Checking In 2014: Weight Loss, Biskit and Buccos

It's been a while since I posted a blog so I just wanted to check in. I've been dieting hard since January 14 and I'm excited with the results. As of this past Wednesday, I'm down 30 pounds. I cannot wait to post the before and after pictures of the new and improved Kraig Koelsch.

Let's just say we won't be having anymore pictures like this one of a Sidney Crosby jersey strangling me as I stood in front of the old Igloo (Mellon Arena). Still hard to believe the old barn is no more.

The diet has gotten easier and I am very motivated as the results speak for themselves. The program has you weigh in every week which keeps you accountable and certainly keeps your eye on that scale each week. So far, so good. My initial goal is 50 pounds and I hope to get there by mid April. I realize that's probably super aggressive but hey, might as well get after it and keep the train rolling.

Once there and yes, I will get there, I will set another goal, most likely another 20 pounds or so. Then, I'll be at or near (maybe even a lil less) where I want to be. So I'm pretty encouraged.

I wanted to add a note and thank all of you for hanging in there with me since I lost Biskit with your thoughts, prayers, notes, calls, cards, e-mails, drawings, memorial donations, the list goes on...

It's truly been a major help and has gotten me through a very difficult time. It will be four months since I said goodbye on March 4 but I can honestly tell you that I'm doing OK and am happy that she is no longer in pain. Thank you so much!

I always liked this picture that my pal Fat Bradley took as Biskit and I were taking him back to the airport.

Now for the Buccos. What a dismal off-season for the Pirates. I can't say I didn't expect it but I truly thought they couldn't possibly just stand pat and in the process weaken a playoff team. A playoff team that was close to advancing to the NLCS.

I mean, they actually believe the BS they spout, like this:

After losing A.J. Burnett, Marlon Byrd and Justin Morneau to free agency, the Pirates signed No. 5 starter Edinson Volquez, re-signed utility infielder Clint Barmes and traded for backup catcher Chris Stewart.

“I think the additions were strong,” Owner Robert Nutting said. “I am very enthusiastic about the team we'll put on the field. Are we in a strong position to compete and excel in 2014? Absolutely. I'm never satisfied, but I'm very enthusiastic about where we are.”

Read more: http://triblive.com/sports/pirates/5620307-74/nutting-pirates-free#ixzz2tsO0Hcfl

So let me get this straight, You lost your 1B, RF and one of your best pitchers who tossed almost 200 innings (despite being hurt), struck out 200+ batters and had a nice ERA and replaced them with one of the worst pitchers in baseball (who also led all NL starters in earned runs)? Oh yeah, and added a light-hitting backup catcher and an old, light-hitting shortstop. Those are strong additions? Don't talk to us like we're morons, Mr. Nutting. It isn't very becoming.

Don't let them fool you, they have not kept their promise of spending when the team became a winner. Easy predictions are that no matter what, the apologists will soon start writing that Francisco Liriano can't and shouldn't be re-signed. The Pirates will put out a massive PR campaign as to why Tony Sanchez is ready (but not this year) so they can move on from paying Russell Martin who has meant so much to this team and of course, they will start making excuses as to why they can't ink Pedro Alvarez to a long-term deal. They will cite Scott Boras of course but guess what, money talks. And for the Pirates, that's an easy equation to make. For the Bucs, when money talks, they walk (away), quickly. It's very frustrating but it's the same old scenario with this ownership group.

The team should still be competitive this season as there is help on the way but I am prepared for a regression. No chance they win 94 games like last year. I think 82-84 is much more realistic but I could easily see them restart the futility streak and finish under .500.

I'm not ready to make a prediction yet but I was thinking about wearing this to Bradenton. I hope you all are well and surviving the winter. Until next time, thanks for reading!

Kraig Koelsch

p.s. Not familiar with the Irate Fans movement? Our site is down but our front page article from the Post-Gazette written by my friend Chuck Finder can be found here: Irate Fans.

Checking In and Updating Biskit's Final Test Results

It's been awhile and lots have been asking so I thought I would write a blog to check in and also to report the final pathology results for Biskit, which I just received Sunday afternoon, December 22. It's been tough, I won't kid you. To have your best friend, your baby, go from being absolutely normal and herself to with God in heaven in just over three days is crippling. It has shaken me to the core, rattled my thoughts and tested my patience and faith. I do believe that Biskit is in a better place and that comforts me.

I haven't been going out much as I need to get all these damn bills paid. For those who didn't know, the week before Biskit got sick I was in the emergency room myself with an unknown and severe allergic reaction that had hives all over my body, my throat swelling shut. So, it's been a rough couple months since I returned to Florida, really rough. But where there is rough, there is often tough, and I'm doing my best to keep it all together.

I was able to rejoin my old softball team down here and hit well during the seven games I played. I was still rusty but it was fun. We'll be playing again in the 'Polar Bear' league which begins January 9. Looking forward to that as it keeps me busy and I was able to secure our old sponsor, Mulligan's, in Altamonte Springs, FL. It's a great place and the sponsor pays all of our fees.

