Lacoste Celebrates World Cup and Brazil

"In 2014 sport fans everywhere are on the starting blocks to support their favorite teams in international competition hosted in Brazil. With its proven sporting heritage, Lacoste scores new L711S wayfarer sunglasses from a color palette that keeps the sporting spirit flying to Brazil," according to Midwest Lens. "Five different models offer various combinations of blue, green, yellow, black and white with mirrored lenses to pay tribute to Brazil. Temples and even the iconic crocodile are dressed in Brazilian flag-inspired attire. The design of each piece plays harmoniously with the three Brazilian colors to convey the festivity, unity and team spirit that characterizes the sporting world and to win outright in the style stakes." Read more.

CooperVision Releases Consumer App in U.S.

The new app for consumers from CooperVision, Inc. provides ways to find a nearby optometrist, to identify potentially ideal lenses, and a customizable reminder that will sound when it's time to replace CLs. Features of the CooperVision app include:

• Doc Finder — Using the mobile device’s GPS or a zip code, the app will find nearby eye care professionals with a tap of a finger.
• Lens Finder — By choosing from a variety of eye conditions and lifestyle factors, app users can identify the CooperVision best suited for them.
• Lens Reminder — Users can set up reminders for the replacement of their contact lenses.
• FAQ's — What are astigmatism and presbyopia? How does the eye convert light to an image? What is the proper way to clean and care for contact lenses? How do you put contact lenses in your eyes? All of these common questions and more are answered within the app.
• Products — Users can delve into the information about CooperVision’s family of contact lenses. They can save their favorite products, share them with others via email, and discuss them with eye care practitioners.

“This is the third launch of our consumer app,” said Catherine Muriel, vice president of marketing North America, CooperVision. “The app was previously launched in the U.K. and China.”

Argus to Administer Vision Benefits for Freedom and Optimum

Beginning July 1, 2014, Argus Dental & Vision will administer vision benefits to eligible Medicare Advantage members of Freedom Health and Optimum HealthCare plans in Florida as well as America’s 1st Choice in North Carolina and South Carolina. The contract will be an addition to the implemented dental contract already in place, which launched in January 2014. Membership benefit coverage will be available to more than 100,000 Freedom Health and Optimum HealthCare members. Read more.

Warby Parker Donates One Million Eyeglasses

"On Wednesday, Warby Parker announced a milestone involving another good thing it does," reports Wired. "For every pair of glasses sold, the company donates another pair to VisionSpring, a charity that trains people in low-income communities around the world to conduct eye exams and set up businesses selling glasses for a few bucks a piece. Warby says that, as of now, it has donated one million pairs of glasses." Read more.

BBC Asks, 'Can We Trust Our Sunglasses?' Brazil Answers!

See the BBC site for the story.

FDA Said to Clear Biotrue OneDay for Presbyopia

"Bausch + Lomb announced here at Optometry’s Meeting that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted marketing clearance for the company’s Biotrue OneDay for Presbyopia daily disposable multifocal," according to a post on Primary Care Optometry News. "Bausch + Lomb’s director of medical strategy for U.S. Vision Care, Benjamin S. Chudner, OD, FAAO, told Primary Care Optometry News that this lens, made of nesofilcon A, meets the oxygen level the open eye needs for health, mimicking the lipid layer of tears. This multifocal is based on the PureVision2 multifocal concept, he said." Read more.

National Sunglass Day--Today

"June 27 of each year celebrates National Sunglasses Day," announces National Day Calendar website. The website came up with a variety of facts about sunglasses. Here are a few.

• Early Twentieth Century Americans sometimes called sunglasses sun cheaters. Today, the term is shades.
• Sunglasses weren't considered fashion accessories until after the 1940s.
• Nine centuries ago, the Chinese made sunglasses using smoky quartz.
• Sam Foster (yes of Foster Grant) started mass-producing sunglasses in 1929.
• Polarized sunglasses were used in sunglasses as early as 1936.

Read more about sunglasses and the holiday.

Greater the Education, the Greater the Myopia

"New research suggests that higher levels of education and more years spent in school are linked with a greater prevalence and severity of the eye condition [myopia]. The research is published in Opthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Opthalmology." So notes Medical News Today. "Though the condition is common, the researchers - led by Dr. Alireza Mirshahi of the University Medical Center in Mainz, Germany - say nearsightedness has become even more common around the world recently, making it an increasing global health and economic worry." Read more.

Computer Gloves Teach Braille

"Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a wearable computer glove that can teach braille, even when the user's attention is on another activity," says Medical News Today. "The research team - including Thad Starner, a professor at Georgia Tech and a technical/lead manager on Google's Project Glass - first created a technology-enhanced glove back in 2008, called Piano Touch. The glove could teach individuals how to play piano melodies in 45 minutes." Read more.

Oakley Settles Suit with Best Buy and Fry's

"Oakley Inc. has settled a lawsuit in California federal court accusing Best Buy Co. Inc. and Fry's Electronics Inc. of selling a patent-infringing brand of sunglasses that have a video camera in the frame, it said Thursday," according to a Law 360 post. "The companies filed a joint motion to dismiss the retailers from the litigation. The manufacturer of the allegedly infringing sunglasses, Thermor Ltd., is also included in the motion and has agreed to settle the case." Read more.

New Eyewear from Zyloware Eyewear

"Zyloware Eyewear announces the June 2014 release of new styles from the Via Spiga Sun Collection," reports Midwest Lens. One example is the Via Spiga Sun 334S, "a women’s sunglass with a full rim zyl front in a chic oval shape. This frame has a scalloped metal temple with fashionable round cut-outs. The VS Sun 334S frame’s handcrafted zyl temple tips provide extra comfort for the wearer. Re-released in a new color. Colors: Burgundy (077). Sizes: 57-14-135. Special Features: Full rim zyl sunglass; Designed metal temple; 100% UV protection, Fully Rx’able, Accommodates progressives." Read more.

