Beautiful Day in Chicago

It's about time. We had flurries the other day and the heat was on last night. Now, it's 74 and the windows are open. As you can see, Biskit is a huge fan of this as people are constantly walking by with dogs, kids etc. and she just loves seeing it all. Was pleasantly surprised at the local grocery store to find Heinz dill relish. I'm sure most of you couldn't give a shit about this but I love pickles and Heinz are my favorite. I was able to get them in Columbus but not in Charlotte or Florida. So, the relish is better than nothing plus my parents can bring me some or I can scoop some up when I visit them as the drive home now is very much shorter and a mid-summer trip will be made by myself and said dog. On a lighter note, my very good friend Harry has a great blog that he writes often and he rates different restaurants that he visits. Why bring it up? He hates pickles and has an interesting story as to why. For a good read, visit the Stiff Competition blog. I had no intention of going out today but I have wanted to see what this dogs in bars thing is all about so what the heck, Biskit and I are gonna roll up to Durkin's Tavern for a few cold beers. I hope everyone has a great weekend and we'll be a bloggin' soon. Next topic may include the lack of good wings joints here in Chicago. Kickass pizza and Italian beef but lousy wings so far. Stay tuned!

Great first week in Chitown

Well, I've been here two weeks but it was a great first work week. I spent Monday at the massive Hoffman Estates compound, which is where Sears Holdings is now headquartered. The people were great and the facility is impressive. That said, I'll be spending over 90+% of my time at the downtown office located on State Street. The flagship Sears store is right across the street so it makes it convenient for anything I might need. We broke a record for temperature on Thursday at 83 degrees! That was awesome and people were really enjoying it. The commute to work is easy. Walk a block to a covered bus stop. Ride about a mile and a half to the subway and then get dropped off a block away from my office. It only takes 35 minutes and beats traffic, parking, gas and tolls that's for sure. Biskit is adjusting well and loves it when the windows are open as many dogs live in the neighborhood. The town is abuzz as baseball season nears. I hate the Cubs but at least I'll get to see my Buccos a bunch here in the Windy City. I'm sure they will lose every game but I'll still be there as often as I can. The neighborhood (as seen in the picture) is great and I love the fact that I can walk to just about anything. That's about it for now. Happy Easter to all!

Old School in Chicago

I just moved to the Lakeview/Lincoln Park area of Chicago and went to Mario's Place Barber Shop on Saturday, which is obviously their busiest day. Mario welcomed me as a new customer despite the fact that he was booked solid. I was offered a doughnut and a Pabst Blue Ribbon beer while I waited (now that is impressive) and was given a great haircut with the always-enjoyable straight razor neck shave. I am now a customer until my travels take me elsewhere. Thank you for a great experience, Mario. I know many of you like stylists but I am a barber man for life thanks to my late uncle, Dave Anderson, proprietor of the former Irwin, PA staple Guyon & Anderson barber shop.

Biskit gets a new shirt

OK, so the 'Windy City' is just that and it's cold. I knew that going in but poor Biskit had no idea. This being a dog who has lived her entire life in sunny Florida and is now freezing her little ass off. She has been taken aback that's for sure. Potty outings have been quick and sometimes she just won't go. So, we went to Petco today in search of a sweater. Well, it's no longer winter so they have the spring and summer collection. Don't tell this to Biskit as she shivers and shakes but slowly but surely, she's coming around. Debating on what to do for the evening and I'm probably gonna head out to the local Steelers bar and watch some March Madness. My dad, brother and I enjoyed Durkin's Chicago over the weekend and they made us feel at home. So, it looks like they'll get a return visit out of me. Why the hell not? Last non-working weekday is tomorrow for me (for the foreseeable future) and I'm certainly happy about that.

We have furniture in Chicago

This week is absolutely flying by as I try and get settled here in the Windy City. I was able to get a good deal on a sofa and chair from a local furniture store and have it delivered on the same day. Beats the shit out of the fold-up chairs I was using as I gave my previous couch and love seat to my good friend Rebecca. Biskit is already liking them both and as you can see, she can look out the window to see when I'm arriving. She is growing more and more accustomed to Chicago each day. I love my neighborhood and went on a pub crawl last night and hit three different locales. Each has a different flavor but a common theme: neighborhood bars that cater to the locals. Two offered a free drink which I gladly accepted, not that doing so should surprise anyone but why the hell not? The next fun will be going to the DMV when my paperwork from the bank arrives. I'm sure I should practice up on my Spanish if past DMV visits tell me anything. Looking forward to watching the Pens play the Caps tonight. Hope they can take down Ovechkin. A superstar player no doubt but also a world-class cheap shot artist. Until next time...