I'm headed to Pittsburgh for the holidays and looking very forward to it. I have not been home in over a year because of my move and that my parents came to see me in Chicago instead. It will be great to be home.

I wanted to also say thanks again, to all of you. Family, friends, co-workers and just anyone who cared to check in, send me a note, card, etc. I have been touched on so many levels and it has given me peace at a time I really needed it.

Now for the final report on my sweet baby girl, Biskit. Here is the initial necopsy/final pathology report from the doctor:

Based on the gross and histological findings of the organs, the pathologists suspects that Biskit became septic (Bacteria in the blood along with severe inflammatory response) from an infection that ascended from her small intestine into her liver which caused the acute liver injury, this led to the acute liver injury, then as the infection became systemic she developed acute kidney injury due to the septic process and multi-organ failure. Very likely the infection was cleared by all the antibiotics she received and therefore the infectious agent was not recognized, but she died due to the severe inflammatory response and the multi-organ failure. Sepsis and multi-organ failure is one of the leading causes of death in human ICU’s and we struggle with it in the veterinary field. The reason for the ascending infection into her liver is likely multi-factorial, but likely due to an abnormal biliary system (chilangiohepatitis).
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I followed up with these questions:

1.) Is this the Pathology report or the Necropsy report? It says necropsy at top and submitted 11/5/2013. Maybe the reports are both combined into one?

It stated: We sent out a leptospirosis titer, which is a potential cause of her acute kidney injury, but the results are still pending. When we spoke in November you confirmed that it was NOT Leptospirosis.

2.) Just so I'm sure, I understand the DX of sepsis and multi-organ failure, but if I'm reading what you said correctly, whatever caused this was not and will never be identified, right?

3.) Last, is there anything in the findings that said how long this might have been occurring before it got bad? Could I have missed signs, things like that? Or is this something based on the findings that hit quick, hit hard and ultimately took my baby girl's life?
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Here is the doctor's response:

1. It is the necropsy report which identifies the pathology of the disease.  Both terms are referring to the same diagnostic procedure. Yeah the leptospirosis test was sent out at the time the necropsy was submitted 11/05/13, at that time the results were pending, as I said, the results were negative.

2. Correct no infectious agents were identified so the specific bug that caused the septic process would never be identified.

3. This is an acute process (few days), there is no way to specifically determine exactly how long before it got bad.

Unfortunately your baby girl was affected by a very severe disease process that affected the entire system and led to failure of multiple organs in a very short time. There is nothing you could have done to prevent this from happening.
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A few final thoughts from me and I will end this blog post. The report did shed some light on where this started, the small intestine. That was never known before. Also, the septic report was new. Obviously, I knew multiple organs were failing because I was with her every step of the way.

But what hurts most is I will never know when it happened or where it happened. What was this awful bug that killed my baby? Where can I find it as I would like to eradicate anything associated with it?

I have been beating myself up since this happened, trying to think of why, where, when, what and how, but that hasn't done much, other than degrade my health and cause extreme sleep deprivation. It is hard for me to fathom that I will never, ever know what took Biskit's life. At times I am very angry, depressed, bitter and feel downright blah but I also know better days are ahead and am doing all I can to stay focused, stay happy and keep enjoying my life.

In the end, those who knew me knew how well cared for Biskit was. She ate special dog food, expensive and grain-free treats and was rarely ever given any table scraps. I wouldn't change anything I did but if I could find out where or what the nasty bug was, I would have gladly eaten it for her to take that pain away. I love you Biskie and I always will.

An Open Letter to My Sweet Baby Girl

My dearest Biskit --

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I love you and how you changed my life forever, all for the good. You are such a sweet, good baby. From the moment I saw you on the Internet, I knew you were going to be my baby girl. You might not know this but you had a few sisters and brothers so when I came to see you for the first time, your 'breeder mommy Pat' asked if I thought I could pick you out. Guess what, she said I did without hesitation and I know I did because it was you!

The picture on the right is the first time I ever held you, kinda felt right, huh? Your sweet little left leg up on my shoulder and neck. You were born in Dunnellon, FL, which is near Ocala and Gainesville. More on the significance of that later.

I knew you were my baby girl instantly so I paid the deposit, and did my interview, I mean, just not any bozo deserves to be your daddy, and then I went on my way. The whole next week was like Christmas as I knew I was coming to get you that following Saturday. That was our first ride together and not the best that's for sure. You were not happy and cried, pooped and pee'd all the way to New Smyrna Beach, but that is where our love affair began. It was not easy to get you to go potty and especially not in the right place! But with some persistence and love, you broke the household accidents and turned into the best little girl who could run free around the house and usually, just enjoy doing it. Every now and then a toy might get mangled or some paper chewed up but hey, that's what dogs do! And rides, boy did we love to 'go for the ride' or 'go for the walk.' I always smiled as you listened to every word, tilting your head as the conversation went along.

