ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL PIERCERS
ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND EXPOSITION
MAY 2 _ MAY 7, 2010
The Association of Professional Piercers would like to invite you to attend our 15th Annual Conference and Exposition in Las Vegas, Nevada. The APP will be back at the legendary Tropicana Las Vegas from May 2nd to May 7th in 2010. The Tropicana is conveniently located on the hottest four corners on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. Merely steps away attendees will find New York, New York; the Excalibur, and the MGM Grand!
In addition to the standard amenities, the Tropicana provides a lush tropical ambiance in their stunning five-acre garden oasis. Numerous swimming pools, waterfalls, trees, and flowers, along with large hot tubs are available in the interior garden courtyard.
The Tropicana Las Vegas is undergoing a renovation in Spring 2010! We are excited about being there for this transformation….
The Exposition is the only one of its kind in this country. There is nowhere else you will see so much great jewelry, products, and body piercing related services all in one spot. We expect our Vendors to donate generously to our Raffle – in past years, total value of prizes has exceeded $60,000, with more than 200 individual prizes donated. Social events include an Opening Party, a Banquet Dinner, Yoga, and more…
The website will be updated as materials and information are developed – be sure to keep checking this page for new details/changes etc.
For a review of the 2009 Conference – please click here.
MEMBERSHIP HAS ITS PRIVILEGES!
If you are an APP member, you get some perks each year at Conference. For 2010, the APP will offer Members-Only** classes & $50.00 off your full conference fees. If you are not yet a member, this is the time to join! Applications must be submitted and be complete by February 1, 2010 in order to guarantee processing by Conference. No if, ands or buts!
WHO CAN ATTEND?
Everyone! New Piercers, Experienced Piercers, International Piercers, Apprentices, Counter People, Studio Owners, Health Inspectors, Legislators, Researchers, Retailers, Wholesalers, Manufacturers…(restrictions apply to the Exposition, see below)
What kind of classes will Attendees find at the APP Conference this year?
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
The APP has attempted to provide ample course selections for both the new attendee and our returning piercers. All are welcome to attend any classes, with the exception of the designated Members Only courses. As requested by many vendors and attendees alike we adjusted the schedule for 2010 to allow for more time to spend on the Expo floor, without impacting too much on our overall course offerings.
The following courses and roundtables will make up the 2010 educational opportunities. Courses will be in a variety of formats including traditional lecture, experiential, and panel discussions. For details see: Class & Event Schedule and Information
Aftercare – Spanish
Aftercare and Wound Healing Dynamics
An Overview of Body Modification in Pre-Hispanic Meso-American Cultures
Anatomy of the Body
Anodizing Body Jewelry
BBP
Beginning of Contemporary Body Piercing: Fakir’s Journey
Biocompatibility Testing
CPR
Developing Curriculum for an Apprentice
First Aid
Grounding and Bedside Manner
Head and Neck Anatomy
Initial Jewelry – Spanish
Initial Jewelry Size & Style
Male Genital Piercing Techniques
Marketing Yourself and Your Studio
Materials: Steel & Titanium 2010
Medical Risk Assessment – Advanced
Medical Risk Assessment- Basic
Members Only: Large Gauge and Surface Genital Piercings
Members Only: Piercing Asepsis: Working Out of Your Hands
Power Selling with Style
Roundtable: Ethics
Roundtable: Guest Spotting: Dos, Don’ts, and Misconceptions…
Roundtable: Implementing Change in Your Studio
Roundtable: Latex Allergies and Avoidance in the Studio
Roundtable: Legislation and Inspection
Roundtable: Respect for the Artist: Piercers and Tattoo Artists
Roundtable: Sideshow
Roundtable: Tips and Tricks
Spanish 101 for Body Piercers
Stretching
Studio Aesthetics
Studio Aesthetics-Spanish
Studio Documentation and Manual
Surface Anchors
Suspension Rigging Basics
The Ear Experience – from Simple to Extreme
The Gauntlet–History of an Industry Icon
The Golden Age! Precious Metals and Gemstones Revealed
Troubleshooting and Scars
NEW! Hands-on workshops
This new approach to core material will give attendees a hands-on approach to studio set up, cross contamination prevention, autoclave/statim usage all within a “studio environment”. Class sizes will be limited so that facilitators will be able to give participants individual attention. Join us for this first time offering!
Attendees must sign up for a single workshop session in order to attend. This includes all Full Conference Pass attendees.
** NEW POLICY: Members-Only classes will now be restricted to Business Members and Business Members at Large.
There are so many classes offered, how can I take them all?