World of KK Returns Live From Chicago

Hello family and friends, it's been awhile. In case you haven't heard, I have relocated to Chicago arriving last Friday. I begin my new position at Sears Holdings Management Corporation next Monday.
I'm excited about the new opportunity and to be away from the extreme negative environment of my last stop on the employment wagon. I cannot say thank you enough to my Dad who came and helped me pack, load, drove my car to Chicago and helped unload and unpack. You're the best! Thanks also to my brother Khris who flew in for the weekend to help unload in Chicago. Both of you mean the world to me and Biskit and I couldn't have made it without you. We had a great weekend and sampled some local fare, including deep dish pizza. Very solid. I'm living in the Lakeview neighborhood which is close to everything and an easy commute via bus/train to 'The Loop.' I absolutely love it here so far and the people have been great. Look for frequent updates as I take this next step in my professional career.

Doritos Slap

This is some funny stuff right here.

Cudas Stun Palm Bay!

Many have asked how to hear me on the radio. AM 1230 WSBB will be on the Internet Jan. 1 For now, listen to the New Smyrna Beach dramatic come-from-behind semifinal playoff victory, capped off by a fake XP.

NSB 8, Palm Bay 7

Biskit Speaks: World of KK Coming Back!

Yes, it's about time to bring this blog back from the dead and as you will hear from Biskit, she says it is long overdue.

Coming soon: The ballad of the $3 bucker and other selected tales of weirdness and stupidity.

Champions Again!

Last night capped a perfect season in the 3-year turnaround of a former XOS-sponsored softball team. Founded in 2006 by Kraig Koelsch, this team won 2 games in its inaugural season. Three seasons later, this team persevered to an undefeated 12-0 record. The team is a great collection of XOS, CI, JumpTV and former XOS employees. No matter what happened at the office, these friends stuck together and reached their dream, a championship. Original team members include Kraig Koelsch, Barry Whitley and Bryan Stuckey.

Pictured above from left to right (kneeling)
P- John Geddis – CI, OF Brandon Purington - JumpTV, IF Todd Gray -XOS Digital, OF Dan Scalia – CI, OF Andy Siegler - CI

Middle row
1B/Manager – Kraig Koelsch – XOS/XOS Digital/JumpTV

Back row from left to right
OF – Jay Moore (former XOS), IF - Luis Diaz – XOS FDI, SS – Angel Diaz, C – Bryan Stuckey – XOS FDI, OF – Barry Whitley – Former XOS/JumpTV, 3B Brian Fisch – CI

Not included in the photo are: IF -Sebastian Quinn – XOS/CI/JumpTV, IF - Will Reno – XOS FDI, OF – Jordan Wade – XOS Digital, OF – Mike Stewart – XOS/JumpTV

Note: For myself, I've now been a part of softball championship teams in four states:

Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Ohio and Florida.

Must Read For Pet Owners

A friend shared this with me. It made me tear up as any pet owner would agree. It is so very true.

Enjoy!

-----
A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

~Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them.

Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters.

~Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.. It is here on earth and has four legs!

Cup Finale on NBC Was Most Watched N.H.L. Game in 36 Years

This is pretty damn impressive for a sport desperate in need of exposure.

-KK

NBC’s Game 7 broadcast of the Stanley Cup final between the Penguins and the Red Wings on Friday night drew an average of 8 million viewers, the biggest American television audience for any N.H.L. game since the 9.4 million who watched the Game 6 Cup finale between Montreal and Chicago in 1973.

City of Champions Returns!

What a great run for the Pittsburgh Penguins! After dropping the Filthy Flyers and then Fat Ted's Crapitals, a sweep of the Hurricanes, the Pens had the rematch they so desperately sought.

It never disappointed and the third Stanley Cup is back in the Burgh after defeating Marian Hossa and the Red Wings. Ironic isn't it Marian? Over 375,000 fans turned out to see the victory parade and that was awesome.

Most of my friends and colleagues offered congratulations, but there are always sore losers. Like Fat Ass John Henry.

