Category Features

Point 73: Beto Madrigal Award

January 17, 2016 Comments Off read Awards & Recognition, Events, International

THE BETO MADRIGAL AWARD
presented to Ed Chavarria
at the LBP Gala
by Beto’s brother Ennio Madrigal

Unfortunately Beto took his own life last year, Beto had a large role in the LBP and this new award akin to the APP’s Josh Prentice volunteer award was to recognize outstanding volunteer work and contributions to the piercing community.

Spanish Original:
Muy Feliz y agradecido con LBP… por seguir honrando la memoria y el aporte de mi hermano Beto …para con la industria del Body Piercing Latinoamericano … Para mí es un orgullo que hayan nombrado con el nombre Beto Madrigal el premio que entregarán año con año en la gala de Latinoamérica Body Piercing… Este año le correspondió a nuestro querido Eduardo Chavarria….recibir este importante reconocimiento por su entrega y compromiso para con la industria del Body Piercing. Felicidades mi queridísimo Ed…!!! Sé que Beto se encuentra feliz de que te entregaran …tan merecido reconocimiento..!!

Thank you, Luis Garcia, for an English Translation:

I am very happy and thankful to the LBP for continuing to honor the memory of my brother Beto and the support he gave the body piercing industry in Latin America. I am proud that they named the service award after my brother, Beto Madrigal, and that they will be presenting this award year after year at the LBP gala. This year the award was given to the beloved Eduardo Chavarria for his hard work and commitment, not only to the Latin American body piercing community, but the industry worldwide. Congratulations Ed. I know that Beto is happy that you were honored with this much deserved award.

The Point Issue 73 - Beto Madrigal Award presented to Ed Echavarria - LBP 2015

Point 73: Initial Piercing Jewelry: An American Timeline – Matte Erickson

January 17, 2016 Comments Off read Industry History, Issue 73

Matte Erickson headshot Matte Erickson
Alpha-Omega Body Piercing

In the beginning, there was one main manufacturer: Gauntlet. Originally, gold was the predominant material for jewelry used for initial body piercings. According to Jim Ward (Running the Gauntlet, pg. 35), “There was an interest in stainless steel as a material for piercing jewelry”, but due to his lack of knowledge or experience with it “every piece was either gold or silver”. Many people used standard earrings, but the sizes were limited. These were primarily ring styles—captive bead and fixed bead. There were other individuals making specialty jewelry, but acquiring a piece required knowing someone. The first jewelry catalogue from the Gauntlet is dated August 15, 1976 and includes many styles of jewelry we still see in use today such as the aforementioned bead ring. In fact the currently popular septum retainer was also a Gauntlet innovation.

In its early days, Gauntlet had one short-lived competitor called Whatever Rings. It was run by a gay couple who were heavy S/M players. They operated out of their West Hollywood apartment and sought business through ads placed in the local gay press and Drummer Magazine, a gay BDSM publication. Their jewelry consisted solely of gold abutted rings with no closure. At the time Gauntlet began business in 1975, the only stainless steel jewelry manufacturer of note was Spain’s Custom in Lawton, Oklahoma. It was the jewelry favored by early pioneer Sailor Sid. Although the quality was acceptable, at least by the standards of the time, some objected to the stiffness of the unannealed rings and chose not to offer these products to their customers. Spain’s barbells were also externally threaded. Spain’s Custom advertised in PFIQ until the time Gauntlet began manufacturing and offering stainless steel jewelry of its own in the early 1980s.

Ray Spain, the owner of Spain’s Custom, suffered from back problems which eventually became so severe that he was forced to close his business. Sailor Sid purchased the equipment and began manufacturing jewelry under the name Silver Anchor.

gauntlet large guage curved barbell

The internally threaded barbell is credited to Tattoo Samy from Frankfurt, Germany—early barbells had no countersink. Over the years, Jim Ward expanded on this, not only manufacturing straight, but also curved and circular barbells. Other companies came and went in the beginning, but Gauntlet remained the staple for many years.

The ‘80s and ‘90s saw a rapid influx of jewelry manufacturers. According to Shawn Porter (SPC, BME), the ‘80s spawned companies like Pleasurable Piercing, Toucan (for gold), Wildcat in the UK, and Silver Anchor (formerly Spain’s Custom).

In the late ‘80s, John Donoghue founded Wildcat, a wholesale manufacturer out of Brighton, UK. During the ‘90s they were the largest supplier of body piercing jewelry in Europe.

In 1990, Josh Warner also brought us Good Art and their whimsical, sometimes over the top advertising. In 2002, they rolled out what was to be their fine jewelry line. By 2005, they rebranded themselves as Good Art HLYWD and ceased production of body jewelry.

Some of the manufacturers originating in the ‘90s have become staples for current piercings today. In 1991, Anatometal, Body Circle, and Industrial Strength were founded. 1991 also brought about “implant grade” materials from Anatometal and Industrial Strength, as well as countersunk ends on barbells.

Unfortunately, the ‘90s also brought us a proliferation of body jewelry from Asia and the birth of the “cheap piercing”.