You were there by my side when I bought my first house in New Smyrna Beach and were there for me when I had to leave it. I loved taking you to your favorite place in the world, Smyrna Dunes Park or as you knew it, 'the doggis beach'. We really had such a great time in New Smyrna and Florida in general. But, in early 2010, we had to change directions professionally.

You were there for me when I moved to Chicago, knowing nobody and you took it all in stride. I know you didn't like the snow or the cold and what Florida gal would? But you dealt with it like a good baby, just as you always were. Many a night I was missing friends and the like but as soon as I opened that door, seeing you fixed everything. It always did.

We had a good time in Chicago, too. Lord only knows we moved three (and a half) times. But the best for us was in Roscoe Village, close to your best buddies Todd and Kim and Taylor the dog. We had lots of fun with them but yes I know, Biskie wants to go to the dogiss bar!

And boy did we have fun there, the Four Treys Tavern became a family for us and Biskie, you were the star of the show. You were the sweet baby girl pug that 'just sits in that bar stool and behaved' or 'sang to the crew in your high-pitch voice.'

I can't tell you how many times people asked to pet you or said that dog is just so well behaved, she just looks and looks at you, Kraig. Biskit, nothing made me happier than the love I felt from you as you did look at me no matter where we were or what we were doing. Your eyes warmed my heart and let me assure you, the hearts of so many others who loved you so dearly.

Our dear friend Brad Spry was in town for Thanksgiving in 2007 and he took this picture. Do you know where it was taken baby? That's right, the dogiss beach!

It's quite ironic as the message was meant for Thanksgiving but when I see it now, it makes me think of you and you saying thank you to me. Oh dear baby, it is me who will be doing the thanking. Thank you for loving me unconditionally, thank you for being such a good girl and thank you for allowing me to be your daddy.


Being your daddy is the single greatest achievement I have ever accomplished. As you know, daddy got a new job and it was time for us to return to Florida in October 2013. After all, we never wanted to leave in the first place but we did what we had to do as a team.

I was so excited to take you to the dogiss beach and you were happy to return, and we had Dad along so that made it all the better. You and I plus Dad set the apartment up and went for lots of walks and rides, which I know were your favorite.

So here we were back in Florida, back in your home baby. I will never understand what made you sick last Friday but I knew something was wrong, so I initially tried to be a good daddy and make you comfortable.

So I wrapped you in this blanket and hoped that you could rest and feel better. But daddy knew better and knew his baby girl was not feeling right. So we got to 'go for ride' to the Emergency Vet Hospital in Casselberry. You were a good girl and hopped right up in the car and away we went.

I thank God that we did go as you were a sick, sweet little girl. I received word very early Sunday morning that you needed to go to Gainesville, to the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital. I jumped in the car at 3:15 a.m., came to get you and we had our last ride together up to Gainesville. I treasure that ride Biskit but I know you were so sick. That didn't stop you from looking at me though and I tried my very hardest to comfort you while driving as fast as the law allowed (yeah, I know that one stop light about threw us both in the dash...sorry about that.) You didn't seem pleased. :-)

Biskie, I know you already know, but this hospital is the best in the state and I wouldn't settle for less, not even a little bit. I was so fortunate that I was able to visit you a few times over the next two days.

Now comes the hard part my sweet, beautiful girl. I got the reports, I saw the test results, I heard the news and most importantly, I saw you. I saw my baby in excruciating pain, bleeding, and with your liver and kidneys failing you. I saw your face and how much stress and pain you were in but you still always looked into my eyes, even as you struggled to take each breath. And that last time I saw you, I knew that as your daddy, I had made the right decision to help you. Biskit my love, I sure hope you understand why I did what I did. The best of the best were by my side and they helped daddy make Biskie feel better. My goal as your daddy was to always make you feel better.
I wouldn't have been anywhere else than by your side, looking into those beautiful eyes as daddy and the doctor did make Biskie feel better. Please understand that I did this out of unconditional love, I know you do baby girl, I know you do.

I could write a thousand pages about my love for you and it wouldn't do you justice. But I did want you to know that I do know how much you loved me, I know how much you followed me and I know how much you basically worshipped the ground I walked on. Let me tell you, it was a pleasure.

I find it both ironic and a bit comforting that you passed away not far at all from the little town of Dunnellon, where I got you back in August 2006. I think God may have wanted you to come home to him sweet girl but before he brought you, he needed you to go home one last time. I'll never understand why you were taken from me so soon, but it won't stop me from cherishing all the great years we had together.

So my dear sweet baby girl, I will end this letter to you with one last affirmation. Biskit Koelsch, I love you with all of my heart, all of my soul, all of my mind and all that I am. You were the best little girl your daddy could ever have and I am so proud of you for being my girl. You were a good girl, a tough girl and a strong girl every day of your life but most of all, you were a fun girl who changed most people that ever met you. The picture to my right is my favorite picture ever taken of us. Dad took it when Mom and Dad joined us for a walk in Florida one day.


