For Immediate Release Contact: Christopher Weir March 3, 2003 (805) 688-3940 ext. 14 [email protected]

ANDREW FIRESTONE CONFIRMED AS “THE BACHELOR” ON ABC TELEVISION

Los Olivos, California—Responding to published reports, Firestone Family Estates today confirmed that Andrew Firestone has been selected for the lead role in the third installment of the popular ABC network series “The Bachelor,” which is scheduled to begin airing on March 26, 2003.

Firestone is the great-grandson of tire industrialist Harvey Firestone and the son of pioneering Santa Barbara County vintner Brooks Firestone.

“This was Andrew’s choice, but it was also a family decision,” said Brooks Firestone. “We all gathered together, and we thought long and hard about the implications. Ultimately, we see this as an adventure for him, an opportunity to engage in a very interesting and positive experience. He has our love and support.”

Andrew’s older brother Adam explained, “This isn’t exactly what we had in mind when we encouraged Andrew to settle down and get married. But we’re behind him one- hundred percent. We’re hoping that he finds someone with a good heart and strong hands—we’ll need her in the vineyard or on the bottling line someday.”

Over the years, Andrew has worked in various production positions at the family winery in Santa Barbara County. His role has since grown into the position of Sales Manager, which includes assisting regional sales representatives across the United States. Andrew also acts as a representative for Firestone Walker Brewing Company, which was founded in 1996.

Firestone Vineyard was established in 1972 as Santa Barbara County’s first estate vineyard and winery by Brooks Firestone, his wife Kate, and his father Leonard Firestone, a former Ambassador to Belgium. The estate now spans more than 30 years of Firestone family stewardship, including active participation from Andrew’s sisters Hayley Firestone Jessup and Polly Firestone Walker.

All inquiries regarding show production, content or format should be directed to ABC Television.

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