In 1993 Venus by Maria Tash was brought into the mix. Originally only making steel and niobium captives, she moved on to gold designs in 1994.

In 1995 LeRoi opened its doors in upstate New York and Body Vision Los Angeles in, of course, Los Angeles, California.

1997 brought us two companies, Intrinsic Precision and NeoMetal. Intrinsic was opened in San Francisco, California and has been the sleeper of the body jewelry world. Putting out high quality jewelry, they have flown under the radar until recently. Now they are sought after with a long list of piercers waiting for the opportunity to buy their products. NeoMetal, a small company from Concord, California, created something that would eventually stand the piercing community on its proverbial ear: threadless jewelry. In February 2004 they moved to Washington and the threadless movement continued to grow and thrive.

In 1998 Glasswear Studios opened in Ashland, Oregon offering high quality glass jewelry.

1999 brought us Steel Skin, fusing implant grade steel and titanium with dental acrylic ends. In February 2007 Steel Skin was sold and moved to Louisville, Kentucky. They eventually closed in 2010.

In 2002 Gorilla Glass opened in Oaxaca, Mexico fusing traditional and modern designs in glass and obsidian.

While this is by no means a complete timeline of body jewelry manufacturers, it does however highlight, in my opinion, the top (American) companies that made significant contributions to the body piercing world. While I know this list could be MUCH longer, I chose to focus on the companies that produce(d) jewelry for initial piercings.

Authors note: I would like to thank Barry Blanchard, JD Lorenz, Josh Warner, Maria Tash, Sue from Neometal and Wickert Beasley for their prompt responses to my questions on dates. Also I would like to thank the rest of the companies that put a timeline on their websites that made my list much easier to compose.

Point 73: Count All The Things – Christina Shull

January 17, 2016 1 Comment read Issue 73, Procedures

Christina Shull headshot Christina Shull
Owner of Integrity Piercing

One of my favorite parts about December is counting every little piece of jewelry in my studio for end of year inventory. For most people, that line was read in a sarcastic tone. In my case, it is true and should have been ended with an exclamation point and been followed with a smiley face. While this article will probably not have any effect on the enthusiasm you may or may not have while counting your jewelry, I do hope to share some tips that could make the experience a little smoother and hopefully more pleasant for you.

3088809 I would love to address why end of year inventory is so important and the impact it has on your financial statements and taxation. You are spared from that info in this particular article. It would be a very long article otherwise, maybe even a small book, and I do not want to bore you to death if you are not a current or future business owner. If you are interested in learning more about the administrative aspect of piercing, stay tuned in January for the debut of my blog “The Business of Piercing” which will be filled with plenty of information on the business side of the industry: taxes, accounting, employee relations, legalities, financial statements, and all the aspects that go into keeping your business profitable and compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. For now, let’s delve into how to make your end of year inventory count as smooth as possible.

There are many reasons for needing an accurate count of your inventory, with the most relatable reason being that none of us want to pay more taxes than we absolutely have to. An accurate count can significantly reduce the chance that you will overpay for taxes related to jewelry investments. Shrinkage, or losses, which can happen in our industry fairly easily: jewelry being dropped on the floor and rolling into the abyss, small parts easily end up in the sink drain of the processing room (along with almost every threaded or pin taper you once had), and the often overlooked comp jewelry that a client received as a nocharge upsize/downsize/“oops, the piercer grabbed the wrong size/ color/etc.” An accurate inventory count at the end of the year allows you to properly determine your Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), which directly affects the amount of tax you will pay.

Planning your end of year inventory count is the best way to minimize stress and increase accuracy. Inform your staff members in advance about inventory planning and give them clear and specific instructions, preferably in writing. During your planning, consider the following:

When will the count be done? Ideally, inventory counting will be done when the studio is closed, or at least during a day when business is expected to be slow. I personally opt to perform the count on a day my studio is closed. It is worth it to me to pay a little bit of overtime in return for a count that is done in a shorter period of time and is more accurate when there are no interruptions from clients or vendors.

Who will be counting the jewelry and what will they be counting? In my two person studio, we split the responsibility pretty much down the middle. My staff member counts and records the jewelry in the front of the studio – everything in the display cases and the bead totes used to store backstock jewelry. I count and record the jewelry in the piercing room, clean room, and any potential defective jewelry that has not been replaced yet.

It is uncommon to have jewelry that should be excluded from the inventory count, but there are a few situations where it can happen. Those situations should be explained in advance. For example, the majority of the jewelry I have on display are items that I would sell if needed, such as jewelry in “body bits” that is switched out periodically or a threaded end that I would sell if it was the last in stock of its color, size, style, etc. However, my anodized captive display has the rings stabilized with glue inside of a shadow box. Upon assembly of that display, I knew the rings would never be sold in the future and they were re-categorized from Jewelry and Aftercare (COGS) to Displays and Decorations (Expense). Another studio I worked at years ago had jewelry on display that was not going to be sold – discontinued “collectors’ items” and antiques. Those items needed to be excluded from the jewelry inventory because they were not items for resale.

