I’ve recently started a new practice of quiet contemplation and planning first thing each morning. I’ve set aside the first half hour of each day, generally from 6:30 to 7:00am, but this morning it was 5:30 to 6:00am.
The purpose, if summed up in one word, would be “focus.” It’s about doing the right things, and also doing those things well.
I spend part of this time reaffirming the path that I and my loved ones have chosen. There will always be a long way to go. Visions are meant to stretch us, to challenge us. We must believe that we can have and achieve those circumstances in life that bring us fulfillment and true happiness. Otherwise, why are we here and what are we doing?
I also ensure that my view of the current situation is accurate. Great minds have said that one of the keys to success is acknowledging your current situation. As Dan Sullivan noted, “all progress begins by telling the truth.”
From there, it’s a fairly simple matter to determine what must be done next. “It does not take much strength to do things, but it requires a great deal of strength to decide what to do.” So spoke Elbert Hubbard. In this step there is always the temptation to be blinded by urgency, and to not consider importance. I blogged about the difference here.
At the end of this process, I have a list of three accomplishments for the day. I then proceed through my day, focused on these three key accomplishments, thankful that I have already achieved them.
And by nightfall, I generally have achieved the three key accomplishments for the day. Time for sleep, and the next three key accomplishments.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Friday, August 10, 2007
Space Plannng and Equipment Lists
I’ve added a few more links to the side bar on this blog. They include local associations, such as the Golf Association of Ontario, as well as local tours, such as the many wonderful junior tours throughout Ontario.
We’re making steady progress with Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. We’ve started more detailed space planning, we’re delving into more details within our list of required equipment and we will likely issue additional press releases in the coming weeks.
The space planning is very exciting. This involves looking at the raw space – the term “vanilla shell” is very common in the industry – and deciding where the various components and activities will be placed. Our site will include 6 or more golf simulators; several other driving bays (where you hit into a net and thus are not distracted and/or mislead by ball flight); a massive slightly undulating putting green surrounded by rough and sand traps; two or three meeting rooms; a café; a golf fitness area; locker rooms; a pro shop retail area; club repair and a few offices. All of these components must be arranged such that they flow nicely throughout the 15,000 sq. ft. space.
Our detailed equipment list will flow out of our space planning. At least, we’ll know exactly how many simulators to order, how many tables for the meeting rooms, etc. The real decisions will lay within the thousands of details, such as the exact style, make and model of meeting room chair, the cutlery for the café, the design of our check-in counters and store fixtures, and the list will go on and on.
I am very eager to get into these details and finalize our space planning and equipment list. All things take time. I have good people around me that I can consult with, including our design firm, Tsao, based in California, to ensure that the center is both highly attractive and functional.
We’re making steady progress with Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. We’ve started more detailed space planning, we’re delving into more details within our list of required equipment and we will likely issue additional press releases in the coming weeks.
The space planning is very exciting. This involves looking at the raw space – the term “vanilla shell” is very common in the industry – and deciding where the various components and activities will be placed. Our site will include 6 or more golf simulators; several other driving bays (where you hit into a net and thus are not distracted and/or mislead by ball flight); a massive slightly undulating putting green surrounded by rough and sand traps; two or three meeting rooms; a café; a golf fitness area; locker rooms; a pro shop retail area; club repair and a few offices. All of these components must be arranged such that they flow nicely throughout the 15,000 sq. ft. space.
Our detailed equipment list will flow out of our space planning. At least, we’ll know exactly how many simulators to order, how many tables for the meeting rooms, etc. The real decisions will lay within the thousands of details, such as the exact style, make and model of meeting room chair, the cutlery for the café, the design of our check-in counters and store fixtures, and the list will go on and on.
I am very eager to get into these details and finalize our space planning and equipment list. All things take time. I have good people around me that I can consult with, including our design firm, Tsao, based in California, to ensure that the center is both highly attractive and functional.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Misreading Putts
I chatted today with a fellow from 3L Putt Inc., based in beautiful New Hamburg, Ontario. They’re the makers of the Argon Putter. I could tell you all about it, but you’re better off following the link and visiting their website.
I played the Rockway Golf Course last night. And I really should have spent some time with the Argon Putter before I teed it up. My putting was terrible!
Of course, there are several components to effective putting, and my execution was not really off. I just couldn’t read the greens. It was just one misread after another! And with all due respect to Rockway, it’s not as if their greens are particularly quick or treacherous. I played several putts to break one way, that actually broke in the opposite direction! Yikes!
By the end of the evening I was trying my best to learn something from the situation. How could I improve? Well, clearly I need to spend more practice time reading greens.
Also, I didn’t warm up last night. It was a busy work day and I simply ran up to the first tee. I do that VERY rarely, but did so last night.
We were also rushing last night, trying to finish our round before darkness. I find it very helpful to look at a putt from both behind the ball and behind the hole, and I can generally do so without slowing the pace of play. But we were really moving last night.
Lastly, it was very late in the day and the greens had seen a lot of play. There were a little bumpy. Of course, that doesn’t explain my putts breaking in the opposite direction to my read, but it does make me feel just a little bit better.
I played the Rockway Golf Course last night. And I really should have spent some time with the Argon Putter before I teed it up. My putting was terrible!
Of course, there are several components to effective putting, and my execution was not really off. I just couldn’t read the greens. It was just one misread after another! And with all due respect to Rockway, it’s not as if their greens are particularly quick or treacherous. I played several putts to break one way, that actually broke in the opposite direction! Yikes!
By the end of the evening I was trying my best to learn something from the situation. How could I improve? Well, clearly I need to spend more practice time reading greens.
Also, I didn’t warm up last night. It was a busy work day and I simply ran up to the first tee. I do that VERY rarely, but did so last night.
We were also rushing last night, trying to finish our round before darkness. I find it very helpful to look at a putt from both behind the ball and behind the hole, and I can generally do so without slowing the pace of play. But we were really moving last night.
Lastly, it was very late in the day and the greens had seen a lot of play. There were a little bumpy. Of course, that doesn’t explain my putts breaking in the opposite direction to my read, but it does make me feel just a little bit better.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Find Your True Talent
Tiger Woods put on yet another impressive display whilst capturing the WGC – Bridgestone Invitational on Sunday. I believe it was golf analyst David Feherty that summed it up best. I believe the quote went something like this. “When he plays ok, he contends. When he plays well, he wins. And when he plays really well, he wins by 10!”
This left me wondering about that one thing, that one skill that each of us possesses. I believe each and every person possesses a talent for something. Let’s call it their “true talent.” Many– perhaps most – never discover their true talent. Others discover their true talent, but do not develop it to its full potential.
But those that discover their true talent, and go on to fully develop it, I believe lead incredibly rewarding lives.
Clearly, golf is most likely Tiger’s true talent. We could get more nitpicky and argue that his true talent is focus, or determination, or work ethic, or performance under pressure, but for now let’s just go with golf. And clearly he’s in the continual process of developing his true talent to its maximum potential.
I wonder if Faherty’s quote would apply to any other individual that found and developed his/her true talent. “When he/she plays/works/performs ok, he/she contends. When he/she plays/works/performs well, he/she wins. And when he/she plays/works/performs really well, he/she wins by a very large margin!”
And I wonder if the same applies to companies. Again, I believe all companies possess a true talent. And I believe those that find and optimize their true talent go on to achieve incredibly rewarding successes. Such companies touch upon and improve the lives of thousands of people and communities.
Of course, there’s a wealth of business research and popular business books that urge corporate leaders to find their companies’ true talents and then optimize same. These studies and books may use different language, but they preach the same message.
“Just do what you do best!” –Red Auerbach
“If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn.” –Charlie Parker (trumpet)
This left me wondering about that one thing, that one skill that each of us possesses. I believe each and every person possesses a talent for something. Let’s call it their “true talent.” Many– perhaps most – never discover their true talent. Others discover their true talent, but do not develop it to its full potential.
