Oakley Launches 2014 Disruptive by Design

Oakley recently launched its 2014 Disruptive by Design marketing campaign. The following are two videos relating to the launch. The first is photo session with Shaun White and Jamie Anderson. The second is the sunglass manufacturer's vision of Oakley surfing.

Marc Stone and Swiss Eyewear Team Up

"Marc Stone and Swiss Eyewear Group announced Monday, February 24 the signing of a license agreement for the launch of a collection Marc Stone Eyewear," according to the translated version of post on Acuite. Read more.

Luxottica & Essilor Look to Emerging Markets for Growth

"Ray-Ban sunglasses maker Luxottica forecast sales and profit growth in 2014, driven by emerging markets, where sunglasses are popular as an affordable luxury purchase," writes the Economic Times. "On Thursday developed markets would boost group sales and profitability, but it expected stronger growth in emerging markets. Chief Executive Andrea Guerra said Luxottica's "rule of thumb" - whereby profits should grow twice as fast as sales, which themselves should rise by a high single-digit percentage - still applied for the coming year." Read more.

In the meantime, "lens maker Essilor is betting on appetite for trendy sunglasses among the fast-growing middle classes of China and other emerging markets to drive sales after weakness in Europe and North America weighed on 2013 earnings," reports Reuters. Read more.

New Eyewear from Zyloware

Midwest Lens notes that "stylish new Zyloware Eyewear releases for March 2014. New styles are featured from the Sophia Loren, Stetson 180° Flex-Hinge, Randy Jackson and Invincilites Collections." Read more.

Essilor Buys Out Coastal.com

Essilor International has entered a binding agreement to acquire the outstanding common stock of Coastal Contacts (Coastal.com). The Vancouver-based Coastal.com reportedly designs and distributes one of the widest online selections of optical products for some 4 million customers worldwide--from contact lenses to non-prescription eyeglasses. It sells those products through websites covering North America and Europe as well as the Asia-Pacific region and Brazil. Said Hubert Sagnières, Essilor’s chairman/CEO, of the acquisition: “The Internet has an important role to play in helping us to fulfill our corporate mission...[It], if used properly, can help to drive market growth by educating consumers and making it more convenient for them to enjoy good visual health." How many opticians and ODs, however, will see the move as a supplier entering into direct competition?Read more.

570News reports that Coastal.com shares soared after it announced the  $430-million friendly takeover. "The deal is expected to close within 90 days after receiving the necessary shareholder and regulatory approvals. On the Toronto Stock Exchange, Coastal’s stock (TSX:COA) was up than 20 per cent from the pre-announcement close." Read more.

New Converse Jack Purcell Eyewear from REM

"REM Eyewear announces the launch of Converse Jack Purcell Eyewear, a new collection that will expand Converse Eyewear’s product range to include more sophisticated products with a vintage inspiration for optical and sunglasses," reports Midwest Lens. "The new Converse Jack Purcell Eyewear collection consists of 14 styles – 8 optical frames, and 6 sunglasses." Read more.

New Eyewear from Totally Rimless

"Totally Rimless combines the minimalist look and feel desired by rimless patients with a mix of shapes, colors and sizes to fit every style," notes Midwest Lens. "The minimalist look and feel of TR 205 and TR 206 are perfect for the man or woman who appreciates workmanship and a light, comfortable fit." Read more.

New Sunglasses from Polaroid

Polaroid Eyewear's Spring 2014 collection is said to be tinged with bright, vibrant colors and fancy patterns. The new models, which come with the Polaroid Ultrasight polarized lenses, are offered in a kaleidoscopic array of colors. The new glasses feature unusual color combinations for a strong visual impact, as well as a unique brushed metal effect, which is the common thread running through the collection and accompanied by multicolored graphics. Read more.

Older We Get, Fewer Colors We See

"Abnormal color vision increases significantly with aging - affecting one-half or more of people in the oldest age groups, reports a study in Optometry and Vision Science," reports Medical News Today. "While few people younger than 70 have problems with color vision, the rate increases rapidly through later decades of life, according to the new research by Marilyn E. Schneck, PhD, and colleagues of The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco. They write, 'We find the color discrimination declines with age and that the majority of color defects among the older population are of the blue-yellow type.'" Read more.

The Academy Awards As Seen Through Sunglasses

"As Hollywood gears up for the Academy Awards on Sunday, WWD takes a look back at some of 2013’s best on-screen sunglasses." See the slideshow.

Supplements Lower Cataract & AMD Risk in Men

“Long-term daily multivitamin supplement use may lower cataract risk in men, according to a study of nearly 15,000 male physicians,” reports Science Daily. “Half took a common daily multivitamin, as well as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene supplements. The other half took a placebo. The researchers followed the participants to identify how many participants in each group developed new cases of two common eye diseases: cataract and age-related macular degeneration. Results showed a 9 percent decrease in risk for those that took the supplements.” Read more.

VSP Expects Growth in Near Term

“Rob Lynch, president and CEO of VSP Global in Rancho Cordova, says ‘this isn’t just a vision service company anymore,’” says a post from the Sacramento Bee. “That’s easy to see, just from the numbers alone. What most knew simply as a provider of vision benefits and services a generation ago has grown into a nearly 5,600-employee international enterprise overseeing companies touching all aspects of the vision industry – member benefits, vision practice assistance/development, eyewear, customized lenses, software and ophthalmic technology.