Biskie, don't think for a minute that we won't be reunited someday again, and boy, I will join you in that full sprint until you are again in my arms. But I know God is with you and many others that will watch over you until I get there. I know now you'll watch over me and that gives me great comfort.

You know I don't like the word goodbye so I will most definitely see you soon Biskit. You will forever have my heart, my soul and all that I am. Thank you for being such a good baby and loving me, you are the best thing I ever called my own.

Love you always and forever my sweet baby girl,

Daddy

In loving memory of Biskit Koelsch - Born May 11, 2006, Passed Away November 4, 2013

Weight Loss, Snowstorms and Sports Minutia

Well the results are in and while I fell slightly short of my goal (yes, I'm aggressive), I'm pleased to report that I've lost 13.7 lbs on Day 30 of my diet.

It's been a battle and one that will continue but I'm winning and I'm not looking back. My initial goal of 50 lbs is well within reach and I'm going to get that in the short term. I've actually been pleasantly surprised with the whole Nutrisystem plan and the food is actually pretty good. Some things are obviously better than others but I'm pleased.

Its taught me a lot and I feel better. That's the big reason I'm doing this. Yes, there will be cheat days and I look forward to my beers (back on Michelob Ultra) but this lifestyle change is one that's needed and worth it. One major change is the exercise regimen I've started. It's certainly not going to revolutionize fitness but it has done the following:

1.) Made me feel better
2.) Made me look better
3.) Changed how I view cheating and drinking beer
4.) Become addictive

I really enjoy going and that itself amazes me. OK, enough of the diet stuff as most of you have probably quit reading. We're getting hit pretty good with a snowstorm today here in Chicago. With areas total already in the 2 to 7 inch range that puts the potential final snow totals for this storm in the 5-12 inches range. By far the biggest of the year. So much for spring.

I'm really looking forward to March Madness this year and that always helps ease back into spring. I think PITT can make a Sweet 16 run or possibly a step further. It all depends on their perimeter scoring. Speaking of scoring, nobody is doing it better than my Pittsburgh Penguins. Only problem is, their defense is a porous sieve. They need to fix that fast or they won't be able to challenge for a Stanley Cup that is well within reach. And while we're on hockey, how can you not notice the hometown Chicago Blackhawks? That's a pretty damn impressive and insane start.

I'll wrap this with a few predictions about baseball. Look for the Pittsburgh Pirates to regress this year, falling to a record of 70-92. Management did nothing to address its anemic offense and a pitching staff that overachieved will return to earth. I am going on record to say that James McDonald will once again be removed from the starting rotation and that Aj Burnett will see his era rise to his career norm or worse (4.05).

I certainly hope I'm wrong but I have 20 years of futility on my side. Well, that's all for now so farwell, stay low and keep wheeling.

What the heck is going on?

It's certainly been too long but the World of KK is back and I'm in the blogging mood. I kept the blog title PC as I truly am going through somewhat of a transformation.

It's early and I'm only eight days into it but I've lost 6.9 pounds thus far eating better and following the Nutrisystem diet plan. My goal is to lose 50 pounds and keep it off. I am on the initial 28-day plan and have cut alcohol and pop out of my diet. Those of you who know me well know that I love my Ginger Ale and Bud Light so it's a big give up. But, those of you who know me also know that I'm not a quitter.

I'm not saying I'll make my goal or even close. What I am saying is I'm tired of feeling shitty and am doing something about it. If nothing else, this diet plan is helping educate me to a healthy and more balanced diet. That means more meals, but smaller portions. Sounds simple but a fat, single guy like me was so used to skipping breakfast and gorging at lunch. Then, eat whatever I damn well pleased at dinner.

There will be cheat days and I will MOST DEFINITELY see you at the bar but you're going to see less of me. That's not a promise or a goal, that's a fact.

Kraig Koelsch

p.s. I included this picture of my latest grocery trip to motivate myself and maybe some others. I literally couldn't believe what I had bought but when the worst things is low-fat/sodium cheese, I'd say that's a hell of a progression.

p.s.s. Winter can feel free to end at any point now. I am starting to think I've had my fill of it again. Biskit certainly has. What's next? Stay tuned.

p.s.s.s. Is there even such a thing as p.s.s.s.? Well who cares. Anyway, F the Ravens and Let's Go Pens!

Rolling Five at Kansas

Looking to build off last weekend's win at Texas, Team Nationwide for Harry is rolling five again this Sunday at Kansas.

Here's how we'll start after qualifying:

15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 8th
48 --Jimmie Johnson -- 15th
16 -- Greg Biffle -- 17th        
99 - -Carl Edwards -- 21st
13 -- Casey Mears -- 40th

This post will be updated following Sunday's STP 400.
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Post-race update

Early trouble for Clint Bowyer led to an average finish of 12th overall but 3 guys in the Top 10 kept us supplanted right at 5th overall on the season.