But those that discover their true talent, and go on to fully develop it, I believe lead incredibly rewarding lives.
Clearly, golf is most likely Tiger’s true talent. We could get more nitpicky and argue that his true talent is focus, or determination, or work ethic, or performance under pressure, but for now let’s just go with golf. And clearly he’s in the continual process of developing his true talent to its maximum potential.
I wonder if Faherty’s quote would apply to any other individual that found and developed his/her true talent. “When he/she plays/works/performs ok, he/she contends. When he/she plays/works/performs well, he/she wins. And when he/she plays/works/performs really well, he/she wins by a very large margin!”
And I wonder if the same applies to companies. Again, I believe all companies possess a true talent. And I believe those that find and optimize their true talent go on to achieve incredibly rewarding successes. Such companies touch upon and improve the lives of thousands of people and communities.
Of course, there’s a wealth of business research and popular business books that urge corporate leaders to find their companies’ true talents and then optimize same. These studies and books may use different language, but they preach the same message.
“Just do what you do best!” –Red Auerbach
“If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn.” –Charlie Parker (trumpet)
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Integrative Thinking In HBR
In reading my June 2007 issue of Harvard Business Review I came across an article that struck a chord. Titled “How Successful Leaders Think”, by Roger Martin, it was based on the premise that we can learn far more by learning how great leaders think, or thought, than by how they act, or acted.
Martin keys in on one common thread that ran through the bulk of the “great” leaders he interviewed: they “have the predisposition and the capacity to hold in their heads two opposing ideas at once.”
Most decision makers “seek simplicity along the way” to a decision and are thus “often forced to make unattractive trade-offs.” The leaders that Martin interviewed did not feel forced into such trade-offs. Rather, they carried forth two opposing ideas/solutions/models/etc. for as long as possible, they embraced the accompanying complexity, and they felt comfortable with their ability to handle said complexity.
Martin notes, “integrative thinkers don’t mind a messy problem. In fact, they welcome complexity, because that’s where the best answers come from.”
When faced with two opposing ideas, most decision makers attempt to quickly determine which idea is correct/best/ideal, and thus which is faulty. They may take the approach of challenging both ideas very early in the decision making process, attempting to poke holes in one or the other, and thus eliminate said idea from contention. This reduces complexity and the decision maker feels more at ease.
Martin boils it down to four stage decision making model and juxtaposes “conventional thinkers” and “integrative thinkers.”
Note: This table is quoted directly from the article.
Step 1 – Determining Salience
Conventional Thinkers – Focus only on obviously relevant features
Integrative Thinkers – Seek less obvious but potentially relevant factors
Step 2 – Analyzing Causality
Conventional Thinkers – Consider one-way, linear relationships between variables, in which more of A produces more of B
Integrative Thinkers – Consider multidirectional and nonlinear relationships among variables
Step 3 – Envisioning the Decision Architecture
Conventional Thinkers – Break problems into pieces and work on them separately or sequentially
Integrative Thinkers – See problems as a whole, examining how the parts fit together and how decisions affect one another
Step 4 – Achieving Resolution
Conventional Thinkers – Make either or choices, settle for best available options
Integrative Thinkers – Creatively resolve tensions among opposing ideas; generate innovative outcomes
Most notably, integrative thinkers do not make either or choices. They carry forth, deep into the decision making process, not only opposing ideas but a wealth of data as well. Ultimately, they seek a solution that “integrates” the best of all available options, whether they are opposing ideas or not.
Martin keys in on one common thread that ran through the bulk of the “great” leaders he interviewed: they “have the predisposition and the capacity to hold in their heads two opposing ideas at once.”
Most decision makers “seek simplicity along the way” to a decision and are thus “often forced to make unattractive trade-offs.” The leaders that Martin interviewed did not feel forced into such trade-offs. Rather, they carried forth two opposing ideas/solutions/models/etc. for as long as possible, they embraced the accompanying complexity, and they felt comfortable with their ability to handle said complexity.
Martin notes, “integrative thinkers don’t mind a messy problem. In fact, they welcome complexity, because that’s where the best answers come from.”
When faced with two opposing ideas, most decision makers attempt to quickly determine which idea is correct/best/ideal, and thus which is faulty. They may take the approach of challenging both ideas very early in the decision making process, attempting to poke holes in one or the other, and thus eliminate said idea from contention. This reduces complexity and the decision maker feels more at ease.
Martin boils it down to four stage decision making model and juxtaposes “conventional thinkers” and “integrative thinkers.”
Note: This table is quoted directly from the article.
Step 1 – Determining Salience
Conventional Thinkers – Focus only on obviously relevant features
Integrative Thinkers – Seek less obvious but potentially relevant factors
Step 2 – Analyzing Causality
Conventional Thinkers – Consider one-way, linear relationships between variables, in which more of A produces more of B
Integrative Thinkers – Consider multidirectional and nonlinear relationships among variables
Step 3 – Envisioning the Decision Architecture
Conventional Thinkers – Break problems into pieces and work on them separately or sequentially
Integrative Thinkers – See problems as a whole, examining how the parts fit together and how decisions affect one another
Step 4 – Achieving Resolution
Conventional Thinkers – Make either or choices, settle for best available options
Integrative Thinkers – Creatively resolve tensions among opposing ideas; generate innovative outcomes
Most notably, integrative thinkers do not make either or choices. They carry forth, deep into the decision making process, not only opposing ideas but a wealth of data as well. Ultimately, they seek a solution that “integrates” the best of all available options, whether they are opposing ideas or not.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Took A Free Day
I took Sunday off. I did some reading but no work at all. I didn’t even return any emails. It’s been busy. Sunday was a Free Day. Jay Paterson blogged about this many months ago here.
I’ve been thinking more and more about this concept of Focus and Free days, and how to best spend the 168 hours we have each week. I’ve re-read Jay’s post a few times.
It’s such a departure from my normal modus operandi. I generally work a lot. Almost every day.
I remember speaking with a friend recently. We’ll keep his identity confidential. He invited me to his cottage. I noted that I was rather busy and don’t really take very many days off. He replied, “I know. That’s why you should come to the cottage.” Point well taken!
I didn’t fully enjoy my Free Day on Sunday. All day I was hoping to get some good news, some great news really, and it never did arrive. The great news did finally arrive today, although it was short lived. But, we accept what life sends our way and treasure every moment. We act with great belief, intention and industry. And we continue to believe no matter what comes our way and no matter how many obstacles appear before us.
I was reminded yesterday of this telling quote:
“The art of resting the mind and the power of dismissing from it all care and worry is probably one of the secrets of our great men.” -Captain J.A. Hatfield
I’ve been thinking more and more about this concept of Focus and Free days, and how to best spend the 168 hours we have each week. I’ve re-read Jay’s post a few times.
It’s such a departure from my normal modus operandi. I generally work a lot. Almost every day.
I remember speaking with a friend recently. We’ll keep his identity confidential. He invited me to his cottage. I noted that I was rather busy and don’t really take very many days off. He replied, “I know. That’s why you should come to the cottage.” Point well taken!
I didn’t fully enjoy my Free Day on Sunday. All day I was hoping to get some good news, some great news really, and it never did arrive. The great news did finally arrive today, although it was short lived. But, we accept what life sends our way and treasure every moment. We act with great belief, intention and industry. And we continue to believe no matter what comes our way and no matter how many obstacles appear before us.
I was reminded yesterday of this telling quote:
“The art of resting the mind and the power of dismissing from it all care and worry is probably one of the secrets of our great men.” -Captain J.A. Hatfield
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Let Go Of The Frustration
I mentioned in my previous post that I wanted to quote Andrew Winston, our Vice President of Franchise Training. I had lamented to him about my many technology issues of late. Here’s part of his reply.
“When I golf and hit the ball into the forest, I have an undying belief that the trees will kick the ball back out onto the fairway. ‘Trees are our friends’ is what I yell and it works. I guess what I'm saying is that your attitude will dictate your results. I know it's difficult when each step you take is a hassle. But let go of the frustration when you're dealing with the minutiae and it won't mean so much on the negative side.”
