Hobby Lobby Marine: Customer Comments

Dealer associates attend national sales seminar

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 12, 2007

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Justin Wallace, Sales Department, Grady-White Boats, P.O. Box 1527, Greenville, NC 27835 TEL 252-752-2111 media@gradywhite.com

Hobby Lobby Marine Representative(s) Attend Grady-White Boats Sales Training Seminar With Aim of Higher Customer Satisfaction Through Product and Systems Knowledge

GREENVILLE, NC: Bob Giarretta of Hobby Lobby Marine successfully completed and received certification at the Grady-White Boats 20th Annual Sales Training Seminar, December 4-6, 2007, in New Bern and Greenville, NC. The goal of Grady-White’s sales training seminars is to assist sales representatives in achieving a higher level of service and customer satisfaction through product knowledge, and to help Grady dealers and sales associates stay ahead in the highly competitive marine marketplace.

The seminar opened with boat operations training on open water near New Bern, NC. Instruction included a thorough review of all systems aboard the many Grady-White boat models including the company’s newly designed center console, the 33-foot Canyon 336. Also available for hands-on training was Grady-White’s newly redesigned 33-foot express cabin Express 330 equipped with Yamaha’s new 350 HP four-stroke V8 engines. These demonstrations were designed to help Hobby Lobby Marine sales consultants familiarize customers with product and performance details.

Joey Weller, Grady's vice president of sales and marketing, welcomed attendees with an overview of the company’s approach to bringing focus and support to the dealer organization, while continuing an emphasis on world-class customer satisfaction. David Neese, vice president of engineering, presented a new product review highlighting 2008 product features.

Dr. Tom Steiner conducted an informative session about proven sales techniques and “Closing the Deal.” Eric Sorenson discussed measurement of customer satisfaction in the marine industry. Tours of Grady-White’s manufacturing plant followed, including an up-close look at Grady-White’s $6 million state-of-the-art lamination facility. Hobby Lobby Marine representatives attended break out sessions on all aspects of the building, assembly and shipping processes. Product and brochure knowledge tests followed. Brainstorming and networking sessions offered an opportunity to share winning sales techniques.

Grady-White builds 22 boat models from 18 to 36 feet at its plant in Greenville, NC, and has been under private ownership since 1968. Grady-White Boats is ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Coastal Fishing Boats (17-28 feet) Six Times in a Row*” by J.D. Power and Associates.”

###

* J.D. Power and Associates 2001-2003, 2005-2007 Boat Competitive Information Studies^SM. 2007 study based on 12,140 total responses, and measures 16 coastal fishing brands and owner opinions of 2005 and 2006 model year boats registered June 2005-May 2006. Includes offshore coastal boats 17-28 with/without cabins, mostly outboard, some stern drive power. 2007 proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed September-October 2006. Your experiences may vary. jdpower.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

November 20, 2006

Grady-White Boats, Inc.
P O Box 1527
Greenville, NJ 27835

Dear Sirs:

I am writing to express my satisfaction with your products, and with the service and courtesies I've received from your authorized dealer, Hobby Lobby Marine in Toms River, New Jersey.

I recently purchased a Marlin 300 at Hobby Lobby. I chose the Marlin because it represents a great combination of functionality for fishing and comfort for my family - but there are other boats available that have features that are similar to the features of the Marlin.

What really sold me on another Grady (this is my second) were the facilities at Hobby Lobby Marine and the excellent customer service I've received from the Hobby Lobby team. The facilities at Hobby Lobby are exceptionally well maintained and family oriented. The restrooms and showers are spotless - having four children, this is very important to my wife and to me. The dock areas are well lighted, neat and safe. Everything is kept clean and orderly, always. Also, I am comforted to know that the staff at Hobby Lobby are always checking on my boat, especially during bad weather.

The sales process for my new boat was very straightforward. I received helpful product information from both Grady and Hobby Lobby and there was no pressure to make a quick decision. I believe that Tom Tweer gave me a very fair deal; we came to agreement on price quickly and painlessly. Robert Tweer provided expert guidance in helping me choose electronics for the Marlin and his team did a great job with the installation. Mike delivered the boat to me and my wife and patiently explained the various features and operational requirements of the boat.

There were a few punch list issues that needed attention and I was very pleased that Robert and his team addressed each item quickly and professionally. Mark and Bobby G. continue to be extremely helpful in answering my questions and providing helpful boating (and fishing) advice.

Your advertisements provide many examples of "family fun" with Grady-White boats. You clearly have a great product, but the quality and professionalism of dealers like Hobby Lobby Marine round out the true "Grady" customer experience.

Congratulations on a great product and on the great representation provided by Hobby Lobby Marine.

Very truly yours,

Alan W. Clark
Attorney at Law
32 Black Horse Run
Belle Mead, NJ 08502

_________________________________________________________________________

Hobby Lobby Marine

1423 Bay Avenue

Toms River, NJ 08753

November 2, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hobby Lobby Marine is now one of the first Marine Industry Certified Dealerships in the country.

Marine Industry Dealer Certification is a new industry standards program developed in a cooperative effort by boat manufacturers, dealers, and engine builders, as part of an industry-wide effort to develop programs focused on delivering an excellent boating experience. The program provides dealers with a set of criteria designed to create continuous improvement across all departments and, in turn, develop processes for meeting and exceeding customer expectations. The criteria and business best practices address the quality of dealer sales, service, parts, follow-up, facilities, as well as employee and customer satisfaction. Criteria compliance must be verified by an independent program consultant, and dealers are reevaluated every year to ensure they continue to meet the Certification requirements.