Video Game Eyewire Reveals New Ideas about the Eye's Neural Connections

A year ago, NPR (National Public Radio) ran a story about a game called Eyewire developed by Sebastian Seung at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, now at Princeton University. He wasn't trying to make it big with PlayStation or Nintendo. He was attempting to map the neural connections in the eye. He has done more than that with more than 120,000 volunteers from 140 countries.Read more.

New FDA Materials Warn about Dangers of Decorative Contact Lenses

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FDA brochure about the use of decorative contact lenses.

The FDA is launching a  campaign about the dangers of decorative contact lenses--more precisely the use of them without the fit of an OD or ophthalmologist. It's borrowing from the horror video genre that has inspired so many teenagers to slap on the color altering devices. The message also is backed by the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the Entertainment Industries Council (EIC). The three organizations produced and are distributing two public service videos designed to attract young people. The FDA has also released a brochure available at this link.

American Horror Story Helps Deliver Safety Message

The video, first screened at the recent AOA annual conference, uses clips from the television show American Horror Story, along with clips of professional makeup artists and optometrists. They note that before an actor or any individual can wear these lenses, he or she must have an eye exam, valid CL prescription, and lenses purchased from a reputable source.For more information about the program, click here.

New Eyewear from Tura's Oio

"Tura, Inc., the inventor of fashion eyewear in 1938, is excited to launch new kids and tween styles from its popular Oio brand," notes Midwest Lens. "Oio eyewear is known for its stylish shapes that are playful, colorful and textured. The brand focuses on adventurous kids and tweens who want to emulate their older siblings, but also wish to express their individuality. Bright and snappy deigns capitalize on the popular vintage and color-blocking trends this year. Want to Play? The Oio eyewear collection supports an active kid and tween lifestyle, by offering lightweight and resilient high performance materials at an affordable price." The items comes with box spring hinges, custom sizing, and TITANflex materials. Read more.

Google Adds Gig to Glass

"Google Glass users can now record extra video footage thanks to the tech giant's extra gigabyte of memory on the former 1GB capacity connected eyewear," claims HNGN. "The company's change has annoyed existing Glass Explorers, however, who currently have the device's older model, and claim it's not as fast as the new 2GB upgrade, per info from a Glass product manager. 'Allow for more Glassware [apps] to run parallel and for each Glassware to start more quickly,' said Steve Lee. 'You'll notice the device generally feels a bit faster and more reliable.'" Read more.

New Approaches Needed for People with Low Vision

"New approaches and tools are needed to improve visual accessibility for people with low vision in the 'real world,' according to a special article in the July issue of Optometry and Vision Science, official journal of the American Academy of Optometry." That's the start of a post on Science Daily. Read more.

New Eyewear from Ted Baker

"Tura, Inc., the inventor of fashion eyewear in 1938, expands the Ted Baker 'Just Kidding' kids ophthalmic eyewear collection. It is ideal for customers who want fashion-forward kids eyewear without the luxury price tag," writes Midwest Lens. "The Ted Baker 'Just Kidding' collection is a sized down version of the adult frames, continuing the whimsical flair and emphasis on detail. Known as the quintessentially British brand, Ted Baker eyewear is best described as quirky yet commercial with high quality design attributes. The 'Just Kidding' collection is tailored yet contemporary with charming embellishments, vibrant prints, and playful colors. Signature bows, flirty floral prints and iconic T’s are used across the other accessories categories; the 'Just Kidding' collection is infused with those same key elements creating the perfect brand synergy. Spring hinges are added to the kids’ eyewear collection for flexibility and comfort." Read more.

Poser OD Closes Shop in NY

"A Tonawanda man has been sentenced for running an unlicensed optometrist practice near Rochester," according to WIVB. "Shamil Tadros, 45, attended optometry school but [reportedly] did not pass state exams. He was operating the practice from his store, Pittsford Optical in Pittsford, NY, which is outside of Rochester, when he was caught. Tadros was given a conditional discharge Monday on the conditions he pay back $116,821 in criminal restitution, complete 150 hours of community service, and consent to random practice checks of his optical shop." Read more.

VSP Supports CA Attempt to Stand Alone Vision Marketplace

"VSP, frustrated with its inability to offer adult vision care as a stand-alone benefit through Covered California, is backing an effort to establish a separate vision care marketplace linked to the exchange website," says the Sacramento Business Journal. "The vehicle to do this is Assembly Bill 1877 by Assemblyman Ken Cooley, a Democrat from Rancho Cordova. The bill creates a vision care access council in state government modeled after the state health benefit exchange. The council would contract with vision plans, manage the program and work with the exchange to establish a link between the two programs." Read more.

Prez Gets Press Buzz with His Shades

"President Obama went to Chipotle on Monday, continuing his luncheon tour of D.C. eateries," notes the Washington Post. "He walked there from a nearby hotel, having stopped by the White House's Summit on Working Families. And he wore sunglasses. Oh how he wore sunglasses. Shades are, of course, Vice President Joe Biden's thing. Biden has made his Ray-Bans something of a trademark; he joined Instagram with a picture of the Ray-Bans at rest." Read more.

As a nation we make a big deal about a vp and prez who wear sunglasses. Why? They are middle-age. They are not immune to UV. The optical industry should be praising them for wearing sunglasses.

Google Glass Goes to U.K.

"Google on Monday, June 23 made Glass available in Britain to early adopters willing to spend 1,000 pounds for a chance to dabble with the Internet-linked eyewear," reports the Rappler. "The California-based technology titan expanded an "explorer" program beyond the United States for the first time by inviting British enthusiasts to virtually queue for the gadget online at google.co.uk/glass." Read more.

New Eyewear from Zyloware

"After experiencing great success with last summer’s release of their women’s designed to fit collection, Red Lotus by Zyloware, Zyloware has developed Red Tiger by Zyloware, the designed to fit collection for men," according to Midwest Lens. "Most eyewear is designed to fit Caucasian features, but many Europeans, Asians, and other ethnicities have different facial structure...The Red Tiger by Zyloware collection specifically addresses these fitting challenges and aims to sit comfortably on your nose, provide extra headroom at your temples and won’t rest on your face or sit too high or too low." Read more.

