Six (or Seven) More Weeks of Winter

Trivia: “When did golf begin in St. Andrews, Scotland?” Answer below.

Apparently several furry subterranean dwellers spotted their respective shadows this morning. I was fully aware of the American rodent, and of course our own Wiarton Willie. But I was not in the know, until this morning, that there is a third prognosticator living, and burrowing perhaps, somewhere in our Canadian Maritimes. I’m glad to have learned something new today!

The shadow spotting begets a prediction of six more weeks of winter. Of course, since we technically have SEVEN more weeks of winter remaining, we can’t be all that upset with the furry weather-persons.

I’m also told there was a bit of a football game on last night. My eldest wanted to watch it, and so we did, for the most part. I’m more of a CFL guy myself. I did enjoy Mr. Springsteen and his on-again, off-again partners, the E Street Band at halftime. Although it did seem that Bruce was a little out of breath for most of the performance.

I don’t have any meeting scheduled today. Just lots of work and some errands to run this morning. I’ll be working at our Temporary Event Center at Market Square this afternoon.

I found today’s trivia item to be both inspiring and humbling. We do operate within a truly GRAND OLD game. While we hope to make golf more accessible and enjoyable for the masses, it’s also clear that we’re merely a blip in the golfing ocean, both in terms of today’s huge industry, and in the historical context. But, as always, we strive to do what we can, each and every day, doing all that we can in a successful and professional manner. Which reminds me, that I should get back to that...

And the answer: “The earliest surviving reference to the game is in Archbishop Hamilton’s Charter in 1552, which gave St. Andrews residents the right to play golf on the linksland.”

A New President and a New Goal!

Trivia: “You accidentally breach the rules during the playoff of a stroke-play competition and are disqualified. Are you disqualified from the competition or just from the playoff round?” Answer below.

It’s been a busy, productive and enlightening Saturday thus far. I started off with some office work and then quickly transitioned into some snow shovelling, grocery shopping and house work.

During the latter half of the morning I attended a lecture at the University of Waterloo titled “What it does(n’t) mean to be adopted.” A clever title, indeed. And since I came to my family, my parents, via adoption, I was intrigued. I’m glad I attended!

I also heard this morning that a young, budding hockey star, Tina Malone-Wright’s son, scored his first goal of the season this morning! He went to the net and handily picked up a very juicy rebound. Way to go!

In golf news, the Golf Association of Ontario has a new President. Universitysport.ca has reported that Liz Hoffman was named by the GAO on January 24, 2009. You can find the full story here, and also included verbatim below. Ms. Hoffman comes to the role as an accomplished golfer, bearing a highly decorated and extensive resume in sport and sport administration. She takes over from Waterloo resident, and outgoing 2008 President, Steve James. This sounds like great news for the GAO and golf in Ontario!


Liz Hoffman named 2009 President of the Golf Association of Ontario

universitysport.ca
January 27, 2009

UXBRIDGE, Ont. - Liz Hoffman of Thornhill, Ontario will assume the Presidential role of the Golf Association of Ontario for 2009. Hoffman was named President at the Annual General Meeting of the Members on January 24th, 2009 at Thornhill Golf and Country Club.

For over three decades, Liz Hoffman has been an influential leader in Canadian sport, as an elite athlete, successful coach and widely-respected administrator. Hoffman is currently the University of Toronto's Director of Athletics in the Faculty of Physical Education and Health. During her time as Director of Athletics, since 1994, the Varsity Blues have claimed eight national titles and 90 provincial team championships.

Hoffman has been a driving force behind intercollegiate competition in Canada, including serving a term as President of Canadian Interuniversity Sport from 1995 to 1997 and as President of Ontario University Athletics from 2002 to 2004. She now serves as a member of the Board of Directors of both organizations.

Beyond her leadership in the boardroom, Hoffman's positive energy, encouragement and ability to motivate athletes, employees and sport administrators to reach their full potential is what has made her stand out among her peers.

From the moment she began her studies at U of T, Hoffman was leading the way on the university sports scene. As a Physical Education student, she was involved in two varsity sports, swimming (three years as captain) and field hockey (three undefeated teams), from 1968 to 1971. She was President of the PHE Women's Athletic Association and upon graduating, received the Benson honour award for her outstanding ability in athletics and scholarship.

Hoffman was no less successful in coaching, leading Varsity Blues field hockey to 16 Ontario league titles and eight CIAU championships in 20 seasons. She was named CIAU coach of the year three times and the annual award for the Canadian university women's field hockey player of the year is named in her honour. Hoffman was inducted into the U of T Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.

In golf, she was the Ontario Junior and Quebec Amateur champion. Hoffman was ranked nationally from 1971 to 1976 and was a member of the National Team in 1973 and 1975, participating in the Commonwealth championship. Her other appearances include the United States Amateur and Open championships, the Australian and British Amateur championships and the Canadian amateur and open championships.

Hoffman has served on the GAO Board of Directors for two years and is an invaluable asset to the organization.

The GAO would like to thank 2008 President Steve James for his hard work and dedication to the association. James, a Waterloo resident, served as the GAO's 7th President since amalgamation with the Ontario Ladies' Golf Association (OLGA). Filling the role of 1st Vice-President is John Swift of Smithville while Kathy Pilkey of Claremont will assume 2nd Vice-President duties.

The 2009 GAO Board of Directors consists of:

President: Liz Hoffman, Thornhill
1st Vice President: John Swift, Smithville
2nd Vice President: Kathy Pilkey, Claremont
Director: Marilyn Field-Marsham, Toronto
Director: Jim Furlong, Waterloo
Director: Stu Hamilton, Mississauga
Director: Gilles Hurtubise, Kingston
Director: Bill Muzak, Baden
Director: Ian Murray, Oakville
Director: Bob McMenemy, Sault Ste. Marie
Director: Susan Wickware, Thornhill
Director: Ken Teshima, St. Catharines
Past President: Steve James, Waterloo

About the GAO

The GAO is representative of over 425 member clubs/groups and over 110,000 individual members across Ontario. While promoting the growth and development of amateur golf, the GAO provides core member services such as the Rules of Golf, Handicapping, Course Rating, and Player Development initiatives. The GAO also conducts Provincial Championships, Camps, Clinics and Seminars across the province.

Source:
Claire Welsh Marketing and Communications Coordinator Golf Association of Ontario


And the answer: “Just from the playoff round. The disqualification only applies to the playoff since it is considered a new stipulated round.”

5th Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races

Trivia: “What course has the Bank of America Colonial been played on since its inception in 1946?” Answer below.

I took most of last night/evening off. I did do a few house chores, but no business-related work. It felt very strange. I also went to bed fairly early. Also strange.

I’m including a plug here for my hometown of Cannington, ON and their annual 5th Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival, all taking place in Cannington on February 21 and 22. You can learn more here.

Quoting from their website, “Join us at the Cannington Dog Sled Races & Winter Festival for a fun-filled weekend of pancake breakfasts, ice sculptures and outdoor activities as top teams from across North America take to the field for a fun filled weekend.”

They’re also including a team all the way from frigid Jamaica! Quoting again, “A special welcome this year to a team traveling all the way from Jamaica. Featured in the documentary “Sun Dogs”, the Jamaica Dogsled Team is made up of twelve stray mutts rescued from the streets and shelter of Kingston Jamaica.”

Cannington is located approximately 80 kms north of Oshawa, ON. You can find a map here.

I’ve also decided to pass along an addictive time-waster – only because it’s Friday! You can find a fairly addictive mini-putt game here. Good luck!

I’ll be attending the Leadership Waterloo Region Fire and Ice Gala on Saturday evening. It should be a very special and enjoyable evening! I’m very blessed!

Time to get back to it here at Parmasters KW. Make it a great day!, a great week! (you still have 2.5 days left!), and a have a great weekend!

And the answer: “The Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas”

Social Networking and Marketing Websites

Trivia: “Since 1970, five players have won seven or more times in one year on the PGA TOUR. Who are they?” Answer below.

I’ve just joined the Leadership Waterloo Region alumni groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. This whole web-interconnectedness, social marketing space has me increasingly intrigued.

These blog entries are propagated, automatically, to my Facebook and LinkedIn pages. There’s heavy mention, of course, of Parmasters KW on both Facebook and LinkedIn. And I’m interested in using both sites to augment real-world-based activities to build connections to the local golf community. We believe that this will lead to increasing opportunities for Parmasters KW.

I worked away at our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square yesterday. We’ve had quite a few people pop in lately. It comes and goes. And it’s never a steady stream. Market Square is a pretty quiet space. But we are making good use of our little form allowing people to sign-up and receive our email newsletters.

Time to get back at it. I’ll leave you with another of my favourite quotes.

“Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never have otherwise occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising to one's favor all manner of unforeseen accidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” –Johann Wolfgang von Goethe


And the answer: “Jack Nicklaus (1972, 1973), Johnny Miller (1974), Tom Watson (1980), Tiger Woods (1999, 2000), and Vijay Singh (2004)”

Market Square Lottery Booth Caught Up in Company Collapse

Trivia: “True or false: Tiger Woods was nicknamed after his dad, a soldier who fought in Vietnam?” Answer below.

I've had a few short nights lately, and it will clearly catch up to me eventually. But I am managing to maintain my effectiveness, and have some fun, and keep up with the important but non-urgent tasks also. Examples include workouts, writing, business strategizing, etc.

Tonight my youngest son will attend swimming lessons, while his brother toils away at his hockey practice. It will be busy, and wonderful.

In the office today I hope to meet with local golf historian Bill Herron. We'll explore ways we can work together. He owns an incredible collection of golf history.

And we were saddened to see the lottery kiosk here at Market Square closed. Bernie and Marie, the Market Square staff, have been impacted by the difficulties faced by the local lottery kiosk operator. You can find a Waterloo Region Record article here, and also included below. The article included the photo of Bernie Seymour, found herein.

We hope to see the kind husband wife team back on the job soon, but we're not sure that will happen. They were more than willing to make our Parmasters KW literature available on the side of their booth. Literature that I have had to since retrieve.

Lottery kiosks in local malls close as bankruptcy looms

January 27, 2009
Brian Caldwell
RECORD STAFf

WATERLOO REGION

Five lottery kiosks in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge have closed along with about 175 others across the country after the company that owns them filed for bankruptcy yesterday.

Infoplace Ticket Centres Ltd. employed about 800 people, mostly at locations in shopping malls in Ontario, and had been in business for more than 30 years.

"The company's operating costs exceeded the revenue they generated from the sale of tickets, so they ran out of money," said Hassan Jaffer, the bankruptcy trustee for Grant Thornton Ltd. in Toronto.

Affected locally are kiosks at Market Square and Fairview Park malls in Kitchener, Conestoga Mall in Waterloo, and in Wal-Mart stores at Fairview Park and the Smart Centre big-box development on Pinebush Road in Cambridge.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp., which had a contract with the independent retailer to sell tickets, removed or disabled its terminals after learning Friday that Toronto-based Infoplace was in the process of declaring bankruptcy.

"We regret any inconvenience it is causing for lottery customers," said corporation spokesperson Don Pister. "We encourage them to go to another retailer."

Pister said the closed Infoplace locations make up less than one per cent of the 10,000 retailers selling lottery tickets in the province.

The closures came as a shock to Marie Seymour, 50, who earned $10.50 an hour after working full time at the Market Square kiosk in downtown Kitchener for seven years.

"It was unbelievable," she said. "You know how you feel your job is secure and then it's not?" Also out of work is her husband, Bernie, and another part-time employee at the kiosk. "They just shut us down without any warning," Seymour said. "We're all jobless, don't know what to do with ourselves."

Customers approaching the kiosk yesterday were met with signs telling them it was "temporarily closed." One of them, Elpidio Masutti, 74, had gone there for 20 years. Staff knew his favourite numbers by heart.

"He's here every day like clockwork," said Bernie Seymour, 55. "We know a lot of our customers personally."

Infoplace has associated companies in the United States and the United Kingdom. Kiosks in the U.K. have also recently closed after the chain there ran into financial problems.

Jaffner said it is too early to tell if there is a connection between the two collapses.

The first priority, he said, is securing the Canadian company's assets -- primarily unsold lottery tickets -- gathering information on creditors and getting a list of employees who are still owed pay for their last week of work.

The principals of Infoplace, Ken Clark and Glen Strike, could not be reached for comment yesterday. But Linda Clark, an assistant regional manager, blamed the bankruptcy on factors including the scandal over retailers fraudulently redeeming winning tickets and a decision by the lottery corporation to double the price of popular Lotto 6/49 tickets from $1 to $2 a few years ago.

Clark said Infoplace recently appealed to the lottery corporation for an increase in commissions after more than 30 years at the same rate but was turned down.

Local kiosks also sold about $100,000 a month worth of bus tickets and passes for Grand River Transit.

Eric Gillespie, the transit director, said they were "an important part of our sales network," but stores in the malls where they were located also sell tickets and passes.

A full list of retailers for the transit service is available online at http://www.grt.ca/ or by calling 519-585-7555.

bcaldwell@therecord.com


And the answer: “False. Born Eldrick Woods, the golf champ was actually given the name ‘Tiger’ after his father’s army friend who went by the same nickname.”

Twenty-five Waterloo Region Sport Movers and Shakers

Trivia: “Who had the first recorded hole-in-one? A) ‘Old’ Tom Morris B) ‘Young’ Tom Morris C) Willie Park D) Allan Robertson” Answer below.

Last week Josh Brown of the Waterloo Region Record published his list of Waterloo Region’s 25 most influential people in sport. There were only two golf mentions: Keith Baulk, who watches over the City of Kitchener’s two golf courses, and Al Kavanagh, the boss at GolfNorth.

We look forward to having Parmasters KW mentioned in next year and beyond!

You can find the article here. It’s also included, verbatim, below.


Power players

Meet the top 25 movers and shakers of the Waterloo Region sports world; they make things happen -- on the home front, across Canada and abroad

January 24, 2009
Josh Brown
RECORD STAFF

There is no shortage of talented sports minds in Waterloo Region. Today, The Record recognizes the Top 25.

They're Waterloo Region's power players in sport. Athletes, coaches, managers, behind-the-scenes folks and movers and shakers. People who have influence and create positive change. People who make a difference because of who they are and what they've accomplished.

About 50 names made our short list. Whittling it down was no easy job. The Record's sports team -- myself, Christine Rivet, Jeff Hicks, sports editor Al Coates and web editor Karlo Berkovich -- debated the merits of each candidate and the ranking order. Disagreements ensued. The conversations were lively and spirited.

To make the cut, finalists had to have clear ties to Waterloo Region. They had to be currently active in sport in some capacity and have legitimate influence in the sporting world. So, founding fathers and former greats were not considered. Neither were dedicated volunteers, which this area has in abundance.

In three cases, families or groups were lumped together because nominating one member did not seem fair to the rest of their clan.

Choosing top spot was the easiest task. After that, it was really challenging. But we feel this year's list is a great representation of the brightest, most active minds in local sport. And we look forward to seeing who might crack this stellar crop in years to come.

1. Jim Balsillie, co-CEO Research In Motion

It's no secret that the Waterloo billionaire has long coveted a National Hockey League team.

He has tried unsuccessfully to buy at least two -- the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators. And his name keeps popping up as a potential owner whenever news about a struggling club south of the border rears its head.

Balsillie's love for the game goes back to his childhood. He plays pickup hockey and follows the game closely. His reach goes far beyond that of a rich jock who wants to own an NHL team as a hobby. If, or more likely when, he succeeds, the purchase could mean a new arena for one lucky city in southern Ontario. Whether that's Toronto, Hamilton or Waterloo Region is anyone's guess.

One thing is clear: nobody has shaken up the hockey world more than Balsillie in recent years. His interest in owning a team has ruffled some feathers within the NHL's board of governors, inspired city councils to consider upgrading their facilities and excited hockey fans around the country.

Balsillie likes to win. He's a competitor. So don't expect this saga to end any time soon. And if you think he's got power now, wait until he actually owns a franchise.


2. Lennox Lewis, retired professional boxer

He's Waterloo Region's most famous athlete. Perhaps its most recognizable citizen, too.

And while he has been retired for five years, the former heavyweight champion of the world still packs a big punch in boxing circles.

Witness his efforts -- and those of former NHLer Scott Stevens -- to help boost the profile of the Hanson Avenue Athletics Complex in Kitchener. Lending his name to the new twin ice pad and boxing facility helped secure major funding for the project.

His legacy is so strong that his name continues to prop up a struggling pro boxing market. Talk of his comeback regularly surfaces as the sport still has not found a way to rekindle much excitement in its heavyweight division.

Despite stepping out of the ring, he still maintains a rabid following as evident by his appearance on the reality show The Apprentice, where he proved to be one of the most popular celebrities when contestants mingled with the public.

3. William Thompson, Skate Canada chief executive

The former Kitchener lawyer is head of Skate Canada after a long and distinguished career in the sport.

Thompson, a former teenage figure skater, went on to judge international competitions in his 20s and now runs the show. His duties include running major skating competitions, certifying coaches, developing Canada's top skaters, finding sponsors, securing television deals and delivering the CanSkate program to about 100,000 kids nationwide.

He is a true driving force in the sport and is generally credited with helping Canada get figure skating back to the popularity level it enjoyed during the Kurt Browning/Elvis Stojko era.

