Posts tagged conference2017

Point 80: Meet Some of the No-Excuses Scholars

Cas Willems, Al D. Scholar, scans an Attendee’s badge
Photo by Autumn Swisher

KIRSTEN JANUSEWSKI—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

The 2017 APP Conference was the best learning and personal development experience that I have had the pleasure of taking part in. Along with five other Scholars, I was awarded the No Excuses Scholarship which was such a memorable, life changing opportunity.

Since starting my latest apprenticeship in March 2016, my goal has been to attend Conference again, but this time with a little more knowledge and confidence. I attended APP Conference for the first time in 2014 and because I lived in Las Vegas, I simply went to classes and went straight home. There was lit- tle to no interaction with anyone and I couldn’t help but feel like I was missing out on a major part of my community’s biggest gathering. This year, I made sure to step out of my comfort zone so I could really embrace the community surrounding me and all of the knowledge they were going to pass along. At first, being around so many professional piercers, who I’ve followed for years on social media, was quite intimidating. Although, knowing that I wanted a much richer experience than my first, I had to overcome some personal social struggles. So to break the ice, I made sure to smile and wave at anyone I saw, as well as introduce myself. Everyone was just as nice and receptive to meeting a fellow piercer.

One of the best parts about my week in Vegas was realizing I wasn’t alone and that no matter how early I was in my career, my peers were there to support me. They made me feel so comfortable and allowed me to pick their brains any chance I got, whether we were sitting by the pool, in a hotel room, or standing by the elevators waiting to go to our next class. Some of my favorite classes this year was Strategic Marking, Navel Piercing: Advanced Fundamentals, and Planning for Success. I also enjoyed the APP Membership Roundtable which answered a lot of questions about becoming a Member and specifications on the requirements.

Coming back to New York to the normal hustle and bustle was a bittersweet feeling. I couldn’t wait to get back and share all the new information and knowledge with my peers and better assist my clients. I was also eager to practice some advanced techniques and improve on current ones. On the other hand, I truly missed everyone I just spent the last week with bonding, swapping stories, and sharing techniques. It is an indescribable comfort to be around so many other like-minded, expressive friends. We all came together to support our industry and expand our knowledge as a collective team. Thank you all for making the 2017 APP Conference unforgettable!

RACHEL HAWLEY—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

I want to start off by saying thank you for choosing me for the scholarship. I feel so privileged to have been selected. I took home so much from Conference this year—from the helpful tongue piercing techniques by Ryan Ouellette and his beard-net GoPro ensemble, to Rob Hill’s nonchalant industrial piercing magic. The love and compassion for the industry shown by Elayne Angel and Betsy Reynolds was overwhelming. Alicia Cardenas brought me back to my roots in remembering we are like modern shaman guiding people through their experience or spiritual journey. Being reminded to keep mundane facts interesting for clients was also helpful. Jaymes Lombardi’s speech really hit me hard. I go to work with an entirely different outlook on my job and what it means.

After a week in Las Vegas you’d think I’d come home exhausted, right? WRONG! I was recharged!! Knowing I am not alone and am a part of something HUGE. Much bigger than any one person. The resources are all there and I now know where to get them. I have a huge list of improvements that I’m excited to make!! Not only did I learn so much in class, but from my peers as well. People I never would’ve met otherwise have expanded my friend circle clear to Croatia!! I plan to set up some trips to go visit my peers and learn from them. If it weren’t for the No Excuses Scholarship I wouldn’t have had these opportunities. I really cannot say thank you enough!

ROGAN WATRAL—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

It was somehow the longest, and the shortest week of my year. Also, quite possibly the best week I’ve had all year. I urge anyone who has dreamed of going to the APP Conference as I did, to do whatever’s necessary to make sure you attend as soon as possible. Even if it means selling a kidney (ahaha jk please don’t sue me). Everyone will tell you how life changing it is, but you really can’t understand the weight of that statement until you’re there. Even more so, once you start meeting all the wonderful people who attend this event. I met new faces everywhere! In the halls, classes, elevators, by the bar etc. To finally meet some of the people who shaped this industry was something I’ll remember and look forward too forever. Hopefully this next year I’ll be able to donate and give back so that others can be so fortunate.

I’m very grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of the No Excuses Scholarship. The amount  of  knowledge and  experience I gained is priceless. I came back with a renewed sense of energy that I desperately needed. I began new friendships that made me feel like I was with old friends. I can’t wait to see what the coming years at Conference can do for my career and the comfort of my clients. I’m already planning on being back next year.