48 --Jimmie Johnson --2nd
16 -- Greg Biffle -- 5th       
99 - -Carl Edwards --9th
13 -- Casey Mears --26th
15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 36th

We'll see you next Saturday on the track at Richmond for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 400.

Let's get after it!

Team Nationwide for Harry Wins!

Close calls three weeks in a row did not stop Team Nationwide for Harry from finally taking the checkered flag for the first time this season at Texas.

Here is how our drivers finished:

13 -- Casey Mears -- 25th
15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 17th
16 -- Greg Biffle -- 1st
17 -- Matt Kenseth -- 5th
48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 2nd

The win pushed us into the Top 5 overall after 7 races and we'll look to keep the momentum going this Sunday at the STP 400 in Kansas.

Hey Kennedy, this win's for you! Technically, they all are. :-)

Team Nationwide for Harry Stays Hot at Martinsville

Team Nationwide for Harry heads to the Martinsville short track this Sunday and we're rolling five.

Looking to continue the momentum from two solid finishes in a row (Top 5), here's how we'll start at the Goody's Fast Relief 500:

11 -- Denny Hamlin -- 3rd
15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 4th
14 -- Tony Stewart -- 15th
48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 22nd
13 -- Casey Mears -- 25th

Bowyer and Stewart have been mainstays for Team Nationwide for Harry this year and Jimmie Johnson is always a solid, top shoe. We've had mixed results with Denny Hamlin but he's simply too good to NOT take here.

Finally, I believe we can steal a Top 20 from our 5th driver, Casey Mears, as he too has had success in the land of hamburgers with only mustard and onions.

This post will be updated after the final race results.

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A wild finish led by a selfish move by the no. 10 car of asshole David Reutimann cost Team Nationwide for Harry a victory today.

Nonetheless, we finished strong and came in 3rd for the week. For the year, we're 9th out of 21 teams, moving up two spots after our third Top 5 finish in a row.

Here is how we finished:

11 -- Denny Hamlin -- 7th
14 -- Tony Stewart -- 10th
15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 11th
48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 12th
13 -- Casey Mears -- 24th

The Sprint Cup boys are off next weekend so we'll see you on the track April 14th at Texas Motor Speedway.

Gettin' After It, Sonoma Style

Team Nationwide for Harry returns to the track this week in Sonoma, CA in the Auto Club 400, looking to improve on a 5th place finish last week. The 2012 season has not been kind as we sit in 17th place right now out of 21 teams.

That said, it's early and the standings are tight so one good week and we'll climb 5-6 spots, moved up 2 last week.

A solid qualifying effort puts Team Nationwide for Harry in position to have its best week yet:

18 - Kyle Busch -- Rowdy is due damnit and will start 2nd.
55 - Mark Martin -- The wily veteran is poised for a Top 10 and will start 3rd.
16 - Greg Biffle -- Hoping to ride his 2012 momentum for another week. The Biff will start 4th.
5 - Kasey Kahne -- Yes, this prick has hosed us before but he's good here, and he's due. Kahne will start 5th.
15 - Clint Bowyer -- A value pick, looked fast in practice and will start 11th.

This post will be updated with final results on Sunday.

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The race was red flagged but that didn't stop Team Nationwide for Harry from having another solid week landing all five drivers in the Top 15, two in the Top 10. For the week, we finished 3rd out of 21 teams. On the season, we're tied for 11th moving up an impressive 6 spots this week but it's tight so we'll have to stay after it.

Our drivers came home this way:

18 -- Kyle Busch - 2nd
16 -- Greg Biffle -- 6th
55 -- Mark Martin -- 12th
15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 14th
5  -- Kasey Kahne -- 15th

See you next week at the Goody's Fast Relief 500 in Martinsville.

Speak ENGLISH!!!

Say what you want about those who say this is the United States, speak English or _____________

This happened to me today at a bank branch inside the grocery store here in Chicago, yeah, you know, the third largest city in the United States.

Me: Hello, could I please get a roll of quarters?
Bank employee: Um, I don't think we have that (mumbled).
Me: You don't have a roll of quarters?
Bank employee: Um, I don't think. How many do you want?
Me: Just a roll.
Bank employee: One minute.
-- Manager then walks out.
Manager: Can I help you?
Me: I just need a roll of quarters.
Manager: Sure, here you go
-- End of transaction.

My opinion. SPEAK ENGLISH!

Headed to Phoenix, Need to Get After It

It's off to Phoenix this weekend for the Subway Fresh Fit 500 this Sunday. Team Nationwide for Harry definitely looks to improve on a very average 2012 debut last week.

We'll be rolling five drivers this week so hopefully, a win and a move up the standings are in order.

