FIRST PERSON/OPINION: Via e-mail: I received word today that a respected close friend of mine, passed away today. His name was Dave “Metzeler Dave” Stephens. He was the owner of Western States Performance Tires, which was the sole vendor on the West Coast for Metzeler Supermoto Tires and DOT Road Race Tires. Dave could be counted on to attend, and support the Metzeler brand at all of the STTARS Races and AMA Supermoto Events West of the Mississippi. He was also the exclusive track side vendor for The Trackclub during their 2006 season. Dave also assisted Pirelli Tire Company out here on the West Coast from time to time by assisting with testing dirt bike tires, attending AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross events. Dave had quite a history of racing on his own. He was an experienced side car racer, motocrosser, and grand prix rider, and regularly was up front in his respective age classification. Anyone in the road racing and supermoto community who knew Dave, always said he was the nicest, most down to earth person you had ever met. Many in the community will be shocked to hear of his passing, as he was recently diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus, which was in the late stages. He passed away at approximately 4:00 am this morning, January 15. Funeral services are currently being arranged and will be announcing them as soon as we know. There is currently a benefit supermoto ride day planned for this Sunday, January 21, 2006 at Grange Raceway in Apple Valley. Dave leaves behind one daughter, Becky and his spouse Melody. Dave will be greatly missed. Further announcements will be made regarding funeral services as soon as they are known. Sincerely, Alessandro Assanti Aliso Viejo, California