BMW RA Elections

Candidate position statements

President: Debbi Harbour

 I’ve been riding for twenty-eight years and spent the last few years serving on the RA Board of Trustees, the last two as President. Every year brings new adventures, which push me forward to places and wonders that I would have never experienced had it not been for motorcycling.

It is important for the board to provide our membership with a high quality magazine, rally and value for their investment in the organization and enhance the riding experience while also protecting motorcyclist’s rights.

As the world changes it is important for us to hold to our founding philosophy, explore ways to communicate in new forums and extend the enjoyment of the marque.

I look forward to serving on the Board for another term and encourage ideas to improve and expand the RA.

Vice-President: Jeffery Yost

BMWs became a part of my DNA when I soloed my father's 1960 R50 at eleven years old. Today my late father’s unrestored R50 proudly sits next to my '04 R1150RT. My choice to run as Vice President is fueled by my passion for BMW Motorcycles and its culture. Currently I am a RA Trustee, as well as the President/Co-Founder/Trustee of the reorganized Vintage BMW Motorcycle Owners. As an elected V.P. my goal is to continue to help grow the RA's membership and ensure its sustainability. Many BMW clubs' average age is approaching 60. Every year the average age matures another year. It is paramount that we find ways that will ensure the RA’s future growth and sustainability. Part of my focus will center on generating interest among the younger generation. After all, this is what planted the seed of passion for BMWs within me. Thank you for your vote.

Secretary:

(no candidate)

Treasurer: George Nyktas

The last two years as RA Treasurer have been enjoyable and rewarding. I have used the training and skills I have acquired in my 36+ years as a CPA in helping the RA in financial management, budgeting and taxes as well as general business management.

I bought my first BMW in 2002, quickly found the Greater Cincinnati BMW Club (GCBMWC) and made many good friends there. I have and continue to learn a great deal about riding, bike maintenance and how to enjoy life from them.

I am a member of the GCBMWC, the MOA, Airheads Beemer Club and the AMA in addition to the RA. I look forward to continuing to assist the organization in my area of expertise.

Trustee: Bill Johnston

Thank you for the nomination to serve on the RA's Board of Trustees. Through my fortunate past experience of being a Representative of the Ohio Region, I learned well the importance of camaraderie and cooperation in the enjoyment of the best of what BMW motorcycling and the RA has to offer. I am committed to enhancing the objectives of the RA to afford companionship and recreation for its members, to enhance its members' enjoyment of their Beemers, to support responsible efforts to protect the legal rights of motorcyclists, to improve the public image of motorcycling, and to promote safe motorcycling. Together these objectives nicely set guidelines for the continued success of the RA. To fulfill these objectives requires continual support and constructive feedback to all other officers, which I pledge to give. I also will be looking for and supporting any innovative and practical ideas for improvements when possible.

Trustee: Elwood Miles

I've served our organization in the distant past as a State Director, District Governor (now defunct titles), Vice President and President. And more recently as a Trustee. If you wish me to I'll be happy to serve another term as a Trustee.

Trustee: Bob Alexander

I’m Bob Alexander from Michigan, now Wisconsin. I am running because I want to help our club in a greater capacity. Retired 2 years ago, I assisted “the RA”, by chairing the 2008 Rally in “da UP”. A long-time member, I agree with the “Right Attitude” philosophy of our club. I’ve appreciated the devotion that our leaders involved with running “the RA” and the “OTL” have shown. After reaping the benefits of their hard work, it’s my turn to pitch-in and give those devoted ones a break. I’ll promote “the RA” and support recruitment of younger riders to assure our longevity. I’d also feel “the RA” could expand the use of its “Regions Program” to plan and organize our National Rallies. It would help take some of the massive workload off the few involved every year and also allow us to better spread the Rallies around the country.

Trustee: Will Guyan

I am a long-time RA member, BMW fanatic, OTL editor and hard rider. My goal is to expand the RA as The Riders' Club, and expand OTL into the best it can be to all RA members. This is an exciting time to be involved, whether we're classic enthusiasts or racing and technology buffs. I'll dedicate my experience and energy to growing RA into the best club possible. We have a lot of talent in this group, and I think the goal is well within reach. Thanks for your consideration.

Trustee: Paul Bachorz

First rode in 1960. Have ridden Hondas, Yamahas, Suzuki’s and now an F650GS2 and an R1200GS dominate the stable.

Navy veteran retiring a Senior Chief and a Gulf War Veteran. I now have the time and experience to serve the RA community

Belong to several riding clubs: Motorcycle Owners of Vermont, Yankee Beemers, Saratoga Thoroughbreds, vBMWr, MOA and the AMA I have ridden throughout the US, in Europe, New Zealand and even a couple of countries in Asia albeit on some small displacement bikes. I especially like touring and apply the old adage that, it’s the journey and not the destination. Presently I edit a monthly column of touring tips for a motorcycle magazine.

My goal is to grow the RA and provide resources for members. I would like to investigate the possibility having each year’s articles in OTL be available on a CD or a searchable website.

Trustee: Julia Shirley

 I am running for my second term for a position on the Board of Trustees. I believe the RA is moving in the right direction and would like to be a part of progress. I have been involved with BMW motorcycles for over 31 years, riding my own bike for 22 years and held the position of Secretary for the BMW North Jersey club for 10 years until moving to the South. I have remained a member of 3 Charter BMW clubs, the RA and the MOA for over 25 yrs and am a President on the IBMWR list. I am also a MSF Rider Coach and have been teaching for 14 yrs. I am asking for your vote in this election so I can represent you in the way you would like to see our organization move forward in the future. Thank you and ride safe.

Trustee: Gary Haydel

I was introduced to BMWs by my friend Delbert in 1968. His stepfather owned a /2. Fast forward to 2009, families now grown, Delbert and I still get together once in a while to ride. I've been active in our local club holding numerous positions and have helped out as I could at national events. While I'll never be mistaken for a computer geek, I can find my way around a computer and recognize that the internet is an excellent way for the RA staff to increase what they can offer to members with little additional cost. The younger riders that BMW is now courting we need as well and the internet seems to be their primary form of communication. The RA needs to use this medium to its advantage and I would like the opportunity to help. I believe that I can make a positive contribution to our club.

And now...

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