Blue Knights Iowa 1 - Law Enforcement MC

International v. Regional Conferences:

I have been often asked what the difference is between the Regional conferences and the International conventions.

Well.... In my humble opinion, mostly these are the legally required business meetings at each level. Activities include but are not limited to, elections for officers, changes in policies, bylaws, etc. and not always fun but can be informative and as my past emails eluded to... sometimes they can be entertaining.  Glad to say they are usually well organized and short.  

At the International Conventions there are usually two1 meetings at one the Chapter President or the member designated to attend in their place attends.  They have a special area for the voting delegates to sit in to help monitor voting, only one vote is allowed per chapter.  I can only guess that an extra person sat in the voting area when they weren’t supposed to so the policy became stricter. 

Fellowship is my major draw.  Blue Knight fellowship and camaraderie are usually without equal. It is a family organization where you can bring kids both young and old alike.  Old stories are told, revisited and new memories are made.  The worldwide networking opportunities are great too.  I have used our BK contacts to reach jurisdictions internationally and in the States for work issues.  

Each gathering accordingly to the size of the event has guided and self guided rides. The hospitality rooms are very popular.  Vendors are present accordingly to event attendance to supply your equipment, patch and gear needs.  As a rider, we get an opportunity to travel, we usually stay in discounted rooms, our meals are often included in registration or discounted.  Ruth & I have had the pleasure of making several events family trips.  We also try to see some attractions along the route.  You will notice there are few requirements or absolutes.  Usually and often are the rule, to best enjoy yourself remain flexible and you’ll be much happier.

Attending your first few events pose natural concerns.  Where and when are the questions asked related to all the activities.  Happily other chapters and MWRC officers have stepped up and has helped us frequently with our questions and they included us in many of their spontaneous side trips & outings.  

We are better prepared every year for the usual expectations and seem to recognize and gather with others easier. We all make friends associated with our chosen profession.  Ruth often teases me that wherever we go, even when we visited Europe once we find someone I know.  Some of these are Blue Knights.  Every conference trip so far we have met up with another Blue Knight along the highways to or from.  I have yet to leave an event without adding to my list of friends.  

Do you ever travel around the country for work or pleasure? Have concerns where to stay, where to eat?  A quick email to the local Chapter and the advice is great. 

Please consider attending an event as you can.  The fees are usually reasonable and the fun makes memories that last forever.  Remember not much is ever set in stone, we try to embrace the classic rider laid back lifestyle, and have changed plans as different opportunities have developed. 

Ride with Pride brethren,

Dave (Snowman) Eyman, President