“About 2,000 VSP Global employees work in five buildings in and around the square-mile campus in Rancho Cordova, and VSP Global companies operate in 100 countries on six continents. The long-standing core vision benefits/services entity, VSP Vision Care, now has 64 million members and a network of 30,000 eye doctors nationwide. Lynch sees more growth ahead. ‘The way we’re organized, there’s nothing exactly like us. ... We’re very excited about what the future holds,’ he said.” Read more.

Eyewear Made from a Vinyl Record Collection

"‘Vinylize’ was founded on the principles of making quality glasses from recycled materials and the use of old records has given the collection a distinctive look," notes Deisgn Boom. "The frames are big, thick and rugged and the grooves are an integral part of the design. The project serves to remind people to reuse, recycle and conserve." Read more.

New Tumi Eyewear from Rem Eyewear

"Tumi, recognized as a true international lifestyle brand offering luxury travel and lifestyle accessories, and REM Eyewear have announced the release of three new styles for the brand’s Spring 2014 Sun collection," says Midwest Lens. "Tumi’s Spring 2014 Sun collection is a natural reflection of the brand’s core values of innovation, superior technology, and premium quality. The featured men’s styles below will be sold through fashion and eyewear retailers worldwide." Read more.

Celebrate OpticalCEUs 15th Birthday at Its Spring Continuing Education Seminar for Opticians

And Get a Great Value in Optical Continuing Education--
A 7-Credit, ABO/NCLE Accredited Program from F.E. Enterprises!!!! 

Register today through our secure online reservation service to ensure that you pick up the latest ideas in the field - from preserving vision health to new contact lens techniques.  F.E. Enterprises will offer the following six courses in the GRAND PEQUOT BALLROOM, Foxwoods Resort and Casino on Sunday, April 6:

The Miracle of Sight Speaker: Deborah Kotob (2 ABO) 9am-11am;
Contact Lenses on the Job Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 11am-Noon—NEW!
Fitting Irregular Corneas Speaker: Joe Forte (1 NCLE) 1pm-2pm—Level III;
Score with Contact Lenses for Sports Speaker: Linda Conlin  (1 NCLE) 2pm-3pm – NEW!; Diseases of the Eye Speaker: Joe Forte (1 ABO) 3pm-4pm
Beam Me Up! Understanding the Slit Lamp Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 4pm-5pm

The six courses will help you:
·         Discover how to fit irregular corneas with contact lenses
·         Provide top-notch patient care by identifying vision health issues
·         Expand your knowledge of vision, spectacle and contact lenses

Register now to earn accreditation and some Foxwoods fun! 
P.S.  As always, OpticalCEUs serves its conference attendees a complimentary hot-lunch buffet with the resort's traditional lavish style in a room adjacent to the meeting area!

Our Lecturers

Accredited lecturers Linda Conlin, Deborah Kotob of Vision-Ease and Joe Forte will present six courses enabling you to earn seven ABO/NCLE credits. 

For 15 years Linda, an NAO Fellow Ambassador, has provided continuing education and training for opticians at the state and national level. She is ABO and NCLE certified, licensed in CT, MA and RI, and has written for 20/20 and EyeWitness magazines.

Deborah, a sales consultant for Vision-Ease, creates and presents ABO seminars related to best practices. A Massachusetts-licensed optician, she has owned an optical business and was a sales representative for MODO and Luxottica.  Deborah has achieved ABOM and NCLE certifications.

 

Joe, the director of contact lens services for Raymond Opticians, lectured at CUNY Tech, Vision Expo and Optifair. He was program director of the Interboro Institute College of Opticianry where he taught courses in various areas of contact lenses and optics.
Directions 
Foxwoods is located at 350 Trolley Line Blvd., Mashantucket, CT  06338, on Route 2 between I-395 and I-95.  You can get directions to the resort by clicking this link. Valet parking is free.  For accommodations, call Foxwoods at 1-800 PLAY BIG and by clicking this link.  Overnight reservations are not associated with the seminar.

Compound Turns Cells into Photoreceptors

"Progressive degeneration of photoreceptors -- the rods and cones of the eyes -- causes blinding diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. While there are currently no available treatments to reverse this degeneration, a newly developed compound allows other cells in the eye to act like photoreceptors," notes Science Daily. "As described in a study appearing in the February 19 issue of the Cell Press journal Neuron, the compound may be a potential drug candidate for treating patients suffering from degenerative retinal disorders." Read more.

CooperVision Sponsors CL Educator Award

CooperVision, Inc. has become the lead sponsor of the first IACLE Contact Lens Educator of the Year Awards for the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE), according to a company press release on Herald Online. The award will recognize an individual's achievements and the association will give out one for each of its three regions:  Asia Pacific; Europe, Middle East and Asia; and Americas. The IACLE will present them at the British Contact Lens Association Clinical Conference & Exhibition in Birmingham, United Kingdom, June 6-9, 2014. Individuals, companies, or associations must submit entries by February 28, 2014. Read more.

Aerobic Exercise May Slow Progression of Macular Degeneration (AMD)

"A new study suggests aerobic exercise may slow the progression of diseases that destroy the retina and eventually cause blindness. In mice exposed to harmful bright lights, the ones that had regularly run on treadmills had much better function in their retinas than mice that had not been exercising." That's the word from Medical News Today. "The researchers suggest the findings, which they report in The Journal of Neuroscience, point to exercise as a possible treatment for slowing down human eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in the elderly." Read more.

