As I recall, there was a block you could check on the paper membership renewal form to be included in the friends directory.
It's a listing of people, what cities they live in, and contact information. They're people who are willing to lend you a hand, help you out if you're in trouble (say you've got a flat and you don't have AAA and aren't inclined to change a tire), or just people you can have a cup of tea with if you feel so pleased to do so. Pretty much, it's a handy directory to have if you're travelling. These people aren't only BMW CCA members, but also people who are friendly to the club.
Damn! I received a partial phone message from someone wanting to get some information from me. He got my name from Friends of BMW and I don't know where my copy is so I can't look him up and call him back, I was hoping Friends had been input into the web site but I guess not.