He being a Phillies fan was offered congrats last season when the Phils won it all, but the lumpy lard couldn't return the favor in true fat and filthy fashion. Oh well, maybe he ate his hands and couldn't send an e-mail message.

Enough nonsense, what a year it's been in Pittsburgh sports. If only the Pirates could jump the .500 line and finally end the streak from hell. Nice to dream isn't it?

Funny Song re; McLouth Trade

Found this after a post on a Buccos' message board.

Here We Go Again

Another year, another Pirates' starter traded for mid-range prospects. I really want to believe that this management group is different and knows what they're doing, but it's really hard to.

Gone now is Nate McLouth, a fan favorite and quality baseball player. On a team already desperate for run production, this makes little to no sense. Then again, where is this team headed this year, really? While they are playing respectable baseball (24-28), the lowly Pirates will most likely finish well below .500 yet again. This trade clinches that for sure.

If they are blowing it up, then blow it the whole way up. Trade Adam LaRoche, Freddy Sanchez, Ryan Doumit, Paul Maholm, John Grabow and Matt Capps. Hell, trade Eric Hinske and Craig Monroe if you find a taker.

Anything less than a complete rollover of this club will not be acceptable. That said, it's exactly what will happen. After all, this is the Pirates we're talking about.

Best of luck, Nate. You will be missed.

On a more positive note, Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens! And oh yeah, 57 days til the Steelers report to camp.

Good and You?

A blast from the past shows a young and just barely underage KK and some College Park filth live at Clarion. Notice the burnt out apartment unit in the background. A drunken lard blew up the microwave cooking a potato and the result was this benefit drunken afternoon and concert.

Good and you?

Back in the Game, Let's Go Pens!

The Pens are back in the Eastern Conference Finals and it's more than time to bring the World of KK back from the dead. An exciting playoff run thus far for sure...

Alex Ovechkin is such a thug and the NHL loves letting him live up to a double standard. The bum should have been suspended or at least fined for the dirty hit that injured Pens' defenseman Sergei Gonchar.

That's OK; he'll get what he has coming. Back to the Pens, what a great trade by GM Ray Shero to acquire winger Billy Guerin from the lowly New York Islanders for next to nothing.

Summer is here and that means party time. Rumor has it KK party II is coming up at month's end. My parents are on their way down for a few weeks and that will be great. I can't believe how fast time is flying by, partially the reason for such sparse blog posts. The other part being laziness...

Almost 8 months since I left the hallowed halls at JumpTV and returned to XOS Technologies, now, XOS Digital. For those who haven't heard about the new unit, check it out here.

Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens!

Happy Holidays!

It's a little early but what the heck. I finished decorating in time for my parents' arrival today. I have two trees, one inside and a small tree to coincide with a wreath outside. Not too shabby. Lots of Pittsburgh sports ornaments on the tree and some general sports stuff as well.

I'm not sending out any cards so Happy Holidays to all! I hope the season brings you happiness, safety and good cheer.

-KK

Scary Stuff!!!

Terrible news from India. This CNN live report shows a very unstable crowd and a visibly shaken reporter.

Winter??

It actually got in the high 30's here the other night I believe. Freezing in Pittsburgh at game time as I type this. Snow expected!

Here We Go Steelers Here We Go!

On a lighter note, Biskit has been becoming lazy (like her owner) and was challenged for a treat. As you can see, she's bigger but was able to once again, completely flatten herself out and get the cookie.

She is shown underneath my couch.

Canucks Prank Palin

2008 Election

Andy, Opie & The Fonz Endorse Obama

As a former resident of Charlotte, N.C. and having worked at TV station who ran re-runs and got great ratings, WHOAAAAAA! ... AAAAAAAAY!

See more Ron Howard videos at Funny or Die

Now This Is Great.....

Can you imagine the cop's face? Keep that in mind and read below.

Police arrest Mich. man for car wash vacuum sex

Sat Oct 18, 7:56 pm ET

THOMAS TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Police say a Michigan man has been arrested after "receiving sexual favors from a vacuum" at a car wash.

The Saginaw News reports the 29-year-old Swan Creek Township man was arrested Thursday in Saginaw County's Thomas Township, about 90 miles northwest of Detroit.

Police Sgt. Gary Breidinger says a resident called to report suspicious activity at the car wash about 6:45 a.m. An officer approached on foot and caught the man in the act.

The suspect, whose name wasn't immediately released, is being held in the Saginaw County Jail.