Do for Opticians What Capra Did for Christmas! Create a Video!

The Opticians Association of America (OAA) is proud to announce that our organization, in a partnership with Transitions Optical, is hosting a video contest to help define opticianry. The contest is simple - create your own 30 to 90 second video conveying to a consumer what opticians are and what they do. The contest is open to students, state associations, film makers, and any individual living in the United States. The winning video will receive $3,500; second place will win $2,000; and third place will receive $1,000. OAA will announced the winners at the 2014 International Vision Expo West in Las Vegas. The contest runs through June 30, 2014. The creative and informative videos will be uploaded to the OAA YouTube Channel during the contest and then reviewed by a panel of celebrity judges who will ultimately pick the top three videos. A complete list of the contest instructions, rules and regulations are available on the Opticians Association of America's website (www.oaa.org).

The CNBC Disruptors List for 2014: Warby Parker

"Warby Parker was created to be an alternative to the overpriced and bland eyewear that's been a staple of the industry for decades," starts the CNBC story. "The four founders all met as students at The Wharton School in Philadelphia, where in between classes they traveled the globe and tried to figure out ways to do business differently while making a positive impact on the world. Eyewear fit the bill." Read more.

Children with Glaucoma

"When Christian Earl was six weeks old, his mother did not think his eyes looked right, so she took him to Loyola University Medical Center for an evaluation," reports Science Daily. "She was shocked to learn that Christian had glaucoma and other congenital eye problems that were threatening his vision. ...Loyola ophthalmologist Dr. Robert J. Barnes stabilized Christian's vision by implanting tiny devices that drained fluid from his eyes. Another Loyola ophthalmologist removed cataracts and scar tissue that also were threatening his vision. ...His vision has stabilized, and it appears that the rambunctious little boy can see normally, his mother said. 'Before the surgeries,' she added, 'he was bumping into everything.'" Read more.

New Eyewear from Adidas

"Sporty and functional, with zero compromises – Adidas Eyewear is launching three new optical models for all sports enthusiasts that value sport-inspired performance and style," according to Midwest Lens. "The new invoke is available as a full rim model with SPX or a metal rim model with SPX temples. All models are available in a variety of colors and are equipped with key technical features to meet the needs of any quality-conscious sports enthusiast, before and after training sessions or competitions." Read more.

Who's the Marchon Person Behind the DVF Google Glass?

Muller and von Furstenberg
with their Google Glasses

"Leslie Muller, Marchon’s Vice President of Design, helped to create the new frames at the eyewear giant’s Midtown Manhattan design center," reports Beta Beat. "Marchon also handles vision insurance and optics, so the DVF collection includes not only sunglasses, but also glasses that can hold a prescription lens. In fact, Marchon has long partnered with Google to provide vision care insurance. We caught up with Ms. Muller to find out what it was like to create the DVF Glass line, and what she thinks the future holds for eyewear in general." Read more.

Drift Eyewear Grows

"Chris Mantz just wanted some cool glasses. So, in true 'maker' fashion, he started cutting up a skateboard," says the Chicago Tribune. "Four years and several entrepreneurial twists and turns later, West Loop-based Drift Eyewear appears to be growing steadily, aiming at the high-end, hipster set with a line of wood and acetate frames. Drift co-owner Jon Harting wouldn’t provide financial figures for the private company, other than to say that its frames retail for between $450 and $600. But he said Drift has almost doubled production and sales each year since the company was founded in 2010.He also said its glasses are available in more than 100 retailers in 24 states and that it has seen sales in five other countries, including Canada and Japan." Read more.

Help Your Customers Save $$$

"Stars like Tina Fey and Justin Timberlake have turned eyeglasses into a must-have style statement. But for many Americans, glasses aren't just an accessory; they're a necessity for safe driving and daily activities. The National Eye Institute of the U.S. National Institutes of Health reports that more than 150 million Americans use corrective eyewear and spend more than $15 billion on eyewear each year. Here's a look at strategies to save on glasses or contacts." That's the open of an excellent report called "Six Ways to Save on Glasses and Contacts" by Susan Johnston of U.S. News & World Report, which was posted on Yahoo!Finance. Read it. You might want to use it with your customers.

New Eyewear by Oko Paris

Oko by Oko Paris has expanded its Strates line in its DYS collection with four neew frames: DYS10, DYS11, DYS12 and DYS13. Their tree layers of metal on the side pieces is said to "bring originality, fluidity and lightness thanks to a subtle mix of emptiness and matter which bring a soul supplement to this creation," reports Midwest Lens. The line also have larger sizes for men (DYS10 circled in size 58 and DYS11 half-circled in size 56) and for women (DYS12 circled in size 53). Read more.

EyeMed: There's an App for That

A mobile app reportedly makes it easy for the 36 million U.S. members of EyeMed Vision Care plans to access plan information and a digital copy of their member ID card. Members also can locate network providers. It works with an iPhone or iPad, and the free “EyeMed Members” app is now available through the Apple iTunes store. The company says that it will launch an Android version soon. Read more.

New Eyewear from Zyloware

"Exciting new Zyloware Eyewear releases for June 2014. New styles are featured from the Stetson, Gloria Vanderbilt, Via Spiga, MaxStudio.com and Daisy Fuentes Collections," reports Midwest Lens. Read more about the additions.

Cost of Vision Problems Rising Quickly

In a new report called "The Future of Vision, Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems," Prevent Blindness reports that "we find that the prevalence and costs of vision problems are set to grow at an alarming rate, fueled by demographic shifts including the aging of the baby-boomer population, extraordinary increases in the population in the oldest age groups, and the growth of minority populations. By 2050 we project that the prevalence of vision loss will grow by 135%, from 4.4 million to more than 10 million people. The total prevalence of cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and advanced age related macular degeneration is expected to increase by 77% to nearly 70 million adults by 2050. This spectacular growth in the prevalence of vision problems will be evident in their resulting costs, with the total real costs of vision problems expected to increase by 157%, from $145 billion in 2014 to $373 billion by 2050, with total nominal expenditures in 2050 exceeding $700 billion." Read more and see charts.

