Geezer Free Zone

[Rob Nye]

Greetings all,

At Trenton and Charleston I was involved in the MOA Foundation's young riders programs.

At each event the major feedback we got as to why people participated was to meet other riders their age. I think we can all agree that BMW riders under 26 are a bit scarce and it is difficult for them to meet up at the annual rally.

I am considering setting up a seminar that would be titled the Geezer Free Zone for riders under 26. The idea as it stands now is nothing more than a scheduled meeting place and time. I recall a few years ago we had such a seminar, mainly for the officers and board of the club to meet with our up and coming members to exchange ideas and solicit feedback from our new wave of riders. Taking this a step further I am thinking of making arrangements with a resturant or cafe 30-60 miles from the rally site with the idea of heading out for a ride to eat after the initial meeting. I suppose to keep the concept pure I will need to recruit a qualifed rider, I'm a relative geezer at 41. :D

For our under 26 riders is this something that holds any appeal? Do you have any suggestions on this or any other events at the rally you would like to see?

Thanks for your input.

Best,

[knary]

Why 26 and not, say, 30? or 35?

I suppose I would advertise it as a gathering for "our younger MOA members" or something more sexy. If you think you're young enough to qualify, you are.

yep. I'm a baby of 32. :D

-scott

[Rob Nye]

Hey Scott,

We need to set the celing somewhere otherwise all the 32yr old GIT (geezers in training) who think they are hip will crash the party.;)

- Rob Nye

[jdiaz]

I joined BMW MOA when I was 23. I didn't really care that I was 15 years younger than everyone else, and they didn't seem to mind either. Some of the best friends I've ever made in this club were/are older than my parents.

BTW, I plan on going to the young riders' meeting even though I'm 38 now, because I scoff at age limits. Is Def Leppard still cool? :)

[BradfordBenn]

I may grow old, but I ain't going to grow up.

Also as one who was at last year's rally at the ripe old age of 32, I would have loved having a program like that. Heck I would still like to take part in it this year. However my criteria are a little different...


I felt the biggest difference came from Kids versus No Kids.
Riding Experience
First BIG Rally

Oh yeah, Def Leppard was never cool:p

Scott, it looks like you and I are in the same cradle. Although I am getting older exponetially during this confrence call.:eek

[knary]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
I may grow old, but I ain't going to grow up.

Also as one who was at last year's rally at the ripe old age of 32, I would have loved having a program like that. Heck I would still like to take part in it this year. However my criteria are a little different...


I felt the biggest difference came from Kids versus No Kids.
Riding Experience


Oh yeah, Def Leppard was never cool:p

Scott, it looks like you and I are in the same cradle. Although I am getting older exponetially during this confrence call.:eek

Hey! Pyromania was the first tape I ever bought. :p

What we really need is a "no whining about kids" and "no whining about prostate issues" zone. But I guess that's Rob's idea. So let's stop our hijack.

Anyone else interested in the "Not an Old BMW Rider" meeting at Spokane?

[RevWillie]

OK, I was 20 when I was at my first MOA National--there were not many people of my age group there then and it was a bit lonely. What few young ones that were there got together, but it was too few to do anything. Probably would have been nice to have some organized arrangement going @ that Rally, but there were not that many participants there anyhow. That was the Table Rock Rally, MOA National#2.

So, now the young radical is a old geezer of 50.... Our Nationals are much larger and better organized. There are more "younger" riders there now ("younger"=25 and below), but they still do not have a identity with the larger group of folks that are at the Rally. For a lot of the young riders, they are at the event with their parents, and for the rest of the young riders, they are surrounded by people that they have little in common with. This group needs to get away from the larger group so that they can bond together and create their own identity. I would recommend a special ride for the Young Beemers to somewhere away from the Rally, where they can have fun and start making a connection with each other. Granted, they will need to abstain from mood-altering substances so that they can return safely to the larger group eventually, but they need somewhere to be themselves. A good road run with twisties, or a nice ride to a concert site, or something that they can share among themselves and not with all the fogies at the National.

At this moment, I do not have a specific idea of what they can do to find this special place, but it is something that we all should try to think about. Spokane has some neat places around it--maybe a ride to Sandpoint, ID area, or maybe something in the metro Spokane area would be good. But to make this work, we will need some serious input from those Young Beemers as to what would and would-not work. We can give them the freedom to ride out, but they need to give us the destination to where they want to go.

[BradfordBenn]

Originally posted by knary
But I guess that's Rob's idea. So let's stop our hijack.


To quote our favorite motorcycle slut:
Go Rob Go

[Rob Nye]

Hey Rev Willie,

We are on the same wavelength here.

What I am thinking is having a short seminar which will mainly serve as a quick meet n greet with some of the officers of the 'MOA. We would like to meet our younger members and hear what they expect / desire from 'MOA membership.

Then a ride to eat right along the lines you mentioned. I would like to see it somewhere around 30-45 miles in length to a relatively small spot that is also very affordable.