What can you do to prepare? Pre-counting preparation can make the inventory count go smoother. The day before the count, make sure that jewelry is organized and items are in their designated places. If you have recently received a jewelry order, have all jewelry checked in, processed, and put away. Every studio seems to have a place, if not many places where jewelry just ends up; a special cup or drawer can be found in almost any room that often contains random beads, balls, and o-rings. Defective jewelry has a habit of ending up in a variety of different locations. Check for all of these miscellaneous pieces of jewelry and put it all away where it belongs.

PhotographybyMarinaPecorino-1236 — Photograph by Marina Pecorino

How will the count be recorded? If you have a Point of Sale system, you may have inventory worksheets available that are ready to print and go. I just recently discovered that QuickBooks has printable inventory sheets that I am very excited to use this year! (Reports>Inventory>Physical Inventory Worksheet, for those who are interested). If your POS program does not have dedicated inventory sheets or if you choose not to use them, you can print an item list and use that to record your count. Many studios use the same inventory sheets that they would when counting stock items before placing an order. Blank paper can work as well, although the less detailed the documentation system, the easier it can be to overlook or miscount items.

Marking items that have already been counted is important. Keeping track of what has and has not been counted is not as simple as it may seem. For example, I have multiple threaded end options in one display frame and when following inventory sheets, they are far apart alphabetically on the sheet. In this case, I have used something to mark the rows or particular items that have already been counted; masking tape or little strips of post-it notes have both worked well for me. Sometimes I have drawn a quick diagram of the display and what is in it, crossing off pieces as they are counted. It may be easier for you to remove the jewelry from the displays entirely and replace them later. This provides a perfect opportunity to refresh displays for the new year. The important part is finding a method that will easily communicate to all staff members what has already been taken care of.

Double counting is suggested to ensure accuracy and this is when having a POS definitely comes in handy. I consider my POS stock numbers to be fairly close to accurate, with a physical count done to confirm. If the physical count matches the amount in the POS, I consider the single physical count to be fine. If the physical count does not match the amount in the POS, I double and sometimes triple or even quadruple check the physical count before I alter the amount in the POS. Double-checking is crucial when we have large quantities of small items that can be found in many locations. For example, 14g 2mm threaded flowers in my studio can be found in numerous places: a frame that has the more decorative 14g threaded options, in a few display body bits, in the middle of an assembled industrial barbell, on the top of some displayed navel curves, in one of the bead totes for backstock items at the front counter, and with flower navel curve posts in the piercing room. With 6 different places to find one particular item, it can be easy to miscount.

Employees need to be aware of what is counted separately versus together. You need to have consistency between how an item is entered into the POS or otherwise introduced into inventory and how it is counted. For instance, if a double gemmed navel curve was entered into the POS with the top gem and gemmed post being received as a single item, staff members need to consider both components when counting inventory. If there is a gem curved post without a top (usually because individual gems were out of stock when one was needed), this needs to be documented. Failure to document this would result in an assumption of the whole piece, which would lead to a lower COGS and result in paying tax on an asset you do not actually have.

Once you have completed your end of year inventory and extracted the information that you need for filing your taxes, don’t toss the inventory sheets! End of year inventory counts will serve as helpful tools for a variety of things including documentation of the actual inventory count (really useful if you are unlucky enough to be audited), your starting inventory amount for the next year (which you will use along with your next end of year inventory and purchase receipts to determine your COGS next year), and is very helpful when making adjustments to desired inventory stock numbers.

Now is a good time to start preparing for your year end inventory count. Create or update existing inventory sheets, draft a protocol for inventory counting, pick a day and time for the count and schedule some staff members specifically for this project, research additional tips and tricks to make your inventory count smoother. Most importantly, if you don’t want to pay more taxes than you absolutely have to, start getting your inventory numbers down in the next couple of weeks, which helps get your COGS amount up!

Point 73: Portfolio Photography: Tips & Tricks – Marina Pecorino

January 17, 2016 1 Comment read Issue 73, Social Media & Safe Piercing, Technology

Marina Pecorino
Managing Editor of Content & Statistics

In the grand scheme, our industry is young, but in reference to how we display our portfolios there has been quite a bit of progress throughout our short history. During the inception of the modern piercing movement, piercers displayed their work selectively in printed photographs, which resulted in a lag between when a piercing was performed and when it was available to showcase. The range of viewing audience was also much smaller as a result of this medium and its reliance on a physical print.

As the internet became more accessible, shops were able to use websites to display their collective works. Websites like BMEzine came into being, allowing piercers to reach a broader audience, beyond the bounds of geography. However, until digital photography became affordable and readily available, this medium was still limited by the lag and expense of developing film and scanning photographs.

Source: Saint Sabrina's — Source: Saint Sabrina’s

Modern digital photography has reached a level where decent digital cameras are built into every smartphone, and standalone digital cameras are widely available. Social media allows us to quickly reach an audience around the world. We hold these sophisticated marketing tools in our pockets, purses, and fanny packs every day, but do we know how to implement them to their fullest potential?

