Unlike many of the BMW Clubs in North America, the Koontz BMW Club was formed in response to enthusiasm for a remarkably well maintained and high-performing E30. This starkly contrasted with the most clubs motivations stemming from the 2002. At this time most of the members of the club were completely unaware that BMW 2002 was even in existence. Purchases were made and as early as 2002 and in that same year our Club was born. It was known as the "Jason's-roommate-who-was-really-impressed-by-his-car Club," or JRWWRIBHCC. The Koontz BMW Club is comprised of 5 members. We expect the club to grow as new members are born, friendships are made, and others with good taste in cars are married into the Koontz family.
In 2004, after returning from a Latter-day Saint mission in Tallahassee Florida one of the club members was encouraged to purchase a vehicle for attending college. Although many fine and worthy vehicles were presented to this individual the memories of speed and agility of a particular 1989 325is were well ingrained in his memory. He did not waver from his desire to own a similar vehicle and after much searching a clean, bone stock 1995 325is was purchased. Similarly, other family members and friends followed suit and purchased other BMW's. The JRWWRIBHCC group decided to become the Koontz BMW Club (with no affiliation as of yet with the BMW Car Club of America).
Over the past 8 years, BMWs have changed a lot and so have the owners and the Club. In the early years, the Club members were a small group of friends and most Club activities were social. The Club grew slowly through the 2004's, but by 2007 membership was a staggering 3. Growth accelerated in the 2008's with the increased popularity of BMW automobiles. While membership was about 4 in 2006, by 2008 it was almost 5. Currently membership is nearly 8.
With current growth of the Club, one certainly isn't expected to know everyone. That doesn’t mean the Club is any less friendly, just different. Club members include those trying to keep an old car together with baling wire and the lucky person with the $10,000+ M-Series. Which is terrific. Diversity! We come from all walks of life and have varying economic means but we share a love for BMW automobiles.
A bigger Club also means diversity in events. We try to hold social events, but the Club offers so much more. There is something for everyone. We try to offer a wide variety of amenities to our membership such as social events, technical instruction, tool rental, and on occasionally free facilities and housing. The common element that draws us all together is BMW cars. The joy of driving BMWs is what the Club is all about.