He’s right, of course.
I’ve had a lot of minutiae pile up over the last couple of weeks. I generally deal with most of the real non-value-added stuff on my weekends, but my weekends of late have been busy, or I’ve taken time to relax (like last weekend). So some of the real boring stuff piled up.
My plan for this weekend is to rip through all of that as quickly as possible. I got organized last night and figured out what had to be done. I like to start with the worst/least-enjoyable tasks and work my way through to the more pleasant tasks.
Also did some yard work last night. My eldest son cuts our grass, but there are other tasks that he’s not quite ready to tackle.
I started this morning with a great workout and then dove right into my to-do list. I’m at least three quarters of the way through the list and have only a few of the more pleasant tasks left.
I hope to complete most of them today and then set tomorrow aside for some RnR.
“When I golf and hit the ball into the forest, I have an undying belief that the trees will kick the ball back out onto the fairway. ‘Trees are our friends’ is what I yell and it works. I guess what I'm saying is that your attitude will dictate your results. I know it's difficult when each step you take is a hassle. But let go of the frustration when you're dealing with the minutiae and it won't mean so much on the negative side.”
He’s right, of course.
I’ve had a lot of minutiae pile up over the last couple of weeks. I generally deal with most of the real non-value-added stuff on my weekends, but my weekends of late have been busy, or I’ve taken time to relax (like last weekend). So some of the real boring stuff piled up.
My plan for this weekend is to rip through all of that as quickly as possible. I got organized last night and figured out what had to be done. I like to start with the worst/least-enjoyable tasks and work my way through to the more pleasant tasks.
Also did some yard work last night. My eldest son cuts our grass, but there are other tasks that he’s not quite ready to tackle.
I started this morning with a great workout and then dove right into my to-do list. I’m at least three quarters of the way through the list and have only a few of the more pleasant tasks left.
I hope to complete most of them today and then set tomorrow aside for some RnR.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Technology Challenges or Opportunities
It’s time to change gears. We now have the bulk of our capital lined up. (Is that a dangling participle? I can never remember. My Grade 9 high school English teacher, Mrs. Ballard, God bless her soul, may not be happy if she notices!)
I’ve spent the bulk of my time to date securing capital. It’s now finally time to start the marketing training provided by the franchisor, and then move on to marketing and selling memberships, and soon construction.
I can’t wait. Many people have asked about purchasing a membership – friends and new acquaintances (future friends). I really look forward to creating our little golfing community/club and watching new friendships and camaraderie develop.
I’ve faced more than my fair share of technology issues of late. For most of the week now I’ve been receiving two copies of all emails on Blackberry. I have a few different email accounts and the problem is only affecting the one account. I still have not solved it.
It’s rather ironic. For many of the emails I receive, I don’t even want the original, let alone a copy!
Also, on Wednesday, I learned that my computer headset is no longer working. I had installed some software related to a digital voice recorder I’ve been using. Said installation basically obliterated all of the audio drivers for my Logitech USB headset. I’m told there’s no way to fix it. We in the Parmasters world use Internet-based/online meeting rooms for many of our meetings.
I lamented some of my technology misfortune to Andrew Winston, Parmasters’ Vice President of Franchise Training. He wrote back and reminded me of many of the principles in The Secret, without ever really mentioning The Secret. I’d love to quote him here, but don’t have his permission. Perhaps in my next post.
And lastly, before I head out to a day of meetings, we must all applaud Mr. Hunter Mahan for his performance at our “Open Championship” yesterday. I’ve witnessed many a hole-out, but never two in a round. Great to see! It’s also nice to see young Canadian David Hearn fairing well on opening day.
Have a look at Mahan’s score card. You won’t see many like it!
I’ve spent the bulk of my time to date securing capital. It’s now finally time to start the marketing training provided by the franchisor, and then move on to marketing and selling memberships, and soon construction.
I can’t wait. Many people have asked about purchasing a membership – friends and new acquaintances (future friends). I really look forward to creating our little golfing community/club and watching new friendships and camaraderie develop.
I’ve faced more than my fair share of technology issues of late. For most of the week now I’ve been receiving two copies of all emails on Blackberry. I have a few different email accounts and the problem is only affecting the one account. I still have not solved it.
It’s rather ironic. For many of the emails I receive, I don’t even want the original, let alone a copy!
Also, on Wednesday, I learned that my computer headset is no longer working. I had installed some software related to a digital voice recorder I’ve been using. Said installation basically obliterated all of the audio drivers for my Logitech USB headset. I’m told there’s no way to fix it. We in the Parmasters world use Internet-based/online meeting rooms for many of our meetings.
I lamented some of my technology misfortune to Andrew Winston, Parmasters’ Vice President of Franchise Training. He wrote back and reminded me of many of the principles in The Secret, without ever really mentioning The Secret. I’d love to quote him here, but don’t have his permission. Perhaps in my next post.
And lastly, before I head out to a day of meetings, we must all applaud Mr. Hunter Mahan for his performance at our “Open Championship” yesterday. I’ve witnessed many a hole-out, but never two in a round. Great to see! It’s also nice to see young Canadian David Hearn fairing well on opening day.
Have a look at Mahan’s score card. You won’t see many like it!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Big Day For Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo
We’ve just completed one of the most important days in the brief history of Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo. I can’t make any big announcements yet, unfortunately. Suffice it to say that we took a giant leap forward today and are much closer to our opening day. It’s quite amazing, and surprising, what can happen within a few hours.
Today was spent with Tom Matzen, Parmasters’ President and CEO and Andre Ferris, Parmasters’ Canadian Regional Franchisor. We went from meeting to meeting, with investors, with shareholders, with partners and with other stakeholders.
It was actually Tom’s first visit to southwestern Ontario, which really surprised me. He grew up on the prairies and has done most of his business on the west coast.
All of our meetings today went very well. The three of us – but predominantly Tom, since he is a co-founder – answered a wide array of questions regarding the business. Shareholders wanted more details, and wanted to ensure we had our focus on certain areas. Potential investors were asking tough questions related to risk. Partners and stakeholders spent most of their time congratulating us on our concept and our progress to date.
Of course, as with every fantastic day in business, the day after is when the rubber actually meets the road. Tomorrow is when we’ll start to paper some agreements that were hammered out today. Tomorrow is when I must inform all necessary parties and start marshalling the troops to move forward much faster than previously. Tomorrow I must adjust my to-do list and ensure my focus is appropriate given these new developments. It’s time to accelerate, once again. The time is nigh.
So, for now, it’s time to relax and recharge.
Today was spent with Tom Matzen, Parmasters’ President and CEO and Andre Ferris, Parmasters’ Canadian Regional Franchisor. We went from meeting to meeting, with investors, with shareholders, with partners and with other stakeholders.
It was actually Tom’s first visit to southwestern Ontario, which really surprised me. He grew up on the prairies and has done most of his business on the west coast.
All of our meetings today went very well. The three of us – but predominantly Tom, since he is a co-founder – answered a wide array of questions regarding the business. Shareholders wanted more details, and wanted to ensure we had our focus on certain areas. Potential investors were asking tough questions related to risk. Partners and stakeholders spent most of their time congratulating us on our concept and our progress to date.
Of course, as with every fantastic day in business, the day after is when the rubber actually meets the road. Tomorrow is when we’ll start to paper some agreements that were hammered out today. Tomorrow is when I must inform all necessary parties and start marshalling the troops to move forward much faster than previously. Tomorrow I must adjust my to-do list and ensure my focus is appropriate given these new developments. It’s time to accelerate, once again. The time is nigh.
So, for now, it’s time to relax and recharge.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Quiet Weekend Not Car-nastie
It was nice to see Padraig Harrington win The Open Championship on Sunday. It was equally sad to see young Spaniard Sergio Garcia lose the same Open. Carnoustie played as Car-nicetie this time round, rather than the fabled Car-nastie of old. But then, as many analysts have since pointed out, Mother Nature was unusually benign. A little wind, a little cooler and this year’s Open would have been completely different.