Omega 3's Can Help with AMD, Says New Study

"Researchers from Massachusetts Eye and Ear/Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School and other institutions have demonstrated for the first time that the omega (ω)-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), DHA and EPA, and their specific bioactive products derived from the cytochrome P450 (CYP) pathway, can influence choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and vascular leakage by modulating micro-environmental immune cell recruitment to the site of these lesions. Their findings will be published in PNAS Online Early Edition the week of June 16-20, 2014." That's a new post on Science Daily. Read more.

Alcohol Impairs Night Vision

"Ethanol in the tear-film is one of the causes: it covers the surface of the eye, disturbs the outer layer and favours evaporation of the aqueous content of the tear, deteriorating the optical quality of the image we see. The deterioration in vision is significantly greater in subjects with breath alcohol content over 0.25mg/litre, the legal limit for driving recommended by the World Health Organization," notes Science Daily. "A study conducted by the University of Granada has demonstrated that alcohol consumption markedly impairs night-vision because it increases the perception of halos -- luminous circles -- and other visual night-time disturbances." Read more.

U.S. Vet Gets Eye Care from VA after a Story on Fox News

"A veteran who has waited months for healthcare finally gets answers after FOX 17 News shares his story. We told you about Navy veteran James Roberson about two weeks ago," according to a Fox News 17 Nashville post. "Roberson had an urgent need to see an eye doctor, but he claims he was getting the run around from Nashville's VA hospital. ...Roberson told us earlier this month about his frustration. His eyes were injured many years ago during his time in the Navy, but after numerous phone calls, he couldn't get an appointment. ...Shortly after our story ran, that all changed. James started receiving phone calls, and he now has several appointments scheduled, including one for cataract surgery. It turns out James had some high-ranking help. 'Actually your story brought him to our attention,' says TN Rep. Sheila Butt, (R) Maury County." Read more.

How Moscot Remains Competitive for More Than 5 Generations

"Recent years, the eyewear industry is becoming an increasingly unfriendly place for mom-and-pop shops. Customers are moving online, hungry upstarts are disrupting the industry by eschewing storefronts and middlemen and major brands are combining forces to stop the young lions in their tracks. With all this upheaval, how is a family-owned optics shop with nearly a century of history supposed to keep up?" asks Mashable. "By embracing its niche position in the market and keeping all of its operations in-house, Dr. Harvey Moscot, the fourth-generation owner and president of Moscot Eyewear says. 'We stay competitive by being experts in what we do,' he tells Mashable . 'There are five generations of professionals, both opticians and optometrists. At Moscot, it’s all about quality and proper fit. At Moscot, it’s all about quality and proper fit.'" Read more, see video.

New Eyewear from Elle

Midwest Lens reports that "the Elle look pays homage to a woman’s individual spirit and taste. While new trends inspire, they never overpower. In essence, Elle style is defined by a classic contemporary template accentuated by one-of-a-kind accents like a vintage jacket or designer handbag. Confidence adds the refining touch: the ultimate look is carried off with consummate flair and elegance. Elle eyewear perfectly espouses the spirit of Elle style. New frame inspirations take their lead from the catwalk trend in jeweled embellishments on clothing and accessories. This influence suffuses new frame styles in precious metallic and discrete gem enhancements. Complementing this ornate allure, the romantic magnificence of Parisian architecture makes its magic felt in sculpted profiles and decorative templates. Classicists will love the elegance of black, brown, red and tortoise hues while embracing the fresh brio of lilac and green." Read more.

Two Luxottica Brands Win Clios

One month ago, two Luxottica brands picked up Clios. Ray-Ban's 2013 advertising campaign, "Never Hide," took the Grand Clio in the Out of Home (OOH) Category. The Lenscrafter "My Look Magic Mirror" campaign also went home with a Clio in the OOH category. The Clio Image Awards 2014 are part of the Clio Awards for the advertising, design and communication sector. Read more.

The marketing recognition pick-me-up came about a month before the rebroadcast of the October 2012 60 Minutes story about Luxottica's domination of the U.S. eyewear market. The only real difference between the June 2014 and October 2012 60 Minutes story came with the close. It mentioned that Luxottica and Google teamed up to design and market specs with Google Glass, ancient history in the world of digital journalism. Click to read about DVF and about the Google-Luxottica "partnership."

Arming U.S. Soldiers with State of the Art Eyewear

"Today, soldiers use four separate lenses that protect them from debris, sunlight and different colored lasers. Army research scientist Brian Kimball says that the current system means soldiers have to switch out lenses with each changing environment. In high-action or stress situations soldiers are less likely to switch out lenses and may leave them off altogether," says Fox Business. "Kimball says in the future troops may only need to use one lens with multiple capabilities. 'The main issue with our research is we would like to be able to combine all of those functions into a single lens. So that the soldier doesn't have to take them on and off.'" Read more.

New Eyewear from Tommy Hilfiger

"The Tommy Hilfiger Group is pleased to announce the launch of the True to the Blue eyewear capsule collection complementing Tommy Hilfiger’s Spring 2014 True to the Blue sportswear collection. True to the Blue celebrates the everlasting impact of denim, chambray and indigo, and the role these materials and colors have played as part of Tommy Hilfiger’s heritage. With a history of individuality, freedom and youthful irreverence, these fabrics have become synonymous with the American lifestyle and are globally recognized as style essentials," according to Midwest Lens. "The True to the Blue collections honor the enduring influence and evolution of denim, chambray and indigo in Tommy Hilfiger’s collections, from when he founded the brand in 1985 until today. Hilfiger’s design philosophy has always celebrated a re-imagination of the classics by reinventing wardrobe staples with a modern twist. Denim, chambray and indigo represent the ease of American style, inspiring a dedicated eyewear collection for Spring 2014." Read more.