Here's how we'll start things:

No. 5 - Kasey Kahne (37,000) --10th
No. 14 - Tony Stewart (41,000) --2nd
No. 15 - Clint Bowyer (16,000) --16th
No. 47 - Bobby Labonte (24,000) --17th
No. 99 - Carl Edwards (42,000) --24th

Hoping for Clint Bowyer to be a solid bargain pick again this week and really looking for Bobby Labonte to continue the success he's had in his career at Phoenix. That said, it's a roll of the dice as Labonte certainly doesn't have the machine he's had with teams of the past but hey, I'm OK with rolling the proverbial dice on this past champion.

I originally had Jimmie Johnson and the no. 48 but punted him in favor of Carl Edwards after Johnson and crew chief Chad Knaus were fined, docked points and suspended (Knaus).

This post will be updated with post-race results.

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Early trouble for Kasey Kahne (you prick!) and Clint Bowyer led to another bad week for Team Nationwide for Harry. Fortunately, depending on how you look at it, I had to work and didn't have to watch my team limp to a tie for last place for the week and dropping to 19th place overall. Thankfully, it's early.

Here is how we finished:

No. 5 - Kasey Kahne -- 34th
No. 14 - Tony Stewart -- 22nd
No. 15 - Clint Bowyer -- 30th
No. 47 - Bobby Labonte -- 16th
No. 99 - Carl Edwards -- 17th

Team Nationwide for Harry Returns in 2012

Looking to build on an 11th place finish last year, Team Nationwide for Harry is returning to Green Flag Racing for another year, keeping Harry's memory alive in a hobby he quite enjoyed.

Daytona International Speedway is obviously where the boys will be this weekend and we're rolling five.

Here's how we'll start things:

No. 88 -- Dale Earnhardt Jr. -- 3rd

No. 14 -- Tony Stewart -- 10th

No. 2 -- Brad Keselowski -- 19th

No. 15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 22nd

No. 51 -- Kurt Busch -- 34th

Kurt Busch has proven to be a thorn in our side in the past but he's also quite good at Daytona, as evidenced in last weekend's Bud Shootout. So I rolled the dice.

This post will be updated with race results on Sunday. Time to get after it fellas!

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Post-race update

It was a wild weekend at the track and the Daytona 500 proved no different. An early incident sealed the fate of Kurt Busch and Brad Keselowski was taken out in a late-race incident.

Team Nationwide for Harry finished the day 13th overall, besting only 7 teams.

Here is how we finished:

No. 88 -- Dale Earnhardt Jr. --2nd
No. 15 -- Clint Bowyer -- 11th

No. 14 -- Tony Stewart -- 16th

No. 2 -- Brad Keselowski -- 32nd

No. 51 -- Kurt Busch -- 39th

Here We Go Again ..... Snow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As if last winter's records weren't enough, it looks like Biskit and I will be hunkering down for another tough winter here in the fine city of Chicago.

From Yahoo!: Private forecaster Accuweather.com said on Wednesday that heavy snow and extreme cold should be expected in the north central United States, especially in the Chicago area, in the coming winter.

The East Coast faces average to slightly above average snowfall during the winter of 2011-2012 as a Pacific La Nina again drives weather patterns across the United States.

"People in Chicago are going to want to move after this winter," Accuweather Long-Range Meteorologist Josh Nagelberg said in a statement.

Accuweather's forecast projects Chicago will again be hit by extreme cold weather and several blizzards, as it endured last winter when more than 50 inches fell on the city including a single storm that dropped 20 inches.

Read more here: http://news.yahoo.com/accuweather-forecasts-extreme-cold-winter-chicago-050227335.html

It's Been Awhile

The World of KK returns after a busy summer full of travel, moving (twice) and the usual work/life routine. Not much else new going on at the moment but I am enjoying my new apartment in Roscoe Village. It's a great and old neighborhood located on Chicago's north side, just a short walk to the Paulina 'L" stop and about 1.3 miles from the friendly confines of Wrigley Field. Still plugging away for my man Harry on fantasy NASCAR but must admit, I haven't done as well as expected. I'm in 14th place overall right now, hope to crack the Top 8 by season's end. I've won two weeks which is more than I ever have but still, my goal was to win it all. Thankfully, the Pirates season ends Wednesday and that can't come soon enough. What started out as a fun and upstart team to watch turned into an old and crusty bunch of bums limping home after the break. Once again, a losing season is achieved and next year will be absolutely no different, if not worse. The rumors have already started about Andrew McCutchen being a tough sign. When/if that happens (him leaving/the Bucs making excuses as to why they didn't sign him), I'm done (well, at least I won't spend a dime to watch, attend or wear anything that will generate a dime for the Nutting regime). Frankly, I've been lied to enough and I lose more and more interest each year. I never thought I would ever say that. Until later....

Team Nationwide for Harry Goes Road Racing, Rolling 5

Team Nationwide for Harry hits its first road course under my tutelage this week at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Ca. I am not the biggest fan of these races but I do love the fact that you can and should always get five guys in the show for the week.

