By Elayne Angel
The Point has gone through quite a number of changes since it was first launched as an undated newsletter in the mid 1990s. At that stage, it was little more than a half-dozen photocopied pages stapled together. I’ve personally been involved with this periodical for over a decade. I’ve authored numerous articles, served as editor from issues #17-32 (2001-2004), and co-editor with James Weber from issues #46-55 (2009-2011).
James did a truly commendable job during his years at the copy desk. Taking the helm in 2005, he brought issues #33-59 into print, and the most obvious and sweeping changes took place during his tenure. He transformed the publication from a black-and-white newsletter into a full-fledged, glossy journal with color covers, a full-color online version (starting with issue #46/47), and a full-color print version (starting with issue #55).
After devoting countless hours to overseeing twenty-six colorful and informative magazines, James has now retired from the position—and he is surely deserving of some rest. There’s currently an ad out for a new editor, but as of this writing, the vacancy has yet to be filled. So here I am, jumping back in–briefly–to bring to fruition this issue, #60, the last in our quarterly print schedule.
Our grandest makeover in quite some time is forthcoming: The Point is becoming an online publication. We are putting the final touches on the technology that readers will use to access our digital content. Don’t despair if you prefer traditional ink and paper; we do plan to produce an annual Best of The Point print edition.
It’s been a great run, and I know that a tremendous amount of useful piercing-related information has been widely circulated as a result of the efforts of everyone who has contributed. There have been multitudes: a pack of proofreaders and assistants, scores of writers, an assortment of graphic designers, and the hardworking volunteers and staffers who have mailed out piles of publications. The Point has been a true collaboration, and it will continue to use a teamwork approach. In fact, you are invited to participate. Content submissions are open to members and nonmembers alike, and really anyone who has relevant material to share with the piercing community.
We have had our current and back issues posted and available online for free download in .PDF format for quite some time now (thanks to additional volunteer work). The figures show that digital viewing has vastly surpassed our print circulation. I am confident that going forward we will be able to do an even better job by making use of the latest technology, and employing the immediacy and enormous scope of the internet. More timely and extensive sharing and facilitated networking bring increased opportunities for exposure. We will also be able to have richer content with more photos, slideshows, and videos. Then there’s clickable ads, which are undoubtedly more effective than print ads for our advertisers, and easier to use for our readers.
Let’s not disregard the desirable detail that this is an eco-friendly move. Sadly, the piercing profession is not even a pale shade of “green” because we must use so many disposable and non-recyclable items. Therefore, I feel it is important that piercers be as conscientious as we can in other areas of our lives to protect the environment.
Since we’re saving money by eliminating substantial quarterly printing and postage costs, the Board of Directors has decided that the online Point will be free to everyone who wishes to view it! After all, the core mission of the organization is to disseminate information.
If you have issues remaining on your Point subscription you have a few choices:
- You can donate the balance to our non-profit educational organization, which is preferred by our treasurer and deeply appreciated by the association.
- You can let it ride and apply your balance to the annual print issue. (The actual cost will be determined when the project is undertaken.)
- You could use the balance as a credit toward other APP merchandise.
- You can request a refund of your subscription balance if need be.
We all know that the Internet has become the hub from which most personal and commercial interactions across the globe now take place. The web has affected the way we do nearly everything, including live, work, and play. Technology is not just changing how we furnish The Point, it is actually affecting the topics we cover in the magazine.
Just two issues back, in The Point #58, my President’s Corner article addressed the problem of online videos showing bad piercings, and I made an appeal for readers to inundate the web with videos of safe and skillfully done piercings. In that same issue there was an article penned by Bethra Szumski about the online photo sharing site, Pinterest, and the impact it had on the popularity of the triple forward helix piercing. Now, a host of articles in this current issue make it abundantly clear that the writing is on the wall, or rather, on the web:
Internet Posting Etiquette cautions us to think before we post; Social Media for Piercers discusses pros and cons of a number of the common websites we use in our online marketing, and Making Safe Piercing Viral is a dialogue with several savvy piercers who provide suggestions for achieving good metrics in reach, share of voice, engagement, and more. To round it out, we have a piece on the legal risks of performing adult piercings on minors and also a legislation update. And naturally, since this is the post-Conference issue, we have coverage of our absolutely astounding annual affair.
Feel the silky smooth pages, inhale the distinctive aroma of ink on paper, and revel in this historical moment, knowing that you are currently reading the final quarterly print issue of The Point. Look for us online.