I had a fairly quiet weekend. I worked Saturday morning but then attended a folk music festival in London in the afternoon. The music was wonderful but I was quite distracted with many other things on my mind.
I also relaxed in front of the television a fair bit this weekend. Very unusual for me. I’ll watch a few sports now and then, but rarely sit for extended periods of time and watch a movie or show. I think the tally came to three movies this past weekend, along with part of a fourth. They included, and I may get the titles incorrect, A Few Good Men, The Jackal, White Lightning and Little Man (chosen by my young, but not-so-little men).
I’m about to leave for the airport to pick up the Tom Matzen, Parmasters HQ President and CEO. We have a full day of investor candidate and shareholder meetings tomorrow. Looking forward to some good discussion and challenging questions. Tom was a co-founder of Parmasters, so I always learn a lot when with him.
I had a fairly quiet weekend. I worked Saturday morning but then attended a folk music festival in London in the afternoon. The music was wonderful but I was quite distracted with many other things on my mind.
I also relaxed in front of the television a fair bit this weekend. Very unusual for me. I’ll watch a few sports now and then, but rarely sit for extended periods of time and watch a movie or show. I think the tally came to three movies this past weekend, along with part of a fourth. They included, and I may get the titles incorrect, A Few Good Men, The Jackal, White Lightning and Little Man (chosen by my young, but not-so-little men).
I’m about to leave for the airport to pick up the Tom Matzen, Parmasters HQ President and CEO. We have a full day of investor candidate and shareholder meetings tomorrow. Looking forward to some good discussion and challenging questions. Tom was a co-founder of Parmasters, so I always learn a lot when with him.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Parmasters CEO Visiting
The President, CEO and Co-founder of Parmasters Golf Training Centers, Tom Matzen, is coming to town next week. We’ve arranged the trip to put Tom in front of both existing shareholders and potential investors. I’m looking forward to the sessions.
It will be a whirlwind 24 hour visit. Tom will arrive late in the evening and leave for Vancouver late the next evening.
This will be Tom’s first time in Kitchener since I purchased the franchise rights. It will give him an opportunity to tour our coming location at Market Square (at the corner of King and Frederick Streets in Kitchener).
I’ve been busy inviting interested attendees and making other arrangements. The schedule for the day is still up in the air, but we’ll get the details ironed out on Monday.
I still feel like I’m behind on my to-do lists and regular tasks. I look forward to the weekend and an opportunity to get caught up. Of course, I also feel I’m a little behind on my RnR time, so hopefully I can get some of that in on the weekend also.
It will be a whirlwind 24 hour visit. Tom will arrive late in the evening and leave for Vancouver late the next evening.
This will be Tom’s first time in Kitchener since I purchased the franchise rights. It will give him an opportunity to tour our coming location at Market Square (at the corner of King and Frederick Streets in Kitchener).
I’ve been busy inviting interested attendees and making other arrangements. The schedule for the day is still up in the air, but we’ll get the details ironed out on Monday.
I still feel like I’m behind on my to-do lists and regular tasks. I look forward to the weekend and an opportunity to get caught up. Of course, I also feel I’m a little behind on my RnR time, so hopefully I can get some of that in on the weekend also.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Golf Course Architecture
It’s been another stretch of very little blogging. I have found two sets of circumstances that lead me to blog less than normal.
First, of course, is when I’m extremely busy. It’s difficult to make and justify the time to blog during very busy periods.
And second, during vacation periods, no matter how long or short. I didn’t do a lot of work late last week. And my parents visited over the weekend. During periods like that, I try to simply do whatever I want, whenever I want. This helps me to relax and rejuvenate.
I recently read an interesting article in Golf Canada (published by the RCGA). Titled “Lessons from the Past,” it focused on the evolution of golf course design. It’s an area that has always intrigued me, and so I read the article with much anticipation.
Of course, in the very early days of golf, there was no such thing as golf course design. As the article states, “the game’s initial courses were often ’18 stakes on a sunny afternoon,’ … within an interesting piece of property.”
Apparently one of the first to actually alter the land was Willie Park Jr., “a British designer whose work in Canada includes Calgary Golf & Country Club and Laval-Sur-Le Lac Golf Club.” Approximately a century ago Mr. Park made subtle alterations to properties/courses, but certainly never sculpted mass swaths of land.
Alister Mackenzie stands out for his contribution of “13 Golf Commandments,” essentially a list of concepts that all great courses should share. The list included such things as the importance of hills and valleys, beautiful surroundings as well as testing both proficient and beginner golfers, and motivating golfers to improve.
Longer holes traversed “less impressive land” and par-3’s were placed very strategically, to take advantage of beautiful locations.
Towards the end of Stanley Thompson’s contributions, and at the beginning of Robert Trent Jones’ career, the advent of massive earth moving equipment brought new possibilities to golf course design and construction. No longer was the architect relegated to merely tweaking the natural landscape. Wholesale change was in vogue, and possible.
This trend ushered in the concept of the famous golf course architect. Since it was no more the architect, and less the land, that created the end product, the architect’s name became very prominent. PGA players, such as Jack Nicklaus and Ben Crenshaw, began to make a name for themselves in golf course architecture.
The article ends describing the most recent movement back to the basics, a minimalist and naturalist approach. This takes architecture full circle, back to designs that wind and weave through untouched properties, with the designer and design yielding to the land, rather than vice versa.
In reading about the journey that golf course design has taken, I was reminded of a sculptor. Some describe sculpting as molding a solid block into a beautiful representation of some form. Others describe it as an effort to free the form that lies trapped within the original solid block.
I look forward to learning more about golf course design. One brief article has only whetted my appetite.
First, of course, is when I’m extremely busy. It’s difficult to make and justify the time to blog during very busy periods.
And second, during vacation periods, no matter how long or short. I didn’t do a lot of work late last week. And my parents visited over the weekend. During periods like that, I try to simply do whatever I want, whenever I want. This helps me to relax and rejuvenate.
I recently read an interesting article in Golf Canada (published by the RCGA). Titled “Lessons from the Past,” it focused on the evolution of golf course design. It’s an area that has always intrigued me, and so I read the article with much anticipation.
Of course, in the very early days of golf, there was no such thing as golf course design. As the article states, “the game’s initial courses were often ’18 stakes on a sunny afternoon,’ … within an interesting piece of property.”
Apparently one of the first to actually alter the land was Willie Park Jr., “a British designer whose work in Canada includes Calgary Golf & Country Club and Laval-Sur-Le Lac Golf Club.” Approximately a century ago Mr. Park made subtle alterations to properties/courses, but certainly never sculpted mass swaths of land.
Alister Mackenzie stands out for his contribution of “13 Golf Commandments,” essentially a list of concepts that all great courses should share. The list included such things as the importance of hills and valleys, beautiful surroundings as well as testing both proficient and beginner golfers, and motivating golfers to improve.
Longer holes traversed “less impressive land” and par-3’s were placed very strategically, to take advantage of beautiful locations.
Towards the end of Stanley Thompson’s contributions, and at the beginning of Robert Trent Jones’ career, the advent of massive earth moving equipment brought new possibilities to golf course design and construction. No longer was the architect relegated to merely tweaking the natural landscape. Wholesale change was in vogue, and possible.
This trend ushered in the concept of the famous golf course architect. Since it was no more the architect, and less the land, that created the end product, the architect’s name became very prominent. PGA players, such as Jack Nicklaus and Ben Crenshaw, began to make a name for themselves in golf course architecture.
The article ends describing the most recent movement back to the basics, a minimalist and naturalist approach. This takes architecture full circle, back to designs that wind and weave through untouched properties, with the designer and design yielding to the land, rather than vice versa.
In reading about the journey that golf course design has taken, I was reminded of a sculptor. Some describe sculpting as molding a solid block into a beautiful representation of some form. Others describe it as an effort to free the form that lies trapped within the original solid block.
