Mountaineer BMW

Riders, Inc.

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

     The original BMW motorcycle club was formed in the 70s and was known as the Parkersburg BMW Club as the members lived in or near Parkersburg, WV. The club grew and flourished for a time until the members began moving away, died or developed other interests. The club broke up and was unofficially disbanded, however, the BMW Motor Owners Association retained the clubs charter and number.

     In 1986 a group of BMW riders began talking of forming a BMW club in the area. This idea was a topic for discussion at the Saturday gathering of riders at the local BMW shop: Ramsey Motorsports in Marietta, Ohio. Words led to actions and the Mountaineer BMW Riders, Inc. slowly evolved from those Saturday gatherings. The club held monthly meetings to conduct business, plan rides and socialize.

     Upon checking with the BMW MOA for affiliation requirements, we found that the original club number was still available. The club applied for and was granted, affiliation with the BMW MOA retaining the original charter number, 34. Affiliation applications were also submitted to and approve by the American Motorcyclist Association and the BMW Riders Association. With the help of retired attorney Dick Giovanetti, the club is incorporated as a nonprofit organization in the state of West Virginia.

     Club officers were elected and bylaws developed. The club grew to a maximum of thirty-two members and adopted the annual Cass Rally (see Cass Gathering) as a club function. Although the club members shared the common interest of BMW motorcycles, opinions of the club’s functions began to differ greatly. The meetings evolved into a battle of splinter groups and there was "no joy in Mudville". The majority of members, who would rather ride than argue, abandoned the club. Some could not accept the majority vote on controversial issues and quit. Ramsey Motorsports could not meet all the demands of BMW North America and closed their doors. With no dealer support and declining membership, the Mountaineer’s future looked bleak.

     After some serious "soul searching" the remaining members agreed  to commit the time, effort and resources to keep the club together and host the Cass Rally. The club was reorganized and  the plan worked. Today the small group of individuals who comprise the Mountaineer BMW Riders club is a happy family led by our president; Bonnie Parrish. We meet once a month, or as needed, to plan for the various yearly gatherings and functions that we participate in as a club.  Nowadays the only contention is whether to have red or white wine with the hotdogs. 

     One of the Mountaineer’s most worthwhile projects is acting as a secret Santa for some less fortunate children in the area. The club maintains a charity fund to purchase Christmas gifts for eight to ten children each year. We receive the names of the children from the program administrator along with their "wish lists". A day is set aside to shop for the children, wrap their gifts and personalize each one. We participate in the annual toy run, which is sponsored by the various motorcycle clubs in the area, and deliver our donations to the administrator. Our budget is usually $800 to $1000, most of which is raised by the sale of 50/50 tickets at the Cass Rally. Thanks to all who purchase those tickets and to the WalMart Corporation for the discount on the gift purchases.

     Like all families, we have a colorful history which includes members who are deceased but not forgotten; a present which we are thoroughly enjoying; and we are making plans for a bright future. If you are within riding distance of Parkersburg, West Virginia and would like information on joining our family, contact our president: bonnie-kay@citynet.net . We do like them BMWs and the friendly folks who ride ’em.