4. Steve Bienkowski, chief operating officer, Kitchener Rangers

The Waterloo resident is the brains behind the business side of the Rangers franchise.

There is no arguing the success of the team. On the ice, it's a regular force, save for the odd off-year, such as this one. Either way, the club finds ways to keep interest strong.

In 2007, the Rangers posted a franchise-record $1.057 million profit. Games are well attended, if not sold out, and the Rangers brand could be the strongest in the Ontario Hockey League, or the entire Canadian junior loop for that matter.

Bienkowski served as chair at last year's Memorial Cup and was instrumental in making the event a major success.

5. Barry MacLean, chief executive officer, First Wave Sports Marketing

If you're a professional Canadian soccer player, chances are you're represented by MacLean.

As Canada's first licensed soccer agent, he has worked his way up from a handful of clients to about 75 worldwide. His Waterloo-based First Wave Sports Marketing is growing rapidly and now has a full roster of players.

MacLean's connections are far-reaching and his company is responsible for hosting the Toronto FC public tryouts and luring top clubs -- such as Aston Villa -- to Toronto for friendly soccer matches.

A former player, MacLean coaches Laurier's women's team and is an assistant with the men's side. He has also lent his expertise to national and provincial soccer programs.

6. Steve Spott, Rangers GM and coach

He took over from longtime bench boss Peter DeBoer after last season and is now the main hockey man for Waterloo Region's top sports team.

And his resume isn't thin. He knows the game from his playing days at Colgate University and has spent almost 15 years coaching in the Ontario Hockey League, eight with the Rangers.

Spott is known as a solid recruiter and has played a key role in player development during his time in Kitchener. He has strong contacts throughout the league and has already begun the process of rebuilding the club.

He is on Hockey Canada's radar and helped coach the country's Under-18 team to a gold medal last year.

7. Jonathan Weatherdon, manager of media relations, National Hockey League Players' Association

As spokesperson for the National Hockey League Players' Association, Weatherdon was the union spokesperson during the last lockout.

The Grand River Collegiate graduate joined the association in 2000 and continues to be at the forefront of issues involving policy, suspensions and the collective bargaining agreement.

And while he may not be the head decision-maker, he certainly plays a role on how sensitive information will be released to the public. And in today's NHL, that's no easy task.

8. The Edgars, soccer player, coach

David Edgar is a defender for Newcastle United and one of three Canadians suiting up in the English Premier League. He was captain of Canada's Under-20 World Cup squad and is pegged as part of the future in the backfield for the national team's senior side.

Dad Ed, himself a former United keeper, quietly continues to be a major player on local soccer fields. He's helped countless players gain exposure by showcasing his travel teams abroad. Several of his former players are scattered around the world playing various levels of pro soccer.

9. Dean Boles, swim coach

He has been associated with the Region of Waterloo Swim Club for almost 30 years, first as a swimmer who trained alongside the legendary Victor Davis, and now as head coach.

During his reign, eight ROW swimmers have gone on to compete at the Olympics, including Keith Beavers and Jessica Tuomela, who raced in Beijing this past summer.

Boles also coaches Laurier's swim team and is well connected with Swim Ontario and Swimming Canada.

10. Rob Ducey, baseball scout and coach

The former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder is crafting quite a career on the diamond now that his playing days are over.

Ducey, who grew up in Cambridge, scouts teams affiliated with the American League's Central Division for the Jays and has been consulted regarding the feasibility of a Pacific Rim scouting department for the club.

He has also become a mainstay with the national program, going from the field to the bench, and was the hitting coach for Canada at the Beijing Olympics this past summer. He'll rejoin Canada in a coaching role for the World Baseball Classic in March.

11. Scott Walker, NHL hockey player

Walker is one of a handful of locals suiting up in the NHL. The veteran winger has forged a successful 14-year career with three different teams.

But it's his work within the NHLPA that makes the Cambridge native stand out. As a player rep for the Nashville Predators, he was right in the mix during the 2004-05 NHL lockout, attending meetings and acting as a liaison between the union and his club.

The 35-year-old, now in his third year with the Carolina Hurricanes, remains influential and his views are respected by those in the game.

12. Keith Baulk, director of enterprises, City of Kitchener

He oversees the Aud and Kitchener's other arenas and golf courses.

As director of enterprises, he's involved in landing and operating big sporting events such as the Memorial Cup and the women's hockey Four Nations Cup.

He's currently on a secondment out west, helping Vancouver prepare for the 2010 Winter Olympics. He has been recruited as general manager of the UBC Thunderbird Arena -- the secondary hockey rink for the Games and the host arena for the sledge hockey competition in the Paralympics.

13. Ian McGough, assistant coach, Edmonton Rush

Nobody has their finger on the pulse when it comes to local lacrosse more than McGough.

The Kitchener coach has worked his way up from the grassroots level to the National Lacrosse League, where he currently holds a post as assistant skipper with the Edmonton Rush.

He has had stops with the K-W Braves and at the senior and major level in Ontario, developing countless stars along the way. It's only a matter of time before he's behind the bench as the main man with a NLL franchise.

14. Graham Snyder, hockey ambassador

Anything Snyder attaches his name to seems to end in success -- from his association as a player and general manager with the Elmira Sugar Kings to lending his expertise to Woolwich Township's bid to be the CBC's Hockeyville.

The entire family continues to be great ambassadors of the game as they keep the memory of son Dan alive. Last year, Snyder and wife LuAnn toured all 30 NHL cities to raise money for Elmira's new Dan Snyder Memorial Fund.

After Walter Gretzky, Snyder could be Canada's best-known hockey dad.

15. Scott Cherrey, NHL linesman

The Kitchener resident made the leap from working games in the Ontario and American Hockey Leagues to the big show about a year and a half ago and hasn't looked back.

At just 32 years old, the Drayton native is considered one of the rising stars in officiating. He went from calling Junior D games to the NHL in just five years.

16. John Fitzpatrick, owner Fitzpatrick Motorsports Inc.

A former stock car driver, Fitzpatrick is the most successful team owner on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series (formerly CASCAR).

His impressive stable includes son J.R. -- the youngest-ever national champion -- and Don Thomson Jr., a multiple national champion. His Ayr-based team is fully equipped with a shop, trailers and several cars.

The successful businessman, who owns Cambridge Rigging among other companies, carries a lot of influence within the racing world nationwide.

17. Roman Hatashita, owner Hatashita International

He hails from one of Canada's most respected judo families and is a former Olympian and national team member.

His Hatashita International includes a martial arts facility and is also a worldwide supplier of mixed-martial-arts equipment.

His clients include the U.S. Army, Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency and his business generates over a million dollars annually.

The Hatashita International, named in honour of his family and held in Canada, is one of the world's largest annual judo tournaments.

18. Kelly VanderBeek, national skier

Raised in Kitchener, VanderBeek cut her teeth at Chicopee before racing on hills around the world. She has been a key part of the recent revival of Canada's ski program, winning two medals at World Cup events since late 2007.

At 26 years old, she's one of Canada's good bets to hit the podium at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver next year.

VanderBeek, along with her women's alpine ski teammates, are active with Right to Play, an international charity that helps kids from disadvantaged areas in the world.

19. Martha Deacon, national mission team member

The Doon Public School principal has become one of Canada's go-to people for international sporting events.

The 50-year-old was named chef de mission for Canada's 2010 Commonwealth Games team in India and was in charge of transportation and logistics for the Canadian Olympic Committee this past summer in Beijing. She has been an apprentice coach at three Commonwealth Games and a mission team member at the 2007 Pan Am Games.

Deacon also carries weight in the badminton world, having been former president of Badminton Canada and a current board member for the Badminton World Federation.

20. The Vanderpools, boxing coaches

They're one of Kitchener's most famous boxing families. The Vanderpools helped put the area on the map in the ring and continue to develop Waterloo Region's reputation as a boxing hotbed by developing and training up-and-coming pugilists.

Though brothers Syd and Fitz are retired, they both wield much respect in boxing circles. Syd runs Vanderpool Training out of Game Day Fitness in Kitchener and has a roster of professional athletes on his client list. Fitz continues to mentor youngsters through his Whip Boxing Academy.

21. Al Kavanagh, president-CEO GolfNorth Properties Inc.

The Conestogo company owns and/or runs 18 golf courses. Most are in the area, but the company's profile is beginning to spread around Ontario, making it one of the big provincial players on the links.

The outfit is financially backed partly by RIM mogul Jim Balsillie, but Kavanagh runs the day-to-day duties. The company recently took over operations at Waterloo's Grey Silo course.

22. Don McCrae, former basketball coach

The longtime local hoops legend was recently named to Canada Basketball's new council of excellence, a nine-person group formed to help guide Canada's men's and women's national programs.