I look forward to learning more about golf course design. One brief article has only whetted my appetite.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
University Campuses
I've been reminded this week of how much I enjoy university campuses. I'm not sure exactly what it is about campuses but they always lead me to new ideas and very positive feelings.
I have degrees from both the university of Waterloo (B.Math.)and Wilfrid Laurier University (MBA). Those two campuses are very familiar, like an old pair of jeans. I considered some globally renowned ivey league schools for my MBA, but opted to stay home in Waterloo, ON.
While working in sales at Maplesoft (mathematical software sold mainly to universities) I spent countless days visiting campuses throughout the United States. Some were incredibly beautiful and inspiring. Some were more "practical" or "utilitarian". But all inspired.
I believe there's a sense of possibility and new, fresh ideas that is essentially inherent in all/most campuses, both by design and by happenstance. There's a freedom from judgment and a spirit of stepping well outside of "the box" and one's "comfort zone." Campuses are also a wonderful reminder of days gone by, be they personal memories or society's history in general.
I've been reminded this week that, for me, setting aside time - even brief periods - to think, to ponder, to analyze, and to consider the "big picture" is a very valuable and high-leverage activity. And a university campus inspires very clear thinking.
It's so easy to get into a habit or mode of constantly doing, and often difficult to remember to step back and consider whether you're "doing" the right thing(s).
"It does not take much strength to do things, but it requires a great deal of strength to decide what to do." -Elbert Hubbard
I resolve to dedicate more time to contemplation and analysis, and will consider best locations - including nearby campuses - for such activity.
I have degrees from both the university of Waterloo (B.Math.)and Wilfrid Laurier University (MBA). Those two campuses are very familiar, like an old pair of jeans. I considered some globally renowned ivey league schools for my MBA, but opted to stay home in Waterloo, ON.
While working in sales at Maplesoft (mathematical software sold mainly to universities) I spent countless days visiting campuses throughout the United States. Some were incredibly beautiful and inspiring. Some were more "practical" or "utilitarian". But all inspired.
I believe there's a sense of possibility and new, fresh ideas that is essentially inherent in all/most campuses, both by design and by happenstance. There's a freedom from judgment and a spirit of stepping well outside of "the box" and one's "comfort zone." Campuses are also a wonderful reminder of days gone by, be they personal memories or society's history in general.
I've been reminded this week that, for me, setting aside time - even brief periods - to think, to ponder, to analyze, and to consider the "big picture" is a very valuable and high-leverage activity. And a university campus inspires very clear thinking.
It's so easy to get into a habit or mode of constantly doing, and often difficult to remember to step back and consider whether you're "doing" the right thing(s).
"It does not take much strength to do things, but it requires a great deal of strength to decide what to do." -Elbert Hubbard
I resolve to dedicate more time to contemplation and analysis, and will consider best locations - including nearby campuses - for such activity.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Moe's Birthday
From the golf blog In Golf We Trust (www.ingolfwetrust.com):
On This Day In History - 10 July 2007
Lee Trevino wins his first Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, finishing with a 70 for a one-stroke victory margin over Taiwan's Lu Liang-Huan. Trevino came into the tournament in form, having won the US Open and the The Canadian Open weeks earlier. 34-year-old Lu, contended right from the start and he Trevino and Tony Jacklin took a three shot lead over the field going into the final day.
Lu trailed by a shot going up the 18th and his errant drive struck spectator, Lillian Tipping, who was concussed and taken to hospital needing several stitches. Despite going to her aid, Lu managed to make birdie, but so did the Merry Mex to win his first Open, which he would successfully defend the following year at Muirfield.
Lu would have to be satisfied with being remembered for his pork pie hat and his role as the heroic underdog. He and Mrs Tipping sent each other Christmas cards for many years afterwards.
...
It's also the day that one of the greatest golfing mavericks off all time was born. Canadian Moe Norman never made the grade on the PGA Tour, but his ball-striking exploits are legend. Tiger Woods once said that he aspired to 'own his swing' in the way that only two players – Ben Hogan and Moe Norman – have previously.
On This Day In History - 10 July 2007
Lee Trevino wins his first Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, finishing with a 70 for a one-stroke victory margin over Taiwan's Lu Liang-Huan. Trevino came into the tournament in form, having won the US Open and the The Canadian Open weeks earlier. 34-year-old Lu, contended right from the start and he Trevino and Tony Jacklin took a three shot lead over the field going into the final day.
Lu trailed by a shot going up the 18th and his errant drive struck spectator, Lillian Tipping, who was concussed and taken to hospital needing several stitches. Despite going to her aid, Lu managed to make birdie, but so did the Merry Mex to win his first Open, which he would successfully defend the following year at Muirfield.
Lu would have to be satisfied with being remembered for his pork pie hat and his role as the heroic underdog. He and Mrs Tipping sent each other Christmas cards for many years afterwards.
...
It's also the day that one of the greatest golfing mavericks off all time was born. Canadian Moe Norman never made the grade on the PGA Tour, but his ball-striking exploits are legend. Tiger Woods once said that he aspired to 'own his swing' in the way that only two players – Ben Hogan and Moe Norman – have previously.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Parmasters KW On The Web
As some of you may have noticed, we’ve recently launched our web pages / website. You can Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo here. As with all Parmasters Centers, our web pages are accessed via the main Parmasters Golf Training Centers site.
Our web pages provide a wealth of information about our site and also allow you to sign up for a membership giveaway and to simply join our mailing list to learn more about membership and other opportunities as they arise. You can sign up here.
We will start selling memberships in the coming months. Residents of Waterloo Region will hear plenty from us as our marketing efforts begin.
This also marks a transition in this blog. Up until now, almost all readers have been friends and family, people that I’ve spoken to personally regarding our Parmasters Center. Now that our web pages are live, and we’re getting some media exposure, readers of this blog will include future members and clients that I have not yet met. I have not yet decided whether this might alter my musings and writings.
Our press release, issued yesterday, was picked up by the Kitchener-Waterloo Record. Here’s a link to the article, and the full text, below.
CORE SCORE
Parmasters 'health club for golfers' comes to Market Square in downtown Kitchener this winter targeting those duffers without regular access to training facilities or coaches
MICHAEL HAMMOND
KITCHENER (Jul 4, 2007)
A "health club for golfers" is set to open in the Market Square in downtown Kitchener, adding fuel to hopes of a revival in the city's struggling core.
Stephen Southern, president of Parmasters Southern Ontario, said he hopes to open his golf training centre in the mall this winter.
"We describe it as a health club for golfers," he said.
The Parmasters chain, based in Memphis, Tenn., currently has facilities in Memphis and Guangzhou, China. It plans to open dozens of similar golf training centres around the world, including 27 in Canada.
The Kitchener centre will occupy 15,000 square feet of space in the Market Square's main floor retail concourse, although a specific location has yet to be confirmed. It will be the first Parmasters location in Ontario.
Southern, who holds the Parmasters franchise rights in southern Ontario, said he wants to offer a year-round attraction where the average golfer can work on his or her game.
"Our studies show there are about 70,000 golfers in the region," he said. "That's an absolutely prime market. There aren't many places for public golfers to practise their game."
Linda Stewart, executive director of the Kitchener Downtown Business Association, said the "out-of-the-ordinary" attraction represents a much-needed endorsement for the core.
"I'm excited they picked Kitchener's downtown because it speaks to the fact that we've got some great developments going on here," she said. "This type of business is going to attract different people to the core."
John Vickery, manager of leasing for Cora Group, which owns Market Square, said the golfing attraction will bring new momentum to the south end of the downtown.
"We've tried a couple of strategies to bring in new retail without much success," he said. "We hope this will attract a whole new audience to Market Square."
Vickery said his group possibly will shift several stores around in the mall to make way for Parmasters.
Both Cora and the Kitchener Market have had trouble retaining tenants, Vickery said. "I think that's indicative of how difficult it is leasing retail space in the downtown."