You can’t in a single year. The APP encourages studios to send multiple representatives to maximize the number of classes and amount of education a single studio can obtain. This year the APP will offer additional class offerings in the evenings, allowing everyone more opportunities to take their favorite classes. Remember, we have many piercers who attend this Conference every year and we try to offer enough variety for everyone to have a unique experience each time they attend Conference.
What are Roundtable Discussions?
The APP believes that much of the education at Conference takes place from peer to peer. In keeping with that belief we encourage you to find time to participate in these more casual, information sharing discussions, mediated by expert piercers and/or professionals. There is no charge to attend these discussions. An attendee/vendor badge, however, must be shown in order to attend.
EXPOSITION
What is the Exposition?
This is the largest gathering of piercing related vendors in the world. Manufacturers often utilize this event to present innovative and new products/services to the piercing community. This is the venue in which you as a piercer can meet your vendors and manufacturers face to face, and see their products up close before buying. A vendor’s presence at the Expo does not constitute APP endorsement. The APP encourages all Attendees to shop responsibly.
What is the APP doing about vendors selling products/jewelry which don’t meet APP guidelines/standards?
While the APP encourages vendors to attend who meet or exceed our suggested jewelry standards, the APP does not and cannot screen any or all of the vendor’s entire product line. The APP has struggled with this issue for years. Overwhelmingly the majority of our attendees and vendors like the open floor policy of the Exposition. The APP requests all its attending vendors to select products or services that comply with the APP standards and mission for display and sale on the Expo floor. Please review all products thoughtfully and remember that, in many cases, the Conference and Expo are a learning experience for vendors as well.
How much does it cost to attend the Expo? Can anyone attend the Expo?
If an attendee pays for the full conference package price, admission to the Expo for all four days is included in their fees. Daily fees vary, please see registration materials for details. Admittance to the Expo is restricted to those affiliated with the industry as it is considered to be a trade show floor. These restrictions protect our vendors, who are selling to retailers at wholesale prices. Attendees who purchase an Expo pass will be asked to show proof of industry affiliation (business license, business card with name, other documentation). The APP will refuse entry to this event without proof of industry affiliation.
I am a vendor, how do I book a booth for the show?
Please select vendor registration from the menu to the left. This will take you to all the information you need to know to book with our Exposition.
PAYMENT
What does Full Conference or “the package” mean?
What are the advantages of paying this way?
Full Conference or buying “the package” means that you receive an Attendee Badge which allows you into any of the classes (Members Only restrictions apply) and into the Expo Hall for all four days. If you are going to be at Conference for more than a day or two – this is the most economical choice. You also can easily change your class choices right up to the start of the class.
I can only attend the Conference for a limited amount of time, or I have limited funds…can I pay less?
Absolutely! The APP offers the option to pay on a per class basis. See the class listing for the individual class prices. Be careful when selecting classes this way so that you don’t sign up for classes which are scheduled at the same time.
I am a Health Inspector, can I attend the Conference? How much does it cost me?
Yes, and for the 6th year in a row the APP invites Health Inspectors to attend the Conference free of charge. The only requirement for this offer is that the person(s) attending reserves and stays in a room in the host hotel within the APP room block. Book early to get your room. If you need documentation confirming this offer, contact info@safepiercing.org or 888-888-1277.
How can I register? How can I pay?
Registration can be done on-line Here! Full Conference Registration should start approximately November 1, 2009. Once the schedule of classes is available we will begin to accept registrations for individual classes on-line and in the mail.
Online Registration will close on Friday April 9th at Midnight.
Mail in or Fax (with a credit card) registration is possible after these dates using the registration form. However we encourage all attendees to take advantage of the online registration system when possible. Checks should be made payable to the Association of Professional Piercers or APP. Mailed in registrations must reach the office on or by Monday, April 12th to be given the discounted rate.
We accept Mastercard and Visa only.
What are the actual costs?
$400.00 – Early Full Conference includes unlimited classes/four day expo pass
$450.00 Onsite Full Conference*:– includes unlimited classes/four day expo pass
Banquet Dinner: $40.00 (not included in Full Conference fee)
Exposition Passes: (included in Full Conference fee)
$20.00/single day
$30.00/two day
$35.00/three day
$40.00/four day
Individual Class Prices can be found here: Class & Event Schedule and Information You do not have to pay for these fees if purchasing a Full Conference Pass.
Discounts:
APP members with paid dues for 2010 will receive a $50.00 discounts on full conference prices.
Due to the current U.S. economy the APP has suspended the International Attendee discount.
