New Eyewear from Pierre Cardin

The new Autumn/Winter 2013/2014 Pierre Cardin eyewear collection asserts itself with a sophisticated personality and the knowledgable blending of French style and Italian creativity - for which the celebrated brand is renowned. The new sunglasses and optical frames feature a timeless allure and precious detailing, which give an aura of pure elegance to the collection. Read more.

New Website for People with Low Vision

Prevent Blindness America has launched a new online resource: Living Well with Low Vision, lowvision.preventblindness.org.  The goal of the site is to make it as easy as possible for people to educate themselves about vision loss, to meet the challenges resulting from it, and to maintain their quality of life. The site is said to be developed from the point of view of patients and their advocates, making it a good resource for any customer dealing with the issues that come with low vision.  Read more.

America Selects State Winners of Most Beautiful Eyes Contest

Prevent Blindness America has announced the state winners of its 2013 “Most Beautiful Eyes Contest.”  You can see a photo gallery of Most Beautiful Eyes state winners. State winners received a free pair of Real Kids Shades (RKS) sunglasses and a copy of the book Jacob’s Eye Patch by Beth Kobliner Shaw and Jacob Shaw. They also advance to the final round and a chance to win a $10,000 educational scholarship from Marchon Eyewear. Additional contest sponsors include Eagle Eyes® Optics and Walters Golf. Read more.

New Sunglasses from Adidas

"Adidas Eyewear is launching the brand new tycane pro at the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes next month," according to the Moodie Report.  It is said to feature "hydrophobic filter technology, a wide field of vision, and an innovative design ...Large, strongly curved 10-base filters and shatterproof, water-resistant LST filters help to create a wide field of vision for the wearer and ensure an optimal view at all times. A hydrophobic coating and a particularly flat frame design quickly repel water droplets, without leaving any annoying streaks on the filters – particles of dirt and dust are simply washed away." Read more.

Pearle Expanding in South Florida

Pearle Vision plans to convert four of its neighborhood eye care centers in South Florida from company-owned to licensees, according to a company press release appearing on 4-Traders. Pearle Vision is currently seeking qualified candidates who are interested in owning and operating their very own Pearle Vision to purchase existing locations for sale in South Florida. This is part of the company's 2013 expansion plans to re-license 34 company-owned centers in 10 states. Read more.

New Yves Klein Collection Gets His Blues

"The electric hue known as 'Yves Klein blue' has an unexpected effect on those who encounter it. According to Daniel Moquay, director of the Yves Klein Archives, one of the French artist's blue monochromes had to be taken down from display at the Museum of Modern Art. 'Everyone had been putting their hands on it,' he said." So begins the Wall Street Journal post. "The heavily pigmented ultramarine is now available in a form less likely to alarm museum guards: Barcelona-based optical brand Etnia has joined with the artist's archives on a collection of glasses for men, women and children called International Klein blue. ...The line includes 12 optical frames and three styles of sunglasses whose blue lenses are manufactured with pigment provided by the Yves Klein Archives

Another Story about Eyewear and Hip-Hop

"As apart of their ongoing series exploring eyewear in hip hop, The Vintage Frames Company dives back into their popular segment for a fifth installment. This time around, they head to Brooklyn to chat with one of the cities finest, Talib Kweli," according to the post on Stupid Dope. "While his reflection is eternal and he is most definitely a Black Star, Kweli’s unique story channels his younger days in The Planet walking the borough with his pops. He recalls those times along with others that explain his authentic story revolving around a few of his fond memories in hip hop history. Born and raised in New York City, Talib draws back to his first memory of eyewear – when his father drove the family from Brooklyn to Long Island where he taught school." Read more.

New from Columbia

"L’Amy America, a division of global eyewear group TWC-L’Amy, announces the worldwide launch of 2 new models, utilizing new and exclusive frame design and material named F90-Ultra Lite Adjustable." So goes the Midwest Lens post. "The new models feature stainless steel frame fronts, combined with F-90 injection-molded temple stems. 'To create our new adjustable temples we started with a metal alloy core, then wrapped it in our exclusive H-90, Hyper-Lite 90, injection-molded material, transforming it into a super-slim, flat profile temple. The F is for flattened, the 90 represents H-90 and the A stands for adjustability—F90A,'” said Worldwide Brand Manager Connie Reiss. “'Despite the metal core, our F90A offers ultra-lite comfort and soft-rubberized surface for long term, secure wear in the outdoors' said Reiss." Read more.