We left $18K on the table (leaving a chunk of cash is not uncommon when picking road racers) and went with the following:

Lineup:
no. 9 - Marcos Ambrose (30,000)
no. 24 - Jeff Gordon (35,000)
no. 42 - Juan Montoya (33,000)
no. 48 - Jimmie Johnson (41,000)
no. 51 - Boris Said (3,000)

I feel strongly that this lineup can yield a solid finish. They all made the show and here's where they will start:

no. 9 -- Marcos Ambrose -- 9th
no. 48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 12th
no. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 13th
no. 42 -- Juan Montoya -- 17th
no. 51 -- Boris Said -- 30th

This post will be updated with post-race results.

Post-race results
Some late shenanigans by the no. 42 car of Juan Montoya cost Team Nationwide for Harry the win but still earned us a solid fourth-place finish this week.

We still had two drivers in the Top 5, and three in the Top 10 but the Montoya skirmishes along with an incident between Boris Said and Jeff Burton tarnished our dreams of a second win in three weeks.

Overall, Team Nationwide for Harry held at 17th overall but is well within striking distance of the Top 10 with a good finish.

Here is the final overall breakdown:

no. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 2nd
no. 9 -- Marcos Ambrose -- 5th
no. 48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 7th
no. 42 -- Juan Montoya -- 22nd
no. 51 -- Boris Said -- 28th

We'll be back in action next week at Daytona for the Coke Zero 400.

Nationwide for Harry Rolling 5 at Michigan

Team Nationwide for Harry returns to the track this weekend at the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 in Brooklyn, Michigan. Better news is, we're rolling five!

Here is who I took, why I took them and how they qualified:

16 -- Greg Biffle -- $34K -- The Biff is my man and Michigan has been good to him. Biffle has 10 top 10 finishes in 16 career starts at Brooklyn.
24 -- Jeff Gordon -- $34K -- I cannot drop the no. 24 after last week's win, the fact that he is only $34K and the fact that he has 18 top five finishes in 36 career starts at MIS.
46 -- JJ Yeley -- $5K -- Harry liked JJ and so do I, plus, he's affordable and almost a lock to qualify via speed. Note: Yeley is in.
48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- $42K -- JJ has never won here but is usually right at the top. I think he might get his first victory on Sunday.
99 -- Carl Edwards -- $44K -- I can't stand the prick but he's finished in the top 10 in 11 of his 13 career starts at MIS. Plus, he's on fire and due to bounce back strong after a rough ride last week.

Thus, I left $1K on the table. Qualifying results are as follows:

7 -- no. 16 Greg Biffle
21 -- no. 48 Jimmie Johnson
23 -- no. 99 Carl Edwards
31 -- no. 24 Jeff Gordon
34 -- no. 46 JJ Yeley

Note: This post will be updated with post-race results.

Post-race results:

A lineup I really liked turned in a below average day as team Nationwide for Harry had an off week, falling one spot to 16th overall on the year.

Here is how we finished:

no. 99 -- Carl Edwards -- 5th
no. 16 -- Greg Biffle -- 15th
no. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 17th
no. 48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 27th
no. 46 -- JJ Yeley -- 39th

We'll be back in action next Sunday in Sonoma at the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway.

Dude, We Got One! Team Nationwide for Harry Wins!

I've taken a few weeks off from the blog due to some personal reasons and the fact that I moved. I'll be settled in my new apartment here in Chicago in July and am excited about that.

Now, for the big news: We Got One for Ya Harry!

After a season full of ups and downs, Team Nationwide for Harry finally took the checkered flag finishing FIRST at the 5-Hour Energy 500 at Pocono Raceway.

A mid-pack strategy helped us bring home the win this week. Rather than taking a heavy hitter, we used this strategy:

4 - Kasey Kahne (31,000)
39 - Ryan Newman (35,000)
24 - Jeff Gordon (33,000)
42 - Juan Montoya (33,000)
31 - Jeff Burton (28,000)

Here's how they finished.

24 -- 1st
42 -- 7th
39 -- 9th
4 -- 12th
31 -- 20th

The win moved Team Nationwide for Harry up to 16th overall but man, it sure feels good to win a week for my pal. We'll try for two in a row next week at Michigan. Dude, we got one!

Rolling 5 at the Monster Mile

Team Nationwide for Harry is back rolling five drivers after rain washed out qualifying at the monster mile. That, my friends, is why you do your homework.

Here is who we have this week:

no. 48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- On the pole and expected to have a top finish. JJ has kicked ass here lately and will again Sunday.
no. 18 -- Kyle Busch -- Starts 7th and another one I expect to see a Top 5 finish from. The Rowdy vs. Harvick show will be interesting to watch as well. That said, this is a good track for his style.
no. 16 -- Greg Biffle -- Two weeks in a row on our squad and I believe Biffle (starting 12th) scores a Top 10 or higher again at a track he's seen lots of success at.
no. 17 -- Matt Kenseth -- Starts 24th but don't worry, this cat has owned this track and is a strong bet to stay with the lead pack all day.
no. 30 -- David Stremme -- Starts 40th. Plain and simple. We rolled the dice on this $2K driver. He's in and anything higher than 35 will be a bonus.