This will be a two part instructional article to help you make the most of these tools. In this first edition, I’ll touch on some tricks and tips for shooting portfolio photographs. In Issue 74, I’ll explain some ways to make sure those photographs have as broad a reach as possible, using the tools allowed through current social media and search engine optimization.

And now on to the good stuff! I hope that you find these quick techniques and tricks useful in displaying your work to the world.

• Variety—Don’t get drawn into only taking photographs of your favorite types of piercings or jewelry styles. Strive to show the full range of options available within your studio and the diversity of your clientele. Showing a mix of gender, race, age, and style helps make your portfolio relatable to a broader range of your clients and allows your potential client an opportunity to visualize themselves and their new or upgraded adornment within your portfolio.

• Composition—Your photograph is intended to display your superb piercing technique and the incredible, high polished jewelry you’ve used, so make sure that these are the main focal point. Frame collages have become popular and allow you to show the piercing from multiple angles. These are a great way to show a close up and distant view (with a smiling, happy client, maybe?), and can be especially useful in displaying symmetrically paired piercings.

• Distance and Zoom—When zooming in on your subject within your digital camera, image quality loss is irreversible. Therefore you should avoid using the digital zoom, which may leave your image looking pixelated and distorted. It is far better to take a step or three closer to your client to take advantage of the natural optics of the lens. If necessary, crop the image after the fact to get rid of extraneous or distracting aspects or achieve a closer view. That being said, be careful not to get “too close”. This can make the viewer feel uncomfortable and the piercing will lose some of its impact without the rest of the anatomy as a frame of reference.

• Focus—If a photograph is out of focus, avoid using it, regardless of how in love with it you may be. An out of focus image will not tell the viewer much about the health of a piercing or quality of the jewelry used. Using a shallow depth of field (choose a large aperture close to f/2.8, for the photography geeks in our midst) to blur the background can be useful if you’re shooting photographs in a visually busy environment. If you forgot to use this setting while taking the photograph, post-processing software like Photoshop, Lightroom, Affinity, Exposure, or photography apps on your smartphone can accomplish this after the fact as well. If you have the option, try using a minimalistic or subtle background, but still aim for some color and texture when possible.

• Lighting—If you have the environment available to take portfolio photographs outside or close to a window, choose a spot that is well-lit by indirect sunlight. Unrestrained direct sunlight can cause harsh shadows and loss of detail in highlights. If you’re shooting in a windowless room, positioning multiple light sources with natural spectrum light bulbs can simulate indirect sunlight. If you’re shooting with a DSLR, using a bounce flash directed at a white wall behind you can help evenly illuminate your client and their beautiful jewelry. Regardless of your lighting, watch out for unintentional shadows near eyes, noses, and chins.

• Color Balance—Using natural spectrum lighting is a great start to provide the truest colors for jewelry and the healthiest skin tones for your clients, but color correction can be done in post-production with most photography processing software and apps, like the ones mentioned earlier. Be careful about color balance; aim to make your whites as true as possible. Photographs with a greenish or yellowish hue may cause your client to look sickly. A reddish hue may cause your client to look flushed. If your camera has an option for white balance, set it appropriately based on your environment or take multiple photos with the white balance set a few different ways.

• Quality of Work—Avoid including angry, bloody, or otherwise unappealing piercings; happily healed piercings should make up the vast majority of your portfolio. If you are not pleased with the angle or placement, or if the perspective of the photo makes it look like something is wonky, choose a different photo or piercing. Your portfolio does not need to include every piercing you’ve performed or every photograph you’ve taken. It should be a selection of your very best work and it should show that the piercings you perform will heal well and elegantly accentuate the anatomy that surrounds them.

Point #73: President’s Corner – Brian Skellie

January 17, 2016 2 Comments read Issue 73, Medical, President's Corner, Sterilization, Technology

Brian Skellie
APP President

The APP is always going to be a work in progress, since standards are ever changing with new evidence. Lauded among the guiding principles we maintain as safety standards for our membership is the practice of asepsis. We refer to many procedural acts as practice, as they are rarely ever perfect and require a profound theoretical understanding coupled with regular exercise and critical self observation for improvement. Asepsis requires the right combination of cleaning and sterilization with touching and not touching manual, instrumental and environmental surfaces for infection prevention and control (IPC).

We apply two types of asepsis to reduce or eliminate infection transmission: medical asepsis which emphasizes protection for the client and their environment is more concerned with cleanliness and prevention of the spread of the clients own organisms to other clients, while surgical asepsis which focuses on sterilization and maintaining sterility for items that will be introduced to a wound or piercing cavity or penetrate the skin, thus preventing the introduction of organisms to the client. Medical asepsis can be referred to as clean technique, and surgical asepsis as sterile technique. A thorough and effective means of surgical asepsis should be implemented for all body art procedures. [CE resource]

“Sterile technique is not one set-in-stone method, this is a guideline for establishing your own individual technique.” Nor is it advocating precautions beyond what our sort of minimally invasive ear piercing procedures require for antisepsis and sterility. For those who are curious to learn more about Maximum Sterile Barrier precautions, the CDC HICPAC describes further steps that can be taken for more seriously invasive punctures such as a central venous or arterial catheter. For body artists, an achievable version of surgical asepsis (sterile technique) maintains barriers such as sterile gloves, masks and eye protection, and removes obstacles likely to compromise these barriers such as hanging earrings and necklaces, long hair, rings and watches.