Rather than guess what they want I would rather have them tell us what *they* want.

Best,

Rob Nye

[lorazepam]

What about a bus to take someone in the 18-25 group to a separate location, and introduce ridng to them if they have no experience. Have a set of cabins, with lots of grass and gravel to learn on away from mom and dad. Have organized rides for new riders in the same age group stressing skills and some drills maybe to help. As far as social stuff goes, I have no experience other than my own at that age, so I dont think I should be planning that portion of the program.

[dzimbric]

Baby Beemer Buggy Bumpers?

[Unregistered]

Although I just turned 29 and do fit into this category that we are discussing. I feel very young at most events. Doesn't bother me but it would be great to meet someone close in my age group. In fact I am riding from St. Louis to Spokane with a buddy I met who is 15-20 years older than myself. As far as riding partners we click great together.

Here are some ideas....

"Generation Y Meet and Greet"
I love the idea of just a simple meeting time. How about 20 some-things on down. Let's just meet, talk, share emails, and get to know each other. We could open it for all which would allow other generations to understand us young punks (Ha!). I know a guy in STL that has a lot of experience and whenever I have a question I ask him first because he has been there done that. It would be great to know more experience riders like this.


"Lessons on the Road"
The one thing I appreciate the most is gathering tips, techniques, stories, from riders who have bagged zillions of miles. How about a meeting hosted buy the oldest most seasoned riders. The most interesting motorcycle conversation I ever had was with an 85 year old rider. We chatted for about an hour in an AutoZone parking lot one time. We chatted about places, bikes, you name it. Please pass the knowledge... we are all ears. That would be great!


"Power Sports Industry Networking Event"
Personally I would love to transition my career into the Power Sports industry somehow. If would be nice to know if someone there in the crowd who worked for a major manufacturer, dealer, ect., that could discuss how they broke into the industry or even needed some good talent.


My name is John buy the way...See ya all there!

[Rob Nye]

Hey John,

Thanks for the reply and the good ideas.

Best,

[manicmechanic]

Well, the Beer Garden is always a good place to meet. Here's a thought, how about if we can get the Young Guns to volunteer for a shift. They'll meet others of their age bracket, and meet all sorts of other folks at the same time.

Besides, isn't age just a frame of mind?

[JimVonBaden1]

Is GEEZER the accepted Politically Correct term for anyone of=ver 26 now?

Yikes, now I feel old.

Jim:dunno :confused: not:brow

[BradfordBenn]

Originally posted by manic mechanic
Well, the Beer Garden is always a good place to meet. Here's a thought, how about if we can get the Young Guns to volunteer for a shift. They'll meet others of their age bracket, and meet all sorts of other folks at the same time.

I tried that last year, and while there were some extenuating circumstances, I really did not get to meet anyone. I got to haul a lot of ice and beer and had some fun, but not really anything that made me feel part of "The BMW Family" so to speak.

I realize that is kind of like a wet blanket statement and am still thinking up suggestions.

[JimVonBaden1]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
I tried that last year, and while there were some extenuating circumstances, I really did not get to meet anyone. I got to haul a lot of ice and beer and had some fun, but not really anything that made me feel part of "The BMW Family" so to speak.

I realize that is kind of like a wet blanket statement and am still thinking up suggestions.

Hey Brad,

Maybe you are a tweener? :brow

Jim

[BradfordBenn]

Howdy-

I admit I am kind of on the cusp as I am active on the forum, but I do not have much Rally experience. Heck, I am not even a member of the local club. So my motorcycle socialization is still pretty low.

So I thought, "What dd I expect or want that did not happen at Charleston?"

I came up with a few suggestions:


It is not about age so much as it is about amount of motorcycle socialization. Perhaps determine "Geezer" Status by years of membership?
I would recommend a morning ride to a restaurant or the like. The idea of putting a bunch of people in a bus to me seems like spoiling the purpose of a motorcycle
Big Brother/Big Sister program. Relatively simple and probably already taking place quietly. Partner experienced Rally people with less experienced/less confident people. Kind of a walk through the vendor area, a howdy to a few people and some intros.
Tips and Tricks Seminar - Just starting out? We recommend that you …. What tools? What about hydration? What about … the stuff that lots of us learned the hardway.
Basic Preventative Maintenance and Inspection Clinic – After I ride a few thousand miles across the country, I would really appreciate if I could have someone go over the bike with me and say, hey you may want to check this. When I am on the road, I have found that doing this helps…
Truly basic tech – How to check the oil? How to check tread depth? How to get a full tank of gas on an RT?
Sample Tech Sessions - How to use a tire plugger? How to balance valves - heck why balance valves? Some of these should be hands on, others practicality means it can not be. Perhaps some video reinforcement so that people can see the process... then put it up on the web as an archive of knowledge.


Just my suggestions. Might be good, might suck.

[knary]

Brad,
good stuff.
And, as you point out, *not* neccesarily "youth" stuff. I'm only 32, but have more miles than a fair number of riders twice my age, and far less miles than a number of riders younger than me.