Scholarships are available on a limited basis, see detailed information below.
Cancellation/Refunds
Prior to April 12th the APP will refund 50% of Attendee Registration fees if the Attendee cancels. April 12th or later the attendee will receive no refund. Please plan accordingly.
SPECIAL NEEDS
Hablo español. ¿Me puede ayudar usted?
Por favor contacto intoutreach@safepiercing.org si usted necesita para hablar con alguien en español.
El APP estará teniendo un día taller largo con clases para ser contenido español en vez de proporcionar a intérpretes para 2010. Mientras el APP cree totalmente a proporcionar la educación penetrante en español, el número limitado de asistentes que necesitan servicios que interpretan y el costo alto para intérpretes ha causado que el APP tratara esta alternativa. Además, español que habla a asistentes es favorecido a asistir los seminarios de APP contuvieron México D.F. en la caída.
Translation of the above:
Please contact intoutreach@safepiercing.org if you need to speak with someone in Spanish.
The APP will be holding a day with classes being held in Spanish instead of providing interpreters for 2010. While the APP strongly believes in providing piercing education in Spanish, the limited number of attendees who necessitate interpreting services and the high cost for interpreters has caused the APP to try this alternative. In addition, Spanish speaking attendees are encouraged to attend the APP seminars held in Mexico City in the fall.
I have a disability. Can you help me?
The APP wants Conference to be a great experience for all its Attendees. If you have a need for special services or concerns about access etc. please do not hesitate to contact us. 1-888-888-1277 or 785-841-6060 or info@safepiercing.org
I have no money. Can you help me?
(Applications for 2010 are no longer being accepted – if you are interested in information for 2011 please contact the APP Office at info@safepiercing.org or 888-888-1277)
The APP has a limited number of scholarships available. Before he passed away in February of 2001, Al D. Sowers devoted much of his piercing career to the education of piercers. It is only fitting that this scholarship be named for him. This is funding for eight piercers in need of financial assistance to attend the APP conference. Accommodations and Conference registration are included in the Scholarship. Scholarship recipients are expected to share a room with other recipients and work more than 30 hours during the Conference. In addition, they must provide their own transportation to and from the conference. 2010 application forms can be obtained by calling or emailing info@safepiercing.org after November 1, 2009. Applications must be submitted January 1-January 31, 2010. Scholarship recipients will be notified no later than March 1st, 2010. Please contact Caitlin with any questions!
I am easily stressed. Can you help me?
The APP encourages all participants to take care of themselves during Conference. Due to long hours and the excitement of the event, many attendees find themselves overwhelmed. Daily morning Yoga classes are free to all attendees. The Friends of Bill W. have meetings during the week. The staff and volunteers at Conference are available should you need assistance in finding emotional support, medical care, or a quiet place to rest – please let us help.
I want to Volunteer – how can I help?
With all the new ideas – we need additional volunteers for 2010! Please contact Caitlin in the office at 888-888-1277 or info@safepiercing.org if you are interested in helping out in 2010. Hours and schedule can be modified to fit your needs…
HOUSING
Where can I stay? Do we get a reduced rate at the host hotel?
The Tropicana Las Vega is our host hotel, and the APP reserves a block of rooms for attendees of the Conference. When making your reservation, request rates for The Association of Professional Piercers. Our classroom spaces are provided based on room occupancy, this means that filling our room block allows the APP to keep prices low for Conference fees. Please support our Conference by staying at the Tropicana! If you plan to stay at the hotel the weekend before or after conference book as soon as possible, weekend rates are subject to availability.
The Tropicana is currently renovating their main pool. They are understandably hesitant to commit to a completion date but are projecting re-opening the area in May/June. It is unclear at this point whether the main pool area will be available for our welcome party and dinner reception. We are currently planning for either possibility, poolside or indoor. Both events WILL be held but the location will not be announced until closer to conference. Please note that the garden pool area is NOT under renovation and will be available for our visit.
APP Reservation link: APP ROOM BLOCK HOTEL RESERVATIONS!
Or contact the Tropicana at 1-800-634-4000; make sure you request to be put in the APP room block.
Guest room Rates:
$59.00 per guest room, per night Sunday through Thursday, single or double occupancy
$99.00 per guest room, per night Friday and Saturday, single or double occupancy
$209.00 per 1 bedroom suite, per night Sunday through Thursday, single or double occupancy
$249.00 per 1 bedroom suite, per night Friday and Saturday, single or double occupancy
Please note that special requests such as non-smoking room, connecting or adjoining rooms, room location, king or double-double bed type, etc. are subject to availability at the time of check-in.