Certification also includes a commitment to adhere to a “Consumer Bill of Rights.” This document, posted in our dealership, lets Hobby Lobby Marine customers know what to expect and outlines how they will be treated. It is Hobby Lobby Marine commitment to our valued customers.

By achieving Certification, Hobby Lobby Marine has demonstrated that we are dedicated to providing our customers with a consistent and positive experience every time they visit our dealership. Customers will know when they see the Marine Industry Certified Dealership logo in our window that we care about their boating experience from purchase to service and beyond.

In order to obtain Marine Industry Certification, Hobby Lobby Marine employees had to demonstrate that we met the Certification criteria and best practice standards in the following areas:

With its roots in the international quality movement, the Marine Industry Certified Dealership program applies these qualities and continuous improvement principles to retailing in the recreational boating industry. Boaters can expect to have the best experience at a Marine Industry Certified Dealership.

Thomas G. Tweer, Partner
_________________________________________________________________________

Southport Boat Works, LLC

April 6, 2005

Dear Mr. McDonald,

     Thanks so much for sharing your experience with Hobby Lobby Marine and congratulations on your new Southport 26CC. I have a 26CC as a personal boat and am sure that it will prove the "winner" you expect. However, it's the support we get from dealers like Hobby Lobby Marine that really make the difference in your boating experience. They are truly among the best in the business and we are proud that they represent Southport.
     I have known Tom and Bobby and the people at Hobby Lobby for over 20 years. Believe it or not, your experience was not an anomaly, but rather typical of the service they provide. Their dedication to customer satisfaction will enhance your Southport ownership.
     Please keep me informed about your boat. Every customer is special to us, but people I get to meet at a boat show and follow through their ownership are "extra special" because of the personal relationship. Let us know how it's going and visit us if you're ever in southeastern North Carolina.

Cordially,
Frank Longino, Managing Partner

Michael McDonald
Climac Corporation

April 5, 2005

Mr. Frank Longino
Southport Boatworks

Dear Mr. Longino,

Today I took delivery and sea trialed my new Southport 26CC from Hobby Lobby Marine. After months of debate about buying the new boat on the market I took the chance because by all impressions it seems like a winner. Obviously this remains to be seen. However, when I left I knew I bought a boat from the right people. As representatives of your product you should feel very confident. They did a great job; the boat was ready when they said, they had the man who did most of the rigging spend over two hours going over all aspects of the boat and then went on a sea trial with me and reviewed everything and truly wanted to make sure everything was right before I left, not to mention let me keep my boat in their marina until my berthing place is available. I hope the boat meets the expectations I have, I will let you know, one way or the other.

Sincerely,
Michael McDonald

T K Ted Knothe

Group Life & Health Insurance Consultant
2205 Christie Lane
Sea Girt, NJ 08750

Mr. Edward Rowe, Sales Manager
Grady-White Boats
P O Box 1527
Greenville, NC 27835

Re: My Grady-White 2003 Fisherman

Dear Ed,

I bought my first Grady-White in 2003, after having owned Sea Rays for 30 years. You called me early this year in response to the questionnaire I mailed in - I basically told you that due to a family illness, we hadn't been able to use the boat enough to offer solid, constructive comments, and I promised you I'd get back to you after we got a full season's use out of it in 2004.

I'm happy to advise that we got a lot of water time in this year, and I can now say, unequivocally, that I think my Grady-White "Fisherman 255" is a terrific, top-flight boat in every respect. I consider it the "Cadillac" of boats, meaning it is top quality all the way. In fact, it's so sturdy, I can take it out fishing in heavy ocean seas that I would never before consider taking any of my Sea Rays out in.

In addition, your dealer in Toms River, Hobby Lobby Marine, has been great. The owners, Bob and Tom Tweer, have been fine to us, and their staff is excellent.'s great to be able to work with Bob and Tom personally, because that touch was eliminated at my former Sea Ray dealership. After Marine Max bought them, they became a stiff, impersonal, big corporation; especially in their service area, and I resolved to go elsewhere.

So, to sum it up, it looks like Grady-White and Hobby Lobby are stuck with me, since I expect to buy Grady-Whites for the rest of my boating career!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

GRADY-WHITE

September 9, 2004

This year, we would like to recognize you as a member of the President's Club. To be a member of the President's Club, you must be ranked in the top twenty in retail sales for the previous model year and your CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) score must be at least 90%. Congratulations Tom on this important distinction! According to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory reports and your CSI score, it is our honor to award President's Club membership to you. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady-White network! As an expression of our appreciation and to recognize your selling and servicing efforts for the 2004 model year, we will be sending you a President's Club lapel pin and a President's Club commemorative plaque to hang on the wall in your office.

Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name on the President's Club list again in 2005!

Kris Carroll                                                                    Doug Gomes
Kris Carroll,                                                                                   Doug Gomes,
President                                                                                        Vice President/Sales & Marketing

