BMW Bikers of Metropolitan Washington

President Mike Enloe called the meeting to order, and asked the one new member present to introduce himself.

Election of Officers – Jody Douglas announced the Election, and paper ballots were passed to the members in attendance. Only members were allowed to vote, and there was space for write-in candidates if they so chose. Maria Vandergucht collected the ballots to count.

Treasurer’s Report – Elsie Smith reported a total balance of $19,604.20.

Membership – Nancy Oswald reported a total of 493 full members and 52 associates, with 11 new members (one associate), and 9 renewing members (one associate). Eighty-five percent of the members now receive the BTS on-line; members must inform the Membership Chair if they prefer paper BTS. She also asked that members report any change of e-mail address to the Membership Chair.

Editor – Bob Steele noted a new front page format on the latest BTS. The front is in color, and features a large picture. He asked members to submit pictures to be published, and asked for articles, including ride stories. George Falcon offered to assist with the proof-reading prior to publication each month.

Speaker – Mike Segovia – Mike is a member of the Potomac Area Road Riders (PARR). He described the upcoming Polar Bear Run, which is held annually on January 1. It is one of PARR’s few public rides, and starts at Loehmann’s Plaza at a restaurant called “Sign of the Whale”, rain or shine. Registration is at 9 AM ($10, with $1 discount for AMA members), and breakfast is available for purchase. Insurance is also available for purchase, along with year bars and pins. The ride is over a specific 90-mile route, with bailouts along the way. Door prizes will be given, and a 50/50 drawing will be held with the proceeds to go to a local charity and PARR.

Mike presented a brief history of PARR, a club for experienced riders that is well known for the poker runs that it holds 3 to 4 times a year. They also do overnight rides. Most rides are closed to the public.

Holiday Party – James Monroe reminded the members that the party is to be held at Ft. Belvoir from 6 to 10 PM on 1/13/07. The cutoff date for registration is extended to 1/6/07. A registration form is available in the BTS and on-line, or one could register with James today. Nate Kern is the scheduled speaker. Members must obey all speed limits on base and should arrange a designated driver if they are drinking.

Meetings – Tina Fraembs reported that she’s preparing the 2007 calendar, and pictures are in the back of the room for members to vote on for the calendar. She announced a change in some meeting dates, with dealership meetings being held on Saturday to accommodate the dealers’ staff. Members should watch the on-line calendar and the BTS for dates

Members can let her know of up-coming events that would be of interest to the Club, and she will post them on the on-line calendar. She also asked for suggestions for speakers for the monthly meetings.

Square Route Rally – Tina announced in Jim Bade’s absence that he is working on a “33 Years” theme for the Rally, and would appreciate members sending him any early pictures, BTS copies, etc.

Technical – Mike Wakefield, Tech Chair, has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, 12/19/06 in the evening, and will be setting goals for the Committee. He also announced that the State of Maryland has received 18 requests for BMW license plates, but needs 25 before they can be produced.

Ohlins Shocks – Mike announced that Ray Sufczynski is arranging a group purchase of shocks for $1,091/set. Members must order by December 19. The shocks are custom made for the individual’s bike, weight, and riding style.

Holiday Party Pictures – Mike asked members to submit pictures to Ray Sufczynski for use at the Holiday Party.

Wreath-Laying – With regard to upcoming events, George Falcon described an opportunity for members to participate with the Patriot Guard Riders (a group that assists at military funerals to ensure privacy for the family from anti-war protestors) as they escort a party from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery to lay wreaths on grave sites. They should arrive in Maryland on Wednesday, 12/13/06.

Election Results – Maria Vandergucht announced the results of the election:  President, Mike Enloe; Vice President, Jim Bade; Secretary, Jody Douglas; Editor, Bob Steele; Treasurer, Elsie Smith.

Mike plans to clarify some changes he proposes in the By-Laws within the next two months, and asks members to give him feedback.

Bike Shows – Members discussed the differences among the upcoming shows: more manufacturers and new models at the DC show; more local dealers, gear vendors, etc. at Timonium; and more cruiser-orientation at Baltimore.

The meeting adjourned at approximately noon.