Reservations Moving Fast for OpticalCEUs Fall 2013 Conference

"Reservations for our fall conference are coming in quickly," notes Linda Conlin, founder of the OpticalCEUs continuing education program for opticians. The program permits licensed opticians to renew their licenses and receive the ABO/NCLE certificationi with a7-credit program from F.E. Enterprises at the Grand Pequot Ballroom, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT on Sunday, October 20. Participants can register for the conference by clicking this link.

The seminars include the following:

1. The Miracle of Sight and How to Preserve It Speaker: Deborah Kotob (2 ABO) 9am-11am NEW!
2. Grading Contact Lens Complications Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 11am-Noon
3. Fitting Irregular Corneas Speaker: Joe Forte (1NCLE) 1 pm-2 pm NEW!
4. Beam Me Up! Understanding the Slit Lamp Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 2 pm-3 pm NEW!
5. Diseases of the Eye Speaker: Joe Forte (1 ABO) 3pm-4pm NEW!
6. Augmented Reality Contact Lenses Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 4 pm-5pm

For more information about the conference, send an email to F.E.Enterprises@OpticalCEU.com.

In addition, speakers for the conference have achieved several milestones in the past six months.

ABO/NCLE (American Board of Opticianry/National Contact Lens Examiners) has approved OpticalCEUs speaker Joe Forte as an Advanced, Level III speaker for ABO/NCLE courses. Level III speakers can give level I, II or III courses.

Earlier this year, Deborah Kotob, a sales consultant for Vision-Ease and an OpticalCEUs speaker, received an ABO Advanced Certification. According to ABO/NCLE, “the Advanced Certification designation, ABOC-AC is earned only after a practitioner has attained several years experience, completes a prescribed curriculum of advanced education, and achieves a passing score on the rigorous examination."

At the same time, Linda Conlin, founder of OpticalCEUs and a speaker at all the conferences, was recognized by the NAO. "In this issue, we are choosing to use this space to highlight a particularly amazing [NAO] ambassador" Linda Conlin. That's the start of an article (page 16) in this month's Vision of the Industry, the official publication of the National Academy of Opticianry.

Darius Rucker and Transitions Promoting Eye Health

After multiple outreach events across the country, Transitions Optical and GRAMMY and CMA Award-winning country music artist Darius Rucker have made healthy possible for hundreds of children. This summer, hundreds of students from the W.O. Smith Nashville Community Music School participatedd in a summer camp sponsored by the Country Music Association’s Keep the Music Playing program. They also received a visit from Transitions Optical and industry partner VSP Vision Care’s 40-foot-long mobile eye care clinic nicknamed “Eyenstein.” The children received comprehensive eye exams, and if prescription eyeglasses were required, they chose a new frames fitted with Transitions lenses at no cost. Rucker also wears Transitions adaptive lenses. Read more.

San Diego Chargers Promoting Vision Screenings in Schools

"San Diego Chargers football star Dwight Freeney was at Baldwin Hills Elementary on Tuesday, not to teach students how to cream quarterbacks, but to celebrate Vision To Learn, a local non-profit that has provided 10,000 low-income students across Los Angeles with free vision care," says the LA School Report. "Freeney was joined by Vision To Learn founder, Austin Beutner, and Los Angeles City Councilman Herb Wesson, along with dozens of students who have received free eyeglasses from the organization, their parents and teachers." Read more.

Protein for Visual System Might Affect Alzheimer's

A class of proteins that controls visual system development in the young brain also appears to affect vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease in the aging brain. The proteins, which are found in humans and mice, join a limited roster of molecules that scientists are studying in hopes of finding an effective drug to slow the disease process. That's the word from the National Eye Institute. Read more.

Menicon Offering TSA Guideline Travel Pack for CL

Contact Lens Headlines notes that "starting this month, Menicon will begin offering their Unique pH lens care pack for gas permeable contact lenses in a travel size that meets TSA guidelines. The pack contains two 60 mL bottles of solution and a lens case." Read more.

