It was another busy day. I managed to meet with the consultant that’s helping us drive down the costs of many of our furnishings, fixtures and other capital items. We’d been meaning to meet in person for some time.
On another topic, I’ve had great success lately with this practice of creating my day. I blogged about it back in April 2007 but must admit I languished a little throughout the late summer and early fall. I just didn’t make time to create my day. But lately, I’ve made the time, dedicated the time, and the payback has been tremendous. I generally achieve my perfect day, every day.
Give it a try!
Friday, November 30, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Green to the Core
We were mentioned briefly in the media today. KW Record reporter Michael Hammond wrote a great piece on the many recent positive developments, most specifically new businesses, within downtown Kitchener.
You can find the entire article, titled “Discovering core values,” here.
Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo was mentioned in the following paragraphs, taken directly from Michael's article.
You can find the entire article, titled “Discovering core values,” here.
Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo was mentioned in the following paragraphs, taken directly from Michael's article.
A self-described serial entrepreneur, meanwhile, is working on plans to open an indoor golf training facility on the ground floor of the Market Square retail-office building at King and Frederick streets.
Stephen Southern wants to open a Parmasters golfing centre with driving range simulators, sand trap practice areas, putting greens, a pro shop and a cafe.
When he unveiled his plans this summer, Southern said his biggest motivation in locating in Market Square was offering a golfing "health club" for the thousands of
people who work in the core.
Also today, our Canadian Regional Franchisor, Andre Ferris, issued the following release. It's included below, in full, and also available here.
Nov 28, 2007 13:00 ET
Greener days ahead for Canadian golfers
Parmaster’s indoor golf greens ideal for practicing year round
Attention: Business/Financial Editor, Lifestyle Editor, News Editor, Sports Editor
TORONTO, ONTARIO, MEDIA RELEASE--(Marketwire - Nov. 28, 2007) - The chip and putt are two of the most important strokes in golf which only get better with practice. Parmasters Golf Training Centers make it possible to practice these strokes year round in their indoor golf centres.
Just ask players such as Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Mike Weir and they'll tell you that improvement only comes through consistent training and practice. Few ever imagine reaching their playing level, but concede that any improvement would be a step in the right direction.
Whether professional, experienced, casual or new, all golfers agree with the old adage, that "practice makes perfect." And yet, it's actually perfect practice that makes perfect. And that means training in the ideal conditions. What's challenging for the average golfer is finding the time and place to practice year round.
"It's no wonder that professionals putt well when many of them, such as Vijay Singh, have professionally designed golf greens right in their own backyard," says Parmasters Chief Golf Professional and Co-Founder, Scott Hazledine. "To have one of these would be any golfer's dream."
"Having a surface this good to practice on is incredible," says Vijay Singh, 2004 PGA champion. "[It]… performs like a tour green."
The putting greens are so realistic and play like real greens that a golfer can play the same stroke that's used on real grass. "We've found that pros and amateurs can greatly improve their putting strokes by being able to rely on consistent putts with a "true roll" from every position on the green," says Weston Weber, founder and owner of Southwest Putting Greens Technologies, Inc.
Over 25 PGA pros own these putting greens, and it is these same, quality greens that Parmasters are installing in each of their 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet golf centres, beginning with Canada's first Parmasters centre which opens early 2008 in Edmonton. Another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes will follow in the spring.
"Not only is Parmasters 'the ultimate golf training and practice facility,' they make learning, practicing and playing golf fun," says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers. "As I speak with people across Canada about this opportunity, it's exciting to hear their enthusiasm and anticipation for the centres to open."
Parmasters is the world's first year-round indoor golf training centre franchise that literally guarantees results and is currently establishing itself in the Canadian market. And with over 30 franchises already awarded in Canada, and only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, to be sold, finding a location close to home shouldn't be too difficult.
Visit http://www.parmastersfranchise.com/ for franchising opportunities and details.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
We Will Phone You Every Three Months
It was another busy and productive day at Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. Our grand opening is now within sight, finally. These are exciting times, and sometimes overwhelming, as alluded to in my blog entry last night.
I enjoyed a sandwich at a local Tim Horton’s today. I’ve had the same type of sandwich many times in the past, but this one, today, just seemed different. I can’t quite put my finger on the difference. And thank goodness for that! The sandwich just seemed a little, I don’t know, perhaps “flat” is the correct word. That said, lunch today was still very enjoyable. It was a very comfortable respite from a hectic day!
I’m having some challenges with my virus protection software/subscription. I’m told I have to renew, that my subscription has expired. When I proceed onto the company’s website, and log into my account, I’m told my subscription will expire in, are you ready for this?, 356 days! Wow! I better renew today!
And so I search for a phone number, and none can be found. I eventually gave up. I’ll take up the quest again early tomorrow.
