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Firestone Diversified Products Announces Ryle & Stapp Appointments

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Aug. 11, 2009) Firestone Diversified Products, LLC (FSDP) has announced that Lynn Ryle, currently Director, Compensation Systems for Bridgestone Americas, Inc., has accepted the position of Vice President of Human Resources, FSDP, effective Oct. 1, 2009. Jay Stapp, previously Division General Counsel for Bridgestone Americas, Inc. and Credit First National Association, assumed his new role as General Counsel for FSDP on July 1.

Ryle became a member of the Bridgestone Americas family in 1989, just after the Bridgestone and Firestone alliance was completed. She has a broad array of business experience within the company, holding diverse positions in accounting, finance, e-commerce, and business planning. Ryle earned her bachelor’s degree from Trevecca University in human relations and business management and holds an MBA from Belmont University. Following the retirement of FSDP’s current Vice President of Human Resources, Pam Kelley, a 37-year employee of the Bridgestone Americas family of companies, Ryle will begin transitioning roles in late September.

Stapp, a 17-year veteran of Bridgestone Americas, is now responsible for all legal aspects of the FSDP companies, as well as overseeing the Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) function for Diversified Products. Stapp began practicing law in 1984 and has held a variety of positions with Bridgestone Americas including Senior Counsel, Tire Sales Division, and Associate General Counsel, Tire Sales. Stapp earned his bachelor’s degree from Belmont University in finance and accounting and a law degree from
Vanderbilt University.

“Pam has played an integral role in the success of this company,” said Ken Weaver, Chairman, CEO and President, FSDP. “I would like to congratulate her on her upcoming retirement and thank her for all of her years of service.”

“I’m also pleased to welcome Lynn and Jay to our organization as they take on their new assignments,” said Weaver. “With their experience and robust skill sets, Lynn and Jay have proven to be qualified leaders and we look forward to their future accomplishments and their contributions to the Diversified Products family.”

About Firestone Diversified Products, LLC:
Firestone Diversified Products, LLC (FSDP) is based in Indianapolis, Ind., and is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM). FSDP is responsible for BSAM’s non-tire businesses, including building and industrial products, natural rubber, and industrial fibers
and textiles.