L. Vuitton Wins Privacy Case against Australian Importer

"French fashion giant Louis Vuitton has won a David and Goliath battle against a local importer who was caught selling fake products to Australian retailers," according to a Herald Sun report on News.Com.Au. "The famed luxury retailer took Federal Court action against Sonya Valentine Pty. Ltd. after the company was caught selling fake Louis Vuitton sunglasses emblazoned with the renown floral emblem of the high-end brand. Louis Vuitton products have long been the target of sophisticated global counterfeit operations because of their high price-tag and popularity with celebrities. The court heard the wholesale company imported the fake sunglasses from China in two shipments between May and July last year before selling them on to local retailers." Read more.

New from Seraphin

"Seraphin is proud to introduce the next level of neoclassical revival – the embodiment of retro style with an ultra modern twist," according to Midwest Lens. "Projecting confidence and time-honored style, each style is a modern interpretation of vintage classic. Featuring an innovative new combination construction, each of the 5 new styles features a stainless steel core enveloped in luxuriously colored premium Italian acetate. This unique core acts almost like a skeleton, offering superior strength with lightweight durability and chic pops of color. The overall look and feel is something completely different, as each style exemplifies the spirit of time-honored fashion, infused with modern technology." Read more.

Gene Mutation Linked to AMD

Medical News Today notes that "an international team of researchers, led by scientists at The Genome Institute at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and the University of Michigan School of Public Health in Ann Arbor, has identified a gene mutation linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD)." Read more.

New from L'Amy's Sperry Top-Sider

"Sperry Top-Sider, in partnership with L’Amy America, will launch an eyewear line at Vision Expo West in October 2013," writes Midwest Lens. "The eyewear collection, offered in a wide range of rich colors with artisan details, is inspired by the authentic American style of Sperry Top-Sider – the brand that gave the world its first boat shoe when company founder Paul Sperry invented the style back in 1935. Iconic details from Sperry Top-Sider’s footwear collection have been tastefully integrated into the eyewear designs – including signature grommets, skip lacing and the wave-siping pattern. Anchors and leather integration have also been used throughout the collection, combining vibrant color combinations and superior craftsmanship to create timeless yet modern styles." Read more.

Alcon Reportedly Bribes Doctors in China

"Global eye care giant Alcon has been accused of bribing doctors in China in exchange for using the company's products on patients, reports the Guangzhou-based 21st Century Business Herald," reports WantChinaTimes. "According to an anonymous whistlebower, Alcon bribed eye care specialists under the guise of a post enumeration survey program that provides "research funding" to more than 200 eye hospitals and specialists across China." Read more. Another version of the story appears on the BBC.

J. Crew Honcho Joins Warby Parker as It Turns to Brick and Mortar

"Retailing icon Mickey Drexler is joining the board of Warby Parker, a move that adds gravitas to the three-year-old online eyewear maker as it expands into brick-and-mortar stores," reports Fortune magazine. "Drexler's directorship solidifies the informal relationship he had already developed with the company's co-CEOs, Neil Blumenthal and Dave Gilboa. The J.Crew honcho has been having lunch regularly with Blumenthal and Gilboa and advised the two on scaling their business. He invested in Warby Parker in what Blumenthal says was "a meaningful way" earlier this year." Read more.

New from Proof Eyewear

Proof Eyewear recently released their all new Fall- Winter Environmentally Conscious Optics (E.C.O.) Collection, according to a company press release. The company entered the sustainable eyewear industry in 2010 with a handmade wood collection. A year later, it introduced the ECO collection blending environmentally friendly, biodegradable cotton acetate frames with certified woods accents. Read more.

New from Guess

"Taking inspiration from modern design through color, silhouette and material, the Fall 2013 collection features new unique details and fashion forward shapes that are perfect for the Guess guy and girl," according to Midwest Lens. "The Fall 2013 optical men’s and women’s collections include 9 new women’s styles and 6 new men’s styles." Read more.

