PROC
As with any successful organization, the PROC has grown and adapted from its humble beginnings in 2003. Although starting out as the annual Public Relations Officer Convention (PROC) to now being known as the MC PROfessional Convention, the PROC has not altered from its original goal of educating and empowering those in motorcycle clubs as well as independents.
Once eclipsed by its own legendary end-of-convention party, the PROC is packed with information sessions from experts within the community and industry as exampled during the 13th annual 2016 PROC held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott in Norfolk, VA hosted by the Flaming Knights MC.
Downtown Norfolk, VA was quiet and serene with a winter chill in the air, but within the Marriot there was a vibe full of energy and excitement with Riders from throughout the nation. Lewis “Godfather” Clark stared things off with a soul-moving Welcome that felt more like a Sunday morning spirit-filled church service followed by words from local city officials such as Angelia Williams-Graves. The convention got underway with in an introduction from Flaming Knights Motorcycle Club, New Haven Chapter. Founding Chapter President Anthony “Blaze” Bolden who spoke on the club’s 48 year history with chapters from coast to coast and as far south as Miami, but remembering and reminding those in attendance you’re never too big to learn.
Throughout the day there were several breakout-sessions designed to bring the community together by sharing and learning including a VP’s role, responsibilities of a Road Captain/First Responders session to Budget and Financial Management with a dynamic panel of speakers such as Eric Chevali’er Adkison “Bigg Dogg” founder of Front Runnerz who touched on the difference between being a boss and a leader, John “Black Dragon” Edwards of Black Sabbath MC and co-author of the Prospects Bible who spoke on Club Ethics, the importance of knowing your club’s history and one of the great qualities of a successful leader is when no one knows he/she exists. But it was when the ladies took center stage that the packed Grand Ballroom came alive with applause and laughter as Black Girls Ride Publisher Porsche Taylor, Blaque Pearls MC President Suicide, Lil Tigger and the ladies representing the Bessie Stringfield All Female ride and other distinguished speakers shared their stories and knowledge.
Sure, there is still an after-party, but you won’t find any party pix here. The PROC is much more and deserves such. If you’ve never attended The PROC, be sure catch it in 2017 as the Bloc Burnaz take their turn at the helm to host the PROC 14TH ANNUAL PROFESSIONAL MOTORCYCLE CONVENTION in Baltimore, MD.