[manicmechanic]

I still tell my grandkids that I don't know what I want to be when I grow up.

Along the lines of the current discussion: Ben, we met at the beer tent, worked together. Things can happen, we're here now discoursing. Also last year I met a (younger) couple, he'd been to a couple rallies, she was at her first. She expressed a desire to "go shopping" for a few items at the vendors, and asked if I would help out, as opposed to going with her hubby, just to get another point of view. I felt honored to help, with the caveat that we were looking first, then she could go back later with that info and make more informed choices. She could also have asked for info from a lot of other folks, and I did tell her that. As has been discussed in previous threads on the forum, go to the rally with the intention of having a good time, meet people, enjoy each others company. Maybe the first time you won't meet so many. But that is a start. Hey, I don't bite (hard), and I don't thin anybody else in our community does either. But we are all individuals. Check us out, introduce yourself. We learned a new word in school today - sharing. Information is community property.

[BradfordBenn]

Originally posted by JimVonBaden
Is GEEZER the accepted Politically Correct term

After checking the politically correct dictionary, the proper phrase is "Youth Challenged" :p

[JimVonBaden1]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
After checking the politically correct dictionary, the proper phrase is "Youth Challenged" :p

Great! Now I can add that to my growing list of challenges! Follicley, vertically, horizontally, optically and mentally! :help

Hmmm, might be easier to write the list the other way!

Jim :brow

[YB in IN]

I've been off forum for a few days, so I hope this isn't a dollar short and a day late. I'm one of the "kids" at the ripe old age of 23. The folks my age don't really want to sit in a classroom situation all day. We hang around the "geezers" at every rally that we go to, or we've grown up with bikes. I would go out on a limb to say that many of us have a pretty good idea of whats going on when we fire up our bikes. There are plenty of seminars at national that deal with everything people would have interest in learning more about. I liked the idea that I think Rob had of having a meet and greet with the directors of the board and then having a destination to ride to. Not some namby-pamby mommy and daddy holding our hands thing, let us ride the way we want to. Having a ride to look back on that was "Hey remember when we hit those twisites and had a good time" rather than "Remember when we had a bunch of people riding with us who were there under the pretense that we weren't good enough riders to be on our own" will go a lot farther in fostering an interest in becoming involved with the 'MOA. :)

[knary]

Originally posted by YB in IN
I've been off forum for a few days, so I hope this isn't a dollar short and a day late. I'm one of the "kids" at the ripe old age of 23. The folks my age don't really want to sit in a classroom situation all day. We hang around the "geezers" at every rally that we go to, or we've grown up with bikes. I would go out on a limb to say that many of us have a pretty good idea of whats going on when we fire up our bikes. There are plenty of seminars at national that deal with everything people would have interest in learning more about. I liked the idea that I think Rob had of having a meet and greet with the directors of the board and then having a destination to ride to. Not some namby-pamby mommy and daddy holding our hands thing, let us ride the way we want to. Having a ride to look back on that was "Hey remember when we hit those twisites and had a good time" rather than "Remember when we had a bunch of people riding with us who were there under the pretense that we weren't good enough riders to be on our own" will go a lot farther in fostering an interest in becoming involved with the 'MOA. :)

sshhhh....Be nice. Let the old guys think they're better riders.

[Jim Shaw]

Having learned to ride at the age of 46, I have no direct experience in any of this. But, it occurs to me that the folks under say 30 who come to the MOA Rally are "younger BEEMER RIDERS" more than "YOUNGER beemer riders." Get my drift?

Rather than segregating them for a lot of special treatment thought up by geezers, why not just ADD to the existing Rally events, some special chances for them to get together. Seminars and maybe a social event where they feel comfortable might be better than a contrived Sunday school type of atmosphere.

Since its inception, I try hard not to miss the regular Women Who Ride seminars - not because I have some secret desire to understand women (gave up on that decades ago), but because I find their discussions interestingly different and refreshing - and it's a gas listening to women riders interact. Perhaps if we had a seminar on "Twenties Who Ride," we might find a similar quality? I'd sure sit in on that as a listener.

The same is true of the beer tent. I'm too old to withstand most current "music," but it wouldn't bother me a bit if some of my rally fee went into another beer tent with 20s kinda entertainment.

MOA has become so large that it is only wise to consider some of these beneficial specializations for various categories of our members - not only at the rally, but in the magazine and the web site.

Subjects for seminars that come to mind:
- Primitive motorcycle camping and good, cheap equipment
- Roughing it touring and camping destinations
- Best buys in BMW models for Twenties riders
- Touring by way of hostels
- Safe rider wear that doesn't cost $900.
- Weekend riding/hiking destinations
- How to successfully shop for and buy a used BMW bike

How about providing (not requiring) just an adjacent camping area for Twenties at the Rally?

Throw a cookout one evening for these folks, with beer and a dejay. Let them pick the food and the music.

Ya think there might one good idea above? Do you think you could add to the ideas with maybe ten minutes of thought?