	Dealer associates attend national sales seminar FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 12, 2007 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Justin Wallace, Sales Department, Grady-White Boats, P.O. Box 1527, Greenville, NC 27835 TEL 252-752-2111 media@gradywhite.com Hobby Lobby Marine Representative(s) Attend Grady-White Boats Sales Training Seminar With Aim of Higher Customer Satisfaction Through Product and Systems Knowledge GREENVILLE, NC: Bob Giarretta of Hobby Lobby Marine successfully completed and received certification at the Grady-White Boats 20th Annual Sales Training Seminar, December 4-6, 2007, in New Bern and Greenville, NC. The goal of Grady-White’s sales training seminars is to assist sales representatives in achieving a higher level of service and customer satisfaction through product knowledge, and to help Grady dealers and sales associates stay ahead in the highly competitive marine marketplace. The seminar opened with boat operations training on open water near New Bern, NC. Instruction included a thorough review of all systems aboard the many Grady-White boat models including the company’s newly designed center console, the 33-foot Canyon 336. Also available for hands-on training was Grady-White’s newly redesigned 33-foot express cabin Express 330 equipped with Yamaha’s new 350 HP four-stroke V8 engines. These demonstrations were designed to help Hobby Lobby Marine sales consultants familiarize customers with product and performance details. Joey Weller, Grady's vice president of sales and marketing, welcomed attendees with an overview of the company’s approach to bringing focus and support to the dealer organization, while continuing an emphasis on world-class customer satisfaction. David Neese, vice president of engineering, presented a new product review highlighting 2008 product features. Dr. Tom Steiner conducted an informative session about proven sales techniques and “Closing the Deal.” Eric Sorenson discussed measurement of customer satisfaction in the marine industry. Tours of Grady-White’s manufacturing plant followed, including an up-close look at Grady-White’s $6 million state-of-the-art lamination facility. Hobby Lobby Marine representatives attended break out sessions on all aspects of the building, assembly and shipping processes. Product and brochure knowledge tests followed. Brainstorming and networking sessions offered an opportunity to share winning sales techniques. Grady-White builds 22 boat models from 18 to 36 feet at its plant in Greenville, NC, and has been under private ownership since 1968. Grady-White Boats is ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Coastal Fishing Boats (17-28 feet) Six Times in a Row” by J.D. Power and Associates.” ### J.D. Power and Associates 2001-2003, 2005-2007 Boat Competitive Information Studies^SM. 2007 study based on 12,140 total responses, and measures 16 coastal fishing brands and owner opinions of 2005 and 2006 model year boats registered June 2005-May 2006. Includes offshore coastal boats 17-28 with/without cabins, mostly outboard, some stern drive power. 2007 proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed September-October 2006. Your experiences may vary. jdpower.com * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * November 20, 2006 Grady-White Boats, Inc. P O Box 1527 Greenville, NJ 27835 Dear Sirs: I am writing to express my satisfaction with your products, and with the service and courtesies I've received from your authorized dealer, Hobby Lobby Marine in Toms River, New Jersey. I recently purchased a Marlin 300 at Hobby Lobby. I chose the Marlin because it represents a great combination of functionality for fishing and comfort for my family - but there are other boats available that have features that are similar to the features of the Marlin. What really sold me on another Grady (this is my second) were the facilities at Hobby Lobby Marine and the excellent customer service I've received from the Hobby Lobby team. The facilities at Hobby Lobby are exceptionally well maintained and family oriented. The restrooms and showers are spotless - having four children, this is very important to my wife and to me. The dock areas are well lighted, neat and safe. Everything is kept clean and orderly, always. Also, I am comforted to know that the staff at Hobby Lobby are always checking on my boat, especially during bad weather. The sales process for my new boat was very straightforward. I received helpful product information from both Grady and Hobby Lobby and there was no pressure to make a quick decision. I believe that Tom Tweer gave me a very fair deal; we came to agreement on price quickly and painlessly. Robert Tweer provided expert guidance in helping me choose electronics for the Marlin and his team did a great job with the installation. Mike delivered the boat to me and my wife and patiently explained the various features and operational requirements of the boat. There were a few punch list issues that needed attention and I was very pleased that Robert and his team addressed each item quickly and professionally. Mark and Bobby G. continue to be extremely helpful in answering my questions and providing helpful boating (and fishing) advice. Your advertisements provide many examples of "family fun" with Grady-White boats. You clearly have a great product, but the quality and professionalism of dealers like Hobby Lobby Marine round out the true "Grady" customer experience. Congratulations on a great product and on the great representation provided by Hobby Lobby Marine. Very truly yours, Alan W. Clark Attorney at Law 32 Black Horse Run Belle Mead, NJ 08502 _________________________________________________________________________ Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Avenue Toms River, NJ 08753 November 2, 2006 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hobby Lobby Marine is now one of the first Marine Industry Certified Dealerships in the country. Marine Industry Dealer Certification is a new industry standards program developed in a cooperative effort by boat manufacturers, dealers, and engine builders, as part of an industry-wide effort to develop programs focused on delivering an excellent boating experience. The program provides dealers with a set of criteria designed to create continuous improvement across all departments and, in turn, develop processes for meeting and exceeding customer expectations. The criteria and business best practices address the quality of dealer sales, service, parts, follow-up, facilities, as well as employee and customer satisfaction. Criteria compliance must be verified by an independent program consultant, and dealers are reevaluated every year to ensure they continue to meet the Certification requirements. Certification also includes a commitment to adhere to a “Consumer Bill of Rights.” This document, posted in