Information from: The Saginaw News, http://www.mlive.com
Source: The Associated Press

KK On the Move...

So it's been way too long since my last update. Lots going on to say the least... After 2+ years working for XOS Network/JumpTV, I've accepted a new job at XOS Technologies, Inc.

Now I realize that might be confusing and that is understandable. Basically, XOS is starting a new initiative and I'm now onboard as Director, Content Management.

Previously, XOS had a separate unit, Network, which I worked in until it was acquired by Jump. The other two XOS units remained untouched.

It's a great opportunity for me and a better fit for my skill set. I had a blast at JumpTV and learned a lot and will miss all of my ex-colleagues, but sometimes opportunities present themselves and you act.

That's really all there is to it. I will still work in Central Florida, Lake Mary to be specific. It's only one exit further to work each day so that's nothing.

Well, that's about it for now, but I certainly hope to provide more frequent updates.

Paris Takes a Shot at McCain

I thought this was really funny. And she is hot.

Reporter Turns Ghetto in 3 Seconds

My friend Harry, who started a great new blog of his own, sent this. Hilarious!

Imus - Dead Or Alive?

One of my favorites from the Howard Stern show.....

Busy Times Lately, New Look Ahead

I'm very intrigued with the merger recently announced by my company, JumpTV and NeuLion.

PRESS RELEASE

Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) Leaders to Create Powerhouse of Online Sports, International and Religious Programming

TORONTO – June 27, 2008 – JumpTV Inc. (TSX/AIM: JTV) (“JumpTV” or the “Company”), a leading provider of live and on-demand sports and international programming over the Internet and NeuLion, Inc. (“NeuLion”), an end-to-end IPTV service of live and on-demand sports, international and religious programming over the Internet and through set top boxes, today announced the execution of the definitive agreement in respect of their previously announced merger.

The terms of the definitive agreement are outlined in detail in the June 9, 2008 announcement. Closing of the proposed merger is scheduled to occur on or about October 1, 2008 and is subject to regulatory approvals (including approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange), JumpTV shareholder approval and NeuLion shareholder approval.

JumpTV and NeuLion have agreed the proposed private placement of units, previously disclosed on June 9, 2008, will be put to a shareholder vote in conjunction with shareholder approval of the definitive agreement. Pursuant to the private placement, AvantaLion LLC, an entity controlled by Mr. Wang, has irrevocably committed to subscribe for 10 million units from JumpTV’s treasury at a price of $1.00 per unit, and G. Scott Paterson has also committed to buy 1 million units on the same terms. The aggregate gross proceeds from the units will be CDN$11 million. Closing of the private placement is subject to regulatory approvals, including approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange. Completion of the merger is additionally conditional on shareholder approval of the unit subscription. The companies continue to anticipate the shareholder meeting will be held on or about October 1, 2008.

Additionally, the Company announced Jordan Banks will cease acting as CEO effective June 27, 2008. In conjunction with this news, Mr. Banks did not stand for re-election as a director of the Company at today’s Annual and Special General Meeting.

“We are grateful to Jordan Banks for his strategic vision and unwavering dedication to JumpTV and all of its stakeholders for the past eight months,” said G. Scott Paterson, Executive Chairman, JumpTV. “Jordan has played a critical role in JumpTV’s evolution. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

On June 25, 2008, Brad Greenspan, on behalf of an entity which he controls, delivered an unsolicited offer to combine JumpTV and LiveTime Group. The Board of Directors of JumpTV convened a special meeting to review and consider Mr. Greenspan’s proposal. After due consideration, deliberation and discussion, and following receipt of legal and financial advice, the Board determined that Mr. Greenspan’s proposal was not in the best interests of the Company, and that the Company’s interests and its shareholders’ interests were best served by continuing its negotiations with NeuLion, ultimately completing the definitive agreement as described above.

About JumpTV

JumpTV (www.jumptv.com), (TSX/AIM:JTV), is a world leading broadcaster of live and on-demand sports video over the Internet. In the last twelve months, JumpTV streamed more than 15,000 live and exclusive sporting events – comprised of top college (NCAA), professional and Hispanic sports coverage – to millions of fans globally. JumpTV also delivers a broad offering of internet services to its partners including web hosting, live event video streaming, ticket management and e-commerce.