Organizationally, how about trying to find a Twenties rally chairperson to organize some of this - rather having some geezer schoolmarm having to fake it?

The mind boggles...

Jim

[JimVonBaden1]

Originally posted by Jim Shaw
Having learned to ride at the age of 46, I have no direct experience in any of this. But, it occurs to me that the folks under say 30 who come to the MOA Rally are "younger BEEMER RIDERS" more than "YOUNGER beemer riders." Get my drift?...


Subjects for seminars that come to mind:
- Primitive motorcycle camping and good, cheap equipment
- Roughing it touring and camping destinations
- Best buys in BMW models for Twenties riders
- Touring by way of hostels
- Safe rider wear that doesn't cost $900.
- Weekend riding/hiking destinations
- How to successfully shop for and buy a used BMW bike

Jim

I am 40 and would be interested in many of those subject since I am new to BMWs and REnew to riding.

Jim :brow

[RevWillie]

Originally posted by Jim Shaw

Rather than segregating them for a lot of special treatment thought up by geezers, why not just ADD to the existing Rally events, some special chances for them to get together. Seminars and maybe a social event where they feel comfortable might be better than a contrived Sunday school type of atmosphere.


MOA has become so large that it is only wise to consider some of these beneficial specializations for various categories of our members


How about providing (not requiring) just an adjacent camping area for Twenties at the Rally?

Throw a cookout one evening for these folks, with beer and a dejay. Let them pick the food and the music.

Ya think there might one good idea above? Do you think you could add to the ideas with maybe ten minutes of thought?

Organizationally, how about trying to find a Twenties rally chairperson to organize some of this - rather having some geezer schoolmarm having to fake it?



Jim,

They are ALL good ideas! Inclusion instead of exclusion is the best idea. Specialized seminars (poverty riding & etc.) and spaces for them to relax in are winners too. We need to find a way to welcome IN young blood to MOA, not to separate them away.

I agree with you that we would need a Twenties-type chairperson to head this up. I know that I would be glad to help out on it but my Twenties went the way of my /5: well run but worn flat out. :eek

[Mar]

Hey John,

Do you know about the Gateway Riders in St. Louis? If you want input from Old Geezers, we're a great place to find that! :-) Actually, we do have some younger members, also. Shoot an email back to me if you'd like more information.

Now back to the rally discussion....

[tarrenshaw]

This will be my first rally and I'm 25. I'll be bringing my gf who is 19, so the idea of activites oriented towards people in thier 20's sounds like a great idea! Jim Shaw had some excellent suggestions like the seperate tenting area and the seminars about cheap riding gear and camping. See ya there!

Tarren Shaw

[kbasa]

Hey Tarren, I keep seeing you on here. When're you gonna register? I promise we won't spam you.

:D

[Rad]

Originally posted by Rob Nye
I am considering setting up a seminar that would be titled the Geezer Free Zone for riders under 26. ,

I will cut to the chase…….Bad idea.

I started ride'n at 15 and been ride steady for over 35 years.:eek

I hung out with the old farts during my young days and hang out with the "kids” now.

Motorcycles create a common bond that spans many barriers, including age.

If it’s input yur after; it does not matter what a 21 year old wants, or what a 71 year old wants. It only matters what a motorcyclist wants.

Daymn, if ya think I’m opinionated now….Ya shoulda seen me in my 20’s:bliss

[Jim Shaw]

What Kbasa said. Where are you located? Whatdaya ride? Oh - just register so we got a stationary target. :heh

[knary]

Originally posted by tarrenshaw
This will be my first rally and I'm 25. I'll be bringing my gf who is 19, so the idea of activites oriented towards people in thier 20's sounds like a great idea! Jim Shaw had some excellent suggestions like the seperate tenting area and the seminars about cheap riding gear and camping. See ya there!

Tarren Shaw

I would vote for a series of "new to riding" events. I would be willing to bet that there will be many more newbies that are 55 at the rally than newbies that are 25.

[Jim Shaw]

I agree with Knary. The idea for the seminars is to include all interested. I remember very well my first MOA rally at Moodus. I had all the wrong gear, all the wrong expectations. I was lucky to run into another rider who introduced me around, and showed me the ropes. -He WASN'T opinionated, thank God.

The idea with the separate camping is to provide a place where younger people feel more comfortable with each other, and find it easy to meet others that they can have some fun with. Strictly voluntary.

Jim :brow

[BradfordBenn]

I think a new to riding theme of seminars - sans age is a good idea.

I also think that having some Generation X & Y entertainment is a good idea.

So perhaps both?

:idea

-=Brad (on Location in Potters Bar, England and missing my motorcycle.)

[kbasa]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
I think a new to riding theme of seminars - sans age is a good idea.

I also think that having some Generation X & Y entertainment is a good idea.

So perhaps both?

:idea

-=Brad (on Location in Potters Bar, England and missing my motorcycle.)

In.

[Jim Shaw]

Originally posted by KBasa
In.