Olivia Palermo Designing for Westward Leaning

"We're waiting for the day Olivia Palermo bottles up her street style savoir faire and sells it to the rest of us (we'd buy it by the case)," says Style Bistro. "In the meantime, we'll have to settle on her sleek new capsule collection of sunglasses for Westward Leaning. The celeb-fave brand (everyone from Rita Ora to Kate Bosworth has been spotted in the shades) has long been Palermo's go-to source for super-cool sunnies, so it's no surprise the style star jumped at the chance to collaborate on a range of eight universally-flattering designs ($210)." Read more.

New Eyewear from Ogi

"Ogi Eyewear introduces the 9200 series, an innovative use of combination materials for a sleek and confident look," according to Midwest Lens. "Available in 4 unique styles, the 9202, 9203, 9204 and 9205. Each frame features a flattering shape in stylish combinations of metal and acetate. The 9202 and 9203 exude rounded, feminine shapes in chic color combinations, while the 9204 and 9205 showcase more masculine color tones and rectangular lens shapes. Offered in a large array of colors spanning from vibrant cranberry reds and violets to nature-inspired browns and blues. By pairing acetate fronts in versatile shapes with matching colored metal temples, the new 9200 series provides a look for every personality." Read more.

More Gossip about Microsoft's AR Eyewear

"Rumors have been afloat about Microsoft working on a device similar to Google Glass. We've yet to see or hear anything new on the matter but we did stumble upon this interesting patent filing from the company. Microsoft filed this patent back in 2012 and it was just now published, showcasing the company's attempt at integrating multi-touch interactions on eyeware." That's the word from Win Beta. "In the patent application publication, Microsoft introduces us to the dilemma with head-worn augmented reality glasses. Interactivity with these glasses are constrained by the inability to have an input device continuously available in the user's hand. In other words, you need cameras or microphones to operate - which can be a problem when in a library or a movie theater. It may be distracting and it may be inappropriate for the setting." Read more.

Improve Living Space for Those with Sight Loss

"New guidelines launched by the sight loss charity, Thomas Pocklington Trust and the University of Stirling, reveal how clever design of living spaces can improve the lives of people who are living with two common conditions - dementia and sight loss," according to a Medical News Today post. "The evidence-based guidelines help make homes more accessible for people with both conditions and were developed after researchers gathered the views and experiences of people living with dementia and sight loss, their families and carers and a wide range of professionals." Read more.

For a copy of the research findings, click this Thomas Pocklington Trust link.

Alcon's Air Optix Colors

"Alcon’s new Air Optix Colors received U.S. FDA approval earlier this year and are currently on the market. They are made of silicone hydrogel and feature 3-in-1 embedded color technology, making them highly breathable and smooth for comfortable, all-day wear, according to Alcon," notes Contact Lens Headlines. "New Air Optix Colors are available in a wide range of powers for the correction of myopia and hyperopia. They are also available without vision correcting power, for people with naturally good vision who wish to change their eye color." Read more.

Vava Eyewear at the Sónar Festival

"Vava Eyewear is making itself heard at the Sónar Festival. The Berlin-based brand officially launched one month ago, but is already in thick of it, serving as a sponsor for the Barcelona music and art event, and presenting its collection in concert with a specially designed installation," reports Women's Wear Daily. "The piece, Re-Envision, was created for Sónar 2014 by Portuguese audiovisual artists Miguel Neto and Rodrigo Carvalho, who perform under the name Boris Chimp 504. Re-Envision had a festive preview last week at Berlin concept store Oukan, the German Vava stockist. Party attendees enjoyed cocktails played played with an interactive box that altered the projected graphic animations and electronic soundtrack, complete with a robotic voice intoning the word “Vava” ominously." Read more.

New Izod Eyewear from ClearVision Optical

"Eyewear industry leader ClearVision Optical introduces its new collection of Izod frames that can be personalized through color," notes Midwest Lens. "Designed for young men who like to express their unique style through eyewear, the youthful, on trend collection includes four clear acetate front shapes and nine vibrant temple colors, providing the opportunity to create individual frame styles. ...The new Izod collection provides eyecare professionals with an opportunity to offer customizable eyewear right in the dispensary. The collection can also be personalized using a standard tinting machine to dye the clear fronts to any color preferred by the consumer." Read more.

Creating Retinal Tissue in the Lab

"Using a type of human stem cell, researchers say they have created a three-dimensional complement of human retinal tissue in the laboratory, which notably includes functioning photoreceptor cells capable of responding to light, the first step in the process of converting it into visual images." That's the start of a Science Digest post. Read more.

Mapping the Earliest of Visual Systems

"Larvae of the marine bristle worm Platynereis dumerilii orient themselves using light. Early in their development, these larvae swim towards the light to use surface currents for their dispersal," reports Science Daily. "Older larvae turn away from the light and swim to the sea floor where they develop into adult worms. Scientists of the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology in Tübingen have discovered that this change in the behavioral response to light is coupled to different neuronal systems underlying the eyes. The scientists have reconstructed the first neuronal map of a visual system, from the input of the light stimulus up to the behavioral reaction -- the directional turning of the swimming larva. Using this neuronal map, the biologists can glimpse the evolution of vision." Read more.

New Eyewear from Roxy from A&A Optical

"Roxy is boardshorts and bikinis, surfboards and sandals, styles and smiles – everything a girl needs. And now, the Roxy girl can finish off her look with Roxy Eyewear," according to Midwest Lens. "Keeping the sun in their life, the salt in their veins, and the surf in their spirit, Roxy is the leading action sports fashion apparel brand that’s always the first to the line-up, and the last out of the water. Roxy eyewear features graphic variations of the iconic Roxy signature, playful colors and contemporary details in trend setting shapes." Read more.