MISTY ALFORD—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

Being accepted as a No Excuses Scholarship for Conference was absolutely the most amazing and life changing experience in my career. This scholarship allowed me to attend several classes. These classes helped me to understand where I needed to implement or update new ways of doing things in different areas of my procedures.

Being able to attend Conference on the No Excuses Scholarship allowed me to network with other piercers from all over the world.   I was able to talk to them about their techniques and why they do things certain ways.

This scholarship allowed me to take a few classes with one of my biggest role models in the piercing industry, Elayne Angel. I was also able to have a few conversations with my other role model, Shorty. He has an amazing amount of knowledge.

I would like to thank Christina Shull and all of the donors that made this opportunity a reality for all of the scholarship recipients.

VICENTE AGUILAR-FERRELL—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

 A year ago I began my pursuit to become a professional body piercer at Blue Star. When I began my journey I had already heard of the APP with its Annual Conference and had already decided it to be one of my goals to aid my learning. Fortunately with the generosity of the No Excuses Scholarship sponsors along with what I was able to save, I was able to finally make it to my first Conference. I was excited for the opportunity I had to help me gain more knowledge.

Being at Conference for the first few days almost seemed unreal. Here I was being given the tools to apply to my career which is being organized by people who have the same goals. Then the same people who organized the event are also the instructors for the classes, there was a definite sense of community while I was there even though many including myself were first timers. The classes were very informative and I can’t wait to apply my ideas at the shop and help it and myself grow.

The events that were held after class, especially the ATTB, were a great idea. It gave people the opportunity to spend time and connect with our fellow peers. It was a great way to save money and made sure people didn’t feel like they had to drink just because we were in Vegas. The Banquet was amazing! Seeing everyone dressed up with their fancy jewelry was like prom, but actually fun, plus the food was amazing.

By the end of the week I didn’t want to go home, it almost seemed like the week had flown by. I did want to stop learning. I wanted to keep meeting new people and obviously the pool was a nice to stay at. I hope to be able to make it again and see everyone together again.

Garrett Craven
No-Excuses Scholar
Photo by Autumn Swisher

GARRETT CRAVEN—NO EXCUSES SCHOLAR

It was my first time attending and also my first experience of anything of this kind. I was also fortunate enough to be accepted as a recipient for the No Excuses Scholarship.

A lot of stress led up to the moment of leaving home and embarking on this adventure. Several people offered their time to try and help prepare me for what lay ahead. It certainly helped paint a picture for me and allowed me to prepare for several things I had not thought of such as maps of the hotel, a re-usable water bottle (necessity!) and a hoodie for inside the hotel.

Upon arriving I was overwhelmed with confusion and the task of getting situated. Almost immediately I started meeting people which helped assure me I wasn’t alone. The amount of people who were welcoming and inviting was more than I’ve ever encountered in my entire life. That played a large role in calming my nerves as I arrived there not knowing a single person in real life and I’ve never been in that situation before. Without that I feel the week would have been hell. I would have been overwhelmed with the Vegas environment and the chaos of getting from class to class.

As each day passed my notebook became flooded with scratchy notes as I couldn’t quite write fast enough trying to get every critical word and bit of information that was new to me. I made sure to download the handout from the app as soon as I arrived in each class so when I got back home I could pair that with my notes to really be able to retain all the information. There were so many great classes that I couldn’t pick one which was most helpful. It was literally information overload. I’ve since then printed out all the handouts (and a few from classes I wasn’t able to attend) and paired them with my notes to have a “go-to” or just a refresher here and there. It was truly an unforgettable experience that has changed the way I do almost everything. Jesse Villemaire mentioned something in the sterilization class that hit me then but struck even harder after getting home, “You’ll want to burn the place down and start from scratch, but just start slow with one change at a time.” Couldn’t be more accurate.

In closing, this Conference is something I am striving to attend for the remainder of my career. Whether to obtain knowledge or meet amazing people you can’t go wrong. When I am able to I will surely donate to any scholarship I can if even just a few dollars. I fear that the people who made it possible for me to attend will never truly know how grateful I am for their donations. It’s hard to even really put to words. I guess it could be somewhat related to someone running up to you and hugging you so tight that you can’t breathe and feel uncomfortable and they give you a big smooch right on the cheek with a huge grin on their face and you’re not really sure why. That’d be my gratitude. Thank you.