Startup Connects Eyewear with Smartphones

"A Boston-based startup [called LaForge Optical] is looking to set the standard for eyewear technology by introducing Icis, stylish prescription glasses with a built-in display that relays notifications from a smartphone to the lens," reports the Boston Herald. "Icis, which looks like normal glasses, pairs with a smartphone app and displays notifications, such as calls or text messages, around the user’s line of vision." Read more.

New Children's Eyewear from Liberty

"F8 Street Series, the top selling collectible F803 Sports Protective frame series is launching two new designs," according to Midwest Lens. "Liberty Sport launched the collection in 2010 with six authentic designs inspired by a fusion of sports performance and street art. Since that time, six new additional designs have been integrated into the assortment, rounding out the total to fourteen available skus." Read more.

Study Shows Vision Training Makes a Difference

"With a little practice on a computer or iPad - 25 minutes a day, 4 days a week, for 2 months - our brains can learn to see better, according to a study of University of California, Riverside baseball players reported in the Cell Press journal Current Biology." That's the beginning of a Medical News Today post. "The new evidence also shows that a visual training program can sometimes make the difference between winning and losing. The study is the first, as far as the researchers know, to show that perceptual learning can produce improvements in vision in normally seeing individuals." Read more.

Epiphany Promises Google Glass a Run for Its Money

"Google Glass might have just met its match," predicts LA Weekly. "Two-year-old Epiphany Eyewear boasts that its glasses do everything that Google's do - without making you look like a character on Star Trek. Even better: Unlike Google's version, they're available now for purchase. L.A.-based Epiphany was founded by a Stanford student and a UCLA student in 2012. Their mission: to create a pair of augmented-reality glasses accessible to the everyday person.

Looks like they've succeeded: While the Mountain View-based tech giant is still only offering glasses to select customers on a waiting list, Epiphany execs says they're ready to ship 'imminently.' Best of all? They'll set you back just $299 for the base model." Read more.

New Skechers Eyewear from Viva International

"Viva International Group presents eight new prescription ready men’s sunglass styles from the Skechers Eyewear Spring 2014 collection," reports Midwest Lens. "Featuring innovative designs with a variety of sporty elements including rubberized accents, vented temple treatments and two-tone colorations, the Skechers eyewear collection is perfect for today’s trend-savvy consumer. Multi-layered acetates and matte finished metals also accentuate the collection’s overall design aesthetic. Contrasting colors enhance the handmade acetate temples of three key styles from the Skechers men’s sunglass collection: SK 8029, 8042 and 8043. A metal plaque featuring the laser-etched Skechers logo appears on the top portion of the frame’s flared temple design. Metal end pieces highlight each temple, emblazoned with a laser-etched “S” logo in coordinating colors." Read more.

New Eyewear from Fendi

Fendi presents its Spring/Summer 2014 eyewear collection, produced and distributed by Safilo Group. The collection includes eyewear featuring unique shapes and such detailing as the Fendi monogram, the striped “Pequin,” and the  2Jours decoration. The eyewear is made of such materials as Optyl and an exclusive acetate. The color palette consists of refined shades and edgy color contrasts highlighted by an alluring interplay of materials, jewel-like details and shaded or mirrored lenses. Read more.

ClearVision Shows 4 New Collections and Offers Show Specials at Vision Expo

According to a post on Midwest Lens, ClearVision Optical will launch two unique brands, unveils new design directions for premium brands, and offers exclusive show specials at the upcoming Vision Expo East. It will have a peak at its new Izod collection, its new titanium collection called PuriTi, the "transformed BCBGMAXAZRIA collection, and its new Cole Haan collection. "Additionally, ClearVision will be featuring noteworthy show specials available on the tradeshow floor! They include: New Customer Special: Become a ClearVision customer at Vision Expo East and receive up to 50% off the initial order. As an added bonus, new customers will also receive a $100 gift card on the spot!" Read more.

Help Renew Your License! Update Your ABO/NCLE Certification!! Celebrate Our 15th Anniversary!!!

And Get a Great Value in Optical Continuing Education--
A 7-Credit Program from F.E. Enterprises!!!! 

Register today through our secure online reservation service to ensure that you pick up the latest ideas in the field - from preserving vision health to new contact lens techniques.  F.E. Enterprises will offer the following six courses in the GRAND PEQUOT BALLROOM, Foxwoods Resort and Casino on Sunday, April 6:

The Miracle of Sight Speaker: Deborah Kotob (2 ABO) 9am-11am;
Contact Lenses on the Job Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 11am-Noon—NEW!
Fitting Irregular Corneas Speaker: Joe Forte (1 NCLE) 1pm-2pm—Level III;
Score with Contact Lenses for Sports Speaker: Linda Conlin  (1 NCLE) 2pm-3pm – NEW!; Diseases of the Eye Speaker: Joe Forte (1 ABO) 3pm-4pm
Beam Me Up! Understanding the Slit Lamp Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 4pm-5pm

The six courses will help you:
·         Discover how to fit irregular corneas with contact lenses
·         Provide top-notch patient care by identifying vision health issues
·         Expand your knowledge of vision, spectacle and contact lenses

Register now to earn accreditation and some Foxwoods fun! 
P.S.  As always, OpticalCEUs serves its conference attendees a complimentary hot-lunch buffet with the resort's traditional lavish style in a room adjacent to the meeting area!