The council is full of heavy-hitters, including NBA guard Steve Nash and Raptors coach Jay Triano.

23. The Pavans, volleyball players, coach

Mom Cindy is a former national volleyball team player, while dad Paul is responsible for developing countless local players through the K-W Predators club program. His Forest Heights Collegiate Trojans are annual threats at the provincial high school level.

But the power of this clan lies in kids Sarah and Becky, perhaps the top sister act on the court in the world.

Sarah currently plays pro volleyball in northern Italy while Becky is on scholarship at the University of Kentucky. Teamed together, they have the power to help get the national women's team back on track, should they wish to go that route.

24. Peter Baxter, athletics director, Wilfrid Laurier University

He's the man at the helm of the sports program at one of Ontario's smallest universities. Laurier has built a strong athletic reputation despite its size and is a regular contender in hockey and football.

Baxter oversees the athletic department and is a key contributor to the national university sports scene. Next month, Baxter will lead Canada's university contingent as chef de mission at the Winter Universiade in China.

25. John Carson, Mercedes-Benz Classic Mile organizer

Five years ago, Carson launched the Cambridge Classic Mile and it's still going strong today. The annual event runs on the outdoor track at Galt Collegiate and pits athletes of all ages in a series of races.

The main events attract some of the top milers in the world, making the meet an increasingly popular draw on the late-summer circuit.

Carson is also the program director at Run For Life, a local non-profit body that encourages fitness through activities such as running.

Ten on the cusp: Ron Dias (college football scout), Gary Jeffries (Wilfrid Laurier football coach), Colin Doyle (professional lacrosse player), Chris Johnson (boxing trainer), Dave Smallwood (junior golf instructor), Peter Brill (GM Waterloo Siskins), Scott Stevens (retired NHL player), Rick Osborne (WLU hockey coach), Kim Kugler (manager at the Aud), Stephen Dietrich (professional lacrosse player and GM of the K-W Kodiaks).

jbrown@therecord.com


And the answer: “B) ‘Young’ Tom Morris, who aced the 145-yard eighth hole at Prestwick at the 1866 British [sic] Open.”

Stumble Upon Some Parmasters KW Website Updates

Trivia: “How many guidelines made up the first Rules of Golf?” Answer below.

It was a busy weekend, as most are. I worked most of Sunday morning, except for a brief run out in the frigid temperatures around my neighbourhood. Sunday afternoon and evening were spent with my two boys, watching movies mostly, doing our best to stay warm.

Saturday evening was rather eventful. Unfortunately, I was witness to a minor automobile collision here in Kitchener. Just a fender bender, but I was almost hit. I was walking at the time. I am to deliver a written statement to police sometime today.

Later on Saturday evening, while my eldest son’s hockey team lost, he did score the team’s only two goals. He’s having a great year, which is wonderful to see.

Today, another cold one, my youngest son is cross-country skiing with his classmates. Hopefully they all stay warm, without breaking into a sweat.

I posted several updates to the Parmasters KW website, predominantly on the main page, our news and media pages, and our advisory board listing.

I also stumbled upon StumbleUpon.com. It’s an interesting tool, and quite helpful, if one is looking to explore the Internet for a specific topic(s).

Well, back at it. This golf training center won’t build itself!

And the answer: “There were 13 rules, many of which are now incorporated into the modern Rules of Golf. The original rules were written for the Edinburgh Silver Club in 1744.”

Right to Play Banned by International Olympic Committee

Trivia: “Which of the following is true about playing from a waste bunker? A) You can ground your club. B) You can remove loose impediments. C) You must rake it entirely after playing from it. D) Both A and B.” Answer below.

Our cause and partner, Right to Play, has traditionally leveraged the Olympic Games as a fantastic platform from which to spread its message. Unfortunately, for reasons not yet known, The Globe and Mail reported on Wednesday that the International Olympic Committee has now banned Right to Play from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and all future Olympics. You can find the article here. It is also included below.

At Parmasters KW, and every Parmasters center, we donate one dollar from every paid golf lesson to Right to Play.

We will endeavour to follow this story as it unfolds.

You can see a brief Right to Play video/television commercial here. (WARNING: This video is rather graphic at the beginning.)


Right to Play not welcomed at Olympic Games any more: IOC

JIM MORRIS
The Canadian Press
January 21, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST

The international humanitarian organization Right to Play has been told by the International Olympic Committee it is not welcomed at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games, or future Olympics.

Johann Koss, president and chief executive officer for Right to Play, learned of the IOC's decision in a Dec. 23 letter.

“My understanding of this letter is we cannot be involved in any of the Olympic venues or the Olympic village,” Mr. Koss told The Canadian Press in an interview from Toronto.

The ban will continue for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.

“My understanding, based on this letter, is we are excluded from future Olympics as well,” said Mr. Koss, a four-time Olympic gold medalist in speed skating.

The IOC gave no reason for the ban.

“The letter does not explain why they no longer will work with us,” Mr. Koss said. “It started with a VANOC issue and it has escalated to the IOC.”

An e-mail sent to the IOC was not immediately answered.

Mr. Koss isn't sure if the ban prevents him from entering the village or other Olympic venues in Vancouver.

“Personally, I have no issues if they exclude me or not,” he said. “If that is their decision, I don't really worry about that.

“I do worry that the athletes will not have the opportunity to be exposed to what they can do as role models in this world to create a better world.”

Right to Play uses sport and play programs to improve health, develop life skills and foster peace for children and communities in some of the world's most disadvantaged areas. The group's headquarters is located in Toronto and it works in 23 countries.

The list of athletes supporting the program include swimmers Janet Evans of the U.S. and Ian Thorpe of Australia, German speed skater Anni Friesinger, Swedish skier Anja Paerson and NHL star Alexander Ovechkin.

Canadians include such Olympic medalists as Jennifer Heil, Clara Hughes, Brad Gushue and Adam van Koeverden, plus NHL players like Joe Thornton and Robyn Regehr.

Right to Play began as a group called Olympic Aid at the 1994 Winter Games in Lillehammer, Norway. It has set up in Olympic athlete villages since the 2000 Sydney Games.

In October, the Vancouver Olympic Games Organizing Committee said Right to Play would not be allowed in the 2010 athletes village because its sponsors are not the same as those for the Vancouver Olympics.

Mr. Koss said his organization tried to reach a compromise.

“After the initial discussion with VANOC and the IOC, we did present to them a way where we could work together,” he said. “I did not get a response from that. That was five months ago.

“Since then we had not heard anything before I received this letter.”

The situation has left Mr. Koss disappointed.

“We had such a successful partnership in Beijing in the athletes village,” he said. “When it started with the problems Vancouver was presenting in the fall, I'm not surprised this is the situation now.”

Even with the ban, Right to Play plans on being in Vancouver.

“We will be there and have a presence, just not an official presence with the IOC or with the Olympic organizing committee,” Mr. Koss said.

He doesn't know if not being allowed in the Olympic village will hurt the organization's ability to recruit more athletes.

“I hope not,” Mr. Koss said. “We have a large number of athletes who are supporting Right to Play.

“They are themselves engaged in recruiting other athletes.”

The IOC's website says one of the goals of the Olympic movement is to build a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practised without discrimination of any kind.

Mr. Koss hesitated when asked if by banning Right to Play, the IOC was violating its own goals.

“I don't want to comment necessarily on the IOC's decision,” he said. “We have grown out of the Olympic organizing committee and the Olympic movement.

“This is our history and this is where we belong. I don't want to speculate on the issue and the decision made by the IOC.”


And the answer: “D) Both A and B are correct.”

You’ve Got a Friend

Trivia: This one seems highly appropriate, as the Hope is being contested this week! And as an aside, while it’s nice to see our own Mike Weir off to a great start on the season, you also have to feel for him just a little. As I understand it, he went 62 and 70 on Wednesday and Thursday, and is STILL a full EIGHT strokes north of the lead as he starts his Friday round. Clearly, as is always the case, the courses are set up to ensure the amateurs in the field are able to knock it around with some semblance of self-respect.

“How many different courses are played each year during the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic? A) One B) Two C) Three D) Four” Answer below.

I was able to attend a concert last night at the Center in the Square, featuring the music of James Taylor. His music, and lyrics, are all so poetic, and often very thought provoking. Given the historic events south of the border this week, and Taylor’s controversial, outspoken and very activist political past, the timing seemed quite appropriate.

It was a wonderful concert and a wonderful time. I’m very blessed.

Today I’ll be staffing – and working within – our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square, except over the lunch hour.

And this morning, as I type, because I’m already significantly behind schedule!, my eldest is writing his first high school exam. Science. His science mark was significantly below expectations early in the semester. Because he had just started high school, and was also playing football, and gearing up for hockey, I was a little concerned that his focus was misplaced. But, as it turns out, he had some unfortunate issues, not entirely his fault, with two projects, which had dragged down his early performance. And, in addition, his teacher had issues with the performance of the entire class. I spoke to him. His teacher spoke to everyone, and no doubt made a few things very clear. And voila, his marks, and those of his peers, are back up where they belong.