So, maybe you'll be in a position to DO something about all this talk? :evil

[kbasa]

Originally posted by Jim Shaw
So, maybe you'll be in a position to DO something about all this talk? :evil

Sure. Cruise my hotel room and I'll play some of my punk and hip hop music for ya.

I may have other responsibilities at the national this year. :evil

[YB in IN]

Originally posted by KBasa
Sure. Cruise my hotel room and I'll play some of my punk and hip hop music for ya.

I may have other responsibilities at the national this year. :evil

Hey hey, now don't be jinxing yourself now!!! :eek

[Motoclass]

I think the best thing any of us can do is to invite that younger rider (or any stranger for that matter!) to sit at our table in the Beer Garden or to set up their tent next to ours... invite him/her in! Ask them what their ride was like; how do you like your bike; what kind of tires have worked best for you, etc. Invite him/her into your/our group!

At the Redmond National there was a young guy (19-20) wandering alone around the rally site on a Ducati Monster. Well, he happened to stop by the area that "our group" was camped at to look at another Ducati Monster (ridden by a notorious woman from Spokane by the way) parked there. Someone asked him a question, someone else another question, and before you knew it he had spent the entire Rally camped, eating, drinking, and having a heckova great time with a group of people old enough to be his mother or father. That was his first rally. The next time I see Ryan at a rally it will be renewing an old friendship. Age wasn't a factor for him or for any of us. Motorcycles were.

We all can make everyone feel welcome! :beer

[amiles]

I don't like the idea. We are supposed to be a "family" that has a love for the BMW motorcycle, now we seem to have people wanting to fragment things all to pieces.

We already have segregated, women only MC classes. Now are we to segregate other activities by age as well. Activities at the rally should be inclusive so as to bring us together, not exclusive eliminating one group or another from attending.

This isn't a resort with "something for everyone" It is a BMW rally, where I believe that the focus should be on the enjoyment of BMW Motorcycles and their care and feeding.

The rally runs only a few days, lets get to know each other as best we can, not be isolated into splinter groups that pass in the night

[YB in IN]

Originally posted by A Miles
I don't like the idea. We are supposed to be a "family" that has a love for the BMW motorcycle, now we seem to have people wanting to fragment things all to pieces.

We already have segregated, women only MC classes. Now are we to segregate other activities by age as well. Activities at the rally should be inclusive so as to bring us together, not exclusive eliminating one group or another from attending.

This isn't a resort with "something for everyone" It is a BMW rally, where I believe that the focus should be on the enjoyment of BMW Motorcycles and their care and feeding.

The rally runs only a few days, lets get to know each other as best we can, not be isolated into splinter groups that pass in the night

I agree that the rally activities should be inclusive, however speaking as a yong 23 year old rider, I can tell you that it would be nice to find out who some of the younger people are in the 'MOA. Don't get me wrong, I have loads and loads of fun hanging out with everyone at the rally, but it's nice to have some people your own age, who are at the same place in their life as you are to relate to. Think of the seminar/class as another way for people to meet, not as something that is trying to seperate people. It can serve as a way for the 'MOA to get a feel for what it is that the younger riders in the club want to see, and get us a bit more interested in the club as well. Not to sound all ominous or whatever, but we are going to be the ones running the show in 20 30 years, it may be good if we know each other and have some idea as to what's going on. :)

[BradfordBenn]

I agree with Garth after going last year, I felt a little like a fish out of water. After last year's rally one of the things that became apparent was that the National is not a good idea to be the first rally.

I look at this thread as a way to make the National a good idea for the attendees first rally. The idea to make it more inclusive.

-=Brad

Originally posted by YB in IN
I agree that the rally activities should be inclusive, however speaking as a yong 23 year old rider, I can tell you that it would be nice to find out who some of the younger people are in the 'MOA. Don't get me wrong, I have loads and loads of fun hanging out with everyone at the rally, but it's nice to have some people your own age, who are at the same place in their life as you are to relate to. Think of the seminar/class as another way for people to meet, not as something that is trying to seperate people. It can serve as a way for the 'MOA to get a feel for what it is that the younger riders in the club want to see, and get us a bit more interested in the club as well. Not to sound all ominous or whatever, but we are going to be the ones running the show in 20 30 years, it may be good if we know each other and have some idea as to what's going on. :)

[kbasa]

Yeah, but look at all the new friends you've made since last year, Brad.

After all, don't you really want to know what jgr's real name is? Is Boxergrrlie really as nice as she seems? Does Donky Doc really look like a Donkey? Does Rob really carry 5 pounds of Ritalin around with him?

All these questions and more will get answered when we finally get the first Forum Gathering going this year at the national.

[knary]

Originally posted by KBasa
Yeah, but look at all the new friends you've made since last year, Brad.

After all, don't you really want to know what jgr's real name is? Is Boxergrrlie really as nice as she seems? Does Donky Doc really look like a Donkey? Does Rob really carry 5 pounds of Ritalin around with him?

