2009 Tennessee National Rally

[MonkeyBoy]

Hickory and mesquite are two different woods used in cooking, both loved for their aromatic smoke that imparts a nice flavour. Mesquite is a bit more western. Both are tasty.

The conventional wisdom that I think generally applies everywhere is this:

If the sign says BARBEQUE, keep driving.

If the sign says BAR-B-QUE, only stop if there are plenty of cars parked outside.

If the sign says BBQ, stop without any worry and prepare to eat to your heart's content. :eat :eat :eat

Good to know. I found a few BBQ joints in Johnson City, any worth a visit?

Dixie Barbecue Company
423-283-7447
3301 North Roan St.
Johnson City, TN

Firehouse Restaurant & Catering
423-929-7377
627 West Walnut St.
Johnson City, TN

Red Pig Bar-B-Q
423-282-6585
2201 Ferguson Rd.
Johnson City, TN

River’s Edge Restaurant
423-743-3713
2004 Jonesborough Rd.
Erwin, TN

[warredon]

Good to know. I found a few BBQ joints in Johnson City, any worth a visit?

Dixie Barbecue Company
423-283-7447
3301 North Roan St.
Johnson City, TN

Firehouse Restaurant & Catering
423-929-7377
627 West Walnut St.
Johnson City, TN

Red Pig Bar-B-Q
423-282-6585
2201 Ferguson Rd.
Johnson City, TN

River’s Edge Restaurant
423-743-3713
2004 Jonesborough Rd.
Erwin, TN



We ate at the Firehouse several years ago, so I don't know how it is now. It was very good, on a scale of 10 I would rate it an 8.

[aaaaaa]

Hello everyone,

I thought it may be a good idea to start this thread agic...Southern Style !![/B] [/FONT][/I]

Now, it is your turn…any questions or comments?

Vance Harrelson
2009 Rally Chair

And now 27,300 hits later.......... is the beer garden going to open for early arrivals? :bar
aaaaaa

[kgadley01]

And now 27,300 hits later.......... is the beer garden going to open for early arrivals? :bar
aaaaaa

I sure hope so, after four hours in the saddle I'm going to need one...:beer

[osbornk]

We ate at the Firehouse several years ago, so I don't know how it is now. It was very good, on a scale of 10 I would rate it an 8.

I ate there last month. Still excellent but crowded on a Saturday night. It won't hold many of us.

[RevWillie]

And now 27,300 hits later.......... is the beer garden going to open for early arrivals? :bar
aaaaaa

Usually, the Beer Garden starts serving on Wed. afternoon. :buds We have a pretty good sized crowd on Wed. night and probably will have a band that night. It used to be that the gates opened early for volunteer staff only, but I don' t think that early admittance requires Rally service anymore (but it should!). Getting in early will make it easier to find a campsite--trust me, most good campsites are gone by Noon on Thursday at the Nationals:scratch Of course, the Rally will be so interesting and exciting,it will not matter about the quality of your campsite (except for the 100dB snorer a couple of tents away from you.:dunno)

We always need bartenders, so come on in and serve a shift or two. If slinging beers is not your thing, there are LOTS of volunteer jobs for attendees over the weekend. You should sign up for something at the Rally, and be a part of a amazing event! :dance

Rev.Willie
Head Bartender (Wed. and Sat.)

[SIBUD]

A small encouragement for those planning on early arrival. Volunteer for something. It doesn't matter what. You will be helping Rally chairpersons that need the help. You will meet some really nice folks and get to know some new friends. You will feel ownership for the rally.

And in addition, it is good karma.:thumb

[Norwood]

A small encouragement for those planning on early arrival. Volunteer for something. It doesn't matter what. You will be helping Rally chairpersons that need the help. You will meet some really nice folks and get to know some new friends. You will feel ownership for the rally.

And in addition, it is good karma.:thumb


Yes the rally is about volunteering....a great experience for sure.

To volunteer now, just drop me a email at volunteerme@comcast.net

I will give you a list of committees that need many volunteers and you can pick and choose which committee...couple of email exchanges and your set....

An extra...this year we will have a drawing for some great door prizes just for vounteers, a way to say thanks....sign up at Volunteer Central after you pick up your registration packet. Drawing Saturday...don't have to be present to win....just be a volunteer.