The golf centre will include five or six golf simulators, a 4,000-square-foot putting green, a sand trap practice area and an automated driving range simulator that places a ball on a tee every few seconds.
The attraction will employ 15 to 20 people. Southern hopes to begin selling memberships, which will start at $39 a month, later this summer or in the fall.
The centre will be open to the public as well. The facility will also have a pro shop, fitness area and cafe.
Southern, a self-described serial entrepreneur who has worked for several technology startups including SlipStream Data in Waterloo, is targeting golfers who don't belong to golf clubs and don't have access to training facilities or golf coaches.
He said he plans to eventually open Parmasters locations in Cambridge, London, Windsor and Chatham-Kent.
Besides Market Square's central location, Southern said there were several key factors that led him to locate the centre in downtown Kitchener.
More than 2,500 professionals work within a five-minute walk of Market Square, at the corner of King and Frederick streets. There also will be hundreds of affluent condominium owners in the downtown in the coming years at the Kaufman Lofts, Eatons Lofts and in the proposed Centre Block development, he said.
Our web pages provide a wealth of information about our site and also allow you to sign up for a membership giveaway and to simply join our mailing list to learn more about membership and other opportunities as they arise. You can sign up here.
We will start selling memberships in the coming months. Residents of Waterloo Region will hear plenty from us as our marketing efforts begin.
This also marks a transition in this blog. Up until now, almost all readers have been friends and family, people that I’ve spoken to personally regarding our Parmasters Center. Now that our web pages are live, and we’re getting some media exposure, readers of this blog will include future members and clients that I have not yet met. I have not yet decided whether this might alter my musings and writings.
Our press release, issued yesterday, was picked up by the Kitchener-Waterloo Record. Here’s a link to the article, and the full text, below.
CORE SCORE
Parmasters 'health club for golfers' comes to Market Square in downtown Kitchener this winter targeting those duffers without regular access to training facilities or coaches
MICHAEL HAMMOND
KITCHENER (Jul 4, 2007)
A "health club for golfers" is set to open in the Market Square in downtown Kitchener, adding fuel to hopes of a revival in the city's struggling core.
Stephen Southern, president of Parmasters Southern Ontario, said he hopes to open his golf training centre in the mall this winter.
"We describe it as a health club for golfers," he said.
The Parmasters chain, based in Memphis, Tenn., currently has facilities in Memphis and Guangzhou, China. It plans to open dozens of similar golf training centres around the world, including 27 in Canada.
The Kitchener centre will occupy 15,000 square feet of space in the Market Square's main floor retail concourse, although a specific location has yet to be confirmed. It will be the first Parmasters location in Ontario.
Southern, who holds the Parmasters franchise rights in southern Ontario, said he wants to offer a year-round attraction where the average golfer can work on his or her game.
"Our studies show there are about 70,000 golfers in the region," he said. "That's an absolutely prime market. There aren't many places for public golfers to practise their game."
Linda Stewart, executive director of the Kitchener Downtown Business Association, said the "out-of-the-ordinary" attraction represents a much-needed endorsement for the core.
"I'm excited they picked Kitchener's downtown because it speaks to the fact that we've got some great developments going on here," she said. "This type of business is going to attract different people to the core."
John Vickery, manager of leasing for Cora Group, which owns Market Square, said the golfing attraction will bring new momentum to the south end of the downtown.
"We've tried a couple of strategies to bring in new retail without much success," he said. "We hope this will attract a whole new audience to Market Square."
Vickery said his group possibly will shift several stores around in the mall to make way for Parmasters.
Both Cora and the Kitchener Market have had trouble retaining tenants, Vickery said. "I think that's indicative of how difficult it is leasing retail space in the downtown."
The golf centre will include five or six golf simulators, a 4,000-square-foot putting green, a sand trap practice area and an automated driving range simulator that places a ball on a tee every few seconds.
The attraction will employ 15 to 20 people. Southern hopes to begin selling memberships, which will start at $39 a month, later this summer or in the fall.
The centre will be open to the public as well. The facility will also have a pro shop, fitness area and cafe.
Southern, a self-described serial entrepreneur who has worked for several technology startups including SlipStream Data in Waterloo, is targeting golfers who don't belong to golf clubs and don't have access to training facilities or golf coaches.
He said he plans to eventually open Parmasters locations in Cambridge, London, Windsor and Chatham-Kent.
Besides Market Square's central location, Southern said there were several key factors that led him to locate the centre in downtown Kitchener.
More than 2,500 professionals work within a five-minute walk of Market Square, at the corner of King and Frederick streets. There also will be hundreds of affluent condominium owners in the downtown in the coming years at the Kaufman Lofts, Eatons Lofts and in the proposed Centre Block development, he said.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
State-of-the-Art Golf Center
We issued our first press release today, and I gave my first interview related to Parmasters Kitchener-Waterloo! The Record tracked me down early this morning.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3, 2007
Play Golf All Year Long in Southern Ontario Parmasters announces the opening of state-of-the-art Golf Center
July 3, 2007, KITCHENER-WATERLOO – Parmasters is pleased to be opening the first of five golf centers in Southern Ontario at Kitchener’s Market Square, 100 King Street East, at the corner of King and Frederick Streets. This location will open this winter with other sites in London, Windsor, Chatham-Kent and Cambridge to follow soon.
Typically, a Parmasters Golf Training Center is 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet and is “the ultimate golf training and practice facility” offering a climate-controlled, indoor golfers haven and an affordable, non-intimidating alternative to the traditional, typically expensive teaching methods that guarantees a 25 per cent reduction in handicap.
This center will feature 5 state-of-the art golf simulators, 2 or more fluency bays (with an automatic tee that tees up a ball every 1.5 seconds), other driving bays such as fairway bunker, uneven lies long game areas, a pro shop, a golf fitness area, and a 4,000 sq. ft. indoor undulating green surrounded by rough and bunkers for short game practice. Parmasters Golf Training Centers have been designed to have the look and feel of a high-end clubhouse including food and beverage service in the Company’s “Links Golf Café”.
A 2006 Ipsos Reid poll indicated that Canadians spent a total of $11.23 billion in 2005 on green fees, membership, equipment and apparel and also indicated that 5.95 million Canadians participated in the sport in 2005, representing a 21.6 per cent increase from 2001.
In summarizing the poll results, Ipsos Reid senior vice president, Amanda Maltby said: "The game is in good health…I'm not in the industry but looking at it from a research perspective . . . we're seeing very robust growth.”
“I’m excited and the timing couldn’t be better for opening a Parmasters Golf Center,” says Stephen Southern, President, Parmasters Southern Ontario. “And with support from the Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers we hope to pre-sell a target 750 Charter Memberships prior to opening.”
As an entrepreneur and former sales and marketing professional, Stephen’s broad business knowledge, his strong customer service orientation, his leadership and team building skills, as well as his commitment to sales and marketing fundamentals, will all serve him well as Southern Ontario Area Developer for Parmasters Golf Training Centers.
To date, eighty-three franchises and eight regional franchises have been awarded. The first location, a 25,000 sq. ft. center in Memphis Tennessee opened in June 2006, and the first international centre in Guangzhou, China in April, 2007. The opening of 12 additional golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes are planned by April, 2008. In Canada, 27 franchises have been awarded to date, with further opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec.
Tom Matzen, an international speaker and best-selling author, founder and past CEO of Entrepreneur Coach Inc., together with Scott Hazledine, a Class A PGA member, Master Teacher, and Master Player, recognized the growth in golf and teamed up to form Parmasters in 1999.
Parmasters is optimistic about its future as an indoor golf training center because new golfers want to learn, they want to improve and they want to look good on the fairway. Parmasters primary focus is offering one-on-one golf skills training. This training will differentiate itself by its fun and easy format, guaranteed results and an overall goal of increasing each attendee's passion and excitement for the game of golf.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3, 2007
Play Golf All Year Long in Southern Ontario Parmasters announces the opening of state-of-the-art Golf Center
July 3, 2007, KITCHENER-WATERLOO – Parmasters is pleased to be opening the first of five golf centers in Southern Ontario at Kitchener’s Market Square, 100 King Street East, at the corner of King and Frederick Streets. This location will open this winter with other sites in London, Windsor, Chatham-Kent and Cambridge to follow soon.