Through JumpTV’s consumer websites: JumpTV.com, Cycling.TV and SportsYa.com, as well as its collegiate and international sports partner websites, JumpTV streams tens of thousands of hours of live and on-demand events and international programming over the Internet each year.

About NeuLion

Based in Plainview, NY, NeuLion works with content partners to develop end-to-end solutions for multimedia IPTV services. The NeuLion iPTV Platform encodes, delivers, stores and manages an unlimited range of multimedia content, and the Operational Support System (OSS) maintains all billing and customer support services. NeuLion content partners are responsible for content aggregation and the sales and marketing for the individual IPTV service.

Let's Go Pens!

Wow, what a tough way to end a remarkable season. Reminds me of the Tennessee Titans falling a yard short in their Super Bowl loss to the St. Louis Rams. This team was a joy to watch each and every game. From the evolution of Evgeni Malkin, to the return of Gary Roberts, it was a helluva ride.

This team is poised to make many a run at the Stanley Cup so there is absolutely nothing to be disappointed about. As a fan, I can only hope that management is able to keep as many of the core group in place. It was a real thrill to see the talented Marian Hossa mesh with Sidney Crosby. Watching Marc-Andre Fleury raise his game to a new level and the courage of Ryan Malone, a true warrior and Pittsburgh hometown favorite.

For this, I salute you Penguins on a job very well done and am counting the days until it all begins again. I can hear it now, Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens!

Go Home Flyers!!!!

Screw Filthadelphia and all their lousy, arrogant piece of shit fans.

Some of the most classless individuals on this earth. Nonetheless, Fuck You!

You got owned bitches!!

Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens! Let's Go Pens!

Stanley Cup, here we come!

Pens Dump Rangers, Listen Live

Mike Lange, the best NHL announcer ever, makes the call on Marian Hossa's game-winning goal.

Bring on the Flyers! Let's Go Pens!

Smyrna Sharks Biting Big-Time!

This is what happens in my back yard.

New Smyrna Beach in Volusia County, Fla., is the shark attack capital of the world, according to a database called the International Shark Attack File. Each year, thousands of people dip their toes and then jump in, stroking past the surf and into a zone that's literally thick with sharks.

“Most people who have swum in and around New Smyrna have been within 10 feet of a shark in their lifetime,” says George Burgess, an ichthyologist and fisheries biologist at the University of Florida who maintains the International Shark Attack File (ISAF).

To read more of the MSNBC article, click here.

World of KK Returns

So postings have been few and far between here these days and there are a variety of reasons for that. The main reason being work and the fact that I've traveled more this year professionally than ever before.

That's OK and it's fun. I have trips upcoming to Chicago and Dallas. I'll finally get to see a game at Wrigley Field. That will be very cool.

Uncle Sam took a bite out of me this year and I'm still recovering. What a great tax system we have. Thank God our fearless leader is giving us a $600 'rebate.' In my take, it's a fucking cash advance that will most certainly end up costing each of us in the long run.

The Pirates season is already over in April but what the hell else is new? I'm so glad I didn't waste my time or money on them this year. It will be two years in a row for my attending games boycott. Any of you who know me know how hard that is for a diehard fan but enough is enough.

I'm looking forward to a visit from my parents in May and I'm hoping to take my first long vacation of the year this August.

Until we meet again, back to the salt mine I go, pick axe in hand.

From the Stern Show: Karloff???

Quality...

Farewell to a Pittsburgh Legend

As a youngster who aspired to be a broadcaster/journalist, I was immediately drawn to Myron Cope.

He just had the unique way that made you want to listen more and more. I was honored to be a regular caller to his WTAE show with a handle known as 'The Kid.'

Myron Cope is a legend that won't ever soon be replaced.

We should all be so fortunate that we had the chance to see, hear and for some, meet this true legend of Pittsburgh.

My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Cope family.

Gene Collier from the Post-Gazette sums it all up quite well.

Wow! This Schedule Is Brutal!

Peter King from SI breaks it down....Yikes!

* = 2007/2008 playoff team

Stat of the Week
Home
*Indianapolis (13-4)
Houston (8-8)
*NY Giants (14-6)
*Dallas (13-4)
*San Diego (13-6)

Road
*Jacksonville (12-6)
*Tennessee (10-7)
*Washington (9-8)
Philadelphia (8-8)
*New England (18-1)

Has anyone out there looked at the Steelers' schedule for this fall? Schedules are organic things in terms of degree of difficulty; they tend to change week-by-week during the season. But looking at Pittsburgh's slate right now, we might be seeing the toughest schedule a team has had in recent history.