[tronic5]

Maybe an oversight on my part, Is the vendors list posted ?

[Norwood]

Maybe an oversight on my part, Is the vendors list posted ?

No list has been posted.

[CTYankee]

I am excited to plan to attend this years rally. I plan on camping, which should be an absolute BLAST. Looking forward to my first rally event and to meeting some new people.

Any advice from you rally vets would be greatly appreciated!
Until later...

:D

[CTellman]

Does anyone know if there will be an experienced rider course offered at the rally?
Campbell Tellman II
'93 R100RT
:thumb

[alabeemer]

[QUOTE=CTellman;419097]Does anyone know if there will be an experienced rider course offered at the rally?
Campbell Tellman II
'93 R100RT
:thumb[/QUOTE

Yes, we will have an ERC during the rally week. Details will be forthcoming!

Vance Harrelson
2009 Rally Chair

[Camille]

What's the situation for RVs? Any parking at the Fairgrounds?

Gillette was a blast. Couldn't get in early so we had a pre-rally in the Wally World parking lot for two days prior. Total of eleven units. Great fun.

Looking forward to the excellent riding.

[r11rs94]

I am excited to plan to attend this years rally. I plan on camping, which should be an absolute BLAST. Looking forward to my first rally event and to meeting some new people.

Any advice from you rally vets would be greatly appreciated!
Until later...

:D

Are you going down alone, or with someone? Depending on what part of CT you are in, there will be a bunch of OceanstateBMWriders heading down.

[dmaust01]

I am excited to plan to attend this years rally. I plan on camping, which should be an absolute BLAST. Looking forward to my first rally event and to meeting some new people.

Any advice from you rally vets would be greatly appreciated!
Until later...

:D

I suggest that you volunteer at least one shift and see if you have a good time. It is a great way to meet people and help the rally operate. Pick something that interests you and contact the committee chair or the volunteer committee chair. Watch the website for the list of chairs.

[vizslaowner]

:usa Guy's , this is my wife and I's 1st rally. If I volunteer wont we miss out on the happenings??? I mean, maybe it would be good to know how long, or how many days this volunteering is for,ya know? Is it just for 4 hrs for 1 day or what? Can I wait and volunteer once I get there? Where do we find these answeres? I'm glad the wife is going along, but I dont want her to get bored while I'm volunteering for something...she may not want to go again. Been trying to get her to camp...but thats out. We already have reservations so we'll try our darndest to get there. let me and others know where we can get answeres to these questions
Thanks

[kgadley01]

If you decide to volunteer for some duty, its usely for four hours on one day of the four day rally. I don't think you'll miss much.

[vizslaowner]

Thanks, I'll talk to the wife ...maybe I can get her to volunteer with me...hadn't thought of that!!! Does she have to be a member to volunteer?

[tourunigo]

maybe I should have read all the posts for an answer but decided to take a short cut: What is the entertainment line up and who is the Main Stage act? Rush?? -Bob

[Norwood]

Thanks, I'll talk to the wife ...maybe I can get her to volunteer with me...hadn't thought of that!!! Does she have to be a member to volunteer?


Do not have to be a member to volunteer, you can volunteer for one shift or more, one committee or more....

Like as been said, usually a shift is four hours and many husband and wife teams do volunteer.

I will post a list of committees within a few days...however if you wish to drop me a email I will forward you the list as I have it now...

VolunteerMe@comcast.net

[Norwood]

Volunteer Page on the Rally Site Click HERE (http://dev.bmwmoa.org/rally09/volunteer)

[r1100rick]

I can't find where you sign up or how much it costs and for those of us who are close is there a day pass available and how much?

[Norwood]

Well the package is coming together, some real nice prizes for volunteers...

Take a look click HERE (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=33374)

[Northsquad]

Can someone post an address or GPS coordinates for the rally, it's as if this place dosent't exist on my zumo550

[GregFeeler]

Can someone post an address or GPS coordinates for the rally, it's as if this place dosent't exist on my zumo550

Appalachian Fairgrounds
100 Lakeview street
Gray, TN 37615
http://www.bestofshoware.com/appalachianfair/

[Northsquad]

Thank You!!

[OU812]

I am going to both.:deal If anyone is going to the RA Rally the next week I am looking for a roommate to share the cost of the hotel room(already booked). Not cheap! Just over $100 per night. Thursday-Saturday nights.:ear

[Greenwald]

I can't find where you sign up or how much it costs and for those of us who are close is there a day pass available and how much?

