern Toboggan Co) currently has going on. Raj felt you may be open to considering sharing a link to this project in your next Newsletter. Perhaps it is inappropriate to sway eyes away from the true task at hand (Johnnie Playoffs and their march to a national title!), so if it doesn’t make sense I completely get it.

For your consideration, I’m including a link to our Kickstarter project that has a 3- minute video that shares the entire back story. I’m also wide open to chat or email back and forth to answer any questions.

Here is the link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/northern-toboggan-co/handmade-100-authentic-classic-toboggan?ref=creator_nav

Thanks for your consideration and keep doing the good work!! — Gabriel

(Editor’s Note: Persons desirous of more information may contact Gabriel at gabriel@northerntoboggan.com or call 218.242.3234.)
 

The Harrens of Northern Toboggan up in remote Warroad, Minnesota. From left, Gabriel ’10, John and Jackson shown in their workshop. Read more here: https://northerntoboggan.com/pages/about-us )

* * * *

Global Business Leadership Majors' Department —

(Note to CSB-SJU students in this major: Soon you will leave the safe and comfortable confines of your schools and friends, and enter into the real world of business. There your employers will evaluate you and your work using somewhat esoteric code phrases that need to be completely understood so you know where you really stand. What follows is our attempt to smooth out this possibly bumpy road for you.  No need to thank us, it's all part of the services coming from a fully paid subscription to the UUN.)

Dictionary of Performance Evaluation Comments

Some of you might like to know what the supervisor is really saying in all those glowing employee work performance evaluations s/he keeps cranking out.

Accepts new job assignments willingly: Never finishes a job.

Active socially: Drinks heavily.

Alert to company developments: An office gossip.

Approaches difficult problems with logic: Finds someone else to do the job.

Consults with co-workers often: Indecisive, confused, and clueless.

Consults with supervisor often: Pain in the neck.

Displays excellent intuitive judgment: Knows when to disappear.

Happy: Paid too much.

Hard worker: Usually does it the hard way.

Identifies major management problems: Complains a lot.

Indifferent to instruction: Knows more than superiors.

* * * *

From Our Readers —

From John Chromy ’64, Washington, DC —

Bob---the UUN remains a most interesting and informative document and I look forward to receiving it each week. You have my utmost admiration for the amount of time and effort you put forth to create this document—also appreciate the jokes and input from the “UnCasual Fan,”  "Football Whisperer," and other readers.  Bravissimo. — John

* *

From Jane and Pete ’85 Greenheck, St. Paul, MN —

Good morning!  Wonderful letter. I’ve shared with the boys living in Blarney Stone. (#s 54,78,84,26,86). We feel exactly the same...hope they show up to win!  Stop on over to the tailgate! — Jane and Pete of lot number 38

(Editor’s Further Elucidation: We knew #54 is their son, senior preseason All-American offensive lineman Dan Greenheck.  We had to look up the others to be sure: #78 senior “beast” OL Ben Bartch; #84 senior TE Jack Kemper; #26 senior RB and son of Stearns County Will Kleinschmidt; and #86 senior TE Patrick Gans.)

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From Conrad Macina, Visiting Humorologist, Landing, NJ —

As usual, the UUN blows my mind. But this time it’s not about football, it’s about statistics. Aurora is the second-largest city in Illinois? There’s Chicago and … nothing? Skepticism in full bloom, I looked it up.  As it turns out, Aurora is the second-largest city in Illinois. There’s Chicago and … nothing.  As you noted, Aurora’s population is about 200,000. The next few cities are Joliet (149,645), Naperville (147,905), Rockford (145,338)  and Springfield (113,471). 

Q: What was the Tommie’s explanation after his helicopter crashed?

A: “It was getting cold, so I turned off the ceiling fan.”

Go Johnnies! Borealis the Auroras!!  — Conrad

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From John Maas ’58, Hudson, WI —

Good Luck to the Johnnies! Run deep in the playoffs! — John

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From Don Hall SJU ’55/SJU ’59, Minneapolis, MN —

Bob,  See below.  An idea that came to me after reading the Underground.  You do good work. — Don

(Don’s email to John Taylor ’58)

Jac, I read in the Underground that you organize a celebration for Veteran’s Day each year on the St. John’s campus.  It sounds impressive.

I’m wondering if you know about an organization called Vets for Peace who want to remember the name Armistice Day, and to celebrate it each year by recalling the end of WWI by ringing bells 11 times on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, which happened in 1918 celebrating the end of the war to “end all wars.”  This habit was continued around the world until the day was renamed around 1954.   Vets for Peace began publicizing this historic remembrance in recent years, and bells are now rung in 200 cities across the country every Nov. 11th.  I have recently gotten my local church in the Twin Cities to participate and am encouraging others to do the same.  This year two former governors (Ventura, Quie) rang the liberty bell at the state capital 11 times in commemoration of the original Armistice, giving purpose to a bell that has remained mostly silent for most of its life.

In doing this, there is no intent to demean honoring veterans.  It can supplement their honor by trying to promote the idea of remembering the celebration of peace.  What do you think?  Might St. John’s be interested in doing this?  That is, simply tolling their bell 11 times at 11 a.m. on that day and explaining why it is done. — Don

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From Gary Kordosky ’64, Tucson, AZ —

Wick: Had a great time reading UUN #13-19.  Enjoyed the humor, the game recap and the information about current Johnnies and also alums.  A great issue for all the right reasons. Cheers. — Gary

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From Carmen Fernholz ’61/’65, Madison, MN —

Bob, Thank you so much for the very generous comments in the latest UUN.  It is support from people like you that gives me the courage and enthusiasm to keep moving ahead.  Keep up your great efforts as well. Your perspectives and especially your humor keep life great. Happy Thanksgiving and GO JOHNNIES !!!!!  — Carmen

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Gerry Faust, Hardy Reyerson, RIP —

Vigil for my Friend Dr. Gerry Faust ’64, of San Diego, CA.