Our Lecturers

Accredited lecturers Linda Conlin, Deborah Kotob of Vision-Ease and Joe Forte will present six courses enabling you to earn seven ABO/NCLE credits. 

For 15 years Linda, an NAO Fellow Ambassador, has provided continuing education and training for opticians at the state and national level. She is ABO and NCLE certified, licensed in CT, MA and RI, and has written for 20/20 and EyeWitness magazines.

Deborah, a sales consultant for Vision-Ease, creates and presents ABO seminars related to best practices. A Massachusetts-licensed optician, she has owned an optical business and was a sales representative for MODO and Luxottica.  Deborah has achieved ABOM and NCLE certifications.

 

Joe, the director of contact lens services for Raymond Opticians, lectured at CUNY Tech, Vision Expo and Optifair. He was program director of the Interboro Institute College of Opticianry where he taught courses in various areas of contact lenses and optics.
Directions 
Foxwoods is located at 350 Trolley Line Blvd., Mashantucket, CT  06338, on Route 2 between I-395 and I-95.  You can get directions to the resort by clicking this link. Valet parking is free.  For accommodations, call Foxwoods at 1-800 PLAY BIG and by clicking this link.  Overnight reservations are not associated with the seminar.

Scientists Find New Layer to Cornea

"A new layer in the human cornea - discovered by researchers at The University of Nottingham last year - plays a vital role in the structure of the tissue that controls the flow of fluid from the eye, research has shown, " according to Medical News Today. "The findings, published in a paper in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, could shed new light on glaucoma, a devastating disease caused by defective drainage of fluid from the eye and the world's second leading cause of blindness. The latest research shows that the new layer, dubbed Dua's Layer after the academic Professor Harminder Dua who discovered it, makes an important contribution to the sieve-like meshwork, the trabecular meshwork (TM), in the periphery of the cornea." Read more.

Oakley Sues Best Buy, Fry's, and Others

"Oakley Inc. filed suit against several eyeglass purveyors and electronics companies Friday in California federal court, alleging that Best Buy Co. Inc., Fry's Electronics Inc. and others were infringing on its design patent with sunglasses that have a camera in the frame," reports Law360. "The six companies named in Oakley's suit each sell some variation of a product called a Bios Action Eyewear Cam, under various closely related brand names, Oakley alleged in its suit. But Oakley said it holds a patent for the design for the frame." Read more.

Preview of A. Sauvage's 2014 Marketing Campaign.

"A. Sauvage offers a brief glimpse at its forthcoming Spring/Summer 2014 eyewear campaign with a few teaser images from the upcoming release," notes eMag. "Shot by Adrien Sauvage himself, the campaign taps Fernando Cabral for modeling duties as he dons the six eyewear styles from the seasonal collection. Handcrafted in Italy, the range – available as both sunglasses and opticals for men and women – emphasizes both design and quality with an aesthetic inspired by the classic shapes of the 1950s. Redefined with exaggerated lines, unusual angles, keyhole bridges, and oversized acetate frames, Sauvage’s Spring/Summer 2014 eyewear will soon be available at select stockists." Read more.

Blackfin Teams Up with Arrigo Cipriani

"Blackfin, the titanium eyewear brand, [and] 100% Made-in-Italy are getting together with Arrigo Cipriani, celebrated owner of Harry’s Bar in Venice, as well as of some of New York’s most famous Italian restaurants, in an exclusive co-marketing deal to produce a luxury limited edition to be known as 'Blackfin with Arrigo Cipriani,'" says Midwest Lens. "These limited edition sunglasses and optical frames, each with its own unique number, will be launched on the world stage as standard-bearers for the authentic Made-in-Italy brand image, the very essence of quality and exclusivity." Read more.

LasikPlus-Provider LCA-Vision Acquired by PhotoMedex

"PhotoMedex Inc. ...agreed to pay about $106.4 million in cash to acquire LasikPlus vision-correction provider LCA-Vision Inc. ...," according to a Wall Street Journal post on Market Watch. "PhotoMedex, which treats psoriasis, acne and other skin diseases, agreed to pay $5.37 a share in cash to acquire LCA-Vision...The deal will combine a skin healthcare provider that generates more usage of its laser treatments than LCA-Vision, PhotoMedex said. LCA-Vision's centers typically perform only one or two procedures a week, while other days focuses on patient screening and pre- and post-operative care." Read mored.

Another Glaucoma Treating CL

In what could be a significant step toward improving the management of glaucoma, researchers from the UCLA School of Dentistry have created a drug delivery system that may have less severe side effects than traditional glaucoma medication and improve patients' ability to comply with their prescribed treatments. The scientists bound together glaucoma-fighting drugs with nanodiamonds and embedded them onto contact lenses. The drugs are released into the eye when they interact with the patient's tears. The new technology showed great promise for sustained glaucoma treatment and, as a side benefit, the nanodiamond-drug compound even improved the contact lenses' durability. Read more.

Marcolin Signs Licensing Agreement with Ermenegildo Zegna

Marcolin Group and Ermenegildo Zegna Group have signed a licensing agreement for the worldwide production and distribution of sunglasses and eyeglasses for the brands Ermenegildo Zegna and Agnona. The agreement applies to the overall brands’ portfolio strategy; it only marks the official debut of Agnona – since January 2013 under the creative direction of Stefano Pilati – in the luxury eyewear segment, creating a synergy with the other product categories. Both licensing agreement have a 10-year duration and the launch of the first collections is expected for January 2015. Read more.