Lots of teams have division schedules as tough or tougher than six games with Cleveland, Cincinnati and Baltimore, though the rising Browns, Carson Palmer and the presumably rejuvenated Ravens will be a difficult six-pack.

Amazing. Horrendously amazing, if you bleed black and gold.
Schedule factoids:

• Eight of Pittsburgh's 10 non-AFC North games are against 2007 playoff teams.

• All 10 non-division foes were .500 or better in 2007.

• New England plays four games against teams that finished over .500 in the 2007 regular season. Pittsburgh plays 10.

• Excluding the Steelers in 2005, the last four Super Bowl champs (Giants, Colts, Pats, Pats) are on Pittsburgh's schedule.

Fun Times Up North (in a foot of snow)

I am in Toronto for work and had the privilege of attending a charity event at the NHL Hall of Fame. The Executive Chairman of JumpTV leads the charge for Merrygoround.

It's a great organization that helps children obtain computers and e-buddies courtesy of volunteer Toronto police officers.

Many former players attended with notables Steve Thomas, Wendel Clark and Hall of Fame defenseman Paul Coffey.

I had the privilege to meet Paul and he had nothing but good things to say about Pittsburgh and its people. He was very friendly and extremely approachable. I truly felt like a kid as I enjoyed watching him play so much, especially while he was with the Penguins.

On a side note, I asked him if he agreed that Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are polar opposites.

He responded, "I hate it there." Atta boy Paul!

It's Election Time

Now, as Florida prepares to vote this Tuesday, check this out:

Ty 'Fucking' Conklin

The World of KK ends its silence in tribute to a journeyman goaltender who simply can't be beat.

CONK!

Gator Finally Spotted

I'd heard about an alligator in the pond across the street from my house but hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

That changed this Sunday morning when my Dad spotted the 5+ foot reptile in the adjacent pond.

Pretty cool. Suffice to say Biskit gets leashed.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Everyone!

Been busy and stressful times lately in the World of KK but never too much to sit back and enjoy the holidays. My parents are here and my brother Khris arrives tomorrow.



That's what the holidays are all about and I'm so happy they can join me in sunny Fla. I look forward to the New Year both professionally and personally.

The year 2007 had its and ups and downs but we're still standing tall so let's see what the future brings. One thing is certain, the Pirates will still suck.

So to all of my family, friends and to the millions of World of KK fans, Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

See ya in 2008!

Steelers Shit The Bed

What a sickening performance by the Black and Gold on Sunday. They better get their head out of their ass as they host the Dolphins (who are chomping at the bit for a win) next Monday night.

The offensive line played so bad you'd wonder how Willie Parker leads the AFC in rushing. Fast Willie went nowhere, Big Ben was sacked seven damn times and at the end of the day, we're treated to an overtime loss to a lousy team.

I can't tell you how upsetting it is to have had the AFC no. 2 seed and now lose it because of a loss to a BUM.

It's almost 24 hours later and I am still fuming. Get your heads out of your ass!

World of KK Returns: Steelers, New Neighbor

OK. So, it's been awhile since you've all heard from me and there are some reasons for that.

Suffice to say all is well all considering and I'll be posting more as time allows. Let's just leave it at that.

Where do we start?

That's easy. Of course we start with the Steelers. They're on a solid roll and came back nicely last week to beat the upstart Browns. The week before, I had the privilege of attending the Monday night thrashing of the thug Ravens. More importantly, I was able to see the tribute to the Steelers 75th anniversary team. Chills rushed down my spine.

Hopefully the boys can pick up 3 wins against sub-par opponents the next three weeks. All games are in Pittsburgh (Jets, Dolphins and Bengals -- I will be at the Cincy game).

That would set the table for the hopefully 10-2 Steelers to travel to Foxboro to battle the Patriots. Man, I'd love to go to that game.

In other news, Biskit has been growing bolder lately and running away (to a point) from me when I let her out. She used to do an about face, do her business then return. That will change now as the addition of our new neighbor, a three-foot-long alligator in a nearby pond.

So, Biskie is now leashed at all times. I hope this blog report reaches all of you well and in good spirits. If I don't write, Happy Thanksgiving from the World of KK.

p.s. Since you're here, you might as well watch Hines Ward lay out two Ravens with crushing blocks, including All-Pro safety and shit talker Ed Reed.