My youngest, attended his first middle-school DANCE, of all things, yesterday. The last two periods of the day were dedicated to a dance. I asked him how the dance was. “It sucked.” (I wasn’t very impressed with that particular phrase, and explained that I didn’t want to hear it again.) I then asked if he danced at all. “No.” But I did learn that one of his friends did dance. Interesting times.

For now, it’s time to get back at it. I’ll leave you with the lyrics to one of the more popular songs at the concert last night, “You’ve Got a Friend.”


When you’re down and troubled
And you need a helping hand
And nothing, whoa nothing is going right.
Close your eyes and think of me
And soon I will be there
To brighten up even your darkest nights.

You just call out my name,
And you know wherever I am
I’ll come running, oh yeah baby
To see you again.
Winter, spring, summer, or fall,
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there, yeah, yeah, yeah.
You’ve got a friend.

If the sky above you
Should turn dark and full of clouds
And that old north wind should begin to blow
Keep your head together and call my name out loud
And soon I will be knocking upon your door.
You just call out my name and you know where ever I am
I’ll come running to see you again.
Winter, spring, summer or fall
All you got to do is call
And I’ll be there, yeah, yeah, yeah.

Hey, ain’t it good to know that you’ve got a friend?
People can be so cold.
They’ll hurt you and desert you.
Well they’ll take your soul if you let them.
Oh yeah, but don’t you let them.

You just call out my name and you know wherever I am
I’ll come running to see you again.
Oh babe, don’t you know that,
Winter spring summer or fall,
Hey now, all you’ve got to do is call.
Lord, I’ll be there, yes I will.
You’ve got a friend.
You’ve got a friend.
Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend.
Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend.
You’ve got a friend.


And the answer: “D) Four”

Better Service to Guests at Our Temporary Event Center

Trivia: “How many official PGA TOUR events did Byron Nelson win in 1945? A) 11 B) 15 C) 18 D) 21” Answer below.

I’ve been feeling quite tired the last couple of days. Today especially. There’s simply so much to do, which drags my work hours well into every evening. Hopefully I’ll get to bed a little earlier in the coming evenings.

I put a few minutes yesterday into the development of a little form to gather information from people that stop into our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square. They’re all very interested in our coming golf training center when they come in, and they’re even more excited by the time they leave.

We’ve typically offered up a brochure and asked them to use our website to register for email updates. But, of course, many will forget, and they may miss the boat on the incredible pre-opening membership deals we offer.

Now, our guests have the option of filling out this brief form, and we’ll ensure they receive said email updates. It’s easier, faster, and more reliable.

I was to meet with another advisor yesterday afternoon, but it didn’t work out. He was a little late and we missed each other. But, it did leave me with a little time to reflect and organize, which doesn’t happen all that much these days.

I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes.

“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.” -Alan Cohen

And the answer: “18 – five better than any other player’s best single season”

The Optimists Creed by Christian D. Larson

Trivia: “What player fled Czechoslovakia as a nine-year-old refugee and traveled with his father to Yugoslavia, Italy, and Switzerland before settling in Germany and finally returning to Prague in 1997? A) Bernhard Langer B) Alex Cejka C)Thomas Bjorn D) Peter Lonard” Answer below.


THE OPTIMISTS CREED

I Promise Myself ...

...To be so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.
...To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person I meet.
...To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.
...To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true.
...To think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best.
...To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.
...To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
...To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet.
...To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others.
...To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
...To think well of myself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud word, but in great deeds.
...To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side, so long as I am true to the best that is in me.

Written by Christian D. Larson.
Referenced from The Secret (www.thesecret.tv).

And the answer: “B) Alex Cejka, who still considers himself German”

Busy Weekend for the World’s Greats

Trivia: “Where was the term ‘birdie’ first coined?” Answer below.

It’s nice to see the PGA Tour back in full-field action. The Hawaiian and west coast swings have traditionally made for some challenging television schedules, but no longer. We can now enjoy primetime, real time coverage by The Golf Channel. These are good times for the golf spectator.

Of course, this past weekend, along with what seemed like most other Americans, Tiger Woods was in Washington, D.C. enjoying the many inauguration events. Tiger actually took to the podium and spoke quite eloquently about the values instilled in him by his father, and by his father’s career in the military. Tiger hosts the AT& T National tournament each year in the D.C. area, all in an effort to celebrate and honour American servicemen and servicewomen everywhere.

Meanwhile, the greatest female golfer ever, Annika Sorenstam was busy in Florida hosting her own inaugural event, the first ever playing of her Annika Invitational tournament for female juniors from around the world. The first year was apparently a great success, so henceforth the top 60 female juniors globally will be invited to Florida to learn from Annika and compete for the Annika Invitational title. Fantastic!

Back here in balmy Kitchener-Waterloo, we keep making steady progress towards the grand opening of Parmasters KW. Parmasters HQ – officially named Golf Training Centers, Inc. – our franchisor, continues to make stunning progress also. They’ll make some big announcements in the coming weeks.

And the answer: “At the Atlantic City Country Club in New Jersey in 1898. There, a member described a well-played shot as a ‘bird of a shot.’”

Temporary Event Center Hours

Trivia: “What was Rule No. 1 in the first written golfers’ code? A) You must play with three partners. B) You must play the ball as it lies. C) You must act honourably. D) You must tee your ball within a club’s length of the hole.” Answer below.

I worked at our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square on Saturday. Yesterday I popped in there as well, along with my two boys. We tidied up a few things watched a movie while doing so. We didn’t have any visitors. I was hoping one particular individual might stop by, but that didn’t work out.

As mentioned on Saturday, I’ll generally work here, in the TEC, most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. I’ll likely also be here on many Saturdays. This structure is meant to help our members and future members contact us, while also affording time for offsite meetings and other tasks involved in building our golf training center. Specific hours are posted weekly on our front door.

Sunday morning I went for a short run, and then shovelled the snow from my driveway when I returned back home. I kept the run short as I’ve been battling some right knee pain. It started in the summer and then hit me at two charity/competitive runs, one in Oakville and the other in Waterloo, this past fall. Sunday morning I treated it with some Rub A535 and a knee brace. This helped, but clearly didn’t solve the problem.

Back to the action...

And the answer: “D) You must tee your ball within a club’s length of the hole.” [This one definitely confuses me. I suspect the implication was that you must tee your ball within a club’s length of the PREVIOUS/JUST COMPLETED hole, while playing the next hole. Any other suggestions or clarifications would be greatly appreciated.]

Monthly Update to “Future Members”

Trivia: “Your ball lands near a tree on the edge of the green, so you bend back the branches in order to get a better shot. What rule have you broken?” Answer below.

I’m writing this entry in my home office, but will likely wait and post it shortly hereafter, when I get to my office at our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square.

I worked too late again last night, but also squeezed in a good workout and some relaxing time. It will likely be an earlier night tonight. My eldest son plays hockey this evening, but it’s an early game. I’ll do a little writing after the game, then relax and hit the hay, as they say.

My youngest is battling a sore lower leg. I’m not sure what the problem might be. He had x-rays taken yesterday, but apparently it will take up to a week before his doctor receives the images. In the meantime, he’s to stay away from strenuous, active sports and activities. It’s unfortunate. He hurt himself downhill skiing last year, and has had a few of these periods where he has to sit on the sidelines and watch.

I’ll likely head to a Williams Coffee Pub to work this afternoon. I’ll be at the TEC this morning. I just find the change of location invigorating. We have so much to do!

Earlier this week we issued an email update to the many interested parties that have registered for said updates via the Parmasters KW website. We like to refer to them as “future members”, because we know they’ll see the incredible value we offer, eventually. Here’s a brief snippet from that update.



Hello Fellow Golfers,

Thank you all for your interest. We’re writing to provide the latest news from Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo.

First, the topic you’re all most interested in. When will your golf training center open?

Quite frankly, we’ve been delayed by a few months. One of our largest investors – while remaining absolutely committed to your golf training center – has taken longer than expected to free up the capital required for the investment in our center. While we’re frustrated by the delay, we are also excited and pleased that all of our investors and stakeholders are working tirelessly to ensure your center opens as soon as possible. At this point, a summer 2009 opening seems most likely.

In the meantime, we are committed to communicating as best we can with all local golfers. To this end, these email updates will now be issued monthly.

We are also adjusting our schedules to ensure we are in the Market Square Temporary Event Center as often and regularly as possible. You’ll find an up-to-date office hour listing on the front door. Generally speaking, for now, you’ll find the Temporary Event Center open most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the day. However, even the latest schedule is subject to changes, as required for offsite meetings.