“I think that when you say ‘aseptic technique,’ a lot of people automatically think ‘operating room’ or ‘surgical procedure,’” explains Kathleen Meehan Arias, MS, CIC, president of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and director of Arias Infection Control Consulting LLC. “That’s rightly so because that is where the bulk of it is. But whenever you are doing anything that bypasses the skin barrier, you should automatically think aseptic technique.” — Applying Aseptic Technique in all Clinical Settings

This outline of technique suggestions comes from the AORN, APIC and CDC standards and recommended practices as well as a number of textbook resources such as Asepsis, the Right Touch. Much of it needs very little interpretation for our purposes. Safety precautions should result in greater control of the procedure, clinical benefits, reduced harm, and limited liability for negligence.

Rationale: There exist standards for prevention of surgical site infection that apply to even minor invasive elective procedures, and piercing falls within this category by definition.

“When implemented, these guidelines should reduce the risk of disease transmission in the piercing environment, from piercee to piercer, and from piercee to piercee. Based on principles of infection control, the document delineates specific guidelines related to protective attire and barrier techniques; handwashing and care of hands; the use and care of sharp instruments and needles; sterilization or disinfection of instruments; cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces; disinfection and the decontamination room; single-use disposable items; the handling of previously worn piercing jewelry; disposal of waste materials; and implementation of recommendations.”— Piercing Experience adapted IPC standards from the CDC

My personal observation is that these policies have helped limit risk at my studio. They have been reviewed by legal counsel, qualified bioscientists, medical professionals, and university professors. That said, I’m sure that they could always use more input and adaptation. Body art safety is an ever-evolving field of interest.

One might say there is no single right way to pierce. Many variations are possible with an understanding and application of asepsis. We are an industry in which studios market based on their specialties, and for some that is participation in continuing education, gaining knowledge, and raising standards. Maintaining a positive tone one can show those as strengths without diminishing others. This is crucial to developing the bonds between us as fellow professionals. If you believe something you do has advantages, feel free to share that with your customers in a way that does not end up overly critical of our other colleagues.

It should be clear that these position statements in support of surgical asepsis are neither contradictory nor accusatory of others currently using APP minimum standards for medical asepsis according to our 2013 revised Procedure Manual. They build upon them as we are all encouraged to do as Members, employing additional precautions and elective limitations based on evidence and strong theoretical rationale. My preference is to demonstrate best practices as an educator instead of the minimums. If we all did no more than what was required, the industry would not be as interesting.

I believe that it is the responsibility of each of us to uphold the values we feel are important, and to continually advance our standards in order to achieve our goals. I do have romantic hopes that over time the industry will move in the direction of pure, validated, ethical materials and practices that are as harmless as possible. A predictable, consistent, safe, simple, and gentle piercing experience is attainable today and can be refined based on these principles and open communication among colleagues. The recommendations that I make in addition to APP minimums result from a continually researched process of elimination and adaptation, and they are freely shared for peer review. Please consider this a formal request for comments.

Point 73: From the Editor – Kendra Jane Berndt

January 17, 2016 Comments Off read Camp, From the Editor, Issue 73, Lifestyle, Social Media & Safe Piercing

Kendra Jane Berndt
Managing Editor of Content & Archives

Change: it is the only thing that is certain in life (other than death and taxes). So why is it that change is so hard for so many? I am one of those many. I consider myself in the know when it comes to what is hip and cool these days, but in all actuality I struggle everyday with the fast paced, significant changes that are happening in the world around us.

In order for any change to happen, small or big, someone has to start the wheels in motion. I am a firm believer in the idea that everyone can make a difference, and together a lot of small differences can lead to great change. We can all have a voice and make sure that it is heard. This is not to say that everyone will listen to your voice, nor will they like what you have to say, but neither of these reasons should ever stop you from using your voice. That is one of the things I like about the body piercing industry as a whole; there are so many accepted ways to get to the same final product. We may not all agree on how to get there, but for the most part we are all open minded enough to realize that this is the case.

Very recently we were able to get a lot of these different opinions together in the same room at the first ever APP Members Retreat in Georgia. You could see change happening— changes in perspectives, methodologies, self esteem—and know that further change in practices were to come as a result of attendance. I was so fortunate to be a part of that group and those changes.

As an organization the APP stands poised for its next change with the anticipated election of three new Board Members this winter. This year there are a number of outstanding candidates that will be in the running for these positions. We, as a membership, are so fortunate to have the ability to directly drive the changes that shape our organization. So when your ballot arrives, remember you have a voice and it should be heard.

I hope you enjoy Issue 73 of The Point as we take a look at some of the current issues and changes on the horizon for body piercing.