This is quite a contrast to the customer service we will offer once we open. Of course, I may be somewhat biased, but you can be the judge. We will phone each of our members once every three months, to simply ask how we’re doing and how we can do better. We won’t try to sell anything. We won’t offer any special promotions or soon to expire deals. We’ll simply tell each member, every three months, that we care about his/her experience within our golf training center, and we want to make that experience even better, and ask how we might do so. Oh, and if you want to call us, simply dial our number, which is found on virtually every page of our website.
Better golf. More fun. Guaranteed.
I enjoyed a sandwich at a local Tim Horton’s today. I’ve had the same type of sandwich many times in the past, but this one, today, just seemed different. I can’t quite put my finger on the difference. And thank goodness for that! The sandwich just seemed a little, I don’t know, perhaps “flat” is the correct word. That said, lunch today was still very enjoyable. It was a very comfortable respite from a hectic day!
I’m having some challenges with my virus protection software/subscription. I’m told I have to renew, that my subscription has expired. When I proceed onto the company’s website, and log into my account, I’m told my subscription will expire in, are you ready for this?, 356 days! Wow! I better renew today!
And so I search for a phone number, and none can be found. I eventually gave up. I’ll take up the quest again early tomorrow.
This is quite a contrast to the customer service we will offer once we open. Of course, I may be somewhat biased, but you can be the judge. We will phone each of our members once every three months, to simply ask how we’re doing and how we can do better. We won’t try to sell anything. We won’t offer any special promotions or soon to expire deals. We’ll simply tell each member, every three months, that we care about his/her experience within our golf training center, and we want to make that experience even better, and ask how we might do so. Oh, and if you want to call us, simply dial our number, which is found on virtually every page of our website.
Better golf. More fun. Guaranteed.
Monday, November 26, 2007
When a Task Seems Overwhelming
I had a good chat with Andrew Winston at Parmasters HQ this evening. It was “good” in that I learned quite a bit and he really challenged me to think outside the box and get creative with certain challenges. On the other hand, the magnitude of this challenge, the sheer amount of work to be done to open Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo, on time and on budget, now seems really overwhelming.
I don’t mind admitting, entrepreneurship can be an emotional roller coaster. Don’t get me wrong; we’re absolutely focused on the task at hand. We’ll do whatever it takes to open this business and provide amazing service to our customers. It’s just that, at times, this entire process can become very stressful.
It’s at times like these, when a project seems completely overwhelming, that I try to employ a few tried and true strategies. For example:
1) Break the task down into smaller, more manageable, sub-tasks.
2) Do something. Get started. Just make some early progress. Build some momentum.
3) Leverage. Can some sub-tasks be handed off to other team members, friends, professionals, colleagues, etc.?
4) Don’t lose sight of the eventual outcome. Do some visioning. In this case, I picture the grand opening of Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo.
5) Challenge the feelings of being overwhelmed. Is the project really as daunting as it seems? Sometimes our minds play tricks on us, portraying something that is not reality.
6) Worst case scenario. Spend a little bit of time understanding the worst possible outcome. Once you do this, you generally realize that it’s not nearly as bad as you thought it was, before you really understood it.
7) Look to the wise words of others. (Please note this list is in no particular order.) Talk to a friend, a colleague, a confidante. Someone you trust. Someone that will tell it like it is. Someone with wisdom to share. I have done so recently and will do so again tomorrow.
8) Look to other wise words, such as those that follow.
“Never confuse activity with results.” -Lou Gerstner, former CEO, IBM
“Vision is not enough; it must be combined with venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps; we must step up the stairs.” -Vaclav Havel
“Good timber does not grow with ease. The stronger the wind, the stronger the trees.” -unknown
“Some succeed because they are destined to. Most succeed because they are determined to.” -unknown
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.” -Mark Twain
“No matter how big and tough a problem may be, get rid of confusion by taking one little step toward solution. Do something.” -George F. Nordenholt
I don’t mind admitting, entrepreneurship can be an emotional roller coaster. Don’t get me wrong; we’re absolutely focused on the task at hand. We’ll do whatever it takes to open this business and provide amazing service to our customers. It’s just that, at times, this entire process can become very stressful.
It’s at times like these, when a project seems completely overwhelming, that I try to employ a few tried and true strategies. For example:
1) Break the task down into smaller, more manageable, sub-tasks.
2) Do something. Get started. Just make some early progress. Build some momentum.
3) Leverage. Can some sub-tasks be handed off to other team members, friends, professionals, colleagues, etc.?
4) Don’t lose sight of the eventual outcome. Do some visioning. In this case, I picture the grand opening of Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo.
5) Challenge the feelings of being overwhelmed. Is the project really as daunting as it seems? Sometimes our minds play tricks on us, portraying something that is not reality.