New Eyewear from Elle

"Chic and confident, French fashion brand Elle is synonymous with contemporary feminine style. With a keen feel for new trends, colors and cuts, the ELLE woman wears the latest looks in her own way – with a dash of unique flair and originality," notes Midwest Lens. "The result is always exceptionally elegant, head-turning and comfortable. Universally admired for her confidence and panache, the Elle woman lives life with an open and optimistic joie de vivre. "Elle eyewear beautifully captures this classic and vibrant panache. An eclectic collection of stunning new optical models express new fashion trends while keeping comfort, price and timeless elegance at the fore." Read more.

B+L Rolls Out Ultra CLs with MoistureSeal

Bausch + Lomb is rolling-out its monthly Ultra contact lens with MoistureSeal. The new lens technology, which developed over seven years, combines what a B+L spokesperson calls a breakthrough material with new manufacturing processes to produce a contact lens that breaks the cycle of discomfort. The company introduced the new lenses at a training program, where eye care professionals learned about the CL. Bausch + Lomb received FDA marketing clearance for the lenses September 2013.

Ogi Joins Nikon for OAO's Eye See...Eye Learn! Program

"Ogi Eyewear [has]...announced its partnership with the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) and Nikon Optical Canada, Inc. in supporting the Eye See… Eye Learn program," according to Midwest Lens. "Ogi Eyewear in conjunction with Nikon Optical Canada, Inc. are the exclusive corporate partners to the Eye See… Eye Learn® program in Ontario. Ogi Eyewear will supply stylish and high-quality children’s frames; Nikon will supply the polycarbonate, scratch-resistant ophthalmic lenses for all eligible children in this program. The Ontario Association of Optometrists is pleased to offer this program in conjunction with Ogi Eyewear and Nikon" Read more.

Solving Galileo's Visual Illusion

"Scientists have studied a visual illusion first discovered by Galileo Galilei, and found that it occurs because of the surprising way our eyes see lightness and darkness in the world. Their results advance our understanding of how our brains are wired for seeing white versus black objects," according to Medical News Today. "The work was done by Jens Kremkow and collaborators in the laboratories of Jose Manuel Alonso and Qasim Zaidi at the State University of New York College of Optometry. It was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Galileo was puzzled by the fact that the appearance of the planets changed depending on whether one looked with the naked eye versus with a telescope. Viewed directly, planets seemed "expanded" and had 'a radiant crown,' which made Venus look eight to ten times larger than Jupiter even if Jupiter was four times larger." Read more.

New Eyewear Helps Surgeons "See" Cancer

"Experimental glasses that seem to improve a doctor's ability to see cancer cells during surgery may help reduce cancer patients' need for follow-up operations, according to a new study," reports Philly.com. "The researchers said that cancer cells can be extremely hard to see, even under high-powered magnification. When viewed through this new high-tech eyewear, cancer cells glow blue and are apparently easier to distinguish from healthy cells. This means stray tumors are less likely to be left behind after surgery, the researchers said. The new system was developed by a team at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis that was led by Samuel Achilefu, a professor of radiology and biomedical engineering. Dr. Julie Margenthaler, a breast surgeon and associate professor of surgery at the university, was the first to use the technology during surgery, on Monday." Read more.

Cablz Sues Chums Over Patent Infringement

Cablz, Inc. ("Cablz"), maker of the eyewear retainer called Cablz, has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Chums, Inc. in United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama. The lawsuit seeks redress for the infringement of U.S. Patent 8,366,268, which protects Cablz' unique eyewear retainer. Cablz claims that Chums's Orbiter, the Adjustable Orbiter and the Mono Orbiter, as well as private-label versions C-Line and C-Mono sold by various retailers, infringe on the patent. Read more.

Pyer Moss Design Goes with Geek Eyewear

Pyer Moss designer Kerby Jean-Raymond draws inspiration from the 19th Century Shizoku, Samurai who, stripped of their power and nobility,  carved out an identity as civilians. Jean-Raymond selected Geek Eyewear model 704 to best express the jagged shapes that evoke garments worn by Shizoku. The model was among three styles of Geek Eyewear selected to be included in this month’s Fall/Winter 2014 Pyer Moss menswear collection. Read more.

New Eyewear from ProDesign

"With this collection the ProDesign designer wanted to work with thin material and make a dynamic and playful design," goes the Midwest Lens blog. "By bending and folding the metal the designer added volume to such thin metal that it appears more bulky. The choice of colors are interesting and the shapes are refreshing. The frame is a mix between metal fronts, temples with dimensions and speed, and acetate end-tips in contrasting colors in two tones. No two end-tips are alike – the color scheme is very vibrant which gives an exciting flow between the front and the temples." Read more.

Contact Lenses Deliver Glaucoma Treatment

"For nearly half a century, contact lenses have been proposed as a means of ocular drug delivery that may someday replace eye drops, but achieving controlled drug release has been a significant challenge," according to Select Science. "Researchers at Massachusetts Eye and Ear/Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are one step closer to an eye drop-free reality with the development of a drug-eluting contact lens designed for prolonged delivery of latanoprost, a common drug used for the treatment of glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide." Read more.