Point 80: Meet Some of our Al D. Scholars

Marina Pecorino with Scholars: Saku Pentilla, Alicia Lowe, and Michelle (Mitch) Rose

ERICA MARTIN – AL D. SCHOLAR

As I watch Las Vegas disappear from my plane window, I have so many emotions flying through me. Holding back tears, the only certainty I feel is that I could never have a year without Conference ever again. Being a mother and wife takes so much effort from my small amount of “work free” time that having friends, especially those outside of the industry, isn’t a possibility and the few friends I  do have are mostly coworkers. I was and still am baffled that in one week’s time a group of complete strangers can not only work together seamlessly, but bond in such a way that now I couldn’t imagine not knowing these beautiful souls. Everyone was so incredibly welcoming and supportive, constantly looking out for one another and ensuring their fellow volunteers/attendees were eating or getting enough water. I kept hearing everyone throw around the word family before attending, but it’s true. It’s a thousand best friends leaning on one another, swapping tips, asking questions, or just sharing a cup of coffee. It’s a week full of love and support from people with the same struggles as you, coming together for the same common good.

The classes were absolutely life changing. Even just knowing that you’re doing things correctly and affirming you’re doing right by your clients is a wonderful feeling. Those small AH-HA! moments where a simple thing clicks or that conversation about a new or different technique really is just so invigorating. As sad and hard as it is already being away from those kindred spirits, it’s fantastic having that blood flowing again and being recharged and better prepared for my clients. It’s great to take back what you have learned to improve your studio and be able to think critically and make smart changes to your environment for the better- ment of you and your clients.

I also have to give a special thanks to the Al D. Scholarship Committee and Punkmedics (so much love for Badur and my Punkmedics PALS) for giving me and my other Scholars this opportunity. I will never accurately portray the love and gratitude I have for all of you (thankfully I can at least write my feelings down instead of inaudibly blubbering, tears streaming, snot and all). These people work so incredibly hard behind the scenes and then on top of that, try and give other Scholars like me this life altering adventure (for me 11 years in the making). I hope so very much to be able to have the opportunity to volunteer again next year, but no matter what, from this year forward, I’m a new permanent face you’ll see at Conference. A year’s time in between seeing your family is hard, but I wouldn’t miss it for anything! See you all next year!

Erica Martin & Nina Rennie
Al D. Scholars
Photo by Matte Erickson

JESS FARRAR – AL D. SCHOLAR

I can see how Conference and the entire Vegas experience is considered overwhelming to an Al D. Scholar, being that a lot of us are from different  cultures and countries but I have honestly never felt more at home than I did that week with all of you at Bally’s. I had no idea what to expect going into this and even now I’m struggling to put it into words, the best way I can describe it is, for me, a formative experience. I am not the same version of myself coming away from APP as I was in the run up to it, and that is thanks to each and every person I met and interacted with that week. Kind words, encouragement, so many high fives, and being fed occasional snacks does a lot of good! It was due to the confidence instilled by my volunteer family that I was able to fully enjoy this life-changing week, meet people in the real world who I’d only previously spoken with in passing online, and take away new friendships and relationships as well as a bundle of knowledge from the incredible selection of classes I took. Simultaneously learning and working was more manageable than anticipated, which left me with more energy to make new friends and get outside (my two weaknesses!). I feel like I attended Conference at the right time for me, and it’s definitely a cornerstone in my piercing career.

Jess Farrar
Al D. Scholar
Photo by Matte Erickson

NINA RENNIE – AL D. SCHOLAR

It’s  June  20th,  several  days  after  Conference; the slowest and quickest nine days of my  life. As an Al D. Scholar this year, we have been asked to write about our experience working with the APP for the 2017 Conference. I say with and not at because I had the pleasure of working alongside the greatest friends I will ever meet. I won’t lie, it was a struggle and difficult to work the long hours and still find the energy to push on, but it stretches beyond that for me. I woke up with a strong sense of purpose and felt that I was needed. Without the help of the Al D. Scholars, volunteers, Caitlin and many others, would there be a Conference for us to enjoy? Many of my peers and fellow piercers had come to us personally and publicly to thank us for our solid work. To have these people, who I have barely spoken to over the internet or merely admired from afar (being afraid they wouldn’t give someone like me the time of day), personally thanking us for putting the show together? I could feel the appreciation sink into my heart.