The Steelers Pierogi Fight Song

OK. So I'm not really in the blogging mood these days but I had to post this.

I really don't know what else to say about this other than, Wow!

Great Game Steelers!

What an inspiring performance by the men in Black and Gold yesterday with so many starters out.

They say good teams find a way to win despite adversity.

I would say that holds true for sure with this team. After such a shitty effort against the Cardinals, they come out and embarass a solid first place team and totally shut them down.

I hope all the Super Bowl XL naysayers watched this thrashing....yeah dog!

Now the Steelers need to rest and recover and what a great time for a bye week. Next up, Sunday night in Denver.

I'm headed to Toronto tomorrow for a few days training my counterparts at JumpTV Sports. I've never been there before so I'm kinda looking forward to it.

The Rain Won't Stop

So I return from Pittsburgh which is the definition of overcast and it has rained every damn day. I got a new pair of cool shades and I can't even put them to the test. And, it looks like softball will again be canceled tomorrow due to rain.

Looks like we're on a roll. Not so fast though, I'm going to get a major workload lifted off me at work and I secured seats to the Steelers vs. Ravens on Mon., Nov. 5 and also the Steelers vs. Bengals on Sun., Dec. 2.

Now that is what I'm talkin' about. Yeah dog. I really like the Steelers chances to open 4-0 as they play San Francisco at home and then head to Arizona.

The Cardinals game could get interesting with all the old coaches and players but the talent level just isn't as good.

4-0 would be awesome.

Survey finds Steelers have largest female fan base

Another great reason to love this team. Lovely ladies!

Survey finds Steelers have largest female fan base
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Associated Press

The Steelers have known for years their fan base included countless women - that was evidenced by all the pink official team jerseys they sell and the hundreds who attend their female training camp each summer.

Read more here.

Softball Night

Maybe I won't get myself almost killed tonight. Hard to believe it's been a week. I'm feeling fine, but I still have a big knot right near my heart.

The bruise is almost gone. It's humid as hell today. It's 90 degrees but feels 103. Thank God we have the frickin' last game.

But that makes for a late night at Mulligan's....which is always fun, except for the next day at work.

Off to the Burgh Friday for some family, friends and Steelers fun!

Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!

Deal With Me

Now this is just downright funny. This poor bastard. Think he was picked last in gym class?


Deal With Me - Watch more free videos

Mama, I'm Comin' Home...

Life is so weird the way it churns up and down. The only thing you can truly do is hold on and go along for the ride. Just this past week I suffered a chest contusion while missing a line drive in softball while playing shortstop(drilled me right in my chest).

My Dad always told me to get in front of the ball. I guess I should have used my glove. Regardless, I made the play on a runner at 3rd. I had two chest x-rays and an EKG. Both came back normal, so that's OK.

So hopefully this Thursday I get my head out of my ass. Of course, we lost the game. But oh well, we had fun afterward as always.

Going home for the first time in 14 months this weekend. Gonna spend some time with the folks and hang out with my friend Amy. She and I will be headed to Heinz Field to watch the Steelers kick the shit out of the Buffalo Bills and will be out on the town for her cousin Tina's birthday party Saturday 'dahn Sousside.'

Wow! What a Weekend (Round II)

This past weekend was so much fun. One of my very best friends and, well..., one of my very best friends in the world visited me last weekend.

I've know Amy for most of my life and she's always held a very special place in my heart/life.

We really had a blast and I think it's safe to say she'll be back. We went on the St. John's River cruise and saw gators and exotic birds. We also went to the beach for some sun and just for a night time walk.

One of the highlights for me was being able to watch a Steelers game together at Giuseppe's Steel City Pizza in Port Orange.

The place is a hell of a lot of fun and makes you really feel like you're back in the Burgh. I wore my Big Ben jersey and Amy wore my Heath Miller jersey.

It's almost bizarre how much of a connection we have as Amy brought me some great housewarming gifts (pillows, seat cushions, table cloths, napkin settings, etc) that match to an absolute T the theme I used for decorating my house. Not just kinda, it was an exact match. That was very kind of her and much appreciated. Now I just need a table so she needs to come back and finish the set.

It truly was one of the best weekends I've had in a very long time and I thank her for that.

So Amy, come back soon, Biskit and I miss you lots and look forward to seeing you very soon.

