Everything looks the same as you drive by, but there have been some shifts at Dave’s Motorboat Shoppe in Gilford. Long-time owners, Dave and Kate, have retired and a familiar face, Ryan Clermont, has stepped in to continue the business. Ryan has worked in Gilford since his first job at age 14, and his goal is to maintain the mom-and-pop feel of the business. “The part of the job I enjoy the most, is the relationships I have with my customers”, he says. Back in the day, he watched his father, grandfather and great-grandfather get to know their customers at their family-run Beacon Resort in Lincoln. Growing up, Ryan would see guests that returned year after year being greeted by name. Inspired by his relatives, Ryan renamed the boat shop, Beacon Marine. He says he feels a responsibility to provide a good service and do right by the family name.
Ryan gets satisfaction watching a customer’s reaction when they see their renewed boat for the first time. He remembers one customer in particular who restored the family boat that belonged to his father. The customer renamed it “Papa’s Boat”. Six members of the family attended the unveiling and it was emotional for them seeing their beloved boat looking almost new again. After hours and hours of sanding, buffing and polishing, Ryan says, those are the moments he and his staff live for.
Ryan’s wife is an elementary school counselor and knows first-hand how limited resources can be for children in schools. “Being part of The Children’s Auction as the Presentation Station Sponsor allows us to put money to a good cause knowing it means a lot to them”. Ryan says it’s a positive thing to focus on and it’s a great way to live one’s life. “There’s no better place for money to go”.
Beacon Marine is a full-service boat shop offering repairs, detailing, shrink wrapping and storage services, as well as being a Yamaha dealer.
The Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction would like to welcome new sponsor, Beacon Marine, to the Children’s Auction family.
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