Our blog – available at shsouthern.blogspot.com – will be updated several times each week.

The Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo website – www.parmastersgolf.com/kitchener-waterloo – will also be updated regularly.

While our Temporary Event Center remains quite rough around the edges, we have made a few changes to make the space work more effectively. Feel free to stop by and see us at anytime.

Lastly, we have temporarily suspended our Membership Preview Events. We simply require the time and resources to focus on other activities, primarily related to actually building your golf training center. Preview Events will resume shortly and you will be advised when that occurs.

In the meantime, please do not hesitate to urge your fellow golfers to visit us via the Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo website or at our Temporary Event Center in Market Square. All interested golfers should register for regular email updates.



And the answer: “Rule 13-2, which states that you cannot bend or break anything fixed or growing that will improve your lie, stance, or area of intended swing”

Inspired Moments or Insomnia

Trivia: “How many PGA TOUR events were hosted on Tournament Players Club courses in 2004?” Answer below.

I’m at the office this morning. The day started with a brief breakfast meeting with another member of our Board of Advisors. Then some errands and finally, to our Temporary Event Center here at Market Square.

The late nights are catching up with me. I know such hours can’t go on for very long. As I’ve read and heard many times, the key is to set a consistent pace that one can maintain for the long haul. That “pace” would of course consist of a mix of work, relaxation, sleep, fun, family, exercise, and so forth. The term “balance” fits into this discussion.

Of course others, such as Wayne Dyer, suggest that we should not fight our sleep requirements. Dyer suggests, in at least one presentation that I’ve seen, that if one finds oneself wide awake in the middle of the night, he/she should get up and use that time effectively. These quiet times, when all others are asleep, when the world is quiet, when we’re not bothered by the day-to-day hustle and bustle, when our thoughts flow less inhibited, can often be our most inspired moments. Dyer also advocates sufficient sleep, work/life balance, etc. I’m sure.

I resolve to continue to seek that balance. But also to continue to embrace those middle-of-the-night quiet moments, rather than condemning the wakefulness.

And the answer: “10 events: FBR Open, THE PLAYERS Championship, BellSouth Classic, EDS Byron Nelson Championship, FedEx St. Jude Classic, Booz Allen Classic, John Deere Classic, Buick Championship, Deutsche Bank Championship, and the Michelin Championship at Las Vegas”

Skura Presentation and Kijiji Listings

Trivia: “How many times did Jug McSpaden finish in the top 10 in 1945 to set the PGA TOUR record?” Answer below.

The Bob Skura presentation last night was very interesting and well attended. I can’t really do Bob’s topic nor approach justice, so I won’t try. Suffice it to say that it was a mix of intentionality, golf-related teachings to focus on what you want, not what you don’t (i.e. the fairway, not the river along the left) and The Secret. I did come away with new ideas, a fresh approach, and invigorated.

After the seminar last night I had a bite of supper and a fairly good workout, and then did a little more work. There’s a lot to do these days, and I seem to be able to produce with a fairly small amount of sleep – generally in the four hour range lately. Last night was five.

Today I’m working in a local Williams Coffee Pub. The Wi-Fi connection is very convenient. And, of course, our Parmasters golf training center will be Wi-Fi enabled throughout.

I’ll head into the Market Square Temporary Event Center later this afternoon.

I also wanted to mention that I have a few items offered for sale on Kijiji. All are in fantastic condition. As my life has changed, I simply no longer use these items. They include:
Canoe – Algonquin Swift 17’
Camera – Nikon F401s AF 35mm film, with two lenses
Shuffle Board – King Edward 11’

And the answer: “31 times.”

Office Hours and Bob Skura Seminar

Trivia: “What was Italian American Gene Sarazen’s birth name?” Answer below.

It was another late night last night, issuing further updates to our shareholders and stakeholders. I also attended my eldest son’s hockey practice. The finished with a shootout drill that all seemed to enjoy.

We’ve now posted our expected office hours on the front door of our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square (at the corner of King and Frederick Streets in downtown Kitchener). We have many offsite meetings and other activities, and thus cannot staff the TEC at all times. While the office hours may change from time to time, we hope this makes it much easier for all involved.

I have just a couple of meetings today, and a seminar this evening. Bob Skura – author of “How Great Golfers Think – Perfecting Your Mental Game” – is hosting his first “Mental Game Workshop.” I’m looking forward to the one-hour presentation. Bob is seeking feedback to ensure the Workshop delivers maximum value for all who attend in the future. He’s received some terrific reviews on the book, and also offers a periodic newsletter titled “ForeThought,” available via his website.

For now, it’s time for another coffee and a few phone calls.

And the answer: “Eugenio Saraceni. He changed his name at age 16 to Sarazen because ‘it sounded like a golfer.’”

Board of Advisors and Shareholder Group

Trivia: “Who won the men’s and women’s individual gold medals for golf in the 1900 Olympics, the first time the sport was featured in the Games?” Answer below.

I’m a little tired this morning, having worked until about 3:00am last night. I’ve been delinquent at blogging lately, as admitted and admonished yesterday. But, we’ve also been terrible at issuing email updates/newsletters to our members and those who have registered for updates via our website. I was determined to get another update out yesterday, and did so in the wee hours.

If you’d like to receive these monthly updates, simply register via the Parmasters KW website at www.parmastersgolf.com/kitchener-waterloo.

This morning I’m off to a late (aka “second”) breakfast with a member of our Board of Advisors. He just called and delayed by 30 minutes, meaning a small re-jigging of the schedule.

We’re lucky at Parmasters KW to have built a solid Board of Advisors, and also a fantastic ownership group. They’re all highly supportive team players that bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and energy to our golf training center.

Of course, we’re still looking to grow both teams, so we keep an eye out for the right and interested individuals.

I’m actually in offsite meetings the bulk of the day, but will return to our Temporary Event Center at Market Square later this afternoon. This evening I’ll take my eldest to a late evening hockey practice, and hopefully get a workout in before doing so.

For now, I’m off to a second breakfast.

And the answer: “Charles Sands and Margaret Abbott of the United States.”

Delinquent Again

Trivia: “Standing on the second tee leading the 2001 British Open, Ian Woosnam discovered he had 15 clubs in his bag. What was his penalty?” Answer below.

I clearly, once again, fell behind on blogging. It was nice that I received a few inquiries as to why the writing had fallen off.

My apologies to the blogosphere and any/all that read this blog. We have lots happening at Parmasters KW, and I’ll do a better job of sharing going forward. I’m just easing back into things today.

For now, it’s time to get back to work. Lots to do, and a meeting with our bookkeeper later today.

And the answer: “The penalty for carrying more than 14 clubs is two strokes per hole, with a maximum of four strokes per round. Since Woosnam had not yet played the second hole, he was penalized two strokes, knocking him out of the lead and costing him a shot at golf’s oldest championship.”

The Chapters of Indoor Golf

Trivia: “Why was Ed Oliver disqualified from the 1940 U.S. Open?” Answer below.

We’ve had a lot of great news lately at Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. We’re making progress on many fronts. This includes finalizing our required capital, welcoming more members, building a strong team, and the list goes on. Parmasters HQ is also close to breakthroughs on many different fronts, which only means great things for our members, other patrons and our business.

I can’t recall if I’ve blogged about this topic before. So if this is a repeat, my apologies. I’m sure someone will point out my memory lapse. I’m speaking, or typing rather, about an analogy I use to describe what we bring to indoor golf. Parmasters is to indoor golf, what Chapters is to bookstores. Let me explain.

Before Chapters arrived on the Canadian retail scene, a bookstore consisted of a few thousand square feet, with shelves and books jammed in everywhere. Stores were small and designed to display and ultimately sell books. That was it. Then Chapters changed everything. They opened with some 10,000 square feet of book heaven! There were couches and chairs, washrooms, often a Starbucks coffee shop, gift ideas, and the list went on and on.

Patrons visited the old bookstores when they wanted to buy a book. Patrons visit Chapters when they feel like immersing the book culture/lifestyle. The older stores were designed to facilitate transactions. Chapters was designed to grow a culture, and ultimately facilitate many more transactions!

Before Parmasters, indoor golf consisted of a few simulators, a bar, perhaps a small putting surface and washrooms. Parmasters is changing all of that. We include lounge seating, an incredible cafe, a massive best-of-in-the-world indoor short game area, often a fitness center, locker rooms, meeting rooms, club repair and storage, Wi-Fi Internet access throughout, and much, much more.

Patrons visited the older indoor golf experiences to play golf on the simulators and have a beverage. Patrons visit Parmasters to immerse in the golf culture/lifestyle. The older indoor golf centres were designed to facilitate transactions – time on a simulator. Parmasters is designed to grow the golf culture, to create a club where members feel at home, to be an incredible entry point to the game, to be a major hub for the golf industry wherever we open! Parmasters, quite simply, brings Better Golf, More Fun, Guaranteed.