Eleven days ago I jumped on a plane to another country to learn and to give my best, not knowing what was in store for me in Las Vegas. What I received in turn, however, was everyone else’s best, as well as their love and support. I spent a lot of my time during Conference feeling overwhelmed, forgetting to take care of myself and making sure other people’s needs were met before my own. I did not mind, though. As long as my friends, teachers, and other volunteers were happy, I was happy. To be apart of this professional organization is a gift in itself. I learned many things about myself and those around me while I was working. Growing up, I did not have lasting friendships because I was that “weird” kid. Floating around, from friend to friend, trying to find  a sense of acceptance or even just to belong somewhere. Coming to Conference this year has changed my long and painful life of being alone and unaccepted by those around me.    I was in an area filled with a thousand nerds and weirdos just like me, and professionals at that! I was unafraid to push on and unafraid to show these people who I am and what I’m capable of, just by being in the same room. We all came together, from all over this beautiful globe, to learn from each other and to teach; even if it wasn’t in a classroom.

The sense of friendship and acceptance was the thing I have been searching for. The APP brought this to me, and I have eternal gratitude for showing me I am no longer alone. I have learned great things from my teachers and from my friends. I learned that it’s important to keep tissues on hand because if you met me this year, you know all I did was cry during Conference. I learned a true sense of community and that no one that I came into contact with thought they were better than me. My educators are regular people, and my friends and volunteers are regular people too. People who are living with crippling anxieties, insecurities, and doubts much like myself. We all come together once a year for the betterment of one another and hopefully put those other things aside. To ask for help, to learn, to make everlasting friendships and family. We leave our comfort zones and push on to grow as individuals and develop as human beings. If there is one thing I have truly learned working with the Conference this year, it is that I will never be alone again. Thank you to everyone at this year’s Conference, from the tippy top of my heart, to the bottom of my boots. Without any of my friends I have made on this journey, I would not be here typing out this essay. I worked hard to be here in this moment, but not without any of you.

Hugs and sloppy kisses!

ALICIA LOWE – AL D. SCHOLAR

Sometimes you have to lose before you can win. Last year I applied for, and didn’t receive, the Al D. Scholarship. Looking back, it was one of the best things that could have happened for my career. At the time of my first application, I was at the height of depression. Working in an environment that had no desire to change and no room for growth, I felt trapped. I saw the scholarship as a way to better myself and improve my situation. Every day, I checked my email hoping to be told I made it to the next round. That message never came.

Initially, the letter informing me that I did not make the second cut felt like a crushing weight. I’m not ashamed to admit that I cried. The tears did eventually dry, and I found clarity; the scholarship wouldn’t change my situation. It wouldn’t bring better quality jewellery into the business, nor the support from my employer  to make necessary changes. I had to make the changes myself. I had heard about a job opportunity from a friend, and decided to try.

Once again, I checked my email frequently with hope. Once more, my email revealed disappointment. Over the course of a few weeks I went to work thinking I was able to hide how I was feeling. I was wrong. My employer had heard about my application and had chosen to let me go. My world around me spun out of control. Having been a piercer since an early age, I didn’t know what else to do. The next move escaped me. I decided to reach out to my network about the situation I found myself in. A piercer I knew allowed me to come in to shadow him, as well as talk.

After shadowing with him, it allowed us to open a dialogue regarding employment. He could only offer me a few days a week, but I was willing to try. I was happy to finally be in an environment that cared about their clients, and offered good quality jewellery. Around this time, I became aware of another shop in a different city that was also looking for a piercer. I nervously reached out once more to be sur- prised by another opportunity. Over the next several months, I travelled weekly back and forth between both businesses. This experience lead me to wanting to apply a second time for the Al D. Scholarship. Both of my employers were in my corner every step of the way this time. Their outpouring of support gave me renewed confidence that allowed me to discuss and submit my experiences over the past year.

Having previously applied, I had a better sense of what I really wanted to say this time around. Submitting was the easy part. Waiting for the phone call with the decision had me on pins and needles for days. When I answered Kendra’s phone call, my heart was in my throat. Every moment we talked I felt like my chest would explode until I heard the that would forever change my life, “Pack your bags! You’re going to Vegas!” I almost dropped the phone in disbelief!

The next few months were a blur as Conference rapidly crept up on us. Packing kept the nerves at bay, at least until arrival. The thought of being under the same roof as so many talented piercers from all over the world was enough to make my head spin. As each of the Scholars arrived one by one, seeing faces just as shy and nervous as my own helped to remind me that I wasn’t alone. I was not the only one feeling this way.