our dealership, lets Hobby Lobby Marine customers know what to expect and outlines how they will be treated. It is Hobby Lobby Marine commitment to our valued customers. By achieving Certification, Hobby Lobby Marine has demonstrated that we are dedicated to providing our customers with a consistent and positive experience every time they visit our dealership. Customers will know when they see the Marine Industry Certified Dealership logo in our window that we care about their boating experience from purchase to service and beyond. In order to obtain Marine Industry Certification, Hobby Lobby Marine employees had to demonstrate that we met the Certification criteria and best practice standards in the following areas: · Customer Satisfaction Measurement · Posting of the “Consumer Bill of Rights” · Employee Satisfaction and Development · Technical Training · Maintaining a facility that is competitive for the marketplace · Maintaining and improving consistent processes in all departments (Sales, Service, Parts, Follow-up) With its roots in the international quality movement, the Marine Industry Certified Dealership program applies these qualities and continuous improvement principles to retailing in the recreational boating industry. Boaters can expect to have the best experience at a Marine Industry Certified Dealership. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas G. Tweer, Partner _________________________________________________________________________ Southport Boat Works, LLC April 6, 2005 Dear Mr. McDonald, Thanks so much for sharing your experience with Hobby Lobby Marine and congratulations on your new Southport 26CC. I have a 26CC as a personal boat and am sure that it will prove the "winner" you expect. However, it's the support we get from dealers like Hobby Lobby Marine that really make the difference in your boating experience. They are truly among the best in the business and we are proud that they represent Southport. I have known Tom and Bobby and the people at Hobby Lobby for over 20 years. Believe it or not, your experience was not an anomaly, but rather typical of the service they provide. Their dedication to customer satisfaction will enhance your Southport ownership. Please keep me informed about your boat. Every customer is special to us, but people I get to meet at a boat show and follow through their ownership are "extra special" because of the personal relationship. Let us know how it's going and visit us if you're ever in southeastern North Carolina. Cordially, Frank Longino, Managing Partner Michael McDonald Climac Corporation April 5, 2005 Mr. Frank Longino Southport Boatworks Dear Mr. Longino, Today I took delivery and sea trialed my new Southport 26CC from Hobby Lobby Marine. After months of debate about buying the new boat on the market I took the chance because by all impressions it seems like a winner. Obviously this remains to be seen. However, when I left I knew I bought a boat from the right people. As representatives of your product you should feel very confident. They did a great job; the boat was ready when they said, they had the man who did most of the rigging spend over two hours going over all aspects of the boat and then went on a sea trial with me and reviewed everything and truly wanted to make sure everything was right before I left, not to mention let me keep my boat in their marina until my berthing place is available. I hope the boat meets the expectations I have, I will let you know, one way or the other. Sincerely, Michael McDonald T K Ted Knothe Group Life & Health Insurance Consultant 2205 Christie Lane Sea Girt, NJ 08750 December 7, 2004 Mr. Edward Rowe, Sales Manager Grady-White Boats P O Box 1527 Greenville, NC 27835 Re: My Grady-White 2003 Fisherman Dear Ed, I bought my first Grady-White in 2003, after having owned Sea Rays for 30 years. You called me early this year in response to the questionnaire I mailed in - I basically told you that due to a family illness, we hadn't been able to use the boat enough to offer solid, constructive comments, and I promised you I'd get back to you after we got a full season's use out of it in 2004. I'm happy to advise that we got a lot of water time in this year, and I can now say, unequivocally, that I think my Grady-White "Fisherman 255" is a terrific, top-flight boat in every respect. I consider it the "Cadillac" of boats, meaning it is top quality all the way. In fact, it's so sturdy, I can take it out fishing in heavy ocean seas that I would never before consider taking any of my Sea Rays out in. In addition, your dealer in Toms River, Hobby Lobby Marine, has been great. The owners, Bob and Tom Tweer, have been fine to us, and their staff is excellent.'s great to be able to work with Bob and Tom personally, because that touch was eliminated at my former Sea Ray dealership. After Marine Max bought them, they became a stiff, impersonal, big corporation; especially in their service area, and I resolved to go elsewhere. So, to sum it up, it looks like Grady-White and Hobby Lobby are stuck with me, since I expect to buy Grady-Whites for the rest of my boating career! Thanks for your interest. Sincerely, Ted Ted Knothe * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GRADY-WHITE September 9, 2004 Tom Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Avenue Toms River, NJ 08753 Dear Tom: This year, we would like to recognize you as a member of the President's Club. To be a member of the President's Club, you must be ranked in the top twenty in retail sales for the previous model year and your CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) score must be at least 90%. Congratulations Tom on this important distinction! According to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory reports and your CSI score, it is our honor to award President's Club membership to you. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady-White network! As an expression of our appreciation and to recognize your selling and servicing efforts for the 2004 model year, we will be sending you a President's Club lapel pin and a President's Club commemorative plaque to hang on the wall in your office. Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name on the President's Club list again in 2005! Very sincerely, Sincerely, Kris Carroll Doug Gomes Kris Carroll, Doug Gomes, President Vice President/Sales & Marketing
	Hobby Lobby Marine Has Done it AGAIN!!!