All these questions and more will get answered when we finally get the first Forum Gathering going this year at the national.

In

:thumb

[Jim Shaw]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
I agree with Garth after going last year, I felt a little like a fish out of water. After last year's rally one of the things that became apparent was that the National is not a good idea to be the first rally.

I look at this thread as a way to make the National a good idea for the attendees first rally. The idea to make it more inclusive.

-=Brad

As a reluctant geezer, I completely agree. Besides, I get tired of geezers, too. The idea should be to expand the rally to make it a blast for all ages. And you younger guys have to be a growing voice of what appeals to you. Us geezers forget what we were about when we were your age.

Good things come to those with a plan, some leadership, and a budget. My sense of the MOA is that a reasonable budget is very likely, if you have the first two. As to seminars that are attractive to Twenties, Suzanna Parkhouse has always been totally accomodating in providing space and time for new ideas. Again, a plan and leadership is required. The budget is already there.

There is a growing cadret of ungeezerish types here. Anybody want to step up to the plate on some of the seminar topics above, or know somebody just right that they can get to do one or more of them? Who wants to pitch a semi-reserved camping area for Twenties to Jackie Hughes, while she still has time to accomodate?

Let's see if this bonfire can make anything more than just smoke!

Jim :yow

[amiles]

I sure hope that the rally can be an excellent experience for everyone. Perhaps some sort of "meet and greet" nametag wearing party would be a good thing. Many of us feel a bit daunted in a big crowd regardless of age. If this is held early in the event many of us will be bursting with new stories of the trip there as well as our registration experience. This might be a chance for the authorities to make last minute anouncements as well.

If those attending want to form into smaller groups of mutual interest, all the better (it happens anyway). Getting to know one another & exchanging interests and knowledge are enjoyable and useful pastimes.

I wonder if in some way we might find a way to advertise a bit about ourselves as a way to break some ice. Name, date of membership & number, Hometown, bike(s) and related interests. Age & sex can be determined pretty well without any help needed.

Perhaps a sort of "credential badge" type of thing using the MOA ID card for a start with a second pocket below, to hold the rally registration slip. A checklist of interests, or the attachment of stickers would permit the attendee to reveal as much (or little) about themselves as they wish. At the same time soliciting kindred spirits and others to confir with. People that I have seen at conventions seem to love decorating their badges with state flags, company logos etc. MOA members would have no shortage of pins to put on such a display.

The BMW marque has over time been the machine largely for the older rider. Cost, and the understated nature of the machine are part of this. Perhaps the younger rider on a BMW is the counterpoint to Grandpa on a noisy HD machine.

Let's not try to include certain persons by excluding others.

[BradfordBenn]

Originally posted by KBasa
Yeah, but look at all the new friends you've made since last year, Brad.

After all, don't you really want to know what jgr's real name is? Is Boxergrrlie really as nice as she seems? Does Donky Doc really look like a Donkey? Does Rob really carry 5 pounds of Ritalin around with him?

All these questions and more will get answered when we finally get the first Forum Gathering going this year at the national.

Agreed definitely attending. I am looking forward to doing a hot lap of the fairgrounds on KBasa's GS :p

Like I said, the idea is to be inclusive and pretty much just have conversation starters. So when the forum gathering takes place I will be there, probably with ears on.:bliss :clap

[Rob Nye]

On a related note....

We are talking about having a "forum party" in the beer garden.

Until we come up with a real seminar with a name and description that would cover all the excellent points raised in this thread I think that with some creative planning and preparation we could cover alot of bases at an informal gathering in the beer garden.


Come to think of it perhaps we should have our forum party listed in the seminar schedule. . I would suggest that it is scheduled to start an hour or so before the band. What do you all think?

How would we describe it?

Best,

[BradfordBenn]

IN!

The name description:

What KBasa put up a couple of posts ago, plus... see if those are Brad's real ears or not.

Originally posted by Rob Nye
On a related note....

We are talking about having a "forum party" in the beer garden.

Until we come up with a real seminar with a name and description that would cover all the excellent points raised in this thread I think that with some creative planning and preparation we could cover alot of bases at an informal gathering in the beer garden.


Come to think of it perhaps we should have our forum party listed in the seminar schedule. . I would suggest that it is scheduled to start an hour or so before the band. What do you all think?

How would we describe it?

Best,

[manicmechanic]

Let us not forget that "geezerdom" is more a state of mind, and not necessarily an age. I may be growing older, but I refuse to grow up. As far as meeting at the beer garden, I'll probably be there, tending the beer, I mean bar.

[Jim Shaw]

Originally posted by manic mechanic
Let us not forget that "geezerdom" is more a state of mind, and not necessarily an age.
I keep trying to remember that, but I forget where I put it.
-Jim :snore

[Voni]

What a great discussion.

I'm remembering the first rally Paul and I went to. We felt less than welcomed because it seemed everyone already knew everyone else and didn't have time for us. Not unfriendly, but just preoccupied.

