Posts tagged Editorial

Point #72: From the Editor – Marina Pecorino

1 Comment read Editorial, Issue 72

Point-70-From-the-Editor-Marina-0.jpg

Marina Pecorino
Managing Editor of Content & Statistics

Conference. Words can’t fully describe the experience of that one week a year.

This year marked 20 years of Conference, with a focus on the history of our industry: the first Body Piercing Archives exhibit, history classes lead by pioneers like Jim Ward, David Vidra, Fakir Musafar, and Blake Perlingieri, as well as an APP Timeline class with many of the people involved in making the Association what it is today. Throughout the week, I listened to individuals share their stories of involvement in the Association, the industry, and our community. Numerous times, the intensity of these personal narratives—an individual perspective of our shared history—brought me to tears.

This year also marked the first for many new procedures, technologies, and ideas being implemented to keep up with our growing attendance. Knowing that more than 1,000 people left Conference with new friends, an increased knowledge base, and a renewed sense of self is pretty incredible. This year’s Conference was the largest yet, and there’s every indication that next year will continue this trend.

Now that I’ve been home for nearly two months (most of you will read this closer to the three month mark), the post Vegas depression has faded and I have settled back into the groove of everyday life. But my memories of Conference are still bright and they leave me invigorated.

Still, I miss walking through the hotel and being met with welcoming smiles, warm hugs, and genuine camaraderie. Have I mentioned all the beautiful people and beautiful jewelry?! Occasionally, I look through my photos from the late night/early morning walks around the Strip, exploring the all-too-fake, yet mesmerizing “architecture”. I eagerly look through my social media to keep up with all of the amazing people I spent the week with, many of whom I met for the first time. I have received postcards and care packages from members of the volunteer family. I have sent quite a few in return and collected stacks more for future mailing. I’m already yearning for next year.

Alright, I’ll admit that maybe I’m still dealing with some PVD. The environment of that week is a hard thing not to miss, so join me as we take a detailed look at the 20th anniversary APP Conference & Exposition.

 

Point #72: From the Editor – Kendra Jane Berndt

1 Comment read Editorial, Issue 72

Point-70-From-the-Editor-Kendra-0.jpgKendra Jane Berndt
Managing Editor of Content & Archives

When I think back to the week of the 20th annual Association of Professional Piercers Conference, I am rendered almost speechless, and if you know me, that is difficult. PVD or post Vegas depression, as a few of us call it, has hit me especially strong this year. I find myself longing for the hugs, smiles, and the mental stimulation that Conference provides. I even miss the hustle and bustle, the over priced everything, and the smoke filled casino. At the same time I am relieved to sleep in my own bed, eat vegetables, and put into practice the learning from this year.

In this issue we will take a look through the photos, the stories, the awards, and the memories that made this year by far the best Conference I have ever been too—I am sure many others share the same sentiments as me. Each attendee will have their own favourite moments from this year. In fact some may have so many moments that picking a favourite is impossible. Personally I have been able to narrow it down to the evening of the Banquet prom. My own prom (or grad as we call it here in the Great White North) was less than perfect and, well, I would rather forget most of it honestly. However, prom at this year’s Banquet will forever be one of my happiest nights, filled with love, laughter, tears, and dancing; oh glorious dancing.

This year’s prom also gave me the chance to recognize someone very close to me, someone who has shaped the person I am and pushes me in the direction of the person I want to be. It was an absolute honour to speak to her hard work and dedication. This will forever be a memory I cherish. We love you, Caitlin. Why do I suddenly have a craving for pie?

Kendra Jane - Best Smile - 2015 Prom AwardsThe other moment that still makes me giddy like a 16 year old is the fact that you guys—my peers—saw it fitting to honour me with the “best smile in the industry”. I was shocked when I saw my name on the nomination ballot and even more so when my name was announced. You guys made me feel like the belle of the ball. Just thinking of all the smiles and love as we put this issue together has made the PVD a little more tolerable.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each attendee. You all contributed to my Conference experience. I will carry these experiences with me over the coming year until I can see you all again.