Sorry - no Day Passes at the MOA Rallies. Some very good reasons posted by Sue RM and our President as to why this would not work well.

Ergo, the $35 3-Day Admission is what you'd pay for a single day at the event, but given all the vendors and comraderie, I'd say it was worth it.

If you wish to sign up for something, simply contact a Committee Chair - their e-mails appeared in the latest issue of ON.

Enjoy TN!

[k12lts]

maybe I should have read all the posts for an answer but decided to take a short cut: What is the entertainment line up and who is the Main Stage act? Rush?? -Bob


I'd like to know too. Is it a secret??:confused:

[R1Zst]

Any master tech's on site to sell and install new tires?

sorry, i didnt read all the posts.

[GSinNC]

Any master tech's on site to sell and install new tires?

sorry, i didnt read all the posts.

There are always tire vendors at the Rally. In addition any local dealers are usually running specials. Not sure where you are coming from but in Fairview, NC about 60 miles away is Acme Cycles. They always have good deals on tires ... and it is a very pretty ride over there.

http://www.acmemotorcycles.com/

[alabeemer]

I'd like to know too. Is it a secret??:confused:

Just about ready to announce the entertainment. The contracts are in hand and should be inked this week. We decided to keep this back until the contracts are in place. I think you will be pleased...the secret will be out ...soon...:whistle

[amiles]

From the photos posted earlier I get the sense that the Appalachian Fairgrounds look similar to the rally site at the Essex Vermont Rally

[RevWillie]

From the photos posted earlier I get the sense that the Appalachian Fairgrounds look similar to the rally site at the Essex Vermont Rally

......more like the rally site at Morganton, NC Rally!:eek

[yellowmike]

I was just searching the tour schedule of one of my favorite artists and I'll be damned if he isn't playing sat night at the BMW National.. Amazing... It will be a fantastic show by a Grammy award winning artist. Thanks to the entertainment chair for booking this act see you in July..
I'm not going to ruin the surprise (or jinx it) so I'll let the Rally committee announce it.. :drink :dance

[HankPfister]

As come on Yellowmike, don't hold back....at least give us a hint...:ear :ear :drink :lurk :whistle :dunno

[Voni]

Is it soon yet?

Voni
sMiling

[jmclean100]

I lived in Johnson City for four years and am now back in Alabama. I am still a member of both the Alabama BMW and the East TN BMW Clubs (which meets monthly less than 100 yards from the rally site). I have ridden bikes all over the UA and I have never found a place with more good riding right on its doorstep than the Johnson City area. My wife and I look forward to getting back.

Jim

[atoms]

Is it soon yet?

Voni
sMiling

Google is your friend if you can't wait.

[Sunnybear]

I found the golden ticket!!!

with the help of Google...

now I don't know these folks, but they sure look like fun!

(clues to the google treasure hunt may cost ya):drink

[yellowmike]

Hope I'm not wrong.... Looks like a friday night Gig though
http://delbert.com/tourschedule.htm

[osbornk]

Hope I'm not wrong.... Looks like a friday night Gig though
http://delbert.com/tourschedule.htm

I hope you are wrong but it looks like you are right.

[Visian]

I was just searching the tour schedule of one of my favorite artists and I'll be damned if he isn't playing sat night at the BMW National.. Amazing... It will be a fantastic show by a Grammy award winning artist. Thanks to the entertainment chair for booking this act see you in July..
I'm not going to ruin the surprise (or jinx it) so I'll let the Rally committee announce it.. :drink :dance

THAT is totally outstanding! :thumb

ian

[UncleHowie]

Hope I'm not wrong.... Looks like a friday night Gig though
http://delbert.com/tourschedule.htm

Well, my earlier digging found Blue Mother Tupelo, et al, on Friday night. Maybe they're the opening act(s), since they list 6:30 pm as show time?:scratch http://www.bluemothertupelo.com/calendar.html

In any event, I'm just looking forward to putting on some miles, sleeping in a field, and hanging out with a few thousand of my closest friends!:drink

See you soon...

[OU812]

I have hunted out of Johnson City in my youth(70'-76'). Never rode the area but I do remember that it was a motorcyclist dream.:usa

[GSinNC]

Delbert was in the past on the IMUS morning radio show. He is really good !