Point #72: Al D. Scholar – Lucina Ugarte

November 12, 2015 Comments Off read Awards & Recognition, Conference, Issue 70

Lucina Ugarte

English Translation:

The moment I received the call from Caitlin informing me that I had been granted the Al D. Scholarship will be one I never forget. Honestly, I never thought it would be awarded to me. From that day forward everything that occurred was and has been indescribable.

I began to realize that there was a considerable amount of work to do even before the event itself: talks, videos, entertainment, and getting to know people, even if it was only virtually. I had no idea of the grand family that had been forming during the many, many years of volunteer work at each of the Conferences in the past; a family that I was so welcomed into. There were so many lovely people all with the same goal. Initially I felt overwhelmed, knowing that the majority of the attendees already knew each other and I was a complete stranger who didn’t even speak the same language. It didn’t take long for me to realize that all of my preconceptions had no place among the grand and delightful family of volunteers, who not only took me in from the beginning, but were also concerned for me, knowing how far I was travelling in order to participate in such an honorable task. The departure day arrived. It wasn’t an easy trip and during the first layover, I began to feel ill and I thought I wasn’t going to make it to my destination. Despite the situation, I convinced myself that I was fine and that I didn’t have the luxury of missing this opportunity. I found ways to deal with the pain and continued my journey. It wasn’t easy, but arriving in Las Vegas made everything that much more real; I was there!!!

My best memories? After a whirlwind week it is hard to pick just one. The journey by bus to the restaurant where we shared the last supper at the end of Conference was priceless. I enjoyed every minute. That and Caitlin’s final discourse was the perfect finishing touch to such a magnificent experience.

Would I do it again? Without a single doubt! I hope to see everyone again next year.

Spanish Translation:

Cuando me llamó Caitlin para contarme que me habían otorgado la beca fue un momento que nunca olvidaré. Honestamente nunca pensé que me la darían.

Y desde ese dia en adelante fue indescriptible todo lo que fue sucediendo.

En seguida me di cuenta de que había mucho trabajo que hacer aun mucho antes del evento, charlas, videos, entrenamiento y conocer aunque sea de manera virtual a los que serían mis compañeros en ésta aventura. No tenía idea de la gran familia que habían estado formando durante años y años de trabajo voluntario en cada conferencia. Mucha gente linda empujando todos para el mismo lado. Me sentí abrumada al principio, sabiendo que la mayoría ya se conocían hace tiempo y yo era una completa extraña que ni siquiera hablaba el mismo idioma que ellos. No tardé mucho en darme cuenta de que todos mis prejuicios no tenían lugar en ésa gran y hermosa familia de voluntarios que no solo me integraron desde el principio, sino que se preocuparon por mi sabiendo de lo lejos que yo iba a viajar para participar de ésta tan honorable tarea.

Y llegó el día del viaje. No fue un viaje facil, ya en la primer escala me empecé a sentir enferma y pensé que no iba a lograr llegar al destino; a pesar de eso me autoconvenci de que debía estar bien, y no me podía dar el lujo de perder ésta oportunidad. Compré una tableta de analgesicos y seguí mi camino. No fue facil pero al llegar a Las Vegas todo se tornó mas real, ya estaba ahi!!!

Concerté con un colega para compartir viaje desde el aeropuerto al hotel y así fue. Cuando llegamos me estaba esperando mi compañera de cuarto, ella también habia recibido la beca Al D.

El día siguiente comenzó temprano con una reunión para conocernos en persona todos los voluntarios. Wooow! Eramos muchos mas de los que me habia imaginado, y algunos eran voluntarios desde hacía más de 15 años. Luego siguió un pequeño tour por los distintos puestos que debíamos ocupar los siguientes cinco días.

Llegó el momento de empezar a trabajar, durante toda la semana ademas de tomar las clases que habíamos elegido, nos rotabamos en distintas tareas, y así se pasó la semana. Con muchas cosas nuevas aprendidas y lo mejor de todo, la hermosa gente con la que compartimos una semana intensa pero que sin dudas volvería a repetir cada año. Los mejores recuerdos? El trayecto en bus hasta el restaurante en el que compartimos la última cena al final del congreso fue impagable, disfruté cada minuto a la ida y a la vuelta. El discurso final de Caitlin fue el broche que cerró tan maravillosa experiencia.

Lo volvería a repetir? Sin absolutamente ninguna duda!!! Espero verlos a todos el proximo año.

Point #72: Al D. Scholar – Gladix Porca Miseria

November 12, 2015 Comments Off read Awards & Recognition, Events

Gladix Porca Miseria

English Translation:

This was the first time I have seen so many people come together and become emotionally united. It left such an impression on me! Since it was my first year, I don’t have anything to compare those connections to, but from the outside, one can witness the strong connection amongst the attendees and the bonds being built between one another. There was laughter and very strong emotions.

The days went by and finally the Banquet and Raffle came and I won!!! Incredible! I have never won anything in my life and I got a small share of the Industrial Strength prize.