Cheating at Casino with Contact Lenses

"A New Jersey man has been accused of cheating at the Mohegan Sun Casino after marking cards with an ink-like substance that he could see by wearing special contact lenses, according to state police." That's the lede for an NBC Connecticut post. Read more.

Leadings Causes of Blindness/World Sight Day

With World Sight Day also on October 10th, Lenstore has been researching the prevalence of avoidable blindness and vision impairment around the world, and looking at the people most affected. To generate awareness of their findings, they have created an infographic on the state of the world’s eyesight. Read more.

A Look at Cutler & Gross

The New York Times takes a look at a renowned British optical shop: "In an old church annex in northwest London, the walls of the Cutler & Gross offices are lined with colored eyewear that looks like fragments of stained-glass windows. Today, with the 30-year veteran Marie Wilkinson as its design director, the company continues to sell its own 1,000 styles while expanding relationships with some of fashion’s trendiest designers." Read more.

New from Puma

Midwest Lens reports that "each new Puma style features cool design features which express a passion for action and a keen eye for the latest trends. Colors are fresh and eye-catching with a dazzling selection of classic tones and cool metallics in color-blocked or layered variations." Read more.

Visionworks Becomes Optical Retail PGA Sponsor

Visionworks,  a 15-store Atlanta-based optical retailer, has become the Official Eyewear Retailer of the PGA Tour. The retailer will sponsor player health and fitness trailers at more than 60 tournaments, including this week’s Tour Championship by Coca-Cola at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta. Visionworks associates will provide free vision screenings and eye health information as well as eyewear giveaways. Event goers can stop by the Visionworks expo booth,  in the PGA Tour Pavilion at the main entrance. Read more.

Best Image to Sell Only to Brick and Mortar Stores

In a bold effort to protect the optical dispensary and boutique from being “show roomed” to potential customers who intend to purchase online, Best Image Optical has had a firm company policy in which their eyewear brands (Dolabany Eyewear, Mario Galbatti, & Plume Paris) are only available through brick and mortar locations and not to be sold online or to chain-store discounters. They wanted their customers to rely and depend on that message. So far, they have received an overwhelming response from customers. Read more.

Refac and U.S. Vision to Buy Nationwide Vision

Refac Holdings and its subsidiary U.S. Vision, both based in Glendora, NJ, have signed an agreement to acquire Nationwide Vision. The 28-year-old optical chain has opened 64 locations and two surgery centers, making it the largest optical chain in Arizona and 19th largest in the U.S. Should the buy-out get the necessary regulatory approvals, Nationwide will become part of Refac by the end of this quarter. Refac’s main operating company, U.S. Vision, Inc., is the sixth largest U.S. retail optical chain with 769 stores.

Eyewear Pitchman Dies in Jail

"Michael Yuchnitz, a prominent local businessman and TV pitchman who was awaiting trial for allegedly trying to hire a hit man to kill his wife, was found dead Saturday morning," reports MySanAntonio. "Yuchnitz, 60, was pronounced dead at 9:07 a.m. at the InTown Suites in the 6400 block of Bandera Road, according to the medical examiner's office." Read more.

A Smartphone & Plastic Bioculars Replacing an Autorefractor?

“Vitor Pamplona isn’t a doctor. He’s not even an optician. He can’t write you a prescription for glasses, or sell you a pair. Still, he’s pretty sure he’s going to disrupt the $75 billion global eye-care market.” That’s the start off a post on MIT Technology Review. “At EyeNetra, the startup he cofounded, goofy curiosities like plastic eyeballs line the shelves, and a 3-D printing machine whirs in the background. It’s printing out prototypes of a device that will attach to your smartphone and, in a minute or two, tell you what kind of eyeglasses you need. The device, called the Netra-G, is based on some clever optics and software Pamplona came up with—a way to measure the refractive error of the eye using a smartphone screen and an inexpensive pair of plastic binoculars. The whole setup might cost a few dollars to make. It does the job of a $5,000 instrument called an autorefractor.” Read more.