[alabeemer]

2009 Charity Challenge

Some of you may have seen the details of the Charity Challenge for this year on the website and soon in the ON. As your rally chair I thought it would be a good idea to share with you on the forum the challenge itself and what we hope to accomplish. Please look through the details and consider helping in any way you can to accomplish our goal.

What is that goal? For me it is to raise a huge “Mountain” of cash so that we can leave a very large footprint behind in our rally area this year. Your rally team and specifically your Charity committee chair Karol Patzer has worked hard to come up with a great charity to support along with several ways to raise money and have fun doing it!

If we do our job, the locals will feel the “Mountain Magic” that we will for having been there! Here is how it will work….

The Charity: The Coalition For Kids, Inc The Coalition is a non-profit organization with a mission to help children in need. Here they find a Safe Place, help with homework, reading and math assistance, music and art lessons, athletics, special preventive programs for violence and substance abuse, and a free snack and dinner.

How Can We Help???

Canned Food Drive: Bring with you to the rally a couple of canned food items. We will collect these in the Registration area and in the Country Store. I know we tend to pack heavy coming to the rally…but we can all make room for a couple of “Cans For The Kids”

Pull Tab Pull: We will collect the aluminum pull tabs from the soft drink and beer cans served in the Beer Garden. This will likely be a bunch of ‘em but we can add to the count significantly by collecting them starting NOW and bringing them with you to the rally! These will be given to the local Ronald McDonald House to support their housing program for kids’ families that are being treated in local hospitals. To date almost 5 million bucks have been raised from these tabs alone!

50/50: The old favorite! We will have our team selling 50/50 tickets around the grounds. Be sure to get your chance at a big pile of cash!

Dunking Booth: Yep a dunking booth. This is your chance to take your turn at “dunking” your Rally Chairs, Executive Director and your favorite Board members and do it for the kids! Be sure to look for the schedule of who will be in the “booth” on Friday and Saturday. Bring your aim and a bunch of cash!

Games: We will have an area where you will be able to play and spend some leisure time with pool tables and other assorted games. Proceeds from this area will be donated directly to the charity!

Chartered Club Challenge: Many of you are aware that it has become tradition to challenge the MOA Chartered Clubs to raise money for the rally charity. Thanks to the Chain Gang for starting this challenge! Start now in your local club to raise money specifically to bring to the rally. Let’s see which club can shine the brightest and raise the most money. Say your club is not a large one? Well, bring it on anyway and let’s see who can contribute the highest average per member!

The point is that times are tough for all of us. But with each of us pulling together as a team this group can make a huge difference in the life of some deserving kids.

So start pulling those tabs, and bring them along with a can of beans to the rally. Buy a lucky 50/50 ticket and then “dunk” your favorite MOA Board member!

I know some kids that will be really glad you did!!!

[Visian]

Dunking Booth:[/B] Yep a dunking booth. This is your chance to take your turn at “dunking” your Rally Chairs, Executive Director and your favorite Board members and do it for the kids! Be sure to look for the schedule of who will be in the “booth” on Friday and Saturday. Bring your aim and a bunch of cash!!!

this is an outstanding idea.

when is sue r-m scheduled to be on the hot seat? :evil

[tessler]

this is an outstanding idea.

when is sue r-m scheduled to be on the hot seat? :evilI thought this was to be labeled the "Always An Adventure" booth... :whistle

[alabeemer]

For those who may not have seen it on the Rally page over on the site....

We have put together a really cool tour of the Bush's Beans factory located in Chestnut hill, TN. This is a beautiful little Tennessee town about 75 miles from the rally site...you will enjoy the ride there and back! This is NOT a group ride but rather a show up there, take in the tour and the festivities and ease on back!
Check this link for all the details! http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally09/mountain_magic_beans_tour_country_style . we expect this to sell out so don't wait to sign up and get your chance to meet Duke the Bean Dog!

Also, check the website for details on discounted admission to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. This is a "must see" at a greatly reduced price just for the MOA Rally attendees! This will be a great stop for many on your way to or from the rally or a nice day ride from the rally. Check it out! http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally09/biltmore_discount_for_bmw_moa_members

[DLilah]

I've been away from the Forum for quite some time and have unfortunately missed the last two Rallies, so I'm soooo excited that I just registered for this one. It can't come too soon!!!! Now, I need to do some reading up on what to expect - yippeeeeeee!!!!