The first meeting with the volunteers helped to set the tone for us. They were warm, kind, and eager to help at every turn. No question was too silly, no moment overlooked, and some even did daily check-ins to make sure we were still doing ok and enjoying our classes. Every moment spent with them was full of smiles and care. It was an instant family I never knew I needed until the moment I met them. A family I am so grateful to be a part of. I really can’t thank them enough for everything they did, and continue to do.

The classes were incredible in so many ways. From Revisiting Basics: Tongue Piercing with Ryan Ouellette to Navel Piercings: Advanced Fundamentals with Jef Saunders and Luis Garcia; all were great classes. They helped to not only change how you approach a piercing, but to hear piercers you respect and look up to suggest similar techniques you’re using helped to reaffirm you’re doing something right. All of the speakers were very easy to approach with questions both during and outside of classes.

Conference has also helped me to gain the confidence I needed to continue reaching out to others and have less fear asking to shadow others or ask questions. A week after returning home, I reached out to Rob Hill and was able to spend several days shadowing with him at Prysm Body Piercing. Seeing things that were discussed in the Strategic Marking class applied first hand was incredibly eye-opening and I don’t believe I would have ever reached out to Rob had I not attended Conference.

I cannot say enough how unbelievably grateful I am to have had the opportunity to attend, as well as for everything else the experience has given me. My drive to continue to better myself has risen far higher than I thought possible, and I’ll be coming back every year that  I can. A piercer I know once asked me, “How far are you willing to go?” The answer may not be Vegas, but it’s a great start.

Alicia Lowe
Al D. Scholar
Photo by Matte Erickson

SAKU PENTILLӒ – AL D. SCHOLAR

It really was an honor to be selected as one of the Al D. Scholars this year. The process of applying came to me in the summer of 2016 when I was talking to a friend at a small suspension meeting and he asked if I would be interested in going to the Conference, and of course I was! He told me to contact Andre Nalin when I go to Germany for BMXnet. While there, I had a conversation with him, Nicole Holmes and Marita Wikström (previous Al D. Scholars) and they all told me that I should apply for the scholarship. Coming alone from Finland was the biggest cause of anxiety for me, but after three flights I met Caitlin at the airport and I knew I had made it.

When we had the first meeting with all the other volunteers, I knew that we would rock this year with all those motivated people getting together to make the Conference awesome for all the attendees! Getting used to the climate was impossible though, so I tried to stay indoors as much as possible. I arrived on Thursday, so I got to see what the casino was like before all the attendees started arriving. When the casino started filling with our group, I saw many faces super excited to see their other family and learn from the best of our industry. It made me feel butterflies in my stomach.

Work days were long, but with the volunteers taking care of each other like a little family they were surprisingly easy and FAST! You woke up in the morning and in the blink of an eye it was time to go to bed again. The classes were awesome and informative, and I returned home with my head buzzing from all the new techniques and ways to improve myself as a piercer. The Expo was everything I imagined and more! All the pretty people and jewelry! I bought lots of pretties and my first pair of new hooks, which I can’t wait to try out.

It really was a great opportunity to make friends and network with people from all around the globe. Meeting your idols face to face is something you never forget. If it would be possible, I would like to live in a Conference all day everyday! Thank you to all the attendees for making the Conference unforgettable, and to all the other volunteers for treating me as a part of the family. Love you all!

Saku Pentilla
Al D. Scholar
Photo by Matt Erickson

Point 80: Update from the Secretary

Aaron Pollack
APP Secretary

One more great Conference is in the books. This was another record breaking year with over 1,100 registered attendees!

Every year at Conference we hold our annual Members’ Meeting. This annual meeting is a chance for our Members and Corporate Sponsors to hear updates about the future of Conference and the Association, and to get a review of the APP’s finances.

This year’s Members’ Meeting was particularly eventful with announcements regarding new Member perks and a new Conference venue for 2019!

MEMBER PERK

Our Member perk this year was a new window cling for your studios. These double-sided clings can be displayed at any studio with an APP Member on staff. If you were not in atten- dance at the meeting, you will receive a cling by mail with your 2018 membership certificate.

CONFERENCE 2018 AND 2019

Conference 2018 will be held July 15-20, 2018 at Bally’s. This is our final year at Bally’s! Be prepared for a great send off and another big year.

Conference 2019 will be our first year at Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. Planet Hollywood is a big upgrade for our Conference and we are really excited about our future there.

