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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carousel Capital invests in Jameson


Leading Provider of Professional Tools and Equipment

June 25, 2007 – Charlotte, North Carolina - Carousel Capital announced today an investment in Jameson, a leading  provider of safe, dependable and innovative tools and accessories for use by a diverse array of end customers including utility, cable and telecom line technicians, cable installers, electrical contractors, arborists, industrial technicians and soldiers across the armed forces.  Founded in 1956, Jameson is based in Clover, South Carolina.

Over its more than 50-year history, Jameson has developed its market-leading reputation by constantly working to develop innovative tools and accessories designed to make maintenance and repair work easier, safer and more efficient.  Jameson’s products are known for their reliability and durability in mission critical situations and have been developed through interaction between Jameson and its customers in the field.

Jameson’s product line includes hundreds of items across five categories:  specialty lighting products; sectional rods and accessories; duct rodders and accessories; overhead tools and accessories; and specialized splicers and cutlery.  As demonstrated by its expansive patent portfolio, Jameson has built an unparalleled reputation as an innovator in specialized tools and equipment designed to stand up to the demands and harsh environments of its professional end users.
 
Carousel Capital is partnering with the current management team of Jameson, including CEO Thomas B. Crates.  Crates, along with other key members of management, will maintain significant ownership stakes in the business.

“We are entering an exciting chapter of growth for our company,” said Crates.  “We chose Carousel as our partner because of their commitment to maintain the tradition of excellence that my family has worked a lifetime to build, while also bringing the expertise to help our company achieve its long term goals.”

“Jameson is a rare company and we are fortunate to be partnered with such a tremendous group of managers.  We are extremely impressed with the level of innovation and customer loyalty that Jameson has achieved throughout its history,” said Jason C. Schmidly, Partner of Carousel Capital.  “With Jameson’s first rate reputation and highly diverse end markets, the opportunities for growth are abundant and we look forward to working with the team to fully capitalize on the opportunities ahead.”

Carousel Capital funded the transaction with equity from its third investment fund, Carousel Capital Partners III.  CapitalSource Finance LLC and Roynat Capital provided the financing for the transaction.

About Carousel Capital

Carousel Capital is a private investment firm that invests in companies located in the Southeastern United States.  Carousel’s investor base includes institutional investors and an elite group of more than 60 current and former CEOs with significant operating experience.  Since its inception, Carousel has invested in 24 companies primarily in three targeted growth sectors: business services; consumer products and services; and healthcare services.

Media Contacts:
Bill Hobbs, Carousel Capital 704-372-2040
Brian Bailey, Carousel Capital 704-372-2040

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