I ended up leaving $3K on the table preferring to take Stremme over higher priced 'cheap' drivers like Michael McDowell, Mike Skinner and Andy Lally. With the rain though, it didn't matter. Stremme is in.

I'll update this post after the race with what hopefully is a big week for Team Nationwide for Harry.

Post-race Update

Another win for Matt Kenseth at Dover and three Top 10 drivers made for a good day for Team Nationwide for Harry at the Monster Mile.

Kyle Busch finished 4th while Jimmie Johnson earned a 9th-place finish while leading the most laps.

Our cheap driver, David Stremme went out early, but he still got us points and Greg Biffle overcame an early issue to finish a respectable 19th.

For the week, Team Nationwide for Harry finished 5th overall and moved up 3 spots and into the Top 15 at no. 15.

The all-star race next week is not a part of GFR racing so we'll be back in action on May 29th in Charlotte from the always entertaining Coca-Cola 600.

Friends in Town, Darlington Recap

Busy week this week so I'll just offer a brief recap of how Team Nationwide for Harry fared at Darlington. For the first time since I took over, we only had four drivers as no. 71 Andy Lally failed to get in the show.

Here is how our remaining drivers finished up:

no. 16 -- Greg Biffle -- 8th
no. 18 -- Kyle Busch -- 11th
no. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 12th
no. 48 -- Jimmie Johnson -- 15th

A late wreck cost us a chance at three in the Top 10, but we finished with four in the Top 15 which would normally be good but not this week. Just getting that fifth car in the lineup would have had us in the Top 10 but we finished tied for 17th. Overall, we fell two spots to 18th but it's early and two good weeks puts us easily in the Top 10, the standings are that tight. We'll be ready for the monster mile at Dover next week.

NOTE: I had the pleasure of touring Julynn and Kennedy Stiff and Kelly Lee around Chicago on Saturday morning/afternoon. We enjoyed breakfast and took in Millenium and Grant Parks, Buckingham Fountain, the Lincoln statue and some shopping. Kennedy enjoyed riding the subway and buses. Thanks for the fun day ladies, look forward to seeing you soon! (The picture of Kennedy Stiff and Kelly Lee was taken at the Nike store in front of a giant Adrian Petersen mural, obviously in honor of Harry.)

Night Racing at Richmond

The Sprint Cup boys are back on the track this week at Richmond International Raceway for a night race under the lights.

Team Nationwide for Harry is looking to bounce back after a tough finish in Talladega. Things can get tricky on this 0.75 mile oval but we're primed for a chase for a victory.

Here is who I went with this week and why:

#18 -- Kyle Busch -- $41K -- Rowdy has kicked ass here lately including finishes of 1st and 2nd last year. He is our favorite to win this weekend.
#24 -- Jeff Gordon -- $35K -- What a great price for Gordon and we like his chances to run for a Top 5, and maybe even sneak a win. He was damn close last week.
#29 -- Kevin Harvick -- $40K -- Team Nationwide for Harry has been riding Harvick and we're doing it again. Expect a Top 10 or better from Harvick.
#33 -- Clint Bowyer -- $35K -- Is this his year? It's certainly looked like it so far. Bowyer has won here and consistently finishes in the Top 10.
#71 -- Andy Lally -- $7K -- We've also run the Lally train a few times this year and the youngster has produced for what is expected. An important note for this week, however, the #21 is NOT entered, so the #71 moves into a guaranteed starting spot. Team nationwide for Harry says that is $7K well spent.

Thus we spent $158K and left $2K on the table, but I'm quite pleased with this lineup and think it has a chance to win. Finally, we did not take Denny Hamlin this week, a favorite by many standards, well, because he is a bum and never comes through for us. Let's hope he finishes poorly this week as I'm guessing many other team will be riding with him.

Qualifying Update: We're rolling 5 again and I'm pretty happy with the breakdown after qualifying. Here's how Team Nationwide for Harry will line up:

No. 33 -- Clint Bowyer -- 3rd
No. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 6th
No. 29 -- Kevin Harvick -- 12th
No. 18 -- Kyle Busch -- 20th
No. 71 -- Andy Lally -- 41st

Post-Race Update
A crash at lap 300 took the wind out of the sails for Team Nationwide for Harry. The crash parked Jeff Gordon for the night and our chances at winning.

Here is our breakdown:

No. 18 -- Kyle Busch -- 1st
No. 33 -- Clint Bowyer -- 6th
No. 29 -- Kevin Harvick -- 12th
No. 71 -- Andy Lally -- 27th
No. 24 -- Jeff Gordon -- 39th

Thus, another great night for the rookie Lally. For the week, we finished 14th and fell one spot to 16th overall. On to the Lady in Black next week.