6) Worst case scenario. Spend a little bit of time understanding the worst possible outcome. Once you do this, you generally realize that it’s not nearly as bad as you thought it was, before you really understood it.
7) Look to the wise words of others. (Please note this list is in no particular order.) Talk to a friend, a colleague, a confidante. Someone you trust. Someone that will tell it like it is. Someone with wisdom to share. I have done so recently and will do so again tomorrow.
8) Look to other wise words, such as those that follow.
“Never confuse activity with results.” -Lou Gerstner, former CEO, IBM
“Vision is not enough; it must be combined with venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps; we must step up the stairs.” -Vaclav Havel
“Good timber does not grow with ease. The stronger the wind, the stronger the trees.” -unknown
“Some succeed because they are destined to. Most succeed because they are determined to.” -unknown
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one.” -Mark Twain
“No matter how big and tough a problem may be, get rid of confusion by taking one little step toward solution. Do something.” -George F. Nordenholt
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Hockey Practice
I'm standing in the lobby of the arena and curling club in beautiful Wellesley, Ontario. I had my eldest son up at 5:30am for his 7:00am hockey practice. He's zipping around the face-off circles, forwards and backwards, while controlling a puck, as I type. It's a great drill that I did countless times myself some 25-35 years ago! Ouch!
Actually, to be fair, I didn't have to wake him. He had set his alarm and was just starting his breakfast at 5:20am, when I arrived in the kitchen. Impressive!
It will be another busy day in the office after this practice. It's just a busy period. We have a lot to do between now and January, to stay on schedule for a late spring or early summer opening. I'll blog more on specific schedules - and perhaps a press release - in the near future.
And later today I hope to enjoy, along with millions of others, the 95th contesting of three-down football supremacy. I suspect Saslatchewan fans will be celebrating later tonight.
Actually, to be fair, I didn't have to wake him. He had set his alarm and was just starting his breakfast at 5:20am, when I arrived in the kitchen. Impressive!
It will be another busy day in the office after this practice. It's just a busy period. We have a lot to do between now and January, to stay on schedule for a late spring or early summer opening. I'll blog more on specific schedules - and perhaps a press release - in the near future.
And later today I hope to enjoy, along with millions of others, the 95th contesting of three-down football supremacy. I suspect Saslatchewan fans will be celebrating later tonight.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Fifteen Minutes
Today was very productive. I worked late last night and started a little late this morning, but managed to clear up several outstanding tasks. I also managed to get a great start on some writing that I had been putting off. I’m not typically one to procrastinate, but there are certain tasks that I simply don’t enjoy.
To tackle this writing project, I used a friend’s 15-minute approach. Jim Estill advocates this strategy when procrastinating. Simply make a deal with yourself that you’ll tackle the task for 15 minutes. As Jim notes, we can all do pretty much anything for a mere 15 minutes. I did so this morning. I decided I’d put 15 minutes into this writing task and see what happened. Two hours later, when I finally came up for air, I realized I had just created a solid first draft.
While eating lunch I watched a bit of the LG Skins Game taking place at the Indian Wells Golf Resort in Indian Wells (surprisingly enough), California, USA. I witnessed Fred Couples pull out another skins game miracle, holing out for eagle from a deep green side bunker on the short par-5, 501 yard fourth hole.
The Globe and Mail provided a recap, which I’ve included below.
Couples off to flying start at Skins Game
Associated Press
November 24, 2007 at 4:27 PM EST
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Fred Couples knows one good shot can make a huge difference in the Skins Game.
After bouncing his drive off a spectator's bag and into the fairway and hitting his second shot into a bunker behind the green, Couples knocked his 35-yard shot out of the sand and into the hole to win $75,000 (U.S.) on Saturday.
"I don't think I played particularly well, but I did hole a shot," he said after taking the first day lead in the LG Skins Game.
His eagle on the par-5, 501-yard fourth hole was worth three skins because the previous two holes were tied.
"He got rewarded for hitting a great shot," defending champion Stephen Ames said.
The 48-year-old Couples hadn't played competitively for almost eight months because of back trouble.
"I'm very rusty, but excited to play," he said.
Ames, of Calgary, was the only other player to win a skin over the first nine holes of the two-day, 18-hole event. He picked up $25,000 by making a six-footer for birdie on the first hole.
Skins Game rookies Zach Johnson, this year's Masters champion, and Brett Wetterich were shut out.
"I think Zach and I are just waiting for the next nine holes; that's when all the big money comes up," Wetterich quipped.
The players usually are more relaxed on the first day of the tournament, joking and laughing, but things tend to get quieter when the big money is at stake on the second day.
Ames provided some fun on No. 9 when he pretended he was going to putt with a hockey stick. Couples joined in, waving his putter to challenge the hockey player.
Johnson said he didn't feel he needed to provide any levity.