	Boat Manufacturer Awards Local Dealership for Excellence in Customer Satisfaction and Sales FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 14, 2003 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Melissa Parks, Sales Department, Grady-White Boats, P. O. Box 1527, Greenville, NC 27835 252-752-2111 media@gradywhite.com Grady-White Boats Announces Admiral’s Circle, Top Performance Dealers for 2003 GREENVILLE, NC: Hobby Lobby Marine of Toms River, NJ, has received the Grady-White Boats, Inc. Admiral’s Circle award for the 2003 model year, a top designation for dealerships that achieve high levels of both customer satisfaction and boat sales. Hobby Lobby Marine was recognized at Grady-White’s annual dealer conference held October 12-14 in Greenville, NC. To be a member of the Grady-White Admiral’s Circle, a dealer must score 92.5 percent or higher as reflected in a minimum of ten Grady-White owner surveys, and achieve Grady-White boat retail sales of at least $1.25 million for the model year. Grady-White conducts in-house owner surveys at the time of purchase, one year afterwards and at least once again within a three- to five-year period. “Our Admiral’s Circle members, including Hobby Lobby Marine, played a critical role in our ability to consistently deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction in the marine industry,” said Eddie C. Smith, Jr., chairman and CEO of Grady-White Boats. President Kris Carroll and Doug Gomes, vice president of sales and marketing, joined Smith in presenting Hobby Lobby Marine with the prestigious Admiral’s Circle award at a dinner and banquet on Monday, October 13. This year’s dealer conference included a tour of Grady-White’s production facility expansion, which includes an addition of 46,000 square feet, an evaporative cooling system, seven dust controlled grinding booths, a temperature controlled resin system and a state of the art overhead crane system. Other events during the conference included leadership development training, a seminar on the 2004 product upgrades and a future product discussion. Established in 1958, Grady-White manufactures twenty models of high quality center console, dual console, express and walkaround cuddy cabin sportfishing boats, from 18 to 33 feet. Grady-White boats are built by craftsmanship through customer input and a sincere focus on customer satisfaction. Local Dealership Wins Highest Performance Awards from Boat Manufacturer FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 22, 2002 FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Cheryl Goodwin, Sales Department, Grady-White Boats, P. O. Box 1527, Greenville, NC 27835 252-752-2111 media@gradywhite.com Grady-White Boats Presents Highest Performance Awards to Hobby Lobby Marine GREENVILLE, NC: Hobby Lobby Marine of Toms River, NJ, has received the Grady-White Boats Gold Anchor Service Award and an Admiral’s Circle Award for the 2002 model year. The Gold Anchor Service award is the boat manufacturer’s highest recognition of a dealership for customer satisfaction. The Admiral’s Circle designation is awarded for achieving high levels of both customer satisfaction and boat sales. Hobby Lobby was congratulated at Grady-White’s annual dealer conference held October 20-22 in Greenville, NC. To be a member of the Grady-White Admiral’s Circle, a dealer must score 92.5 percent or higher as reflected in Grady-White owner surveys, and achieve Grady-White boat sales of at least $1.25 million for the model year. Grady-White conducts in-house owner surveys at the time of purchase, one year afterwards, and at least once again within a three- to five-year period. Hobby Lobby achieved a 100% customer satisfaction index during the 2002 model year. Highlighting this year’s dealer conference was the celebration of Grady-White being ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Coastal Fishing Boats Two Years in a Row” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2001-2002 Boat Competitive Information StudiesSM.* “Our Admiral’s Circle members, including Hobby Lobby Marine, played a critical role in our being ‘Two for Two’ and recognized by J.D. Power and Associates each of the two years marine category studies have been conducted,” said Eddie C. Smith, Jr., chairman and CEO of Grady-White Boats. Joining Smith in the Admiral’s Circle and Gold Anchor awards presentation were company President Kris Carroll, and Doug Gomes, vice president of sales and marketing. Grady-White builds 19 models of sportfishing boats from 18- to 33 feet. *(Center Console Segment in 2001). 2002 Study based on responses from 11,752 owners of 2001 model-year boats. www.jdpower.com
	September 18, 2002 Tom Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Ave Toms River, NJ 08753 Dear Tom, This year, we would like to recognize you as a member of the newly created *President's Club. To be inducted into the President's Club,* you must be ranked in the top twenty in sales for the previous model year and your CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) score must be at least 90%. Congratulations Tom on this important distinction! According to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory reports and your CSI score, it is our honor to award President's Club membership to you. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady- White network! As a token of our appreciation and to recognize your selling and servicing efforts for the 2002 model year, we will be sending you a President's Club lapel pin and a Columbia fishing shirt made especially for you. Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we may have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name on the President's Club list again in 2003! Very Sincerely, Sincerely, Kris Carroll Doug Gomes President Vice President/Sales & Marketing
	October 16, 2001 Tom Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Ave Toms River, NJ 08753 Congratulations, Tom! You are in the Top Twenty in sales of Grady-White Boats for the 2001 model year, according to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory Reports. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady-White network by finishing in the Top Twenty! Enclosed is a token of our appreciation to recognize your selling efforts for the 2001 model year. Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name in the top twenty again in 2002! Very Sincerely, Sincerely, Kris Carroll Doug Gomes President Vice President/Sales
	And AGAIN!!!
	June 3, 2002 Dear Tom, Thank you falls short in expressing how much we appreciate the time, energy and enthusiasm you, Karen, Bob, Randy and Mark showed us during a very special day for Craig. A special thank you to Karen for the bow and card which made the surprise even better. And to you, Tom, for recommending the perfect restaurant. The table overlooked the ocean. The food was delicious and Craig's gourmet dessert came with a lit candle. You deserve every award you've won and many more! Sincerely, Barbara Harnett