And the answer: “He was in a rush to complete his round before a storm set in, so he teed off before his tee time and was consequently disqualified. Oliver would have tied for first if it weren’t for his mistake.”

Which Wolf Do You Feed?

Trivia: “Which of the four major championships is held at the same course each year? A) The Masters B) U.S. Open C) British Open D) PGA Championship” This one is easy! And of course, the “British Open” should really be presented for what it is, “The Open Championship”. Answer below.

It’s been another crazy and busy day at Parmasters KW. We made some good progress on many fronts. By the end of the day, as always, I was quite tired. And I should likely be in bed, but just wanted to share a quick story/lesson/legend that was related to me today.

I meet each week, generally on Wednesdays, with one of our shareholders. I asked for his time because it’s clear to me that he’s one of the most intelligent, no-nonsense and results-oriented business minds that I know. The meetings are part brainstorming, part mentoring, part refocusing and sometimes I get told I’m wrong. It’s all good.

Today this old, apparently Cherokee, legend came up.


An old Cherokee is teaching his grandson about life. "A fight is going on inside me," he said to the boy.

"It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. One is evil - he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego." He continued, "The other is good - he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you - and inside every other person, too."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf will win?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

- Excerpted from the First People website, www.firstpeople.us, found here.


This evening I had a wonderful time with a great friend and her son. I enjoyed stories about hockey, skating, video games, his many friends, his teacher, his school and the list goes on and on. He’s a wonderful young lad, so full of life. It was a perfect and relaxing evening to end a long, hard day.


And just a few moments ago I walked past a photograph of my father. I still can’t believe he’s gone. There’s not a day that passes that I don’t think of him. Tonight the thought occurred that my father is likely chuckling just a little, at my expense, up in heaven. He told me, as I purchased the Parmasters franchise rights, that I was about to lose one of my favourite, relaxing, de-stressing activities. Golf!

I told him he was crazy, of course. I mean, I was entering the golf business. Of course I would golf more, or at least just as much. I certainly wouldn’t golf less than I did before I entered the industry. But, time has proven my father to be correct! I’ve golfed just a handful of times this year, including one and only one full, 18-hole round. I’ve practiced even less!

I miss my father more than words can describe. And as every day since his death passes, I gain increased understanding that he was a great man. And yes, he was right about my golf game!


Soon time to turn in. Choose your wolf carefully. My father did.


And the answer: “A) The Masters has been held at the Augusta National Golf Club since its inception in 1934.”

Run Forrest, Run

Trivia: “How many total major championships did Bobby Jones win from 1923 until his retirement at age 28 in 1930? A) 7 B) 9 C) 11 D) 13” Answer below.

It was a very busy weekend, but I still managed to rest up for the week ahead. Well, if you count six hours of sleep as “resting up”.

My youngest had a birthday party and sleepover on Friday evening. And I was out Friday evening also and had a truly fantastic time. Saturday morning we hosted another Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo Preview Event and then I picked up my youngest from his sleepover – he had way too much fun and way too little sleep! Saturday afternoon was spent working mostly, and then in the evening my eldest had his first hockey game of the season. They won 5-2 and he head at least one assist.

Sunday morning dawned to another 5 km charity run with a very close friend. This run, the CIBC Run for the Cure, is more about raising money than competition, so we weren’t timed. But, by my watch, we shaved close to two minutes off of our time at the previous run a couple of weeks ago. Good stuff!

Sunday afternoon was mostly working and hanging out with my boys.

Well, it’s time to get back at it. This will be a busy week, as are most, or actually, all.

And the answer: “D) 13. This ranks second only to Jack Nicklaus’s 20 major wins (including two amateurs), which occurred over a span of 27 years.”

New Landlord

We have a new landlord at Market Square. The article from The Record is included below, and can also be found here.

We’re excited about this new relationship. Working with Cora has been wonderful. And, in fact, we’ll continue to work with the same individuals. They simply now work for a different company. At the same time we fully expect that Realex will bring a few new ideas and innovations to all of the properties, including Market Square.

Realex completes purchase of Cora assets

TheRecord.com - Business
RECORD STAFF
WATERLOO REGION

Realex Properties Corp. has completed its $142-million purchase of six office buildings in Kitchener and Waterloo from the Cora Group.

Realex purchased five buildings in downtown Kitchener: Market Square at 25 Frederick St.; The Galleria at Frederick and Weber streets; 22 Frederick St.; Commerce House at 50 Queen St. N.; and 235 King St. E.; as well as the Accelerator Centre building in the University of Waterloo Research and Technology Park.

The properties comprise 932,000 square feet of rentable area and 2,000 parking spaces.

Realex, which unveiled the deal in June, paid for the properties with cash, shares, assumption of debt and vendor take-back mortgages.

The Calgary company also owns all or part of 17 office and industrial buildings in Alberta and British Columbia.

Cora, which still owns several properties in Waterloo Region and other parts of Ontario, has moved its offices from The Galleria building to 1305 Victoria St. N.

Cora founder Manfred Conrad has joined Realex's board of directors. His son, Adrian, is now Realex vice-president for southwestern Ontario.

Don’t Check Your Ego at the Door!

Trivia: “Where was [2008 FedEx Cup Champion] Vijay Singh born? A) The United States B) Fiji C) India D) Malaysia” Answer below.

You can now find us on Facebook here!

The following article comes from the Globe and Mail. You can find it online here.

It’s interesting. The author, Curtis Gillespie, advocates taking more golf lessons and being sure to park your ego at the door – or greenside – when you do so. The insinuation is of course that golf instruction can be hard on the ego. Perhaps even demeaning and/or depressing.

That’s because almost all golf instruction follows the error correction model. The instructor takes a good look at your golf swing and then eagerly pronounces all that is wrong with said swing. He/she points out the many flaws and errors in your swing before eventually advising you how to swing correctly.

We take a different approach at Parmasters Golf Training Centers. We teach you a brand new swing, from the ground up. We call it Straight-Line Golf. We keep nothing from your past swing. There are no errors and thus no correction. We use highly effective, proven teaching techniques such that each client learns Straight-Line Golf efficiently and effectively.

Since there are no errors, our teaching methods build you up rather than demeaning or depressing. We build up your ego, your golf ego, rather than causing it damage.

Having learned Straight-Line Golf, Parmasters clients feel they can effectively tackle any golf course on the face of this planet. And they’re correct!


SEE A PRO AND CHECK YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR
Golf magazines won't help your swing but a good teacher might - if you're the right kind of student

CURTIS GILLESPIE
From Friday's Globe and Mail
September 26, 2008 at 9:21 AM EDT

There aren't many things I can imagine paying $200 an hour for, and the few that I can are not ones I'm likely to admit to in public. However, there is something I would pay that kind of money for that I'll acknowledge with no shame.

It involves a level of enforced submission, it's true, though I probably deserve it. And yes, it encourages the addict in all of us. But standing in the heat with my master's hand gripping my forearm, his voice stern in its counsel, I realized that this was a weakness I ought to have made peace with long ago.

Suspend your lurid fantasies, because I'm referring to a golf lesson.

Though I'd had a group lesson as a junior and the odd conversation with a pro here and there over the years, I'd never had the kind of attention I received on a recent trip to Scottsdale, Ariz., where I met with Bill Forrest, born and raised in Ontario, but now one of America's best teachers (in 2006 he was named Teacher of the Year by the PGA of America).

He has taught everyone from foreign royalty to tour pros to Kevin Costner, but for one hour his only concern - or perhaps it's more accurate to say the source of his anguish - was my poor stray dog of a golf swing. It was an hour about me.

It was a solipsistic, decadent, narcissistic hour, unrelated to anything of any real importance or value.

I highly recommend it.

Why so few of us take proper instruction is a mystery, since the vast majority of us could really use it (and winter, indoors, is a perfect time for it, since we can focus on form rather than results). Certainly, it doesn't have to cost $200 an hour; most golf instruction is considerably less than that (few teachers are as experienced as Mr. Forrest).

Perhaps we don't pursue real teachers because every golf publication now focuses on the latest theory, the latest tip, the latest trend that's going to "unlock" our potential and effortlessly transform us into scratch handicaps.

Why pay all that money for a live teacher, part of us must think, when I can read a magazine and get better? Answer: Because you won't get better.

Golf magazines will go into mind-numbing detail about the Stack and Tilt swing, the Two Piece Takeaway, the X-Factor Swing, and any of the other thousands of swing theories floating around out there.

A country clubber unsheathing his new Stack and Tilt swing developed on what he's read in a magazine is like a mountain climber heading up Everest after reading a hiking guide; lives could be at risk.