:dance

[dancogan]

I've been away from the Forum for quite some time and have unfortunately missed the last two Rallies, so I'm soooo excited that I just registered for this one. It can't come too soon!!!! Now, I need to do some reading up on what to expect - yippeeeeeee!!!!

:dance
Hey, DLilah! Good to hear you're back. Geri and I will be looking forward to seeing you at the rally.

[manicmechanic]

Glad to see that name around again, D-person! Hoping you're doing well. Looking forward to seeing you at various places again. Sent you an email.

[SIBUD]

this is an outstanding idea.

when is sue r-m scheduled to be on the hot seat? :evil

At the last BOD meeting, I promised to pay $50 to dunk Kbasa.

What would you pay to get sue wet? :wave

[osbornk]

Good to know. I found a few BBQ joints in Johnson City, any worth a visit?

Dixie Barbecue Company
423-283-7447
3301 North Roan St.
Johnson City, TN

Firehouse Restaurant & Catering
423-929-7377
627 West Walnut St.
Johnson City, TN

Red Pig Bar-B-Q
423-282-6585
2201 Ferguson Rd.
Johnson City, TN

River’s Edge Restaurant
423-743-3713
2004 Jonesborough Rd.
Erwin, TN

I "retested" the BBQ at the Firehouse Restaurant last night on our 41st. wedding anniversary and it is still delicious. However, they have a big crowd in the evenings when nothing is going on and they do not take reservations.

[AZ-J]

In a newsletter that came to my email:

BMW MOA International Rally
It’s official; Team Wunderlich America will be at the 37th BMW MOA International rally in Johnson City, Tennessee from July 16 – 19. We will be well stocked with many hundreds of the most popular Wunderlich accessories, available for you to purchase on site. Our Team will include certified technicians who will be available to install a wide range of Wunderlich accessories on your bike during the rally.

We look forward to showing you our new displays and having the chance to meet you in person. If your bike is already heavily accessorized with Wunderlich products, we would love the opportunity to have your bike parked in our booth for all or part of the rally. By allowing us to display your bike, we’ll give you a credit to be used for additional Wunderlich accessories at the rally or at a later date. If you are interested in participating, please e-mail photos of your bike to us.

Just an FYI!

[bselwyn]

I put up a new YouTube video of my son and me on a 1150GS and KLR 650 ride through the mountains of North Georgia, Western North Carolina, and East Tennessee. For those going to the Rally in Johnson City, take a look at the dirt roads and twisties pavement of this area. The Dragon, Smoky Mountains, Max Patch, and the Blue Ridge Parkway are all represented. Some gentle humor at our own expense is part of the package.

Go here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rsxnu...e=channel_page

Enjoy the video. We had a great time making it.

[glenfiddich]

Go here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rsxnu...e=channel_page

Enjoy the video. We had a great time making it.

I got this error when I tried your link: The URL contained a malformed video ID.

[alabeemer]

Please remember to save those pull tabs from aluminum drink cans. Bring them to the rally along with a can or two of beans for the food bank. Let's show the local folks what we can do when we all pull together!!

Here are the details again!!

How Can We Help???

Canned Food Drive: Bring with you to the rally a couple of canned food items. We will collect these in the Registration area and in the Country Store. I know we tend to pack heavy coming to the rally…but we can all make room for a couple of “Cans For The Kids”

Pull Tab Pull: We will collect the aluminum pull tabs from the soft drink and beer cans served in the Beer Garden. This will likely be a bunch of ‘em but we can add to the count significantly by collecting them starting NOW and bringing them with you to the rally! These will be given to the local Ronald McDonald House to support their housing program for kids’ families that are being treated in local hospitals. To date almost 5 million bucks have been raised from these tabs alone!

It ain't hard to do and this stuff is easy to pack so bring it on!! :usa

[qkvic]

Hello folks!
I am looking forward to another fabulous rally.
If I want to have an order shipped to the rally is there a shipping address and a location rallygoers can receive a shipment.
Thanks
vic #6711
:thumb

[alabeemer]

From the FAQ Section on the MOA Site: See you there!

NEED TO SHIP?

How do I ship my gear to the Rally?

