I too am very impressed with the skills of Malcolm Thompson but, for the record, I don't believe he was the PHT's first GM.

In my view, the problems you cite (which I have not experienced) can be laid directly at Mr. Barker's doorstep. I frankly think that the current GM, Mr. Roux-DesArpes, is much more in tune with the spirit that characterizes the PHT at its best and despite the tough economic times, I believe he will do an outstanding job once he has had enough time to put his stamp on the operation.

BTW, prior to being at the PH Vendome, Mr. Roux-DesArpes worked and trained at the PHT under Mr. Thompson.