New Eyewear from Eastern States

"An esteemed French lingerie brand and designer noted for its feminine, risqué design, Chantal Thomass was first premiered at Vision Expo West of this past year," says Midwest Lens. "The current release mixes materials in several styles, with the five of the fronts composed of acetate and one of monel. Design features mimic the lingerie with lace and brocade prints, sleek curves representing the female silhouette, and even temples that resemble a corset. The upswept modified rectangle shapes are a nod to the brand’s vintage influences while still graced with a modern twist. Colors include the brand’s signature black and pink combination, animal prints, and glittery translucent patterns." Read more.

Study Predicts Uptick in Patient Volume over the Next Decade

The supply of optometrists and ophthalmologists is adequate through 2025. So says the results of the National Eye Care Workforce Study recently posted on AOA.com, the home site of the American Optometric Assn. What's more, ODs responding to the survey reported that they could see an average of 19.8 additional patients per week if completely booked without adding hours to their practice schedule. The increase is likely considering the new U.S. health policies, the ageing of the U.S. population, and the increase in Type 2 diabetes.  The study was launched by the AOA and the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO). Read more.

Cameras and Contacts Help Blind Navigate

"In two labs some 50 miles apart in Israel, computer scientists and engineers are refining devices that employ tiny cameras as translators of sorts. For both teams, the goal is to give blind people a form of sight — or at least an experience analogous to sight," reports the New York Times. "At Bar-Ilan University near Tel Aviv, where Zeev Zalevsky is head of the electro-optics program, these efforts have taken shape in the form of a smart contact lens. The device begins with a camera mounted on a pair of glasses, and the contact lens, Dr. Zalevsky explained, is embedded with an electrode that will produce an image of what is before the camera directly on the cornea. The image would be experienced in one of two ways: If an apple is placed before the camera, it could be “seen” either as the contour of an apple or as a Braille-like shape that a trained user would recognize as a representation of an apple." Read more.

Eye Color Relates to Personality? Study Says Maybe

"The eyes are the window to your soul? Maybe, but new research is highlighting how the colour of your eyes could hold clues to your health," writes the Daily Mail. "The curious links between eye colour and health have fascinated scientists for years, leading to a body of research that suggests the colour affects how much you feel pain, your chance of getting diabetes, how quick your mind is - and even how well you can throw a Frisbee or handle your drink. The latest piece of evidence in this scientific jigsaw has been added by scientists at the University of Pittsburgh. They found Caucasian women with light-coloured eyes - blue or green - appear to tolerate pain and distress better than those with brown or hazel eyes." Read more.

Emilio Pucci Eyewear Licensed by Marcolin

Marcolin Group landed a licensing agreement to design, produce and distribute eyewear for the 60-year-old fashion brand Emilio Pucci, reports a press release on Yahoo! Finance. The five-year, renewable license begins with the launch of the brand's sunglass collection in January 2015. Read more.

New Eyewear from Esprit

"Esprit’s flair for fusing natural beauty with contemporary looks to create elegant, high-quality style has been the bedrock of its success since its founding days in 1960s California," according to Midwest Lens. "This successful signature blend of timeless chic and fresh appeal has carved out Esprit’s name as a worldwide fashion favorite. Inspired by the essence of the brand, new Esprit eyewear for women combines the classic template with crisp catwalk nuances. Attractive, top quality, contemporary frame styles are infused with new season color and textural inspirations. Trendy hues are revealed in attractive solid and transparent shades, scintillating layered mixes or dual toning. Striking profiles are tastefully enhanced by decoratively studded or imaginatively colored temples." Read more.

Chimps to Receive Eye Care Assistance

"While on an Ohio State alumni tour in Africa last year, Mary Torrence began to clearly see how she could change the lives of the chimpanzees she encountered at a wildlife sanctuary," writes The Republic. Retired veterinarian "Torrence noticed they were suffering from vision ailments. ...Some of the eye lesions were caused by parasites in the water, which can affect humans as well. Torrence said if the chimps receive treatment, people in nearby villages could be educated about their health. Another cause of the vision ailments is ultraviolet light from the sun. ...Torrence began planning a return trip. Her goal is to bring a certified ophthalmologist back to the Sweetwater Chimpanzee Sanctuary, part of Kenya's Ol Pejeta Conservancy." Read more.

Canadian Opticians Promoting Opticianry

“For the past two years, the Opticians Council of Canada (OCC) has implemented an annual national campaign educating the public on the importance of always asking for an optician for their vision care needs”,” goes the release from the Optician Council of Canada (OCC). “This year, Opticians Council of Canada will launch the third annual ‘Love Your Eyes’ campaign, which will take form in an online educational multimedia contest. Five weeks before World Sight Day on October 9th, the campaign will launch, and OCC is inviting opticians across Canada to get involved.” Read more.

Blind Octogenarian Cycling ‘Cross Canada for Cancer Cure

Louisiana ODs Get Chance to Cut

Louisiana "optometrists, who didn't go through medical school, now will be allowed to perform a few types of eye surgery," reports the Sun Herald. "Gov. Bobby Jindal's office announced Thursday that the governor has signed into law the heavily-lobbied bill by Republican Rep. Rogers Pope, of Denham Springs. It takes effect immediately....Supporters said the expansion will give people greater access to eye care and only involved procedures for which the optometrists will receive additional training.The bill prohibits optometrists from performing any injections into the eye and from using anesthesia. Read more.

Nano Technology Eliminates Drops for Cataract Patients

"Scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI) have jointly developed a new nanomedicine that will allow glaucoma patients to do away with daily eye drops," reports Science Daily. "Glaucoma is a disease which could lead to blindness. This new sustained-release drug therapy can provide months of relief to glaucoma patients with a single application, compared to just hours with today's conventional eye drops." Read more.

Adweek Praises Optician's Ad Campaign

"Tell the art history majors to leave the room, because here's a campaign that will make creative types jealous and will make purists' eyes bleed," says Adweek. "In a campaign that's new to us but appears to have been running for a while now, Y&R Paris has created a series of ads for eyewear retailer KelOptic showing impressionist paintings brought into focus. The tagline is 'Turning impressionism into hyperrealism.' Another case of advertising sullying some of mankind's greatest artistry? Sure. But also pretty awesome." Read more.