Please do not ship packages for arrival before July 15th to avoid confusion. Upon arrival on site please visit the Receiving area located close to the Vendor area to claim your shipments. Clearly mark all packages as follows:


Your Name & Contact Number

C/O BMW MOA Rally

APPALACHIAN FAIRGROUNDS

100 Lakeview Street

Gray, TN 37615

There will be UPS shipping available for return gear or all the stuff you bought that you can't carry home!

[Paul_F]

I'm really looking forward to this ride. Sure hope that my bike is put back together by then.

[OldAndBusted]

I'm really looking forward to this ride. Sure hope that my bike is put back together by then.
i was getting worried about this too. my transmission was making some real weird noises. luckily i was able to get a loaner /2 transmission to diagnose it and the owner doesn't mind if i ride it to TN and back. nice guy. i hope yours works out too.

[Rob Nye]

i was getting worried about this too. My transmission was making some real weird noises. Luckily i was able to get a loaner /2 transmission to diagnose it and the owner doesn't mind if i ride it to tn and back. Nice guy. I hope yours works out too.

Nize!

For those following along at home this means that Mr. Oldandbusted is going to ride an over 40 year old motorcycle from Vermont to Tennessee!

:bow :thumb

[OldAndBusted]

over 50! early model /2 :brow

she made it to wisconsin and back, so i'm optimistic. but also realistic... (i bring a wide selection of tools)

[osbornk]

I took the long Virginia ride I outlined in the May MOA-ON yesterday to see if there were any changes of note. Three of us had a wonderful ride and a good lunch at Breaks Interstate Park. It a little over a 300 mile ride from the rally but about a 200 mile ride from my house. We did it counterclockwise for the first time. Riding it in the opposite direction makes it a completely different ride and a little more challenging.

Anyway, they have repaved some of the roads and they are generally in very good condition. The gravel was not nearly as bad as we expected as we have had some serious rainstorms this spring. We saw only 3 police cars on the entire trip and they were in the small towns we passed through. There were a few 22 wheel coal trucks that held us up a little (18 wheelers with an extra axle to handle the weight of the coal).

The only problem we found in the entire ride was a couple of places where half a lane of road had fallen off the side of the mountain due to the heavy rains. The DOT was in the process of doing repairs and they will probably be completed before the rally. The ride is http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally09/great_rides_from_the_2009_bmw_moa_rally

[Wasilla]

For those that want a little more information on the area of the Rally.

The Great Smokies are best known as the home of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which protects most of the range. The park was established in 1934, and with over 9 million visits per year, it is the most-visited national park in the United States.

Great Smokies 75th.org!
On this site you will find a rich and evolving variety of information on the Park’s history, current issues, and future visions.
http://greatsmokies75th.org

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Explore the official site from the NPS for the mountain range straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee.
http://www.nps.gov/grsm/

Maps of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This collection documents the history, cultural aspects and geological formations of areas that eventually became National Parks.
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/gmdhtml/nphtml/gsmhome.html

Great Smoky Mountains Regional Project
Provides support and information for researchers at all levels who study the Smokies and the surrounding communities.
http://www.lib.utk.edu/refs/smokies/index2.html

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Landforms
Contains information on various landforms (waterfalls, peaks, balds, rock formations) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina. Information on each landform includes maps, GPS waypoint (latitude/longitude), and the occasional picture.
http://www.cs.utk.edu/~dunigan/gsmnp/

Enjoy :type

[scoobs]

Posted a seperate thread on this but got no replies so trying here, what if any are the arrangements for camping at the rally site on the Sunday night? I'm more than willing to hang around and help clean up, but will need to figure out where I'll be sleeping.
Cheers,
Ian :drink

[alabeemer]

Hi Ian,
We actually have the fair ground under contract through Sunday. If you want to stay on Sunday night after the rally I do not think that will be a problem. Although that will be up to the fair ground, I can't imagine one night will be a problem. If you are interested in post rally clean up please contact that committee chair and let him know. We certainly want to make sure we leave the place in good shape!

See you there!

[scottnews41]

If if anyone is leaving the Atlanta area Friday am(tba) let me know, we can convoy!:dance

[jcmd1980]

Haven't preregistered. Any problems doing that when we arrive tomorrow evening? Looking forward to our first rally. J Carlson Atlanta

[GregFeeler]

We are expecting a large number of gate-registration people at this rally, so come on down!!