	HOBBY LOBBY MARINE WIN ELITE ADMIRAL CIRCLE AWARD FROM GRADY-WHITE BOATS, INC. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NOVEMBER 1, 2000 CONTACT; CHERYL GOODWIN, SALES GREENVILLE, N.C.: Hobby Lobby Marine of Toms River, NJ 08753 was one of twenty-five Grady-White dealerships world wide named to the Grady-White Admiral's Circle at the companies annual Dealer Conference held October 16-18 in New Bern, North Carolina. Tom Tweer and Bob Tweer accepted the award for the dealership. The Admiral's circle includes dealerships with both significant Grady-White sales volume and excellence in customer service. "Members of the Admirals Circle share our belief that sales volume is the result of excellence in customer service.", Stated Kris Carroll, President of Grady-White. "Hobby Lobby Marine produces happy Grady-White owners, and that is fundamental to our long-term success", she added. On Monday and Tuesday, October 16-17, dealers enjoyed in-water tests aboard a prototype of Grady-Whites's brand new 33-foot Express 330 express cabin model and the completely remodeled Sailfish 282 walk around, and got a close look at the many product innovations and business forecasts. Chairman and CEO Eddie Smith, Jr., extended "sincere thanks to Hobby Lobby Marine and it's associates for another record year for volume and profit. We just can't thank our dealers enough." Grady-White Boats has a nationwide reputation of building state-of-the-art sportfishing boats from 18' to 33'
	October 27, 2000 Tom Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Ave Toms River, NJ 08753 Congratulations, Tom! You are in the Top Twenty in sales of Grady-White Boats for the 2000 model year, according to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory Reports. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady-White network by finishing in the Top Twenty! Enclosed is a token of our appreciation to recognize your selling efforts for the 2000 model year. Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name in the top twenty again in 2001! Very Sincerely, Sincerely, Kris Carroll Doug Gomes President Vice President/Sales
	Ms. Kris Shepard, President Grady-White Boats Dept. MB&S 5121 Greenville Boulevard, N.E. Greenville, NC 27834 Dear Ms. Sheppard: I recently purchased a 1998 26’ Islander from Hobby Lobby Marine, Toms River, NJ. Bob and Tom Tweer are excellent in selling, maintaining and repairing Grady White Boats. The reason I purchased another Grady White is that in August 1976, I purchased a 19’ Sportsman from Hobby Lobby. It still looks like new and is currently being used by my stepson. The sportsman has been exclusively in salt water for 21 years, has taken a pounding of surface chop and swells in Barnegat (NJ) Bay and the intense pounding of swells at the mouth of the Barnegat Inlet, the inlet that brings boaters from Barnegat Bay into the Atlantic Ocean. (There are those who say Barnegat Inlet is the most Dangerous inlet on the Eastern Seaboard.) Your Company builds strong boats that last and provide years of pleasurable boating. Moreover, you have excellent representatives for your company in the dealership of Hobby Lobby Marina. I’m enclosing photographs of my Sportsman for you to share with your employees; you can all be proud of the quality of boats your company has built and continues to build. I thank you and your employees (and Hobby Lobby) for the 21 years of pleasure and safety I’ve experienced with my Sportsman. And I look forward to many years of boating enjoyment with my wonderful new Islander. Sincerely yours, Jeffrey Yoanides Cc: Hobby Lobby Marine
	*Grady-White Boats, Inc* PO Box 1527. Greenville, NC 27834-1527 *Attention: Vice President/Sales* Dear Sir: Enclosed you will find my Grady-White Owners Survey Form. I also thought I would take some time to share with you my experiences which ultimately led to my acquiring a Grady. I began shopping for a twin console boat back in August 94'. I looked at Mako and Pursuit but just wasn't satisfied with their products and especially their dealer responsiveness. I've always liked the overall look, quality and seaworthy reputation of a Grady. However, every time I would approach a Grady booth at a show, to tell a rep. what competitive boats I was looking at, I was met with an aloofness that said, "This is a Grady-White and we're in a higher class, we don't deal." This last experience was at the Norwalk, CT Boat Show in 94' This attitude eliminated Grady from consideration and caused me to actually contract for a Pursuit. Prior to finalizing the deal, I read your ad about the "Grady Weekend" and we decided to give my local Grady Dealer one more shot at the business. All of my previous intuitions proved to be true to spades. In reviewing my trade- in i was treated with all out rudeness and disrespect. If you are interested I will be happy to supply the name and location of your dealership. Only at the urging of my wife, did i pick up the phone book and look for another Grady dealer, Hobby Lobby Marine. I met with Tom Tweer and in a matter of minutes, he knew i was a serious buyer and I knew I could work with him. I signed the contract that day! He then introduced me to his brother Bob to work through the preparation and delivery details. Since signing the contract, to taking the delivery, the folks at Hobby Lobby have met or exceeded every commitment the have made. *They are the singularly reason that I am the owner of a Grady-White* and a very satisfied one at that. It has been a truly enjoyable experience. Sincerely, "Skip" Fiore cc: Hobby Lobby Marine
	GRADY-WHITE BOATS September 2, 1999 Tom Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine 1423 Bay Ave Toms River, NJ 08753 Congratulations, Tom! You are in the Top Twenty in sales of Grady-White Boats for the 1999 model year, according to our monthly Retail Sales and Inventory Reports. You have distinguished yourself out of over 200 retail sales representatives in the entire Grady-White network by finishing in the Top Twenty! Enclosed is a token of our appreciation to recognize your selling efforts for the 1999 model year. Your dedicated hours and great follow-up have paid off in Grady-White sales. Your success in selling signifies your determination to meet your customers' needs and to keep current on your Grady-White product knowledge. We recognize that you are a vital part of any success we have in the marine industry. Delivering the ultimate boating experience begins with you helping the customer have the ultimate buying experience. Thank you again for selling and promoting our products in your market area. We look forward to seeing your name in the top twenty again in 2000! Very Sincerely, Sincerely, Kris Carroll Doug Gomes President Vice President/Sales
	GREENVILLE, NC: Hobby Lobby Marine of Toms River, NJ was recently one of the twenty-four Grady-White dealerships worldwide named to the Grady-White Admiral's Circle at the company's annual conference held August 1-3, 1999 in New Bern, North Carolina. The Admiral's Circle includes dealerships with both outstanding Grady-White sales volume and excellence in customer service. "Members of the Admiral's Circle share our belief that sales volume is the result of excellence in customer service," stated Kris Carroll, President of Grady-White. Hobby Lobby Marine produces happy Grady-White owners, and that is the fundamental to our long-term success," she added. "I wish Hobby Lobby Marine continued sucess and growth as one of Grady-White's most distinguished dealerships," said Eddie Smith, Jr., Grady-White Chairman and CEO. Grady-White Boats has a worldwide reputation of building state-of-the-art sportfishing boats from 18' to 30'.