Typically, a Parmasters Golf Training Center is 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet and is “the ultimate golf training and practice facility” offering a climate-controlled, indoor golfers haven and an affordable, non-intimidating alternative to the traditional, typically expensive teaching methods that guarantees a 25 per cent reduction in handicap.
This center will feature 5 state-of-the art golf simulators, 2 or more fluency bays (with an automatic tee that tees up a ball every 1.5 seconds), other driving bays such as fairway bunker, uneven lies long game areas, a pro shop, a golf fitness area, and a 4,000 sq. ft. indoor undulating green surrounded by rough and bunkers for short game practice. Parmasters Golf Training Centers have been designed to have the look and feel of a high-end clubhouse including food and beverage service in the Company’s “Links Golf Café”.
A 2006 Ipsos Reid poll indicated that Canadians spent a total of $11.23 billion in 2005 on green fees, membership, equipment and apparel and also indicated that 5.95 million Canadians participated in the sport in 2005, representing a 21.6 per cent increase from 2001.
In summarizing the poll results, Ipsos Reid senior vice president, Amanda Maltby said: "The game is in good health…I'm not in the industry but looking at it from a research perspective . . . we're seeing very robust growth.”
“I’m excited and the timing couldn’t be better for opening a Parmasters Golf Center,” says Stephen Southern, President, Parmasters Southern Ontario. “And with support from the Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers we hope to pre-sell a target 750 Charter Memberships prior to opening.”
As an entrepreneur and former sales and marketing professional, Stephen’s broad business knowledge, his strong customer service orientation, his leadership and team building skills, as well as his commitment to sales and marketing fundamentals, will all serve him well as Southern Ontario Area Developer for Parmasters Golf Training Centers.
To date, eighty-three franchises and eight regional franchises have been awarded. The first location, a 25,000 sq. ft. center in Memphis Tennessee opened in June 2006, and the first international centre in Guangzhou, China in April, 2007. The opening of 12 additional golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes are planned by April, 2008. In Canada, 27 franchises have been awarded to date, with further opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec.
Tom Matzen, an international speaker and best-selling author, founder and past CEO of Entrepreneur Coach Inc., together with Scott Hazledine, a Class A PGA member, Master Teacher, and Master Player, recognized the growth in golf and teamed up to form Parmasters in 1999.
Parmasters is optimistic about its future as an indoor golf training center because new golfers want to learn, they want to improve and they want to look good on the fairway. Parmasters primary focus is offering one-on-one golf skills training. This training will differentiate itself by its fun and easy format, guaranteed results and an overall goal of increasing each attendee's passion and excitement for the game of golf.
Friday, June 29, 2007
The Fog Win SWO Ball Hockey Championship!
It’s been a busy week. Having spent last week at the Parmasters Conference in Mexico, this week has largely been about recovery and catch-up. I didn’t have email access in Mexico, which meant a massive backlog when I returned. (It also meant I couldn’t blog remotely, which was disappointing.)
Most of my current activity involves attracting capital to the business, be it debt or equity. I’m in meetings most of the time, either presenting or answering a lot of questions. I enjoy the process, but look forward to the time when we transition to building the site and marketing our products and services, rather than simply raising capital.
That transition will happen very soon. We’ve made a lot of progress lately. We’re close to making some announcements, all of which will appear in this blog, of course.
While I was away, on Saturday June 23, my son’s SWO ball hockey team won their league championship! I’m the assistant coach. I felt terrible about missing the final weekend of games, but couldn’t re-arrange the Conference. They won 6-1. My son plays goal, along with another great goalie. Keeping the other team to one goal in the final game is very impressive. A great defensive and goal tending effort!
Congratulations to The Fog on their impressive championship!
Most of my current activity involves attracting capital to the business, be it debt or equity. I’m in meetings most of the time, either presenting or answering a lot of questions. I enjoy the process, but look forward to the time when we transition to building the site and marketing our products and services, rather than simply raising capital.
That transition will happen very soon. We’ve made a lot of progress lately. We’re close to making some announcements, all of which will appear in this blog, of course.
While I was away, on Saturday June 23, my son’s SWO ball hockey team won their league championship! I’m the assistant coach. I felt terrible about missing the final weekend of games, but couldn’t re-arrange the Conference. They won 6-1. My son plays goal, along with another great goalie. Keeping the other team to one goal in the final game is very impressive. A great defensive and goal tending effort!
Congratulations to The Fog on their impressive championship!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Matt Jeffrey
The Parmasters team is in mourning. Matt Jeffrey was the Area Developer for the Canadian Maritimes, my counterpart in the Maritimes. We had a great week together at the Franchise Owners’ Conference before we all flew back to our homes and loved ones this past Sunday. Matt passed away on Monday, at his home.
All of us within Parmasters owe Matt a massive debt of gratitude. He was the first to really prove that we could sign-up hundreds of members prior to opening. Matt made it happen. He was the first Canadian franchise owner. Matt helped me and many others immensely. He was a fantastic business partner and a great man.
Matt is sadly missed by all who knew him.
JEFFREY, Matthew Christopher
JEFFREY, Matthew Christopher - 46. It is with shock and profound sadness we announce that Matt died very suddenly at his Beaver Bank home on June 25, 2007. A son of the late Edward and Bernadette Jeffrey, he is survived by his wife and best friend, Ruth (Copland), as well as Haley and Paige, his much-loved daughters; sisters, Anne Marie (Roger) Morash, Meagher's Grant; Victoria (Michael) Innis, Centreville; brothers, Eddie (Lynda) Jeffrey, Dartmouth, and David (Donna) Jeffrey, Mississauga, Ont.; nieces, Carly, Andrea and Meaghan, and nephew, Paul; his "adopted" family of Orval and Geraldine Browning, in particular, their son, Michael, his "brother from another mother". For 16 years Matt delivered milk for Farmers Dairy in the Dartmouth and Beaver Bank areas. He cared about his customers. Matt then decided it was time for a change. He combined his passion for golf, his work ethic and his inventive creativity in a new project with Parmasters International. At his death, he had been immersed in developing the market in Eastern Canada for two years. Matt was a loyal, kind and generous friend to all. He would be the first to pick up a tool to help and the last to put it down. Matt's enthusiasm for life and capacity for work was boundless. He derived great pleasure fundraising for the Cobequid Health Centre. He said he enjoyed his turn "to give back". Matt's deep, infectious laugh was always heard at a gathering when he was present. Matt loved his family, golf, entrepreneurship, a good time and beer, in that order. He was a good husband, provider and a great dad. He excelled as a party host, in particular, of those for his children. Matt was a bright and very creative guy who was just now reaching his stride. He had recently been named Innovator of The Year at the Parmasters International Conference in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Matt's friendship and generosity will be missed by many in the Metro golf and business community. In a nutshell, Matt was an honorable man, uncomplicated without being simple and incisive without being arrogant. Doing business with Matt was always a pleasure. He was just a prince of a guy. We shall miss you. Cremation has taken place at Cole Harbour Funeral Home. A gathering of family and friends will take place at home in Beaver Bank on Saturday, June 30, from 1-4 p.m. No flowers by request. Donations may be made to the Cobequid Health Centre, Gibson Woods Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.
(From the The Chronicle Herald, Halifax, NS)
All of us within Parmasters owe Matt a massive debt of gratitude. He was the first to really prove that we could sign-up hundreds of members prior to opening. Matt made it happen. He was the first Canadian franchise owner. Matt helped me and many others immensely. He was a fantastic business partner and a great man.
Matt is sadly missed by all who knew him.
