Dash Announces New Minority Owners

WINSTON-SALEM, NC (FEBRUARY 18, 2010) - Three individuals have joined the Winston-Salem Dash ownership group, which will continue to be led by majority owner Billy Prim. Bryan Andrews, Derick Close, and Jimmy Strickland have each become minority owners of the Carolina League Class-A Affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Both Major League and Minor League Baseball recently gave their required stamp of approval to all three owners.

"I am thrilled to welcome three people who share my vision for the future of this baseball organization and economic development associated with the downtown Winston-Salem stadium," Prim said. "These folks stepped up to the plate in spite of the difficult economic climate to be a part of an exciting new beginning for the team and the city. Joining me in ownership of the Dash demonstrates their commitment to this community, and I couldn't be happier to have them on board. This is a proud moment for the Dash."

All three new owners are from North Carolina. Andrews is a Winston-Salem-native who started JBA Benefits, an employee benefit firm. He sold the company to Allegacy Federal Credit Union in 2007 and remains active as its president. Throughout his professional career, Andrews has been involved with numerous charitable not-for-profit organizations, currently serving on the board of directors at Youth Opportunities, Inc. Close has more than 25 years of experience in the textile industry and is the CEO and owner of Springs Creative Products Group, LLC. He is from Charlotte and is a partner in the Carolina Panthers. Strickland is a 25-year veteran of the foodservice industry, having held top positions with Darryl's Restaurants, Golden Corral, and Krispy Kreme. He resides in Winston-Salem and is highly active in numerous local community organizations.