The next day was our last day and you could tell there were a thousand emotions in the air. That last night all the volunteers went out to dinner together. We got on a bus where everyone was singing like crazy and laughing; dinner was hilarious. When we got back we made speeches for each other, which I hate. I find expressing my feelings on paper much easier than in front of everybody, especially when everyone else who did it before you was moved and emotions were high. I got emotional. I didn’t say everything I wanted to say, but I am not sure I could ever find the right words. After a full week it is clear that there are a lot of people who work hard all year long so that everything runs smoothly and so that everyone can enjoy Conference.

I was astounded by Caitlin “Mama Duck”, she is efficiency personified; someone who can carry so much work load effortlessly. Her organization is more than admirable. Thank you for letting me be one more “duck.” I also find it admirable seeing people who have been volunteers for more than 17 years all working toward a common goal, knowing that they won’t get anything in return.

In Europe many believe that the APP is an elitist piercing association that has been dedicated to demonizing anyone who did not meet their standards. Now I know the importance it really has, since going behind the scenes at Conference and seeing there is so much more to the abbreviation. There are people who are so involved for the greater good of the industry, because of us. That is the real APP; the people who really help the industry and do everything possible to teach and nurture those who need it, all to help us progress. Thank you so much for choosing me to share this experience with all of you, I hope I can be a part of it for many years to come.

Spanish Original:

Era la primera vez que veía a tanta gente junta tan emocionalmente unida , me dejo impactada. Para mi es mi primer año,quizás no puedo comparar pero desde fuera se ve la conexión tan fuerte que hay entre los asistentes y lo fuertemente unidos que están unos a otros. Hubo risas y emociones muy fuertes.

Y empezó la rifa y me toco!!! Jajajajajja increíble! No me ha tocado nunca nada en mi vida y me toco un pellizco del premio de industrial Strength.

El día siguiente era nuestro último día y se notaba en el ambiente, mil emociones se mezclaban, por la noche todos los voluntarios fuimos a cenar todos juntos, nos montaron en un autobús en el que todos iban cantando como locos y riendo, la cena fue una risa, cundo volvimos nos tocaba hablar enfrente de todo el mundo…. Cosa que odio Jajajaja quizás expresar mis sentimientos en un papel, sea bastante más fácil que delante de todo el mundo jajaja mucho mas cuando las personas que lo han hecho antes que tu se han emocionado y la carga emocional del ambiente era bastante alta jajaja pues nada me salió horrible, me emocione… No dije todo lo que quería decir … Así que horrible… La conclusión que saque de mi estancia allí, es que hay un montón de gente que realmente se esta dejando la piel y que trabajan todo el año, para que todo salga perfecto y un montón de gente pueda disfrutar de la conferencia.

Estoy realmente impactada con Caitlin “mama Pato” es la eficiencia personificada, como una persona puede llevar semejante carga de trabajo y que parezca que no es nada? Es admirable la forma de organizarnos a todos. Gracias por todo y por dejarme ser un “pato” más. Me resulta también admirable ver a personas que son voluntarios desde hace más de 17 años y trabajan por un bien común , sabiendo que no recibirán nada a cambio.

En Europa muchos crearon la idea que APP era una especie que asociación de la élite del piercing, que se dedicaba a demonizar a todo el que no trabajaba bajo sus estándares. Ahora realmente se la importancia que tiene, y que detrás de unas siglas hay gente que involucra sus vidas por y para nosotros. Esa es la verdadera APP , gente que realmente ayuda a la industria y hace todo lo posible por tender la mano a quien lo necesite sin importar su nivel para ayudarnos a progresar. Muchas gracias por haberme elegido para compartir esta experiencia con vosotros, espero ser parte de ella durante muchos años mas .

Point #72: Al D. Scholar – Jose Carlos

November 12, 2015 Comments Off read Awards & Recognition, Conference, Issue 72

Jose Carlos

English Translation:

When I was informed that I had been awarded the Al D. Scholarship to attend the 2015 APP Conference I was overrun by many emotions. Joy, a great sense of joy. It felt as if all the hard work and effort I had put into this for months and years prior was being rewarded. Fear, the fear of not being “up to par” and disappointing those who had put their trust in my abilities, and my maturity to not waste the opportunity that had been given to me. Excitement, the excitement for the great adventure that was to come; the adventure of sharing and learning, surrounded by friends old and new. Peers and colleagues, great professionals who all share the same connection and love for body piercing regardless of city, country, or continent of origin.

With all this in mind, the weeks went by. Each week brought detailed emails more frequently, all with a ton of information to help with the work that was to come. This made me even more anxious to arrive in Las Vegas. At last the day had come and there was no turning back. From the very first moment I arrived, all my fears, nerves, and anxiousness that had me worried vanished, like a magic trick. From the first encounters and meetings with the volunteer group I realized that apart from working and attending classes, Conference was going to be something special and even more beautiful than I had imagined. As those first hours passed, I felt welcomed into a new family. A family that loves and supports one another. A family that works together so that this great event can grow and be an integral part of many piercers’ year.