Colored CLs and Athletic Performance

“New York Jets wide receiver Santonio Holmes became the latest athlete to wear tinted contact lenses last night, giving his eyes a reddish hue in a game against the Patriots,” reports Yahoo! Finance. “The company that makes the contacts, Sports Tints, claims that they boost performance by aiding a player's ability to focus on certain colors and objects. The amber color, for example, supposedly helps baseball players read the seams on the baseball to recognize the pitch type easier. NBC in Miami did a last year report on a bunch of athletes in Florida who swear by the contacts. And in the past few months we've seen baseball players, football players, and even golfers wear the lenses in competition.” Read more.

3M Adds Scotchgard Anti-Fog to Safety Eyewear

“3M takes safety eyewear to the next level by adding Scotchgard Anti-Fog Coating. The proprietary coating provides at least 12 times longer lasting fog resistance than traditional anti-fog coatings to help increase eyewear performance in rugged, dusty, steamy and wet work environments. Scotchgard anti-fog coating retains its effectiveness for at least 25 washings with water, allowing workers to wear the lens longer, which may result in lower cost,” reports Safety Online. “Scotchgard anti-fog coating is available in four styles of 3M safety eyewear: Maxim Spectacles, Maxim Plus Dust Goggles, Lexa Dust Gogglegear Safety Goggles (med. & lg.) and Lexa Splash Gogglegear  Safety Goggles (med. & lg.). …All styles meet the requirements of CSA Z94.3-2007 and ANSI Z87.1-2010.” Read more.

New from ProDesign

“The retro-wave continues strongly into the Fall/Winter season of 2013. Where the retro frames used to be very chunky, with thick, heavy temples, ProDesign have created a light and more sophisticated collection, still with that unmistakable feel of the 60’s and 70’s, but twisted in a direction towards the more simple and ‘intelligent’ look,” writes Midwest Lens. The collection has four new shapes, two feminine and two unisex, each available in four colors. Read more.

OpticalCEUs Speakers Receive Recognition

ABO/NCLE (American Board of Opticianry/National Contact Lens Examiners) has approved OpticalCEUs speaker Joe Forte as an Advanced, Level III speaker for ABO/NCLE courses. Level III speakers can give level I, II or III courses. ABO/NCLE grants certification based on education, work experience, teaching and/or speaking experience, specialized training and certifications. OpticalCEUs is pleased to have Joe offer this level of education to our attendees.

Joe has lectured at CUNY Tech, specializing in contact lenses and was program director of the Interboro Institute College of Opticianry where he taught optics, anatomy and physiology, contact lenses, fabrication, and ophthalmic mathmatics. He has lectured at Vision Expo and Optifair. He is currently director of contact lens services for Raymond Opticians and a contact lens specialist for Greenwich Ophthalmology. Joe is also a percussionist and was a member of the orchestra for Miss Saigon on Broadway.

Earlier this year, Deborah Kotob, a sales consultant for Vision-Ease and an OpticalCEUs speaker, received an ABO Advanced Certification. According to ABO/NCLE, “the Advanced Certification designation, ABOC-AC is earned only after a practitioner has attained several years experience, completes a prescribed curriculum of advanced education, and achieves a passing score on the rigorous examination. Professionals with advanced certification credential are equipped to work in a variety of practice settings, such as: independent opticians, ophthalmology practices, university hospitals, commercial offices, HMO/managed care offices, optometric offices, large clinics, optical product manufacturers. In short, Advanced Certification equips you in all settings which provide eyeglasses to clients."

Another the same time, Linda Conlin, founder of OpticalCEUs and a speaker at all the conferences, was recognized by the NAO. "In this issue, we are choosing to use this space to highlight a particularly amazing [NAO] ambassador. Linda Conlin...has been an NAO fellow since 1999 and an ambassador for many years. Her work for us is consistently wonderful that she has won our Ambassador of the Year Award twice." That's the start of an article (page 16) in this month's Vision of the Industry, the official publication of the National Academy of Opticianry.

New from XOXO

“Blending timeless looks with the season’s most current trends, the XOXO Eyewear collection feature fashionable frames that transition from day to night. Available in three colors, Aspire combines a sexy feminine eyeshape and intense colors for a bold look,” says Midwest Lens. “Aspire combines bright colors and modern animal prints into a sexy chic frame with a rounded angular eyeshape. The front features a punch of the printed acetate with a modified snake skin design on colorful temples. Aspire is available in Red Black, Blue Black and Brown. Visit our website, www.mcgeegroup.com, to view the entire collection.” Read more.