MEMBERLEAP AND MEMBER’S AREA

Our new website and Member’s Area are now live. Our website has had a major facelift and is better than ever,  with ongoing improvements and added features. Included on our website is a Member’s Only area where you can instantly update your Member profile, Required Documents (environmental and personal criteria) and keep updated on APP Events. Be sure to check  it out. If you have questions about the Member’s Area or need help with the system, you can reach Marina Pecorino, Membership Administrator, at mpecorino@safepiercing.org.

Point 80: From the Editor: Marina Pecorino

Marina Pecorino
Point Editor

As with any APP Conference I’ve attended, this year was a rollercoaster of a week. There were times where I was busy beyond words and others where I felt relaxed and totally at peace. There were moments when I was surrounded by people, activity, flashing lights, and a cacophony of sound. And then there were those solitary moments in my hotel room or the volunteer office, where I enjoyed total silence and introspection.

This year also had its fair share of firsts, including the first annual Alternatives To The Bar activities. Most of my work responsibilities occur late into the evening, which usually brings me great joy; I revel in the contrary nature of the Conference space during the quiet times. Unfortunately, it means that I missed out on ATTB: BYOF on Tuesday night. This Bring Your Own Fun evening drew a sizable group to the Grand Salon with board, tabletop, and card games galore. I stopped by several times and everyone seemed to be having a blast. This activity is definitely in my wheelhouse, so I’m planning to bring along a few games of my own and definitely make the time to attend next year. Thankfully, on Wednesday night, I finished up with my work a bit early and had a chance to watch some historic piercing films presented by Paul King during the ATTB: Movie Night. It was incredibly moving to sit in the Silver Room filled with piercing industry colleagues watching videos from the Gauntlet era. The Members Meeting on Wednesday brought a personal first. As part of my administrative duties to the APP, I had the opportunity to stand in front of my peers, assisting during several presentations from the Officers and Board of Directors. We announced the new and upcoming features of our MemberLeap software, which was (and continues to be) a very fulfilling project for me. One of my primary responsibilities for the APP is the maintenance of Member records, and this software makes it easier than ever before. It’s a work in progress; there’s always room for improvement, especially in the world of technology. Watch for future updates and system additions, and if you have questions about how the system works, don’t hesitate to let me know: mpecorino@safepiercing.org / 785.856.4540.

Thursday brings the Banquet Dinner, a time for all of us that work to relax just a bit. The grand prize raffle awards were drawn and marked yet another first. For possibly the first time in APP history, the same person won three of the top prizes, and it was an astonishing event to behold. Paul Rainer’s personal account of the events leading up to his improbable win, as well as video of the drawing and Paul’s reactions, are available later in this issue. It just goes to show that sometimes taking a gamble can be life changing, especially when you have the best odds in Vegas.

Now that the dust has settled from Conference, I am looking toward the future and the changes to come. As my responsibilities with the APP continue to broaden and change, so do the dynamics of my family. A few months before the 2018 APP Conference, I will become a first time parent. The thought is incredibly exciting, but also frightening. It may mean that I miss our last year at Bally’s, but I am still desperately hopeful to attend. Despite all the hard work, that week in Vegas serves to revitalize me. Being surrounded by my industry family has a way of recharging my batteries and refocusing my energy; it truly is remarkable.

Point 80: From the Editor: Kendra Jane B.

Kendra Jane B.
Point Editor

It’s no secret how much I love donuts (or doughnuts), but to me these tasty little morsels have become so much more than some- thing delicious to stuff down my gullet. They have become a tradition, an expression of devotion and love, and a symbol of family.

Our volunteer team shares a special bond, one that is often hard to describe in words. We have held each other’s hands, each other’s babies, been there for each other through wed- dings and funerals, and of course at Conference. Conference is sometimes the only time we get to see each other, people that come from all around the world to sacrifice their time in order to help put on the best event they possibly can, for all our attendees and industry as a whole. They are the only people I don’t mind sharing my donuts with, and I tend to guard my sugary treats with vigor. So from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU to each and every person that gives part of themselves to Conference. I raise a donut in your honour and salute you.

Donuts are (usually) a circle, no beginning and no end, at least until I take the first bite. Our week in the desert is fleeting and before we know it, it’s over for another year. I hope you are ready to dive into this issue, re-living the ah-ha moments, the times filled with heartwarming laughter, the late nights, the smiles, and the hugs. I get to harness all that goodness year round now, so I feel like there really is no end to Conference for me anymore. I have already begun work for next year and the year after that. No beginning, no end; just goodness all around like my donut.