"My wife says I'm not funny, so the pressure's off," he said, smiling.
He had several putts rim out of the cup, often shaking his head and grimacing.
The made-for-TV event is in its 25th year, and Couples is playing for the 14th time. He's the five-time tournament champion and has won 89 skins and more than $3.9 million, all topping the Skins Game list.
Most of the prize money remained up for grabs because the other five holes were tied on the first day. When the foursome tees off on No. 10 Sunday, that hole alone will be worth $270,000, and $900,000 of the $1 million purse will be at stake.
Couples' shot out of the sand was the highlight on a day when none of the four played especially well, at times making the relatively short, new course at Indian Wells Golf Resort resemble a gruelling U.S. Open layout.
Players are more aggressive in skins competition, not bothering to lay up shots in front of the green because they realize a par usually won't win a hole. That strategy sometimes leads to more shots straying into the rough or sailing beyond the pin.
"It was a little different scene out there for all of us, bombing drivers," Couples said. "In a regular tournament, you'd be doing different things. I changed some shots and hit some really pathetic shots."
When his bunker shot dropped on what seemed almost its final turn, Couples raised his arms in celebration, then added a brief end zone-type hip wiggle in the sand.
As Couples walked onto the green, some fresh bounce in his step, Johnson bowed to him a couple of times, honouring the player known as "King of the Skins."
The first six holes are worth $25,000, and Nos. 7-12 $50,000 apiece. The 13th through 17th carry a prize of $70,000 and No. 18 is worth $200,000.
A player takes a skin by winning a hole. If the hole is tied by any of the players, the money carries over and all four remain in the hunt. If there is a tie on the 18th, the players who tied enter a playoff.
Couples got a bonus along with the $75,000 he won on No. 4. Title sponsor LG had offered $50,000 in products for an eagle on either of the two par 5s on the course.
To tackle this writing project, I used a friend’s 15-minute approach. Jim Estill advocates this strategy when procrastinating. Simply make a deal with yourself that you’ll tackle the task for 15 minutes. As Jim notes, we can all do pretty much anything for a mere 15 minutes. I did so this morning. I decided I’d put 15 minutes into this writing task and see what happened. Two hours later, when I finally came up for air, I realized I had just created a solid first draft.
While eating lunch I watched a bit of the LG Skins Game taking place at the Indian Wells Golf Resort in Indian Wells (surprisingly enough), California, USA. I witnessed Fred Couples pull out another skins game miracle, holing out for eagle from a deep green side bunker on the short par-5, 501 yard fourth hole.
The Globe and Mail provided a recap, which I’ve included below.
Couples off to flying start at Skins Game
Associated Press
November 24, 2007 at 4:27 PM EST
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Fred Couples knows one good shot can make a huge difference in the Skins Game.
After bouncing his drive off a spectator's bag and into the fairway and hitting his second shot into a bunker behind the green, Couples knocked his 35-yard shot out of the sand and into the hole to win $75,000 (U.S.) on Saturday.
"I don't think I played particularly well, but I did hole a shot," he said after taking the first day lead in the LG Skins Game.
His eagle on the par-5, 501-yard fourth hole was worth three skins because the previous two holes were tied.
"He got rewarded for hitting a great shot," defending champion Stephen Ames said.
The 48-year-old Couples hadn't played competitively for almost eight months because of back trouble.
"I'm very rusty, but excited to play," he said.
Ames, of Calgary, was the only other player to win a skin over the first nine holes of the two-day, 18-hole event. He picked up $25,000 by making a six-footer for birdie on the first hole.
Skins Game rookies Zach Johnson, this year's Masters champion, and Brett Wetterich were shut out.
"I think Zach and I are just waiting for the next nine holes; that's when all the big money comes up," Wetterich quipped.
The players usually are more relaxed on the first day of the tournament, joking and laughing, but things tend to get quieter when the big money is at stake on the second day.
Ames provided some fun on No. 9 when he pretended he was going to putt with a hockey stick. Couples joined in, waving his putter to challenge the hockey player.
Johnson said he didn't feel he needed to provide any levity.
"My wife says I'm not funny, so the pressure's off," he said, smiling.
He had several putts rim out of the cup, often shaking his head and grimacing.
The made-for-TV event is in its 25th year, and Couples is playing for the 14th time. He's the five-time tournament champion and has won 89 skins and more than $3.9 million, all topping the Skins Game list.
Most of the prize money remained up for grabs because the other five holes were tied on the first day. When the foursome tees off on No. 10 Sunday, that hole alone will be worth $270,000, and $900,000 of the $1 million purse will be at stake.
Couples' shot out of the sand was the highlight on a day when none of the four played especially well, at times making the relatively short, new course at Indian Wells Golf Resort resemble a gruelling U.S. Open layout.