[hojoinsc]

We are expecting a large number of gate-registration people at this rally, so come on down!!

What time do things open up tomorrow (Saturday)!

[jdmetzger]

I haven't seen it posted anywhere - what were the attendance numbers at the rally? Did we break 10,000, as expected?

[wezul]

8976? Something like that, Josh.
7000 bikes.

That's the skinny.

[jdmetzger]

8976? Something like that, Josh.
7000 bikes.

That's the skinny.

Interesting. I guess VT is still in the lead for most attendees. Push the rally into a good section of PA and we might just clear that magic number. :)

[BubbaZanetti]

Interesting. I guess VT is still in the lead for most attendees. Push the rally into a good section of PA and we might just clear that magic number. :)

i know a killer site in western MA, wanna co-chair a rally Josh?:laugh

[jdmetzger]

i know a killer site in western MA, wanna co-chair a rally Josh?:laugh

Something tells me the "average" MOA member wouldn't much enjoy our entertainment choices. :gerg

[maggie1]

Interesting. I guess VT is still in the lead for most attendees. Push the rally into a good section of PA and we might just clear that magic number. :)

I sent a suggestion in about the State College, PA area a couple of years ago. There might even be a part of the Penn State campus that could be used.

State College has plenty of hotels and luxuries. There is great riding nearby.

PA would be an awesome destination.

[Statdawg]

I sent a suggestion in about the State College, PA area a couple of years ago. There might even be a part of the Penn State campus that could be used.

State College has plenty of hotels and luxuries. There is great riding nearby.

PA would be an awesome destination. +1

Great location and they have a farm complex plus a convention center yet it could be pricey with the State Funding cutbacks verses they need our money.

But how about Bloomsburg ?

I am going to meet with the people that run the Bloomsburg Fair complex. My friends son is the Superintendent of the Bloomsburg school system that knows them well to reassure them we are good people.

Positives

Bloomsburg is great location that is close to Rt 80 and 81 within the golden MOA circle which contains 50 % of our membership in a 500 mile radius.

The complex was designed and built during a booming time by the McGee carpet company which made carpet for American cars, and the iron industry which made rails and cars for rail roads. The buildings are large, brick and they are air conditioned. You could even run a flower show in one building and a dog show in another the same day.

There is a huge grandstand that can hold class acts and a small band shell which can accommodate local bands for off hour entertainment such as during the day. Or it could be used for show and tell.

The fairgrounds have a Monster truck event which puts dirt on the infield making GS field events proper the weekend before our historical rally dates. I hope the clean up will be their nickel and our gain.

July is hot and humid so the grass could be thick like Wisconsin or dry as a bone like Wyoming. BTW Wyoming is a Delaware Indian name meaning mountains and valleys and the state of Wyoming was named after the valley north of the fairgrounds.

There are some food halls on the property that during the fair time volunteer organizations to church groups provide family dinners. Plus the usual array of fair food is available such as Philly cheese steaks and french fries. And the chains and local eateries.

There is a well equipped first aid station with its very own building. There is a major hospital just blocks away and a level one trauma center 10 miles south with air transportation.

There is a local college that could accommodate us as the one did in Vermont.

The downtown is restored with great business support. There is a huge ornate Masonic Consistory that would allow public access for board meetings etc.

Riding ? For the fast ones there is a long stretch of straight road west of there near the town of Turberville which is loving known as Turboville. Recently the Amish have moved into the area putting a new meaning to a slider. It looks like Penn Dutch Country did 25 years ago. :laugh To the north is mountains similar to central Vermont or France according to my GS foreign friends. Nice country roads, state forests, parks, lakes and streams. To the east one has the coal region which has a few gems such as Rt 487, 125, 54 and some of my secret treasures in the Poconos which is woods, camps and golf to gambling resorts.

GSsing could be on fire roads of various degrees to the north an a few go away or die places on mine property to the east with mine permission. I have a great route picked and if I can swing the private property right-away even a better one with a 2 foot deep water crossing ford. Also to the east the Adv Riders have their Smoking Hole Rally so check their pics.

Pocono Raceway could give us a ride but being July there maybe an event during our time.