Somehow, we became separated and each of us as single people were seen as someone to include and were immediately adopted by wonderful people. And we/ve been hooked on Beemer Riders and Rallies ever since.

As long as we were "together" no one saw the need to go out of their way to include us.

So many good ideas here about how to break down that initial where do I belong feeling. I'd be glad to volunteer as a Big Sister ; )

Voni
sMiling
:wow :wow

[Rob Nye]

Ok here is something to consider.

First, let's ditch the Geezer Free Zone as a title.

What I suggest is that we have a gathering in the beer garden Thursday afternoon / evening before the music starts. We could have a forum banner made for a focal point for people to get introduced.

We could have this listed in the program as "The New New Thing". For a description (help me fine tune this pls) something along the lines of:

The users of the BMW MOA Forum invite you to come meet n greet the people behind the keyboards. The forum is the happening place for member-to-member communication and is the best place for finding answers to your questions about any topic related to our favorite ride, the MOA and motorcycling in general. If you are a new rider, new member or just enjoying some new experiences come join our forum users at happy hour under the beer garden and share your experiences in real time.

I like Thursday evening because it is early on in the rally that people who meet will have plenty of chances to hook up later in the rally.

What do you all think? Where's K Basa on this?

Best,

[MrsKbasa]

Out riding, the sun is still shining here.


and before you ask, I am working on a project for school.

[kbasa]

Originally posted by Rob Nye
What do you all think? Where's K Basa on this?



In. Let's make this an event that's listed in the rally program. Can you round up the sign committee to make us a sign, Mr. Secretary?

Oh yes. Bring your digital camera kids. There's gonna be a shootout in the Beer Garden!

[BradfordBenn]

In!

I want Voni to be my Big Sister;)

Any volunteers for Big Brother? Bail Bondsmen? Cigar Steward? Wine Sommelier?

[kbasa]

I nominate Brad for Martinista.

[BradfordBenn]

http://www.bradfordbenn.com/photolinks/smallmartini.jpg

and

http://www.bradfordbenn.com/photolinks/thumbmartini.jpg

How much alcohol can I legally take across state lines?:dunno

[kbasa]

As much as you can carry.

When I left Kentucky, I had three bottles of bourbon (WL Weller 19 yo Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Maker's Mark) and a flask (Woodford Reserve).

I still have most of it.

[BradfordBenn]

In perhaps one of the cruelest things ever, I left a bottle of 30+ year old Bourbon sitting at my mother's house. Drat!

Man was it smooth. I litterally broke the seal/uncorked it on Friday.

[YB in IN]

And again we come back to bourbon. I love this forum :thumb

[widebmw]

Geezer Free Zone ?
When this started it was going to be for young riders 16 - 26 years old.
First the Geezers wanted in.
Then they wanted to bring beer.
Now they want to bring burbon.
Next they will have to have someone from the AA.
:beer :drink :1drink :evil

[naddy100]

I think the Geezer-Free Zone is a good idea.

There's a difference in life experiences, frames of reference, and pending life decisions between young people and geezers. A geezer ought to be sensitive/aware enough to realize there's a difference, but frequently doesn't.

Noel
A geezer who works with young adults.

[JimVonBaden1]

Originally posted by naddy100
I think the Geezer-Free Zone is a good idea.

There's a difference in life experiences, frames of reference, and pending life decisions between young people and geezers. A geezer ought to be sensitive/aware enough to realize there's a difference, but frequently doesn't.

Noel
A geezer who works with young adults.

I'm still trying to decide if:

A. Am a geezer at 40? I don't feel like one.
B. Am offended at the term Geezer?
C. Can find any way in H#!! to make it to this rally and meet some geezers, and non-geezers.
and finally:
C. What was I saying? :dunno

Jim :brow

[dzimbric]

I second the nomination of Brad as Martininista

Geezers or non-geezers
martinins or martinis
vodka or gin
The Pucker definitley needs some improvment, I'll bring a bottle of genuine 100% from the old country german apple schnapps.

Not to cross posts but who all is registered for Track Day?

I am sorry I am little behind in catching up to the posts but I HAVE BEEN OUT RIDING AND IT WAS DAMN COLD YESTERDAY AT 4AM.

I accidently clicked the wrong button and started a new thread nominating Brad.

[amiles]

Originally posted by BradfordBenn
http://www.bradfordbenn.com/photolinks/smallmartini.jpg
How much alcohol can I legally take across state lines?:dunno


Technically taking heavily taxed alcoholic beverages across state lines is known as Bootlegging. Some if not all states have laws providing for confiscation of the beverages as well as the vehicle used to transport it.

Typically no one much cares about your having enough for evening cocktails.

[SweetT]

To Jim Shaw and KBasa,
I became a member of the MOA last october, but for some reason the computer I was using the day I made the posts wouldn't let me log in, or I forgot my password, or something like that.

Anyway, I am still planning on attending the rally this summer and I have vollunteered at the registration booth, so I'm sure I'll meet a lot of ya as you arrive at the rally. I relaly like the idea of the 20-something camping area, but I dont want to be too isolated from you older guys because you have a lot of experience and stories to tell. Maybe I'll hear some at the beer tent?