	June 9, 1995 Eddie C. Smith, Jr. Chief Executive Officer Grady-White Boats P.O. Box 1527 Greenville, NC 27835 Dear Mr. Smith: I would like to start this letter by stating that your product is outstanding and unequaled by your competition. I purchased the 226 Seafarer model in April 1995. This is my fourth boat and the one I intend to keep for a long time. When I chose to "go for the best," I narrowed the shopping list to Mako, Boston Whaler, Pursuit, and Grady-White. The competition fell one by one; Boston Whaler-great boat but no walk-around models and a very shaky company; Pursuit- great quality but lacks Grady-White refinement and amenities; and finally, Mako-solid construction but poor dealer representation and not even close to Grady-White quality in fit and finish or useful design. This brings me to the real purpose of this letter. I needed to shop only one dealer to confirm my choice would be Grady-White and that it would be purchased from Hobby Lobby Marine in Toms River, New Jersey. I have been in the automotive retail and wholesale business for 22 years and can sense from the exterior condition of the facility whether there is pride living on the inside. After walking in the facility and speaking to Tom Tweer, I knew that this was the place I would buy the boat. The sales process was the most simple, straightforward, and honest I have ever experienced. Tom turned me over to his brother Bob for the electronic outfitting and delivery of the boat. The condition of the boat at delivery told me that only the highest quality preparation representative of the Grady-White product was done. I really cannot say enough how pleased I am with all the employees at Hobby Lobby Marine who were part of the process of selling, prepping, and delivering the boat. Although I have owned this boat less than 60 days, I have no doubt it will live up to my expectations. In closing, I would like to request that you pass on a thank you to the Tweers and Hobby Lobby Lobby Marine. They are are absolutely a credit to the Grady-White organization, and there is no other boat or dealer i would recommend to a friend. Sincerely, James J. Sapunarich Regional Service manager New York Region Toyota Motor Distributors, Inc.
	*In response the above letter...* *Grady-White Boats* Mr. James J. Sapunarich Regional Service manager New York Region Toyota Motor Distributors, Inc. Dear Mr. Sapunarich: First of all thank you very much for taking the time to write us. Secondly, thank you also for your kind comments about our Grady-White boats and especially about our dealer Hobby Lobby Marine. Being in the automotive business I am sure that you are aware that our dealerships are by far the most important link in the chain. We can build the best product in the world, but if it's not rigged and delivered properly we still will be doomed to failure as fas as satisfying our customers. For that reason your comments are most appreciated! As an aside, for one not int he marine industry, I found your analysis of the various boat companies and their products of great interest. Your insight into the various companies and their products in extraordinary. You can rest assured that i will send along my thanks and compliments to the folks at Hobby Lobby. Again, I very much appreciate you taking the time to write and sincerely hope that your Grady-White gives you many years of Boating enjoyment. If your travels ever bring you through eastern North Carolina I would encourage you to visit with us here in Greenville and take the tour of the plant. We welcome the opportunity so show knowledgeable boaters the pride and craftsmanship that goes into each and every Grady-White boat. Sincerely, GRADY-WHITE BOATS, INC. Eddie Smith, Jr. Chairman & CEO
	W6250 PIONEER ROAD P.O. BOX 1939 FOND DU LAC, WI 54936-1939 U.S.A FROM: Mercury Marine Public Relations Dept. P.O. Box 1939 Fond du lac, WI 54936-1939 U.S.A FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hobby Lobby Named Mercury Outboards Platinum Boating Center Local Toms River Dealership Recognized for Outstanding Sales and Service Hobby Lobby of Toms River, New Jersey has been designated as a Platinum Boating Center by Mercury marine, the worlds largest marine engine manufacturer. Mercury's new Platinum program is designed to provide the boat-buying public with a level of added confidence that qualifying dealers like Hobby Lobby have met pre-determined criteria for excellence in sales and service. Qualification in the program is based on ratings obtained in consumer surveys as part of Mercury's new Customer Service index. Sales volume, parts inventory and participation in Mercury's extensive dealer training programs are also used as criteria in obtaining Platinum Dealer status.
	Ms. Kris Carroll President, Grady-White Boats Dept. MB&S P.O. Box 1527 Greenville, NC 27834 Dear President Carrol, My wife and I purchased a Grady White from Hobby Lobby Marine in Toms River, New Jersey last year. We have had outstanding service from Bob Tweer and his brother Tom. They are not only good at the sales end of the transaction but they are outstanding in their service. I only wish that other transactions with other businesses were as good as the one with Hobby Lobby. They are a credit to the Grady White Family. Keep up the good work. Sincerely yours, Donald and Lise Harman
	Kris Shepard President, Grady-White Boats July 15, 2000 Dept. MB&S 5121 Greenville Boulevard, N.E. Greenville, NC 27834 Dear Kris Shepard, I am writing to you today to let you know what a great job Tom and Bob Tweer are doing, selling and delivering Grady White boats. We were in the market for a 20-21 foot center console, that can handle some serious fishing and still be able to entertain the family. We had looked at all comparable makes but none had the features and quality that Grady offers. After searching we went in and talked to Tom about the different models and it turned out that the Escape 209 was the model we were looking for. Tom took the time to explain all of the features that a Grady offers compared to the competition and why this boat was our logical choice. Tom handled us off to Bob to take care of the prep and delivery. Bob had the boat done in no time, clean, painted and in the water ready to go. The demonstration that we got was extremely thorough and informative. . Thanks again, looking forward to our next Grady. Sincerely yours, Brian McCue / Kris MacDermant cc: Hobby Lobby Marine