Players are more aggressive in skins competition, not bothering to lay up shots in front of the green because they realize a par usually won't win a hole. That strategy sometimes leads to more shots straying into the rough or sailing beyond the pin.
"It was a little different scene out there for all of us, bombing drivers," Couples said. "In a regular tournament, you'd be doing different things. I changed some shots and hit some really pathetic shots."
When his bunker shot dropped on what seemed almost its final turn, Couples raised his arms in celebration, then added a brief end zone-type hip wiggle in the sand.
As Couples walked onto the green, some fresh bounce in his step, Johnson bowed to him a couple of times, honouring the player known as "King of the Skins."
The first six holes are worth $25,000, and Nos. 7-12 $50,000 apiece. The 13th through 17th carry a prize of $70,000 and No. 18 is worth $200,000.
A player takes a skin by winning a hole. If the hole is tied by any of the players, the money carries over and all four remain in the hunt. If there is a tie on the 18th, the players who tied enter a playoff.
Couples got a bonus along with the $75,000 he won on No. 4. Title sponsor LG had offered $50,000 in products for an eagle on either of the two par 5s on the course.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Parmasters Indianapolis-Noblesville, Indiana, USA Set to Open
It’s an exciting time within the Parmasters world. Our third center, worldwide, is about to open.
Parmasters Memphis, Tennessee, USA opened in June 2006.
Parmasters Guangzhou, China, opened earlier this year.
And now, Parmasters, Indianapolis-Noblesville, Indiana, USA is on the verge. Dave and Betty Anderson will open the center’s doors to members on Saturday December 1! The general public will be invited for their grand opening on Monday December 3!
All of us in the Parmasters family are very excited for the Andersons. They’ve worked many long, hard days, weeks and months to make this dream come true!
Following quickly on the heels of Parmasters Indianapolis-Noblesville are Parmasters Edmonton, Alberta (Colin Christensen) and our very own Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. Right now it looks like Colin may swing open his doors a month or two before us, but we’re working hard to overtake him. There’s a steak dinner (wager) on the line!
I discovered this golf comedy blog today. I haven’t reviewed it in great detail, but I did have a few laughs.
The electricity went out here this evening. It was nice to sit down with a few candles and a good book.
It’s amazing really. We don’t typically notice with ongoing whir of various small and not-so-small electrical appliances and gadgets that surround us. But when they’re all stopped, the silence is wonderful. As I’m typing this, clearly the electricity has been restored. I miss the quiet.
Parmasters Memphis, Tennessee, USA opened in June 2006.
Parmasters Guangzhou, China, opened earlier this year.
And now, Parmasters, Indianapolis-Noblesville, Indiana, USA is on the verge. Dave and Betty Anderson will open the center’s doors to members on Saturday December 1! The general public will be invited for their grand opening on Monday December 3!
All of us in the Parmasters family are very excited for the Andersons. They’ve worked many long, hard days, weeks and months to make this dream come true!
Following quickly on the heels of Parmasters Indianapolis-Noblesville are Parmasters Edmonton, Alberta (Colin Christensen) and our very own Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. Right now it looks like Colin may swing open his doors a month or two before us, but we’re working hard to overtake him. There’s a steak dinner (wager) on the line!
I discovered this golf comedy blog today. I haven’t reviewed it in great detail, but I did have a few laughs.
The electricity went out here this evening. It was nice to sit down with a few candles and a good book.
It’s amazing really. We don’t typically notice with ongoing whir of various small and not-so-small electrical appliances and gadgets that surround us. But when they’re all stopped, the silence is wonderful. As I’m typing this, clearly the electricity has been restored. I miss the quiet.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Blessed Art Thou
I met with our Mizuno Golf Canada representative today. Each Parmasters Golf Training Center, our Kitchener-Waterloo location included, will offer custom-fitted, custom-built Mizuno golf clubs. We offer only the one brand, and only custom-fitted.
The representative was in town to call on various accounts and so offered to show me some of their innovations for the coming 2008 season. He was also interested in learning more about our operation, our schedule and our future location within Market Square in downtown Kitchener.
Amongst the new offerings from Mizuno golf:
- MP-57 professional series irons – a more forgiving iron to complete Mizuno’s MP iron series
- MX-950 game improvement irons – blending three distinct game improvement designs in a seamless set of irons
- MP-600 driver – with two movable and versatile eight gram weights to adjust ball flight
- MX-560 driver – designed for extreme distance and forgiveness
We also discussed many apparel innovations, including the Windlite Performance Mock which includes material that wicks away moisture while also generating heat and warmth.
The new clubs are gaining significant recognition and attention, as noted by this recent Golf magazine article.