From CJ Ross ’64, San Diego, CA —

Bob, I thought you might find my observations and reflections related to Gerry’s recent passing of interest. — CJ

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In life, we run across some folks that just seem to be destined to drive to make a difference.  Gerry Faust was such a person.  He was resourceful, caring, and fun. He had leadership qualities which enabled him to accomplish lots. He was my friend!  

We seemed to understand each other’s views of the future — and, as some know, above my office doors, I placed signs saying: “Remember the Dream” — Gerry knew what I meant. 

Tonight I met young adults who have been influenced by my friend’s enthusiasm and drive. This makes me feel our future is in good hands.  Thanks, Good buddy Gerry - now - Rest In Peace — CJ 

(Editor’s Comments: A couple of weeks ago CJ and then Joe Friedrich ’64 alerted me to Gerry’s death of a heart attack while hunting in Wyoming. Knowing Gerry as I did, I can’t think of a more suitable way for him to leave us than pursuing an advocation that gave him such pleasure and fulfillment over his lifetime. Literally, he died with his boots on doing something he loved. Then, a week after hearing about Gerry’s death, several people informed me that Hardy Reyerson ’65, of San Jose, CA, also died with, if not boots, at least his trainers on as his passed while riding an exercise bike at home, apparently also from a heart attack. Hardy was a Math teacher at Bellarmine College Preparatory and Cristo Rey San José Jesuit High School. Gerry and Hardy were teammates on SJU’s first National Championship team in 1963. Hardy received All-MIAC and NAIA District 13 honors as a tight end that year and in 1964 was named All-MIAC again and an All-American.

Gerry Faust

Hardy Reyerson

Here is Gerry’s obituary:  https://www.powaybernardomortuary.net/obituary/gerald-faust ; Hardy's obit will appear in the San Jose Mercury News, running Sunday, Dec 1st through Tuesday, December 3rd; this info was given to St. John's: A memorial service for Mr. Hardy Reyerson will occur at Bellarmine College Preparatory on Friday, December 6, at 4:00 p.m. in the Leontyne Chapel, followed by a reception in the Samuel A. Liccardo Center.)

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News from Abbey Workworking —

Trees With A History

Every tree has a history.  We just happen to know more about the history of some trees than others.  Take, for instance, the silver maple that we used for a table crafted in the shop this month.  We know a good amount about its history because it starts with the destructive tornado that hit Collegeville in the summer of 1894.  (Read more here:) https://sjawood.org/blog/2019/11/25/trees-with-a-history?ss_source=sscampaigns&ss_campaign_id=5ddc5f22adf38935da43a07d&ss_email_id=5dde9dcbfe046c5c59f07280&ss_campaign_name=This+Month+in+the+Shop&ss_campaign_sent_date=2019-11-27T16%3A01%3A51Z

Father Lew Grobe, OSB shows some visitors the newly fashioned giant wood organ pipes that are to be installed in the Abbey Church as part of the organ rebuild and expansion currently underway. They are in the Abbey Woodworking board storage building where, after being cut and dried, wood from various kinds of trees harvested from the Abbey Arboretum is kept until needed, sorted by tree type.

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The Amateur Magician —

When a trick went wrong, an amateur magician accidentally turned his wife into a couch and his two children into armchairs. He tried everything he knew to reverse the trick but when all attempts failed, he took them to a hospital.

He paced up and down outside the Emergency Room for hours until finally a junior doctor came out to see him.

“My wife is a couch and my two children are armchairs,” said the magician. “I need to know how they’re doing.”

The doctor glanced at his notes and said, “They’re comfortable.”

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Last Word —

A father put his three-year-old daughter to bed, told her a story and listened to her prayers - which she ended by saying "God bless Mommy, God bless Daddy, God bless Grandma, and good-bye Grandpa."

The father said, "Why did you say good-bye to Grandpa?"

The little girl said, "I don't know, Daddy, it just seemed like the thing to do."

The next day Grandpa died. The father thought it was a strange coincidence. A few months later the father put the girl to bed and listened to her prayers, which went like this -- "God bless Mommy, God bless Daddy, and good-bye Grandma." The next day the grandmother died.

My goodness, thought the father, this kid is in contact with the other side.

Several weeks later when the girl was going to bed the dad heard her say, "God bless Mommy and good-bye Daddy."

He practically went into shock. He couldn't sleep all night and got up at the crack of dawn to go to his office. He was nervous as a cat all day, had lunch sent in and watched the clock. He figured if he could get by until midnight he would be OK. He felt safe in the office, so instead of going home at the end of the day, he stayed there, drinking coffee, looking at his watch and jumping at every sound.

Finally, midnight arrived, he breathed a sigh of relief and went home.  When he got home his wife said, "I've never seen you work so late, what's the matter?"

He said, "I don't want to talk about it, I've just spent the worst day of my life."

She said, "You think you had a bad day, you'll never believe what happened to me. This morning the mailman dropped dead on our porch."


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That's another UUN that bites the dust. Last week the vocal fan support helps the Jays to victory...let's keep it up, even if you're watching by live streaming:

G O J O H N N I E S ! ! Pith on the Panthers (Or something like that.)

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As ever, I remain

R.L. WickerSJP '60/SJU '64, St. Paul, MN
theowick@aol.com; 651-699-4697

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