	GRADY-WHITE BOATS July 26, 2000 Brian McCue Kris MacDermant KDB Associates, Inc. 2140 Route 88, Suite 6-280 Brick, NJ 08724 Dear Brian and Kris; Thanks so much for your nice letter. It was a real "day brightener!" Welcome to the Grady-White family. I really appreciate your comments about Hobby Lobby Marine. When Eddie Smith bought the company in 1968, his firm belief was that we could make the very best boat on earth and still fail our customers if the most important link between us and our customer (the dealer) lets us down in any way. For that reason, we are so happy to have aligned ourselves with dealers like Tom Bob Tweer who are true professionals and represent our product and our company in a great way. I sincerely hope that your new Grady-White gives you and your family many years of boating and fishing enjoyment. If for any reason your travels ever bring you to eastern North Carolina, make it a point to visit with us here in Greenville. We take great delight in showing knowledgeable boaters the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each and every one of our boats. Again, thanks for taking the time write. Sincerely, Kris Carroll President
	Infertility & Invitro Fertilization Medical Associates of WNY, PLLC May 3, 2001 Eddie C. Smith Jr., CEO Kris Carrol, President Grady White Boats PO Box 1527 Greenville, NC 27835 Dear Mr. Smith and Ms. Carrol: I recently purchased a new, 248 Voyager from a Grady White Dealer in Toms River, New Jersey. The name of the dealership is Hobby Lobby and is owned by Mr. Thomas and Robert Tweer. I reside in a suburb of Buffalo, New York and the prospect of buying such a rather large ticket item, so far away, was at first a bit intimidating. I must say I can never remember having ever been given as much fine service and consideration in any product I have purchased in my life. These fine gentlemen laterally rolled out the red carpet for me. I made many telephone calls to their marina and each time, no matter where they were, they would always manage to get to the phone, or if not, they would promptly call me back. All my questions were answered. Appropriate literature was always sent in a timely fashion. I got o the point where I looked forward to talking to these gentlemen over the telephone, because they were so unbelievably accommodating to me. Last week I made the trip with my young son, down to Toms River and again I received first class treatment from them. They prepared to spend the whole afternoon, if necessary, explaining the boat to me. After meeting Bob and Tom the boat was thoroughly explained to me by one their fine mechanics. We then went out for a shakedown cruise and I can state that absolutely all my questions were answered. Following this, the electronics of the boat were thoroughly explained by another fine gentleman who works for them. I cannot count the number of times the Robert tweer told me not to hesitate to call him at any time, for any question, while I was in buffalo. He also told me that if at any time I felt that I was not receiving proper service from my boat to please call him, so that he could also become involved. Needless to say, I left Toms River with a sense of security knowing that I could call the marina and receive guidance concerning any matter regarding my boat. I would not hesitate to highly recommend these two, fine gentlemen to anybody considering buying a boat, specifically, a Grady White Sincerely, Ralph C. Sperrazza, MD 23 Saddle Hill Road Far Hills, NJ 07931-2205 September 26, 2002 Joey Weller Customer Relations Manager Grady White Boats, Inc. 5121 Greenville Blvd., NE Greenville, NC 27834 Dear Joey, I could not return this survey to you without a brief note regarding the "team" at Hobby Lobby Marine in Toms River, NJ led by Bob and Tom Tweer. The 222 Fisherman you surveyed me on is in fact our second Grady White boat. Last year, we purchased a 28ft. Sailfish from the Tweer's at the NY Boat Show and found the care they gave both us and our boat to be exemplary. At times, our 28 was a bit big for the shallow Barnegat Bay and with our teenagers planning on spending the summer working and playing at our home in Loveladies, NJ we purchased at 17ft. Mako with Mercury engine. The boat was a huge disappointment and though we bought it for it's shallow draft we had not anticipated how that would affect the overall stability and performance of the boat. It also had numerous "issues" upon delivery that required it to be hauled out of the water and there was no effort made by Causeway Marine to repair and return our boat to us in a timely manner. Put it this way, with the summer ahead of us, teenagers at home and their boat in dry dock, we were very frustrated. It was hard to admit we had made a serious and costly mistake but we called the Tweer's for advice. We made a Saturday morning trip up to their marina and returned that afternoon for our "gently used" 222 Fisherman and we have never looked back. What a great boat! The ride and stability on the water as well as the superior construction of the boat provided my son and I with many hours of shallow bay fishing this summer and some really great catches. Combined with the Yamaha engine the kids have also enjoyed tubing and wake boarding behind this very versatile boat. Of course our Sailfish "Egg Sta Sea" is still our pride and joy and we and enjoy taking it out fishing and cruising in the ocean. Our teenagers handle the 22 with ease and we are comfortable knowing they are safe and secure when fishing with friends in the bay. We always reflect on how lucky we were with our first major boat purchase and in meeting the Tweer's. We know we have the best of the best in both our "Grady White Fleet" and our relationship with the Hobby Lobby Marine Team. Sincerely, The Bergh Family Catherine, Paul, Eric(18) and Caitlin(16) PS... Just a thought.. .It would be great if you printed a "fisherman's ruler" on the toe rails for ease in measuring the catch. Tired of scrambling for a ruler and faithful to following the regulations, we have a laminated strip attached to our toe rail, which is chronically peeling and needs replacement. It would be a great "fishing" aid if it were imprinted on the toe rails permanently. April 2, 2003 Bob Tweer Hobby Lobby Marine I am really glad I chose your dealership when I purchased my boat and motor. I had a problem due the extraordinary cold winter of 2003. You stepped up and took responsibility. The motor was repaired in three days without charge. A customer can't ask for better quality service than that. I would recommend your dealership to anyone without hesitation. As you can surmise from this letter, I am really impressed with the way Hobby Lobby still treats a customer 4 years after a purchase. Your team is really top notch. Ray Bickel

Kris Carroll Doug Gomes President Vice President/Sales & Marketing

Kris Carroll Doug Gomes
President Vice President/Sales & Marketing