This evening I was once again reminded of how incredibly lucky and blessed I am. A friend, Jim Estill, believes he lives a “charmed life.” I’m not sure I’m prepared for that particular phrase, but I was reminded tonight that despite the many challenges and stressful situations I currently face, I am incredibly and overwhelmingly lucky and blessed. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
The representative was in town to call on various accounts and so offered to show me some of their innovations for the coming 2008 season. He was also interested in learning more about our operation, our schedule and our future location within Market Square in downtown Kitchener.
Amongst the new offerings from Mizuno golf:
- MP-57 professional series irons – a more forgiving iron to complete Mizuno’s MP iron series
- MX-950 game improvement irons – blending three distinct game improvement designs in a seamless set of irons
- MP-600 driver – with two movable and versatile eight gram weights to adjust ball flight
- MX-560 driver – designed for extreme distance and forgiveness
We also discussed many apparel innovations, including the Windlite Performance Mock which includes material that wicks away moisture while also generating heat and warmth.
The new clubs are gaining significant recognition and attention, as noted by this recent Golf magazine article.
This evening I was once again reminded of how incredibly lucky and blessed I am. A friend, Jim Estill, believes he lives a “charmed life.” I’m not sure I’m prepared for that particular phrase, but I was reminded tonight that despite the many challenges and stressful situations I currently face, I am incredibly and overwhelmingly lucky and blessed. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Chief Lieutenant and Great Testimonial
My productivity has really taken a hit lately, starting with a few days off and then this cold that I’m still fighting. It seemed just a little better today. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.
I did manage to get a fair bit done today. I had been procrastinating, just a little, on some writing but today managed to complete most of a good first draft. There were many calls, of course. And I also conferenced with Parmasters HQ.
I hope I’m not stealing their thunder, but Parmasters HQ has apparently established an agreement with a third party firm whereby this firm will provide project oversight services to franchise owners throughout the build stage of each center. I don’t believe this firm will act as a general contractor, but rather more of a chief lieutenant to the franchise owner.
Details on all of this are still sketchy, but this is welcomed news. It would free the franchise owner, me, to focus on building the operation, staffing, building revenue, and ensuring operational expenses are managed effectively from the start.
In doing a little reading, I came across this testimonial from a recent member newsletter issued by Parmasters Memphis, in beautiful Tennessee, USA. I have removed the attribution.
September 2007
"About 2 Months ago, after realizing people were getting promoted based on their golf game and golf tips, I decided it was time I learn the game. I had tried years earlier, even took a couple lessons with a TPC Golf pro, but what he was telling me to do seemed to defy the laws of nature, though he made it out to be so easy. After 2-3 weeks of missing the ball, punching dirt up into my eyes, I was getting frustrated. I didn't even keep score, because a lot of times I took so many swings that we were holding up the next group, so I would pick up the ball and move on. Then, someone I met on the course told me about Parmasters. I fell in love immediately! I was still bad, but I felt like I could improve with a practice facility as awesome as Parmasters. I attended the free 2 hour "Hit the Ball Straight" seminar, and within 2 weeks, using the techniques I learned, I shot a 106. Since then I have been at Parmasters 3-4 days a week, shooting about 103 avg during my weekend golf rounds. The people are so friendly here, both staff and members, which is why I like to think of it as my Second Home. The facility is top notch and they are constantly upgrading things. On another note, I highly recommend the burgers!!"
I did manage to get a fair bit done today. I had been procrastinating, just a little, on some writing but today managed to complete most of a good first draft. There were many calls, of course. And I also conferenced with Parmasters HQ.
I hope I’m not stealing their thunder, but Parmasters HQ has apparently established an agreement with a third party firm whereby this firm will provide project oversight services to franchise owners throughout the build stage of each center. I don’t believe this firm will act as a general contractor, but rather more of a chief lieutenant to the franchise owner.
Details on all of this are still sketchy, but this is welcomed news. It would free the franchise owner, me, to focus on building the operation, staffing, building revenue, and ensuring operational expenses are managed effectively from the start.
In doing a little reading, I came across this testimonial from a recent member newsletter issued by Parmasters Memphis, in beautiful Tennessee, USA. I have removed the attribution.
September 2007
"About 2 Months ago, after realizing people were getting promoted based on their golf game and golf tips, I decided it was time I learn the game. I had tried years earlier, even took a couple lessons with a TPC Golf pro, but what he was telling me to do seemed to defy the laws of nature, though he made it out to be so easy. After 2-3 weeks of missing the ball, punching dirt up into my eyes, I was getting frustrated. I didn't even keep score, because a lot of times I took so many swings that we were holding up the next group, so I would pick up the ball and move on. Then, someone I met on the course told me about Parmasters. I fell in love immediately! I was still bad, but I felt like I could improve with a practice facility as awesome as Parmasters. I attended the free 2 hour "Hit the Ball Straight" seminar, and within 2 weeks, using the techniques I learned, I shot a 106. Since then I have been at Parmasters 3-4 days a week, shooting about 103 avg during my weekend golf rounds. The people are so friendly here, both staff and members, which is why I like to think of it as my Second Home. The facility is top notch and they are constantly upgrading things. On another note, I highly recommend the burgers!!"
