Statement By Christine Karbowiak, VP of Public Affairs, Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc.

    NASHVILLE, Tenn.--May 22 /U.S. Newswire/-- Following is a statement by Christine Karbowiak, VP of public affairs, Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc.:
    "We want to set the record straight. At no time during yesterday's meeting between Ford and Bridgestone/Firestone, did any representative from Ford ask us to recall tires or replace any tires. They did not ask us to join with them on a recall or a replacement program. They told us they had made absolutely NO decision concerning our tires on their vehicles. Comments by Ford to the contrary are inaccurate."