You need a sherpa to guide you through the hazards.

Another factor in why we may not pursue instruction is that some of us sense, or already know, that we are less-than-perfect students.

While we chatted during my lesson, Mr. Forrest told me that he's noticed a few patterns over the decades he's been teaching: There are good students and bad students, he says.

Good students let down their defences, they listen and then they practise.

Bad students are usually men, usually older, usually successful in business and have about a 12 handicap.

Why is this the prototypical bad student?

"Because most men who are pretty fair players, a 12 handicap, for instance, aren't willing to get five shots worse at the start to get 10 shots better in the long run; because the male ego is resistant to instruction; and because successful people aren't used to being told what to do."

The best student, says Mr. Forrest, is the female beginner. "They improve in a hurry because they're so grateful to get some expertise, and because they actually listen to what you're telling them. They don't care if they aren't going to be tour pros."

Men, conversely, sometimes avoid instruction precisely because we need it, because it would be embarrassing to stand in front of a teacher and showcase that spasm that calls itself a golf swing. We shouldn't care; the world is full of hideous golf swings. David Feherty once likened the swing of world-class golfer Jim Furyk to "an octopus falling out of a tree." In any case, as Bruce Grierson points out in his fine book U-Turn, there is an old Turkish proverb that says, "No matter how far down the wrong road you have travelled, it is never too late to turn around."

Time is also a factor. If you have any of the following - children, spouse, job, bills, other hobbies, a life - the likelihood is that a scratch handicap will elude you. But being a little better wouldn't hurt, would it? Most of us would say we could use a little more Zen-like calm in our lives, but not many of us are running off to monasteries to enroll in two-week silent retreats.

Golf can be terrific fun even if you never manage to shoot 68. Keeping the ball in play, hitting the odd good shot, scoring at a level that's at least going to save you from embarrassment should you find yourself in a company tournament - all these things are quite achievable, provided you get the right kind of instruction, focusing on fundamentals.

Check your male ego - or your male - at the door. Find an instructor to teach you a decent grip, proper aim and alignment, a sense of rhythm, and you're ready to play.

Too many of us get our tips from some guy on the range, or we imitate our ill-equipped partners, or we mess ourselves up with every goofy swing theory in the latest golf magazine.

If that's how you learned the game, well, let that be a lesson.

Curtis Gillespie is the author of Playing Through: A Year of Life and Links along the Scottish Coast. His most recent book is the novel Crown Shyness.


And the answer: “B) Fiji”

The Downtown Card

Trivia: “Who was the first known female golfer?” Answer below.

It’s been another busy week. We’ve welcomed many new members – Welcome! – made progress on budgeting and space planning, welcomed a returning team member back, issued newsletters to members and future members, and signed up new community partners.

Our community partners are businesses throughout the community with whom we partner. I guess that’s why we call them “community partners”. They display our marketing literature in their place of business, and we do the same with their literature in our center. We also note them on our website, but we’re still working on that.

Our community partners also offer some sort of discount or incentive to our members, thus increasing the value of your Parmasters membership!

This past week also saw the launch of the new Downtown Card by the Kitchener Downtown Business Association! Businesses noted on the card offer some sort of incentive to people carrying and presenting the card. We offer 15% off of food and beverage from our Links Golf Cafe – when it opens – and the first month free with any membership.

And the answer: “Mary, Queen of Scots, who raised more than a few eyebrows when she was seen playing golf shortly after her husband’s death in 1567.”

Who knew?

Sunday 5km Race and Trivia

The run on Sunday went well. My results weren’t very impressive, but I did enjoy it. You can find our results here.

I’m going starting a new blog tradition. Or maybe it should be termed a “habit”. I’m not sure. Regardless, a wonderful friend gave me a book titled “The Ultimate PGA Tour Book of Trivia”. It’s brimming with interesting trivia, in the form of questions and answers. Most blog entries will now include one such question and answer. (I will add a permanent citation to my main blog page shortly.) Here we go.

“Many early sports, such as 15th century “Kolven” of Holland and “Chole” of Belgium, greatly resembled the game of golf. But what intrinsic part of the game was missing, keeping them from being considered early forms of the sport? A) A finishing point B) Clubs C) The ball D) The hole” Answer below.

The rest of the weekend is just a blur. Lots of work accomplished, children going here there and everywhere to activities, friends coming over, etc. And of course I caught as much of the Ryder Cup matches as I could. The golf was fantastic, as expected.

Yesterday we took delivery of a few banners from Mizuno. We sell custom-fitted Mizuno golf clubs. No other brands, and only custom-fitted. The banners will allow us to pretty-up our Temporary Event Center...

... Where we’ll be hosting another Preview Event this evening.

Yesterday we also welcomed back our first team member. Mike will focus on sending periodic newsletters to our members and future members, as well as partnering up with local golf courses.

The answer: “D) The hole. Both games, and many other similar ones, saw players hit balls around the landscape, but none involved dropping the ball below ground.”

Busy Weekend

I'm blogging from my son's archery lesson. They're just covering the basics during this first lesson. This is his second time taking archery lessons, so it's mostly review. I just hope they don't start shooting in this direction. So if this entry ends abruptly...

It's going to be a busy weekend. I had a great workout last night, but also discovered, as I lifted a few weights in my basement, that my dishwasher has sprung a leak. Happily I brought my tool box home yesterday. It had been at our Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo Temporary Event Center. I'll work on the dishwasher later today.

Hockey starts this weekend - early Sunday afternoon - for my other son. So we'll be getting skates sharpened on the way home from this lesson.

And the future archery expert has a sleep-over birthday party tonight. I'll retrieve him Sunday around noon.

Sunday morning I'll be competing in a 5 km charity run along with a close friend. I think maybe my blog entry a week or two ago prompted her to suggest this run. I'm really looking forward to it. I'd like us to do a lot more of these, and also work our way up to 10 km events. Early to bed tonight!

And of course, the Ryder Cup matches are on this weekend! The Golf Channel is providing unbelievable coverage. It's amazing how they come up with different angles and sidebar stories to explore. As a Canadian there's maybe not a lot of drama, as we aren't part of the matches. But the golf tends to be very, very good. And the team dynamics and strategies are something seen rarely in golf. Fun to watch!

And lastly, but very importantly, I have all kinds of work to do this weekend. Chris, one of our team members, has just completed another Preview Event. Since virtually everyone that attends sees the incredible value and purchases a membership, I assume we have welcomed a few more members to Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. Welcome!

Time now to watch some archery, and to flip through a book given me by my 5 km run mate, "The Ultimate PGA Tour Book of Trivia". Many excerpts will make their way into this blog in the future.

A Very Central Location

It’s just after 6:00pm at our Temporary Event Center here in downtown Kitchener, and all is well. We’re just gearing up for another Preview Event.

We’re seeing the Parmasters KW buzz continue to grow and grow! It’s a real treat to see months, or actually YEARs of effort finally coming to fruition. Everyone is enthusiastic, supportive and eagerly anticipating our grand opening this winter! And we’ve yet to really kick our marketing efforts into gear.

A friend attended the Inspiring Women “The Experience” conference today and apparently had a great time! It was quite a treat, I’m told, to meet royalty!

I, of course, did not meet royalty today. But I did meet with several equally interesting individuals, making progress on several fronts. And there were countless phone calls and meetings booked well into the future.

When we selected Market Square (at the corner of King and Frederick Streets in downtown Kitchener) as our location, and signed that 20-year lease, we knew it was a very central and highly accessible location. Now, as we’ve opened our Temporary Event Center here, and this is my office, I’m even more amazed at how perfect this location is! I attend meetings all over Kitchener and Waterloo, and it’s always a quick and easy trip.

Well, back at it for now. Our guests will arrive shortly.

Running, Football, Golf, Etc.

It’s been a fairly productive day. We hosted yet another Preview Event at our Temporary Event Center at 10:00am and it’s been fairly busy since. I picked up some supplies at a local Staples and ran a few other errands, followed by some housework and tidying of my car (which had been badly neglected), and then more office work.

I also managed to squeak in a short (5 kms) run (I should probably use the term “jog”, but “run” sounds so more athletic!) this evening. It has rained most of the day, and actually really started to pour several times during the run. Between that and splashing through dozens of puddles, my time wasn’t great.

I haven’t run much lately. Just once or twice this summer really. I got out to RIM Park with a friend for a warm Sunday morning run a few weeks ago. I felt bad that I was holding her back. We ran in several 5 km charity events last summer, but have not tackled any thus far this year. I think she figures I’m too slow!

This evening I’m sitting in my family room with some golf and football on the television, and lots of reading and more work to do. Edmonton just took down Hamilton in a close CFL tilt! We’ll see how much more work I’m able to complete. Tomorrow will start with some golf practice, as my game is in terrible shape.