Super Computer Models Decode Cells That See Light

"Researchers have found that the melanopsin pigment in the eye is potentially more sensitive to light than...rhodopsin, the pigment that allows for night vision," says Medical News Today. "For more than two years, the staff of the Laboratory for Computational Photochemistry and Photobiology (LCPP) at Ohio's Bowling Green State University (BGSU), have been investigating melanopsin, a retina pigment capable of sensing light changes in the environment, informing the nervous system and synchronizing it with the day/night rhythm. Most of the study's complex computations were carried out on powerful supercomputer clusters at the Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC)." Read more.

100K Texas Children Fail Eye Exam

The Houston Chronicle reports that "around 100,000 students in Texas failed vision screenings at school but had not seen an eye doctor by the end of last year. According to a report issued last week by the Texas Department of Health, 85 to 90 percent of those students need prescription eyeglasses. If children cannot see well, they are less likely to succeed." Read more.

Vistakon Receives Clearance to Expand

"Jacksonville-based Vistakon, the Johnson & Johnson Vision Care Inc. maker of disposable contact lenses, was cleared to build out its $13.42 million manufacturing expansion in Deerwood Park," reports the Jacksonville Daily Record. Read more.

Essilor Partner Youli Optics Enters World Market

In 2012, Jiangsu Youli Optics Spectacles Co., Ltd., has teamed up with Essilor. Now the Chinese company is entering the global market. Yoli, which has operated for 20 years in China, produces 1.56, 1.60, and 1.67(MR-7), spherical, aspherical, photo-chromic, finished and semi-finished single vision, progressive and contact lens. Daily output reportedly can reach 80,000 pairs. Read more.

Global Contact Lens Market to Reach $13.47 Billion in 2019

According to a new report from Transparency Market Research ("Contact Lens Market (Gas Permeable Contact Lens and Soft Contact Lens--Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013 - 2019"), the global endocrine testing market was valued at $6.81 billion (US) in 2012 and is estimated to reach a market worth $13.47 billion in 2019 at a CAGR of 10.3% from 2013 to 2019. Read more.

New Safety Eyewear from Gateway Safety

"Cold weather brings the possibility of lens fogging, the most common eyewear-related winter-weather hazard reported by outdoor employees. Wheelz goggles include a unique Whirlwind ventilation system, with 10 vents along the frame’s brow area and 10 additional vents on the frame¹s underside, to circulate air through the inner frame area between the face and lens," reports Utility Products. "The resultant strong 'whirlwind' of air helps clear the fog and maintain unhindered vision at all times. For additional fog prevention, an anti-fog coating is also available. Wheelz are unlike big and bulky traditional goggle styles. Their compact and lightweight frame is made of a soft, flexible material for all-day comfort. Wheelz goggles also feature an optional soft foam lining that not only helps with comfort, but also prevents snow and debris from blowing into the eyes. Additionally, mirrored-lens options help fight the glare that is often reflected from snow-covered surfaces." Read more.

New Black Ops Sunglasses from Wiley X

"New Black Ops Collection models are available across a range of Wiley X eyewear families. Two new models join Wiley X’s Climate Control Series — the new WX Arrow and the WX Knife," notes Midwest Lens. "Like all Climate Control Series eyewear, these shades feature Wiley X’s patented removable, soft-foam Facial Cavity Seal that blocks out wind, dust and reflected light. This allows Climate Control sunglasses to create a safe, protected environment for the wearer’s eyes, improving vision and providing all-day wearing comfort in even the toughest conditions. Like all Black Ops Collection models, the new Black Ops WX Arrow (#CCARR01) and WX Knife (#CCKNI01) feature distinctive Smoke Grey Lenses paired with Matte Black frames for stealthy good looks." Read more.

New Harley-Davidson Sunglasses from Viva

"Viva International Group introduces twelve new styles for men to the Harley-Davidson Eyewear Spring 2014 sunglass collection," according to Midwest Lens. "Inspired by the iconic styling found in the brand’s esteemed motorcycles, these prescription ready styles include high-quality materials such as carbon fiber and titanium with a range of colorations and intricate details ideal for the active lifestyle of the Harley-Davidson® man. The innovative use of titanium paired with the tailpipe-inspired temple detailing of styles HDX 875 and HDX 876 convey a sleek look while providing lightweight comfort and durability. Taking their cue from the Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle model family, these key styles boast sheer presence and endurance." Read more.

Exercise Slows Retinal Degeneration

"Moderate aerobic exercise helps to preserve the structure and function of nerve cells in the retina after damage, according to an animal study," reports Science Daily. "The findings suggest exercise may be able to slow the progression of retinal degenerative diseases." Read more.

Kate Hudson Sports "Cause-Based" Sunwear

"We adore the frames Kate Hudson sported while bundled up for the Sundance Film Festival—not just for their classic pattern and silhouette, but beause they also happen to be environmentally conscious," writes Style Bistro. "The shades are by Westward \\ Leaning, a luxury eyewear company that offers unique sunglass styles that each support a specific cause." Read more.

Private-Equity Firm Buys National Vision for More Than $1 Billion

"Private-equity firm KKR & Co. has reached an agreement to acquire discount eyewear retailer National Vision Inc. from a smaller buyout firm," according to the Wall Street Journal's Market Watch. "Berkshire Partners LLC is fetching more than $1 billion for the business, according to people familiar with the matter. National Vision, with headquarters in Lawrenceville, Ga., and a focus on low-cost products glasses and contact lenses, is one of the largest U.S. eyewear retailers. It operates more than 750 stores in 43 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, including Eyeglass World, America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses and Bestcontacts.com. National Vision was taken into private ownership by Berkshire Partners n 2005 in a deal valued at about $104 million. In tandem with that buyout, National Vision bought closely held Consolidation Vision Group Inc. for $88 million. Boston-based Berkshire later added America's Best, a discount retailer that sells overstock designer frames, to the mix and in 2006 recapitalized National Vision in a deal that enabled the private-equity firm to recoup most of its original investment, the firm said at the time." Read more.