NAO Offers Job Bank for Optician Members

"The [National Academy of Opticianry]... offers both a “Help Wanted” section and a “Position Wanted” section in our popular Job Bank," the association announced recently. The NAO writes, "'Help Wanted' is where you will find the job-of-your-dreams posted by employers across the country who need someone of your incredible talent, knowledge, credentials, and experience. 'Position Wanted' is where you can post your impressive resume to be found by companies searching for someone of your incredible talent, knowledge, credentials, and experience." Read more.

Younger Offering Ultra-Thin HIgh Index 1.74 Lenses

Younger Optics is promoting its "ultra-thin High Index 1.74 lenses, in new Transitions Signature VII gray and brown from Younger Optics. Transitions Signature VII adaptive lenses are more responsive to UV light in more situations, compared to Transitions VI. These ultra-light lenses are made from Mitsui Chemicals' MR-174™ material and are an ideal choice for patients who are looking for a more cosmetically appealing, thinner lens. When thickness consideration and light management is essential, recommend ultra-thin High Index 1.74 Transitions Signature adaptive lenses. Both clear and Transitions high Index 1.74 single vision lenses are available to labs from Younger Optics in 11 base curves ranging from 0.50 to 10.0. These lenses are available to ECPs through their favorite laboratory." Read more.

Benefit Concerts Gets Sight Savers Award

"Songs for Sight, a series of benefit concerts supporting the University of Alabama at Birmingham Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation, has been awarded the inaugural Hall Thompson Hero for Sight Award by Sight Savers America," according to UAB News. "The award is in honor of Hall W. Thompson, whose legacy of work played an integral role in the expansion of Sight Savers America’s eye-care program, which provides comprehensive vision care for more than 40,000 children each year. Thompson’s belief that every child in Alabama should have an equal opportunity for good vision led him to join the Sight Savers America Board of Trustees and help make that belief a reality. Songs for Sight embodies the ideals of the Hero for Sight Award by helping children and teens with low vision in a variety of ways. In addition to youth support-group activities, the funds raised by Songs for Sight help the Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation provide eligible patients electronic video-magnification devices, orientation and mobility services and bioptic driving devices." Read more.

Vision Plans Subsidizing Group Health Plans

Time magazine reports that "it’s a common scenario: A medical insurance carrier wants to sell your company a medical coverage plan that is partly paid by your employer. The carrier’s sales representative, sensing your company’s price sensitivity, attempts to sweeten the deal by offering a 1% reduction in your company’s medical premiums. Sometimes this can be as much as the vision premium. But there’s a catch. The vision coverage is employee-paid. So the medical plan which is partly employer-paid, is being subsidized by the vision plan that is 100% financed by your company’s employees. This deal is too good for any company to pass up, right? Not so fast. The truth is, a bundled deal such as the one above may not only cost employees more money, but may also leave your company open to legal challenges." Read more.

Employees in Mass. to Get ODs on Wheels

"Enter Project 2020, a Boston-based service that puts the eye doctor experience on wheels — specifically a retrofitted Winnebago-like vehicle — and sends it right to your office," writes the BizJournals. "The health care startup recently secured $1.2 million in funding from 22 investors including Howard Bornstein, the project's founder who is also a principal at Bain Capital Ventures (Bornstein invested his own money, not Bain funds).  The service plans to launch in Massachusetts at the end of August, said Alexa Baggio, Project 2020's director of operations and business development for Project 2020, whose motto is 'cool, convenient eye care.' The aim, Baggio said, is to give employees at companies an extra perk by giving them access to routine eye doctor visits right outside of their office." Read more.

Tape Holds Together Google Glass Knock-Off

"It's not exactly a good sign when your product's being held together with Scotch Tape," starts an Engadget post about augmented reality eyewear. "But that's actually one of the main points of distinction between the SiME Smart Glass and Google's version of the wearable -- that and a much lower price point, of course. Taiwanese company ChipSip hopes to sell its Google Glass knock-off for $500, and though that seems palatable compared to $1,500, it's still not cheap. That price is even harder to swallow when you see just how complicated it is to use, as we discovered on the Computex show floor." Read more.

NEI Study Makes Connection between Sun and Cataract

A new study funded partially by National Eye Institute explains how years of chronic sunlight exposure can increase the risk of cataract as a result of oxidation stress. Oxidative stress refers to harmful chemical reactions that can occur when cells consume oxygen and other fuels to produce energy. It's an unfortunate consequence of living, but it's also considered a major contributor to normal aging and age-related diseases-including cataract formation in the lens. The new study, led by researchers at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, suggests that UV light may provide an answer. It shows that UV light can damage lens proteins in a distinct way (called glycation)  typically seen in cataract and in cells damaged by oxidative stress. In other words, UV light can substitute for oxygen to trigger harmful oxidative reactions in the lens. Read more.

Google Glass Blows into Windy City

"Google Glass...has launched a pilot program in an old-school retail channel: optometrists' offices," according to the Chicago Tribune. "The stamp-size electronic screen mounted on the side of a pair of eyeglass frames is being sold to the public at a handful of lens-selling centers nationwide, including Rosin Eyecare on Michigan Avenue. Since early May, Google's Travis Barnes has set up station inside the waiting area at Rosin's office at 645 N. Michigan Ave., asking visitors if they've heard of the product and if they'd like to try it. Google Glass works like a computer or smartphone, enabling users to search, snap photos, and read and respond to email. The $1,500 price includes the device and the frame but not the prescription lenses." Read more. Yesterday, Google Glass announced that it was hooking up with DVF.

CooperVision Sponsors Nationally Ranked Triathlete-OD

CooperVision, Inc. is sponsoring OD Steven Rosinski's second year as a nationally ranked, professional triathlete. He wasn't always a triathlete, and it was his quest for his OD that opened up the opportunity.