So many people work so many hours, yet do it with a smile and kind words. They also bring so many hugs! Hugs that can make the stress melt away in seconds. And so the days passed. The lack of sleep and fatigue were noticeable, but it didn’t matter. It was all worth it. It is very difficult to describe in writing the great experience that was my week and volunteer work, how it has changed my view towards Conference and the effort involved in making it happen. People don’t realize how much work is involved until they are part of it. The experience and hard work was all worth it. Watching the large group of volunteers work together with Caitlin was wonderful. Without her this whole event would be impossible. Watching her work was incredible, inspiring and admirable. I know for sure that I’ll be back as a volunteer next year. I am sure that each year will be better than the previous year. There is only one thing left to say, and that is thank you from the bottom of my heart. In my heart I hold you all.

Thank you very very much.

Spanish Original:

Cuando me informaron que había sido seleccionado para poder ir a la conferencia de la APP 2015 con una beca me sentí invadido por muchas y diferentes sensaciones. Una gran alegría que el trabajo y esfuerzo de meses y años ahora se veía recompensado de una manera que nunca habría imaginado. Miedo, miedo de no estar a la altura y decepcionar a quien había puesto en mi toda su confianza. Confianza en mi capacidad para trabajar y para no desperdiciar la oportunidad que me estaban dando. Emoción, la emoción del que va a vivir una gran aventura, una aventura de compartir y aprender rodeado de viejos y nuevos amigos. Amigos que son grandes profesionales y que todos tienen el mismo nexo en común independientemente de su ciudad, país o continente de origen, el amor y el respeto por su profesión el body piercing.

Con todo esto en la cabeza pasaban las semanas, la fecha se acercaba, los mails explicativos llegaban cada vez con más asiduidad con una cantidad de información para facilitarme el trabajo. Y yo cada vez más nervioso deseando llegar a Las Vegas. Por fin llegué, ya estaba allí, ya no había marcha atrás. Desde el primer momento mis miedos, mis nervios, todo lo que me tenía preocupado desapareció como por arte de magia. Con los primeros encuentros y reuniones comprendí que aparte de trabajar y asistir a conferencias, iba a ser algo más, algo más importante y bonito de lo que yo podía imaginar. Según pasaban las horas sentí formar parte de una nueva familia, una familia en la que se apoyan y se quieren, en la que trabajan todos juntos para que el gran evento salga adelante sin fallos. Muchas horas de trabajo y siempre con una sonrisa y una palabra amable.

Abrazos, muchos abrazos que hacían que el stress desapareciese en cuestión de segundos. Así transcurrieron los días, la falta de sueño y el cansancio se notaban, pero no importaba valía la pena. Es muy difícil describir con palabras la gran experiencia que ha sido trabajar y como ha hecho que cambie mi visión de la conferencia

y todo el esfuerzo que implica llevarla a cabo. Uno no se da cuenta hasta que no está dentro formando parte de la organización, solo por haber vivido esa experiencia todo el esfuerzo valió la pena. El maravilloso trabajo de los voluntarios y el gran grupo que forman con Caitlin al mando—sin ella sería imposible—Ver cómo trabaja ha sido algo increíble e inspirador, es admirable. El gran esfuerzo que hace la APP para llevar a cabo la conferencia, usando todos sus recursos tanto humanos como materiales. Ha sido genial formar parte de algo así. la única idea que tengo fija en mi cabeza es volver el año próximo como voluntario. Porque estoy seguro que la experiencia siempre será mil veces mejor que el año anterior y ahora que he entrado en la familia no quiero dejar de verla. Solo me queda dar las gracias de todo corazón, y en el corazón los llevo a todos.

Muchas, muchas gracias.

Point #72: Al D. Scholar – Aiden Johnson

November 12, 2015 Comments Off read Awards & Recognition, Conference, Issue 72

Aiden Johnson

For me, Conference was a week long riot of love, laughter, and learning all culminating in a new outlook on life. Whether it was the time spent in meetings with the volunteer team, in class with fellow piercers, or trying to build the courage to talk to industry greats at the bar, I have built long lasting relationships with people that I will go to the ends of the Earth (literally with the flights I’d need to take) to help out.

I first arrived at Conference nervous and feeling very lonely. However, within minutes of meeting my fellow scholars and volunteers I was put at ease. These were people that all had the same passion for piercing and our industry. These people were also willing to accept me and take me as one of their own before knowing anything about me. Before the week came to an end, though I knew these people in detail, sometimes details I never would have expected. I can’t wait to learn and work alongside them again.

In our volunteer group we are told that self care is very important throughout the hectic week. However, this wonderful family will also take care of you when you forget to do it yourself. That is one memory that remains the strongest for me; after forgetting to care for myself I needed to retire to my room. I awoke to find 3 of my new friends tickling my feet, smiles surrounding me, and a cupcake on my night stand. This was an induction into a new family I knew that I would never forget.

In between attending classes, carrying out my volunteer duties, and having fun, I changed. My outlook on life became broader. A focus on self-care and quality of life crept in. A new level of love for what I do came to me and I never want to let that go. I can’t wait to attend APP 2016 and volunteer my time. Conference is a life changing experience and is so difficult to put into words. To everyone who has anything to do with Conference, all I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart. To those of you who have never attended, I urge you to go; you won’t be disappointed.

See you next year!

Best Wishes

The Point

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