OK OK I forgot about the beer and I know when you mention Bloomsburg it ought to be on the top of the list. Bloomsburg U is a division 2 school which is one of the best drinking schools in the US, well known for it’s parties, and it’s why many kids come here. And just down the road is Yuengling which is America's oldest brewery that would support us with tours and :scratch beer.

What else is nearby ? Well you could take a tour of a coal mine or visit Streamtown and ride on trains, or see the Yankee baseball junior team making future millionaires that is near Scranton and near Williamsport you have the home of Little League baseball, and the home of the old GRIT newspaper that went out of business selling good news. To the south you have Gettysburg, York, Amish Country, a few nice little towns, fly fishing streams, knoebels amusement park, and the Preistly home where oxygen was discovered to Danville the town that designed the rails used on America's rail roads.

Dealers: Hermy's and Two Jacks BMW are close, and we are in BMW Motorrad USA's backyard. Plus the NJ dealer, Cliffs, Max, and Bob would have short distances to get involved.

Camping pre-rally is available at state parks in all directions and I might be able to swing a primitive site for Camp Beers.

There is a nice veteran display with an Army tank on the grounds which could be used by the BMW Vet Club and the local VA would send their outreach bus if requested for assistance. :usa

There is a farm machinery museum on the grounds which could hold some vintage rubber cows.

There are plenty of control gates, fences, and entry way options. Whose call is it the local police or us ?

There is a nice separate area for Camp Gears.

The tech people could have their own building. :whistle

Negatives The location is 8 feet above river level so a heavy persistent rain over a few days could collect water on the grounds. Very rare but possible.

There are chain hotels within the 35 mile radius but Rt 11 has some old Mom & Pops that need to be investigated.

We would need 2-3 shower trucks to play it safe.

There is RV parking but I never paid attention to it to know the details.

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

I plan to chair it with another member................Dylan said yes since he is from Pa., Josh & Bubba are welcomed.............how about a quad chair ?

My family MD is friends with the band Moe and I hope we can draw some east coast entertainment out of NYC verses Irish bands or Pennsylvania Polkas.

Do you think I could get U2, Eric Clapton, Rush or the Stones ?

Anyway I am checking it out and will submit a proposal within a year.

[rspennachio]

Vance, you and your team did a fine job! The Rally was great.

[chasman]

The State College and Bloomsburg sites were reviewed 4-5 years ago and could not meet our needs at that time. Things change however and we will look into them again. Thanks for the suggestion.


Chuck Manley
BMWMOA
Rally Site Search Team Liaison

[Statdawg]

The State College and Bloomsburg sites were reviewed 4-5 years ago and could not meet our needs at that time. Things change however and we will look into them again. Thanks for the suggestion.


Chuck Manley
BMWMOA
Rally Site Search Team Liaison

Thanks for the review. :thumb

[jdmetzger]

The State College and Bloomsburg sites were reviewed 4-5 years ago and could not meet our needs at that time. Things change however and we will look into them again. Thanks for the suggestion.


Chuck Manley
BMWMOA
Rally Site Search Team Liaison

Out of curiosity, would you be willing to briefly expand on "could not meet our needs"? I'd be willing to split this off into another thread. I'm not looking for an argument or long discussion on what should and shouldn't be a requirement, just pure curiosity.

[chasman]

Hi Josh,

One site didn't have enough motel rooms and one wouldn't allow the beer garden. Don't recall which was which. Like I said above, things sometimes change...new motels being built or change in property policies. We will review both of these venues as both are nice sites.

Chuck Manley
BMWMOA
Rally Site Search Team Liaison

[jdmetzger]

Hi Josh,

One site didn't have enough motel rooms and one wouldn't allow the beer garden. Don't recall which was which. Like I said above, things sometimes change...new motels being built or change in property policies. We will review both of these venues as both are nice sites.

Chuck Manley
BMWMOA
Rally Site Search Team Liaison

Thanks for the reply!! :thumb

[83503]

A hearty congratulations & thank you to the 2009 Johnson City Tennessee organizers, volunteers & crew.

Another fine rally was had. It enabled me to fill in four states on my map. Yeah, I'm not finished yet, I stick close to home in Illinois.

The stunt rider on Saturday (or was it Friday), was most entertaining. As were the wonderful people we met chatting in line, at the vendor area, and at camp.

Not quite sure I can make Oregon, so will be interested to see where 2011 ends up.

See you all next time.