He ran cross country and track while at Lehigh University. After he graduated with a degree in behavioral neuroscience, he pursued his doctorate in optometry at The Ohio State University--where his triathlon career began. He finished eighth in the 2010 Collegiate Triathlon National Championships. After graduating three years ago, he trained and raced, eventually earning an Elite Triathlete license within a year. In 2013, Steve completed his first professional season. This year, he plans to qualify for the Ironman 70.3 world championships.

About seven years ago, Rosinski switched to Proclear 1 day lenses from monthly and two-week lenses. He experienced dryness with his other lenses because of allergies and his training. “As an athlete and an allergy sufferer, I like the feeling of a fresh pair of lenses every single day,” said Rosinski. “When I’m training and racing, I’m in the elements—sweat, dirt and wind. My lenses need to withstand this level of activity, and my Proclear lenses do just that.”

CooperVision has sponsored other athletes, such as three Team Great Britain athletes in the U.K., including a half pipe skier, ice hockey player, and mogul skier.

Von Furstenberg and Others Team Up with Google Glass

"There's only so much Google can do to dress up (or hide) the chunky metal object protruding off of a Glass wearer's face," writes the website Fast Company. "Certainly more frame options in different shapes, sizes, and colors will appeal to a broader set of people. But will this partnership help Glass overcome its cyborg reputation, when not much else has worked? The initial frames, which came out in January, were a huge step up from naked-Glass. This doesn't push the needle too much further. Nor does the mere attachment to DVF's brand guarantee success. Since its inception, Glass has made alliances with the fashion world. Diane Von Furstenberg has already collaborated with Glass, having her models walk the runway with the face accessory. That, plus a spread in Vogue, plus a push at fashion week, haven't diminished the curse of the Glasshole. What makes this DVF partnership any different than those efforts? Google, to its credit, has not given up on the fashion angle. Earlier this month, the company hired marketing fashion guru Ivy Ross to improve Glass's mass perception. Ross has worked with Calvin Klein, Swatch, Gap, Coach, and others. This DVF collaboration will likely be the first of many brand partnerships. Google's deal with eyewear giant Luxottica suggests Glass frames will eventually be available in many varieties at a mall near you." Read more.


This came in later from VSP Global: Today, Diane von Furstenberg and Google join forces to launch the DVF | Made for Glass collection, a collaboration that melds the boldness and creativity of Glass Explorers with the confidence and independence of the DVF Woman. The brands first collaborated on a short film “DVF Through Glass” which provided an insider’s view of Diane von Furstenberg’s Spring 2013 runway show. The limited edition collection of frames and shades is a watershed moment between technology and fashion. Read more.

A few days later, Marchon received this coverage from Newsday: "The DVF | Made for Glass collection, the first line of designer frames for Glass, is the product of a partnership between Google Inc. and fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg, who has had a licensing agreement with Marchon since 2009 to manufacture her eyeglass designs. Marchon, which was acquired by California vision care company VSP Global in 2008, is the third largest manufacturer and distributor of eyewear in the world, with combined net sales of about $1 billion a year." Read more.

Can Soft Bifocal CLs Slow Children's Myopia? NEI Study Looks to Find Out

"The University of Houston (UH) is part of a National Institutes of Health (NIH) study to determine whether commercially available, soft bifocal contact lenses slow the progression of nearsightedness in children," writes Your Houston News. "Investigators at UH and The Ohio State University (OSU) Colleges of Optometry were awarded grants from the NIH’s National Eye Institute, worth approximately $7.5 million over five years. The Bifocal Lenses In Nearsighted Kids (BLINK) Study is a multicenter randomized clinical trial that will follow nearly 300 children over the course of three years. Dr. David A. Berntsen, an assistant professor in the UH College of Optometry, is the principal investigator for the UH clinical site of this collaborative effort. Children 7 to 11 years old will be enrolled and randomly assigned to wear soft contact lenses with no reading power, soft contact lenses with medium reading power or soft contact lenses with high reading power. The investigators will measure the length of the eye and the amount of nearsightedness to determine whether light focused by the reading power of the soft bifocal contact lenses in front of the retina will result in slower eye growth and, thus, slower progression of nearsightedness." Read more.

Unilens Unveils New Multifocal CL for Presbyopia

Unilens Vision Inc. is rolling out a disposable C-Vue ADDvantage multifocal for presbyopia contact lens in silicone hydrogel material for monthly replacement. The new product incorporates an aspheric design with a consistent center ADD power across all power ranges and the company's next-generation multifocal contact lens design, reportedly providing a consistent near ADD power across all power profiles. The lens is also thinner and more rounded at the edges, says the company. The new lens is available in a high and low ADD, and in power ranges from +6.00 to -10.00. There's also a display cabinet and  trial program with a 120-Day Performance Guarantee on the lenses. Read more.

Visionworks Offers Screenings at PGA Match

Visionworks, the official eyewear retailer of the PGA and Champions tours, will offer free vision screenings at the FedEx St. Jude Classic in Memphis from June 4-8. The company also provides resources for the health of PGA Tour golfers through its Player Mobile Health and Fitness Trailers, staffed by professional physical therapists and athletic trainers. The Mobile Health and Fitness Trailers are available to players during the tour for personal conditioning, preventative care, and rehabilitation throughout the season.Read more.

PBA Offers Materials to Education Patients about Cataracts

More than 24 million Americans age 40 and older have cataract, says the Vision Problems in the U.S. report from Prevent Blindness America. It's the leading cause of blindness worldwide, but unlike most eye diseases, vision loss can be restored.  A new study found that cataract surgery patients had a significantly reduced rate of hip fractures from falls. For these reasons, Prevent Blindness America has declared June as Cataract Awareness Month. The national non-profit group provides free information through its dedicated web page at preventblindness.org/cataract, or via phone at (800) 331-2020. For those interested in conducting discussions or seminars on the subject, PBA offers a free online module on cataract including a PowerPoint presentation with a complete guide as part of its Healthy Eyes Educational Series. Read more.