Rates are net, non-commissionable and will be subject to Clark County Room Tax, which is currently nine percent (9%) – subject to change. Additional persons in the room will be at the rate of $25.00 per person, per night, plus room tax. If additional facilities are requested for rollaway bed or crib, the charge will be at the rate in force at the HOTEL during the period of the guest stay.
CONFERENCE REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS
Can I get pierced at the Conference or do piercings in my hotel room?
Absolutely not! To maintain space in our host hotel and comply with insurance requirements, absolutely no piercing, scarification, branding or implants; or any other form of body modification from hotel rooms will be tolerated. Any APP members participating in these types of activities risk losing their membership. Any member or non-member risks expulsion from the hotel and/or Conference. This type of behavior contradicts everything the APP represents and promotes in its educational outreach and mission.
Smoking Policy:
The Tropicana in accordance with the Clear Air Act now prohibits smoking in all public spaces except for the casino proper, bars in the casino area, and designated outdoor smoking areas by the pool. No smoking is allowed in any of the Convention areas, or any of the corridors, lobbies, restaurants, special meeting rooms in the Hotel. The APP supports this policy and encourages all attendees to comply with the regulations.
EVENTS
Sunday Night “Meet and Greet” for Staff (Open to Members, Vendors, & Volunteers only)
A casual event for those working the Conference to get to know each other. Food and a Cash Bar provided.
Opening Party: A Pool party – and what a beautiful pool it is! Please join us on Monday evening for the opening social event of the Conference. Food and a Cash Bar provided.
Banquet Dinner: Be prepared to be entertained, eat, and mingle! Entertainment is still pending for this year…but our theme is a Masquerade! The Conference’s awards presentation, open meeting, and top prize raffle selection will be held after 10pm, and the hall will open to non-ticket holders at that time.
Innovators Award & Silent Auction – split into two categories for 2010 –
Creative and Technical
Participate in the selection of the vendor who shows the most innovation this year…
Vendors will donate items and fill out a descriptive form which will be displayed with the item(s) submitted. The description will include materials used, name of design or piece, and assigned value – but not the vendor’s name/company.
A display case with all submitted items along with their forms will be located near the APP booth on the Exposition Floor. Ballots will be issued at the time of registration with the individual’s badge. Voting will be allowed by anyone who is issued a badge. A ballot box will be located by the display and the ballots tallied and the winner announced at the Banquet Dinner.
Each item submitted for the Innovators Award will be part of a silent auction. You get to bid for the item you desire… more details to follow…
Raffle
Want the chance to win thousands of dollars worth of goods and services? The APP raffle continues to be the best gamble in Vegas. The APP can never thank its Vendors enough for their continued generosity with raffle donations.
We are sprucing up our favorite fund raiser and giving everyone a better chance at winning! Multiple raffles – raffle tickets as prizes – free conference passes as prizes – more ways to win!
This fundraiser for the APP continues to sustain the organization in a huge way. Tickets are $2.00 a piece. Due to the changes in the raffle process tickets will only be available for sale onsite at the RAFFLE booth/table.
Yoga – Available daily to all attendees free of charge.
Members Annual Meeting
Open to APP Members only. Members who attend will receive a special gift!
International Attendees Meeting
Open to all international attendees and those interested in international issues.
Vendors Annual Meeting
Open to Vendors only. The APP requests that all Vendors attend this informative meeting and open discussion with representatives of the APP Board of Directors.
GENERAL SCHEDULE
For details: Class & Event Schedule and Information
Onsite registration/check in: Sunday May 2nd Evening
All attendees must check in before attending classes. Registration/badge pick up is open throughout the week.
Expo, Classes & Roundtables
Monday May 3rd: Classes/Roundtables – Vendor Move-In Afternoon
Tuesday May 4th: Classes/Roundtables; Expo Opens afternoon
Wednesday May 5th: Classes/Roundtables/Expo open
Thursday May 6th: Classes/Roundtables/Expo open
Friday May 7th: English & Spanish Language Classes/Expo Open morning/ Roundtables
Opening Party
Monday May 3rd: 8pm-midnight
Banquet Dinner
Thursday May 6th: 8pm-midnight
One more thing…
The Point: The Quarterly Journal of the APP
With its new format, heavier stock, and full color cover, the Point is now an even more valuable resource for every piercer. APP members receive a free subscription with membership, or subscriptions can be purchased at Conference or through the APP office for $20 for 4 issues. (Additionally, donations towards the expense of producing The Point are always welcomed. ) Don’t forget to subscribe when you register!
