PROSPECT PARTNERS FORMS BILLIARD BRANDS, INC. WITH MCDERMOTT CUE PRESIDENT

CHICAGO, Ill.—June 4, 2001: Prospect Partners, LLC and McDermott Cue Manufacturing Company President Larry Johns are proud to announce the formation of Billiard Brands, Inc. of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

McDermott Cue Manufacturing Company of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin is the leading manufacturer of the highest quality two-piece billiard cues and accessories, including over fifty different model cues with custom wraps, stains and designs, professional cue cases, and other accessories for both the billiard professional and billiard enthusiast.

“We’ve established a leading presence in the billiard cue market, and we’re ready to take it to the next level,” explains Larry Johns, who will continue to spearhead growth of the company as CEO of Billiard Brands, Inc. “We are excited to be working with Prospect Partners on the formation of Billiard Brands, and seek to establish ourselves as a leading player in the billiard products market.”

“We are very excited to be working with Larry to build a stronger company in the billiard industry,” explains Maneesh K. Chawla of Prospect Partners, LLC. “McDermott has established itself as the highest quality manufacturer of two-piece billiard cues. Through the recapitalization and formation of Billiard Brands, we will be able to help leverage the brand, reputation for high quality, and position within the industry for optimal growth and expansion. We look forward to partnering with Larry and his team to build the business together.”

Together, Prospect Partners and Billiard Brands, Inc. are seeking to acquire other well established, branded manufacturers of equipment and accessories for the billiards and game room industry.

Prospect Partners, LLC of Chicago manages a $105 million private equity fund focused on management-led leveraged acquisitions and providing growth capital for lower middle market businesses with niche strategies.