New Eyewear from Bally

"Bally, in collaboration with the international eyewear group TWC L’Amy, recently presented its Spring 2014 Eyewear Collection for men and women," notes ClickTheCity. "Divided into lines of Formal, Business, Casual and Sport; the new wider range of models captures the essence of the Swiss brand’s world renowned craftsmanship, attention to detail and trademark design." Read more.

New Sunwear from Charmant

"Charmant Titanium Polarized Sunglasses are an extension of Charmant’s core titanium collection, the flagship line for the company. The collection will be supported by in-store merchandising materials including a tower display, a counter card, a polarized tester, and a take-one brochure for consumers." That's the word from Midwest Lens. Read more.

Olympics Sports Broadcaster Dons "Peabody and Sherman" Eyewear

"Very real sports broadcaster Bob Costas says an eye infection has caused him to wear very cartoonish glasses," reports UPI. "Costas began his anchorman duties for the opening of the Read more.
Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, wearing spectacles with round lenses that could have been popular in an earlier era, USA Today reported Thursday. After previewing NBC's network coverage of first-day events, Costas began a personal aside to explain his look."

New Eyewear from Puma

"Puma Eyewear enters a new demographic with the latest release of high-quality optical frames: the youth segment of 10-16 year old boys," reports Midwest Lens. "This segment adds to the already existing target wearer of 17-35+, expanding the wear to encompass younger Puma fans. High-energy and fun is a central theme of these newest additions. Color interplays include striking layered effects and marbled coloring on light acetate frames. Simple metallic profiles feature tonal dashes and pop art patterns on temples." Read more.

Superior Vision Gets Make Over after Merger with Block

After mergering recently with Block Vision, Superior Vision has developed a new logo, tagline, and overall visual identity. A company spokesperson said that the new logo depicts movement and health, evokes the image of an eye, and represents the flow of ideas and interconnected solutions with its broad strokes. The tagline “See yourself healthy” encompasses the idea that vision and eye health is important. Its new image is also apparent its website. The websites for Block Vision and Vision Insurance Plans of America (VIPA) will carry a new transition identity as business operations are merged over the coming months. For current customers, partners, and members, there will be no change in how they do business with their current entity. Read more.

Clariti 1 Day CLs Now in U.S. Market

Sauflon has entered the U.S. contact lens market with clariti 1 day silicone hydrogel daily disposable, making it the only company offering what the company describes as a complete family of affordable silicone hydrogel daily disposable CLs. This family of sphere, toric and multifocal silicone hydrogel daily disposable CLs is produced with what Sauflon calls AquaGen technology, which is said to produce high-quality silicone hydrogel lenses. The patented manufacturing process makes it possible to provide high-quality lenses at the same cost as hydrogel lenses. Read more.

New Eyewear from Project Runway

"After the initial Project Runway launch in January 2013 and additional style releases throughout the year, Project Runway further expands the popular collection this February 2014 with 6 styles and 11 SKU’s," announced Midwest Lens. "Inspired by the hit reality competition TV show, Project Runway Eyewear features high-end looks translated from the runway to the real world. The new styles stay consistent with the successful on-trend shapes, intricate design embellishments and bold color palettes. Stay tuned for new Project Runway TV episodes this Spring!" Read more.

New Eyewear from Moscot

"Moscot introduces the Lemtosh-T, the Miltzen-T, Nebb-T, and Zolman-T,  four of Moscot’s most popular frames refashioned in titanium," according to Midwest Lens. "They’ve married the distinctive characteristics, look, and feel of each iconic style with titanium to create streamlined, lightweight silhouettes, all of which are unmistakably Moscot originals." Read more.

Study Shows Benefits of Vision Plans

A recent study concluded that employers who offer their employees stand-alone vision benefits experienced $5.8 billion in cost savings over four years due to reduced healthcare costs, avoided productivity losses, and lower turnover rates. It also found that individuals who receive an annual comprehensive eye exam are more likely to enter the healthcare system earlier for treatment of serious health conditions, thereby significantly reducing their long-term cost of care. Additionally, people are more likely to get an annual comprehensive eye exam than a routine physical. The study was conducted by HCMS Group, a human capital risk management firm. Read more.

WellPoint Sells Off 1-800-Contacts

WellPoint has completed sale of 1-800 Contacts to private equity firm Thomas H. Lee Partners. The company already has finished the sale of glasses.com and its virtual try-on technology to Luxottica. Read more.

New Eyewear from Dior Homme

"For summer 2014, Dior Homme eyewear collection introduces innovative and high-tech interpretations of the brand’s masculine essence, following these sophisticated material mixes," reports Midwest Lens. "The new sunglasses and optical frames embody Dior Homme codes and reflect perfectly the exclusive style of the eyewear collection. They convey a subtle touch of lightness thanks to a unique combination of stainless steel and rubber, ensuring utmost comfort and extra-light feel to the new models." Read more.