BTW, can someone not 21 hang out at the beer tent but not drink beer? I'd hate to make my gf wait outside while I had all the fun. Ha!

Tarren Shaw
Stillwater, OK
91 K75

[kbasa]

Originally posted by Tarren Shaw
To Jim Shaw and KBasa,
I became a member of the MOA last october, but for some reason the computer I was using the day I made the posts wouldn't let me log in, or I forgot my password, or something like that.

Anyway, I am still planning on attending the rally this summer and I have vollunteered at the registration booth, so I'm sure I'll meet a lot of ya as you arrive at the rally. I relaly like the idea of the 20-something camping area, but I dont want to be too isolated from you older guys because you have a lot of experience and stories to tell. Maybe I'll hear some at the beer tent?

BTW, can someone not 21 hang out at the beer tent but not drink beer? I'd hate to make my gf wait outside while I had all the fun. Ha!

Tarren Shaw
Stillwater, OK
91 K75

Bring her along Tarren. I think it'll be fun.

A couple of years ago, a 17 year old that had ridden to the rally on his own /5 and then replaced the rear main seal - at the rally - by himself wandered into the Yankee Beemer campground. We were hanging around swilling beer, telling stories of rides gone wrong, tent gassing sessions and the usual stuff, combined with passing around a rather fetching tiara (Thanks iRene!).

The kid watches all this and very solemnly says, "You guys are just like my friends. Only older."

Got that right homes. And you know what? We are your friends now. :D

Looking forward to meeting you and your gf, Tarren! Tina and I did all our dating on a 1977 R75/7 back in the late 70s and early 80s.

[Jim Shaw]

Originally posted by KBasa
Bring her along Tarren. I think it'll be fun...
Looking forward to meeting you and your gf, Tarren!
If Kbasa is a geezer, then I am a fossil, Tarren. You'll have fun working registration. Can't remember anyone being refused entry to the beer tent, especially young ladies. Say hello at the beer tent, and we'll enjoy a sasparilla together.

I'm hoping Nye pulls off the un-geezer beer tent getogether. I'll be lurking.

Jim
'01 R1150GS "GiSmo" :1drink

[BeerTeam]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Tarren Shaw

BTW, can someone not 21 hang out at the beer tent but not drink beer? I'd hate to make my gf wait outside while I had all the fun. Ha!

Sorry Tarron, Washington's state law: persons under 21 years of age are not permitted in any Washington state tavern. The Beer Garden is considered a tavern. Even one violation could close us down. We don't want to stop the party early.

[Rob Nye]

Here is how this is shaping up.

There will be the "New New Thing" which will be the forum gathering. This will be Thursday evening at 6pm in or very close to the beer garden. Details will be posted under a separate thread. We will be encouraging new riders, new members, new ideas and new discussion as well as providing a chance for people to see the face behind the avatar. This will be mentioned in the Owners News, Rally Program and right here.

Second there will be a seminar called the Geezer Free Zone which will be a meeting before a ride to eat on Friday. The emphasis and promotion will be on a gathering of our chronologically younger riders but no one will be denied participation based on their DOB. I am working on coordinating this with the Camp Gears team.

We will also be having a traditional seminar in a place with A/V equipment. Here we will provide instructions and demonstrate how to get the most from the forum software including how to work with images, smilies, attachments and formatting. We will also demonstrate and discuss our new secure commerce section followed by a presentation on what is happening in the future.

The deadlines for programs etc is coming up in a few days. Once everything is locked down I will release firm details.

Thanks to every one who participated here. From a simple question came some great ideas.

Best,

[IndyGT]

Hey, I'm 58, but I feel like I'm about 22.
I don't mind the pups calling me a geezer. Just don't call me a feeb.

John Flora

[beemerred]

the thought behind the meeting of younger BMWMOA riders is to help them blend in with group. how about some kind of "mentoring" program that matches a newbie with a GEEZER, just in case the younger of the two needs info, rally news, directions, rides to join in with, etc. it`s just a thought but as a qualified G-person i`d be willing to share thoughts, rides, ideas, and even beer with a younger gen-y person.

[JimVonBaden1]

Originally posted by beemer-red
the thought behind the meeting of younger BMWMOA riders is to help them blend in with group. how about some kind of "mentoring" program that matches a newbie with a GEEZER, just in case the younger of the two needs info, rally news, directions, rides to join in with, etc. it`s just a thought but as a qualified G-person i`d be willing to share thoughts, rides, ideas, and even beer with a younger gen-y person.

Or a Geezer Newbie with an Experienced Young Guy!

Jim :brow

[beemerred]

your are right Jim, I`d be more than happy to have a mentor at the National because although I really like going to the rallies in my area I`ve never been to the "big show". if I ever get the chance I`ll let one of experienced "newbie" mentor me cause I am "geezer afflicted" :bliss