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Nationwide Tour Coming To Collingwood, Ontario
This cold I acquired while on my recent mini-vacation is unrelenting. We’re now into day 8 or 9 with no apparent end in sight. I'm told by one of the smartest people I know that anecdotally it seems the common cold has morphed into something more nasty and long-lasting, so I’m hoping that’s all it is, the “common cold.” It shut me down over the weekend and a lot of Monday, but I did manage to breathe enough today to make some good progress.
We had some good news for the local golf scene on Monday. Here’s the text of an article from the Globe and Mail.
Gretzky brings Nationwide Tour back to Canada
Canadian Press
November 19, 2007 at 9:19 PM EST
COLLINGWOOD, Ont. — The Nationwide Tour is returning to Canada with a little help from The Great One.
The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic will be played next June at two courses near Collingwood, Ont., which is about 150 kilometres north of Toronto.
Gretzky said he was inspired to start the event after attending the Nationwide Tour tournament in Greenville, S.C.
"Each and every year we've gone to the Nationwide event in Greenville it's just been better each and every time," Gretzky said in an interview with the Golf Channel on Monday. "That's where we came up with the concept of 'Wow, this is such a great tournament, we should do one of these in Canada."'
It will feature a field of 160 Nationwide Tour players, each of whom will be paired with a celebrity or amateur player for at least two rounds. The Nationwide pros will be playing for one of the largest purses of the year — US$800,099 — and all four rounds will be televised on The Golf Channel.
The tournament, hosted by Gretzky, will be split between The Georgian Bay Club and the Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay, which was co-designed by Thomas McBroom and PGA Tour player Tom Lehman and opened in 2006.
"What we hope to do by having this event in Canada is raise the awareness that youngsters in Canada can get to the PGA," Gretzky said. "It takes a lot of time and you have to put in a lot of effort but there are stepping stones to getting on the PGA Tour.
"The Nationwide is a nice stepping stone and hopefully my event will give it some exposure in my country."
Gretzky is an avid golfer and played in the pro-am at the CN Canadian Women's Open this summer at Royal Mayfair in Edmonton.
The Nationwide Tour last held events in Canada in 2005, when the CPGA Championship was played in Cambridge, Ont., and the Alberta Classic was held in Calgary.
We had some good news for the local golf scene on Monday. Here’s the text of an article from the Globe and Mail.
Gretzky brings Nationwide Tour back to Canada
Canadian Press
November 19, 2007 at 9:19 PM EST
COLLINGWOOD, Ont. — The Nationwide Tour is returning to Canada with a little help from The Great One.
The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic will be played next June at two courses near Collingwood, Ont., which is about 150 kilometres north of Toronto.
Gretzky said he was inspired to start the event after attending the Nationwide Tour tournament in Greenville, S.C.
"Each and every year we've gone to the Nationwide event in Greenville it's just been better each and every time," Gretzky said in an interview with the Golf Channel on Monday. "That's where we came up with the concept of 'Wow, this is such a great tournament, we should do one of these in Canada."'
It will feature a field of 160 Nationwide Tour players, each of whom will be paired with a celebrity or amateur player for at least two rounds. The Nationwide pros will be playing for one of the largest purses of the year — US$800,099 — and all four rounds will be televised on The Golf Channel.
The tournament, hosted by Gretzky, will be split between The Georgian Bay Club and the Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay, which was co-designed by Thomas McBroom and PGA Tour player Tom Lehman and opened in 2006.
"What we hope to do by having this event in Canada is raise the awareness that youngsters in Canada can get to the PGA," Gretzky said. "It takes a lot of time and you have to put in a lot of effort but there are stepping stones to getting on the PGA Tour.
"The Nationwide is a nice stepping stone and hopefully my event will give it some exposure in my country."
Gretzky is an avid golfer and played in the pro-am at the CN Canadian Women's Open this summer at Royal Mayfair in Edmonton.
The Nationwide Tour last held events in Canada in 2005, when the CPGA Championship was played in Cambridge, Ont., and the Alberta Classic was held in Calgary.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Mini-vacation
I visited Market Square, our future location, this afternoon, to take some measurements. We’re working on some rough drawings and floor plans. Our architect/designer will finalize the layout, but it’s helpful for us to develop a rough idea.
I took a little mini-vacation Friday through Monday. No work. It was very strange. Friday and Monday were very enjoyable. I just did exactly what I wanted to do, morning through night. Both days were wonderful! Saturday and Sunday I stayed around home and relaxed, or attempted to relax, as much as possible. Of course, upon my return on Tuesday there was plenty to do.