Save the Date for OpticalCEUs 15th Anniversary Continuing Education Program

On Sunday, April 6, OpticalCEUs will offer opticians ABO and NCLE credits at the Grand Pequot Ballroom, Foxwoods Resort and Casinos. It's the 15th year of continuing education from OpticalCEUs. Registration and information about the courses (providing seven ABO/NCLE credits) will be available soon at OpticalCEU.com.

Luxottica Buys Glasses.com

Luxottica Group S.p.A. has acquired glasses.com from WellPoint Inc. Andrea Guerra, chief executive officer of Luxottica, recently stated, “The acquisition will function as a starting point to shape an independent, digital platform through which the North American market can.” A company spokesperson said that Luxottica believes that the investment in technology and the development of an accessible digital platform for the North American trade are crucial next steps in developing the market to its full potential. By investing in online innovation and providing accessibility to independent practitioners, Luxottica can offer both the doctor and the consumer a unique seamlessly integrated, superior experience. The company did not note that the purchase gives it one more opportunity to compete with the independent optician and OD. Read more.

Essilor Strengthens Its Position in the Americas

Essilor International is making more moves in North and South America, representing some €38 million in annual revenue. In the United States, it acquired majority stakes in R.D. Cherry in Michigan and Plunkett Optical in Arkansas, which respectively generate $9.8 million and $3.3 million annually. It also picked up a majority share in $4.5 million Frame Displays. To the north, Essilor signed partnerships with three companies. There's the deal with C$26 million Riverside Optical, a group of prescription laboratories operating in Quebec and Ontario. The other two are with Benson Edwards Optical Lab and CPS 360 Optical Lab, two Ontario labs with revenue of nearly C$3 million. To the south, the company signed with the €5.4-million Comprol, in Brazil. Read more.

Anti-VEGF Drugs Helping AMD Battle, Says Study

"A treatment introduced less than 10 years ago has already made a difference in the number of Americans losing their vision and being admitted to nursing homes, according to a new study," notes Reuters. "Two Duke University economists looked at Medicare beneficiaries with so-called 'wet' macular degeneration and found those diagnosed after the introduction of anti-VEGF drugs were less likely to go blind and less likely to move into long-term care...Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of blindness in the U.S. affecting older adults, usually after age 65. Most AMD patients have the dry form of the disease, but about 10 percent have wet AMD, which progresses more quickly than the dry form." Read more.

Braille-Like CLs for the Blind

"Engineering researchers at Israel’s Bar Ilan University are developing a contact lens for the blind. These special lenses translates images into sensations felt on the eye," reports PSFK.com. "Headed by Professor Zeev Zalevsky, the project has already seen positive results in it’s initial trials and is planning on continuing forward with testing. The system is a fairly complex one. First, the image of an object is taken with a smartphone or camera and is then processed and sent to the contact lens. The lens is custom made, fitted with a series of electrodes that use small electric impulses to mechanically relay shapes onto the cornea, almost like braille. After some practice, test subjects were able to identify specific objects." Read more.

Kardashians Release Sunglass Line

"Two days ago Khloé Kardashian gave fans the first look at the Kardashian Kollection's new sunglasses line. In a photo on her Instagram, the 29-year-old nibbled on a scoop of sherbet while sporting a pair of oversize rose aviators, which thanks to her caption we know are from the upcoming collection," according to the EOnline post. "Today the full line hit the web and we can see in full detail all fives styles available. The $249 shades have brightly colored lenses include cobalt blue, brown, two shades of classic gold, and of course the pink gold hue that Khloé modeled." Read more.

New Eyewear from A&A Optical

Eyewear in A&A Optical's new Alexander Collection: Marsha and Sharon comes with Swarovski crystal accents, metal inlays, and laser etching in acetate, metal, semi-rimless and combination frame styles. Alexander Collection, designed for women needing petite, average, or extended fits, have eye sizes ranging from 47 mm to 57 mm. The bowtie-shaped Marsha is a metal frame with raised details and is available in brown, gold, or lavender. It's also has extended sizes 53-18-135 and 56-18-140. Vintage-inspired Sharon has an acetate frame with gradated fronts, solid colored temples, and a gold plate accented by a Swarovski crystal diagonal. The oval frame is available in black, brown, and taupe. Merchandising materials include a logo plaque and counter card. A soft, silver and black eyewear case that can double as an evening clutch is shipped with each frame. Read more.

Myop Confesses Why She Designs Eyewear

"I've been myopic since I [Nicole Mowbray] was a child, so became obsessed with spectacles. I design eyewear; my collection is entirely handmade in one of last remaining spectacle production workshops." That's part of a Guardian post. Read more.

New Eyewear from Vogue for Women

"The new collection of Vogue for Women] presents models in line with the latest trends and enhanced by exclusive details. The translucent effect and the brand new opal colors, ideal for highlighting the glamour profile of the models of this collection," states Midwest Lens. "New to the In Vogue line is the liquid light theme which, by playing with the metalized effects of the three colors from the collection – green, red and blue – presents hi-tech treatments and workmanship to obtain futuristic metalized effects and elegant matt finishes. Once again, Vogue presents a feminine style which corresponds to the glamour spirit of the contemporary woman[--from] romanticism with soft colors and flower decoration of Style Blooms, ideal for women and young girls seeking a fresh and delicate look, to the trendy and playful style of In Vogue, conceived for a woman who is always ready to explore the latest fashion has to offer, to the contemporary and refined taste of Casual Chic, designed for young and fashion-conscious women, with an added modern and versatile touch and a dash of essential originality." Read more.