JEFFREY, Matthew Christopher
JEFFREY, Matthew Christopher - 46. It is with shock and profound sadness we announce that Matt died very suddenly at his Beaver Bank home on June 25, 2007. A son of the late Edward and Bernadette Jeffrey, he is survived by his wife and best friend, Ruth (Copland), as well as Haley and Paige, his much-loved daughters; sisters, Anne Marie (Roger) Morash, Meagher's Grant; Victoria (Michael) Innis, Centreville; brothers, Eddie (Lynda) Jeffrey, Dartmouth, and David (Donna) Jeffrey, Mississauga, Ont.; nieces, Carly, Andrea and Meaghan, and nephew, Paul; his "adopted" family of Orval and Geraldine Browning, in particular, their son, Michael, his "brother from another mother". For 16 years Matt delivered milk for Farmers Dairy in the Dartmouth and Beaver Bank areas. He cared about his customers. Matt then decided it was time for a change. He combined his passion for golf, his work ethic and his inventive creativity in a new project with Parmasters International. At his death, he had been immersed in developing the market in Eastern Canada for two years. Matt was a loyal, kind and generous friend to all. He would be the first to pick up a tool to help and the last to put it down. Matt's enthusiasm for life and capacity for work was boundless. He derived great pleasure fundraising for the Cobequid Health Centre. He said he enjoyed his turn "to give back". Matt's deep, infectious laugh was always heard at a gathering when he was present. Matt loved his family, golf, entrepreneurship, a good time and beer, in that order. He was a good husband, provider and a great dad. He excelled as a party host, in particular, of those for his children. Matt was a bright and very creative guy who was just now reaching his stride. He had recently been named Innovator of The Year at the Parmasters International Conference in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Matt's friendship and generosity will be missed by many in the Metro golf and business community. In a nutshell, Matt was an honorable man, uncomplicated without being simple and incisive without being arrogant. Doing business with Matt was always a pleasure. He was just a prince of a guy. We shall miss you. Cremation has taken place at Cole Harbour Funeral Home. A gathering of family and friends will take place at home in Beaver Bank on Saturday, June 30, from 1-4 p.m. No flowers by request. Donations may be made to the Cobequid Health Centre, Gibson Woods Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.
(From the The Chronicle Herald, Halifax, NS)
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
The Grand Old Game
I was asked to give a toast during our white-tie closing banquet during the recent Parmasters' Franchise Owners' Conference. The following was well received.
On the first day,
Pastures became areas of play,
Holes and fairways were there and here,
Stones rolled askew, never true.
And as the day faded,
Players looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the second day,
Land was crafted and shaped,
The numbers 9 and 18 sprang forth,
On the way out, or in, an addiction was born.
And as the day faded,
Players looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the third day,
Tools, implements were crated and shaped,
Feather-ies were made to fly anew,
Bold careers, showmen at times, came to be.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the fourth day,
Feathers were for birds, Balls for golfers,
Knowledge grew, The game was no longer merely play,
A metaphor for life, lessons taught, relationships created.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the fifth day,
Amongst so many others, Vardon, Hogan, Snead, Nelson, Jones, Palmer, Nicklaus, Woods,
Addiction becomes epi- and then pan-demic,
And yet for many, fun turns to affliction, frustration, anger, a nice walk spoiled.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was not so good.
On the sixth day,
People named Scott, Tom, Andrew, John, Michael begat Parmasters Golf,
Regionals, Area Developers built upon the foundation,
Members, clients, teams, suppliers brought More profits and More life.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the seventh day,
A day of rest, Straight-Line Golf, Better Golf,
Shoulder to shoulder, tee to green, More Fun,
Pandemic is positive, frustration turns to fulfillment, Guaranteed.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was truly, truly good.
Above all else,
Beyond any person, plan, ego or system,
Beyond those here or those that will follow,
Beyond our members, clients and teams,
Beyond and above all else,
We owe our thanks and gratitude to
The Grand Old Game.
So please raise your glasses and help me honour,
The Grand Old Game.
On the first day,
Pastures became areas of play,
Holes and fairways were there and here,
Stones rolled askew, never true.
And as the day faded,
Players looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the second day,
Land was crafted and shaped,
The numbers 9 and 18 sprang forth,
On the way out, or in, an addiction was born.
And as the day faded,
Players looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the third day,
Tools, implements were crated and shaped,
Feather-ies were made to fly anew,
Bold careers, showmen at times, came to be.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the fourth day,
Feathers were for birds, Balls for golfers,
Knowledge grew, The game was no longer merely play,
A metaphor for life, lessons taught, relationships created.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the fifth day,
Amongst so many others, Vardon, Hogan, Snead, Nelson, Jones, Palmer, Nicklaus, Woods,
Addiction becomes epi- and then pan-demic,
And yet for many, fun turns to affliction, frustration, anger, a nice walk spoiled.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was not so good.
On the sixth day,
People named Scott, Tom, Andrew, John, Michael begat Parmasters Golf,
Regionals, Area Developers built upon the foundation,
Members, clients, teams, suppliers brought More profits and More life.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was good.
On the seventh day,
A day of rest, Straight-Line Golf, Better Golf,
Shoulder to shoulder, tee to green, More Fun,
Pandemic is positive, frustration turns to fulfillment, Guaranteed.
And as the day faded,
Golfers looked at what they had made,
And it was truly, truly good.
Above all else,
Beyond any person, plan, ego or system,
Beyond those here or those that will follow,
Beyond our members, clients and teams,
Beyond and above all else,
We owe our thanks and gratitude to
The Grand Old Game.
So please raise your glasses and help me honour,
The Grand Old Game.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Back From The Franchise Owners' Conference
It’s been a long time and no blogging. I have a fairly air-tight excuse for the past week or more, but must merely point to an overloaded schedule for the period from June 11, my last post, to June 17.
I recently attended Parmasters’ annual Franchise Owners’ Conference in sunny Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I was there from June 18 through June 24. There were about 40 of us, including a few franchisor staff, many franchise owners and many regional franchise owners, and also a few spouses.
The resort, the Riu Palace, was wonderful. It’s beautiful, spacious and quite modern, with lots of amenities. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly. The pools and fitness areas looked very inviting, but I barely visited.
Our days were quite full. Most of us arrived throughout the day on the Monday. Tuesday through Thursday were full days, starting at 6:45am and finishing up around 9:00pm. Friday was a free day, so I golfed with a few others. Saturday we started with a meeting at 7:30am and then spent the afternoon on the links, followed by an evening white-tie event. And Sunday, of course, most of us flew back home. I made it home around 1:00am Monday.
The Conference was very well run. Lots of great presentations, education, announcements, working sessions, break out sessions and networking opportunities. Parmasters is a young franchise system. The numbers are not huge. But in a few years, the numbers will grow substantially. It’s nice to be in at this stage, and building great relationships with my peers.
I’ll blog more about the Conference in the coming days.
I recently attended Parmasters’ annual Franchise Owners’ Conference in sunny Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I was there from June 18 through June 24. There were about 40 of us, including a few franchisor staff, many franchise owners and many regional franchise owners, and also a few spouses.
The resort, the Riu Palace, was wonderful. It’s beautiful, spacious and quite modern, with lots of amenities. The staff were extremely helpful and friendly. The pools and fitness areas looked very inviting, but I barely visited.
Our days were quite full. Most of us arrived throughout the day on the Monday. Tuesday through Thursday were full days, starting at 6:45am and finishing up around 9:00pm. Friday was a free day, so I golfed with a few others. Saturday we started with a meeting at 7:30am and then spent the afternoon on the links, followed by an evening white-tie event. And Sunday, of course, most of us flew back home. I made it home around 1:00am Monday.
The Conference was very well run. Lots of great presentations, education, announcements, working sessions, break out sessions and networking opportunities. Parmasters is a young franchise system. The numbers are not huge. But in a few years, the numbers will grow substantially. It’s nice to be in at this stage, and building great relationships with my peers.
I’ll blog more about the Conference in the coming days.
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