And somehow, over the course of this mini-vacation, I came down with a head cold. I’ve mentioned this to a few people and each of them has said that’s always the way; you slow down for a few days and a cold catches you! Interesting theory.
I have some writing to do this week, which is something I don’t really enjoy. That probably sounds strange, as you read this on my blog. Why does a non-writer blog? I guess it’s just the type of writing. I enjoy writing for my blog, as I am doing right this second, but do not enjoy other, more arduous and detailed writing. But, of course, it’s necessary.
Well, for now, back to my backlog of work.
I took a little mini-vacation Friday through Monday. No work. It was very strange. Friday and Monday were very enjoyable. I just did exactly what I wanted to do, morning through night. Both days were wonderful! Saturday and Sunday I stayed around home and relaxed, or attempted to relax, as much as possible. Of course, upon my return on Tuesday there was plenty to do.
And somehow, over the course of this mini-vacation, I came down with a head cold. I’ve mentioned this to a few people and each of them has said that’s always the way; you slow down for a few days and a cold catches you! Interesting theory.
I have some writing to do this week, which is something I don’t really enjoy. That probably sounds strange, as you read this on my blog. Why does a non-writer blog? I guess it’s just the type of writing. I enjoy writing for my blog, as I am doing right this second, but do not enjoy other, more arduous and detailed writing. But, of course, it’s necessary.
Well, for now, back to my backlog of work.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Full Of Life
I’ve been a very bad blogger of late. Hardly a blogger at all really. And this just a month or so removed from my Absentee Blogger post.
Part of the problem, as alluded to in another recent post, is that I can’t really blog much about our golf training center right now. The things I’m working on don’t allow for much public disclosure. And since the center is my passion, and what I love to blog about, when I can’t write about it, there’s a tendency to write less.
I look forward to a time when my day-to-day tasks can be more public and appropriate for publication via this blog and other avenues.
I ran 10 kms (10K) late Saturday afternoon. I’ve been getting back into running over the last few years and recently started running in a few organized/charity 5Ks. On Saturday, I had planned to run 5K. But before my run, I started considering whether I should do the route twice, and do 10K for the first time in a very long time.
At about the 4.5 km mark, where I had to decide whether to head back home or continue, I decided to continue. I felt good. Somewhere close to the 6.5 km mark I started to lose my form. My legs tired and I started getting a little sloppy. After another 2 km my legs were starting to get sore, partly from the extra exertion, and partly due to my poor form. I corrected as best I could, and finished fairly strong.
I’m glad I did it and will likely do so again. Setting the challenge and then meeting it, was enjoyable.
And lastly, I play a little pick-up hockey late Tuesday afternoons. This evening I had a very delightful opportunity to talk a little hockey with an exceptional young man. He was just a real joy to be with. Very polite and full of life. A strong skater and solid on the puck too. He definitely stands out both on and off the ice. As you can tell, he made quite a lasting impression. I’m hoping, someday, for at least a little while, he’ll work in one of our golf training centers. His future is very bright and he’ll succeed at whatever he tackles in life. I walked away feeling richer for having met him, and also inspired to be just a little more “full of life”, like him.
Part of the problem, as alluded to in another recent post, is that I can’t really blog much about our golf training center right now. The things I’m working on don’t allow for much public disclosure. And since the center is my passion, and what I love to blog about, when I can’t write about it, there’s a tendency to write less.
I look forward to a time when my day-to-day tasks can be more public and appropriate for publication via this blog and other avenues.
I ran 10 kms (10K) late Saturday afternoon. I’ve been getting back into running over the last few years and recently started running in a few organized/charity 5Ks. On Saturday, I had planned to run 5K. But before my run, I started considering whether I should do the route twice, and do 10K for the first time in a very long time.
At about the 4.5 km mark, where I had to decide whether to head back home or continue, I decided to continue. I felt good. Somewhere close to the 6.5 km mark I started to lose my form. My legs tired and I started getting a little sloppy. After another 2 km my legs were starting to get sore, partly from the extra exertion, and partly due to my poor form. I corrected as best I could, and finished fairly strong.
I’m glad I did it and will likely do so again. Setting the challenge and then meeting it, was enjoyable.
And lastly, I play a little pick-up hockey late Tuesday afternoons. This evening I had a very delightful opportunity to talk a little hockey with an exceptional young man. He was just a real joy to be with. Very polite and full of life. A strong skater and solid on the puck too. He definitely stands out both on and off the ice. As you can tell, he made quite a lasting impression. I’m hoping, someday, for at least a little while, he’ll work in one of our golf training centers. His future is very bright and he’ll succeed at whatever he tackles in life. I walked away feeling richer for having met him, and also inspired to be just a little more “full of life”, like him.
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