EDIT: Unexpectedly, but very much a good thing, Amy was able to come back down this past weekend. Two weeks in a row. We went to Gatorland, had some drinks in downtown Orlando and had lots of fun at Pub 44 in New Smyrna Beach. (see pic above) Can't wait to do it again. Next time, it's Animal Kingdom!

Housewarming Bash a Huge Success

Lots of shit has gone down since my last post, the most important being my 2007 summer housewarming bash.

Over 60 family, friends and neighbors showed up and got after it. A good time was had by all and I humbly thank each and every person who attended for making me feel great and for their kind gifts.

I was able to buy a new gas grill and some accessories so everyone is invited back for Round II in the winter. (NFL playoff party anyone?) GO STEELERS!

A special thanks to my parents and brother who went above and beyond the call of duty to help decorate, hang pictures and set up for the party.

There are parties, and there are Kraig Koelsch parties. Many know the difference.

If you don't, you should.

Biskit Comes to Work

I brought Biskit to work today at the request of my colleague Cynthia. She recently purchased a new cocker spaniel puppy named Jenny.

These two quickly hit it off and were raising hell within a matter of minutes. It's good for Biskit as she has been very lonely with her best friend Eddie moving to Arizona.

And Jenny was really having fun too.

Gotta love XOS Technologies. I mean dogs come to work? Cool.

The picture above was taken with a camera phone so I apologize for the blurriness. Also, the participants weren't all that eager for posing.

The Onion Rips Dumbass Dave Littlefield

Gotta love The Onion.

Pirates GM Unable To Trade Xavier Nady For Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter

Chocolate Rain

Farewell to a First Class Friend

With extreme sadness I'm writing to let everyone know that the Koelsch family dog, Nutmeg, was put to sleep today.

The old girl (14-15 years old) was just in way too much pain and hasn't been eating or drinking for the past few days.

I'll never forget her and the enjoyment she gave me. I'm so fortunate to have spent 10 days with her last year in Dublin, OH when my folks came to Florida.

We had some great times and I only regret not being able to say goodbye.

So, from the bottom of my heart, goodbye Nutmeg old friend.

You won't ever be far from our hearts.

XOS Is Now JumpTV Sports ... Well Almost

It was announced yesterday that my company was merging with JumpTV to create JumpTV Sports. The particulars should be finalized in August.

I wasn't sure how I felt about it but after hearing the plan moving forward and meeting some of the JumpTV folks, I'm very excited about the new challenges and happy that my immediate future in Florida is secured.

If you care to read more, see below:

Online video service JumpTV Inc. said on Tuesday it would buy a U.S. college sports broadband network for $60.25 million to expand beyond its portfolio of ethnic channels.

JumpTV, which raised about $100 million in February with an eye on acquisitions, will buy the broadband network business division of XOS Technologies Inc. in a deal that also includes the payment of 3 million retention warrants to employees.

Toronto-based JumpTV offers online video channels from countries including Albania, Australia, Egypt and Hong Kong.

The unit of Sanford, Florida-based XOS, which developed and maintains official Web sites for collegiate and professional sports teams, streams over the Internet thousands of U.S. National Collegiate Athletic Association football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and track & field games.

It has more than 150 official and exclusive relationships with U.S. colleges.

The unit generated about $2.45 million in revenue in the first five months of this year and logged an operating loss of $3.17 million in the same period.

The sale to JumpTV follows last month's acquisition by Yahoo Inc. of Rivals.com, a site for fans of college and high school teams, for an undisclosed price.

Here is the official release from JumpTV.

Here is the official release from XOS Technologies.

Spider Pig

Are All Car Dealers Like This?

We all know they're filthy rats but wow, watch this shit.

House Is Finished

Now the fun begins. Thank God my Dad is here to assist me with cleaning, etc. Also a big thanks to my good friend Harry for the moving help.

Got it all done, no thanks to the help of my good friend Amy, who consumed many a Michelob Ultra with me and my Dad this past weekend. But as usual, we had a blast. We've known each other since before kindergarten.

Now, it's just unpack and put all the shit away, hang pictures and clean old apartment. I can't believe the difference in my life in just a few days NOT living the apartment lifestyle.

I'll be posting pictures soon as folks have been asking but for now, just wanted to give a generic update.

So, I decided to post a picture of Biskit as she helped move some boxes.