Ashley Olsen Dating Eyewear Exec

“Ashley Olsen has a new boyfriend,” writes ContactMusic. What’s the big deal for the optical industry? “The 27-year-old star is dating David Schulte, the Chief Executive Officer of eye wear brand Oliver Peoples which produces glasses and sunglasses.” Read more.

Pearle Opens First Store with New Design

Pearle Vision will unveil its new store design on Sept. 17 in Legacy Village, located at 24539 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, Ohio. The new design includes a new brand logo, updated signs, modernized displays, and a different floor plan. Pearle unveiled the design earlier this year at its annual licensee conference the new brand image with an updated logo and re-designed color palette for its centers. Current Pearle Vision licensees will have the opportunity to incorporate all or some of the new design elements into their existing centers.

New Computerized Method of Diagnosing Glaucoma

“A team of researchers led by Jun Cheng of the A*STAR Institute for Infocomm Research, Singapore, has developed a novel automated technology that screens for glaucoma more accurately and quickly than existing methods,” reports Science Daily. “The computerized technique developed by Cheng and his colleagues measures the CDR from two-dimensional images of the back of the eye. The technique uses an algorithm that divides the images into hundreds of segments called superpixels and classifies each segment as part of either the optic cup or the optic disc. The cup and disc measurements can then be used to compute the CDR.” Read more.

New from Jalapenos Eyewear

“A&A Optical announces the release of three new styles from Jalapeños eyewear: Cant Hold Us, Legend and Who Says.” That’s the word from Midwest Lens. “Jalapeños eyewear captures the attitude of the young adult market utilizing the latest trends in graphic treatments, shapes, colors and materials, enabling the wearer to re-define their look and express their own personal style. Jalapeños® brand identifies with today’s fashion minded teens in addition to appealing to fashionable adults with small faces. Rock your style and attitude in Jalapenos eyewear.” Read more.

Ophthalmologist Becomes Dictator

FYI: According to a variety of sources, President Bashar al-Assad never had plans to head up the Syrian government. Bashar studied medicine at Damascus University. He served in the Syrian army as a physician. He then studied at Western Eye Hospital, one of the London-based teaching hospitals affiliated with St. Mary’s group. The ophthalmologist was promoted to president designate when his older brother died in a car accident.

VSP Launches Online Game

VSP Vision Care (VSP) launched an online game called “Time Crunch Sweepstakes” on the website SeeMuchMore.com. Gamers can win a chance for the grand prize: an island vacation trip for two.  The easy-to-play interactive game teaches participants about the importance of eye health and vision health plans. Participants also can play the instant-win round for a chance to win a pair of designer sunglasses, a Visa gift card, or other prizes. Consumers can earn up to 10 additional daily entries to the grand prize drawing just by sharing the game through social media channels.
Play the game by following these simple steps:

• Visit SeeMuchMore.com, select “Have Fun and Learn” from the top navigation, then “Time Crunch Sweepstakes.”
• Enter your email address to be eligible to win the grand prize.
• Complete three fun rounds to the game: Eye Trivia, Eye Blink and Eye Chart:
• Eye Trivia – Series of five questions on eye health that you must answer as quickly as possible
• Eye Blink – Look for eyes to appear on the screen; click on them with your mouse, or your finger if you’re playing on a mobile device, before they disappear
• Eye Chart – Find the hidden phrase in an eye chart and type it out.

New Drug for Treatment of RP

Dompé’s investigational drug based on the recombinant human nerve growth factor (rhNGF) discovered by Nobel Laureate Professor Rita Levi Montalcini has been granted orphan drug designation by the US FDA for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa (RP), according to a Dompe spokesperson. This gives new hope for the treatment of this disease for which at present there is no cure. The orphan drug designation comes a few months after orphan drug designation was granted by the European Medicine Agency (EMA).

Gene Mutation Cause of Progressive Retinal Atrophy (in Dogs)

“Newly-reported findings by researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) provide the first phenotypic evidence that a mutated gene causes one form of progressive retinal atrophy in papillon dogs,” reports Medical News Today. “Progressive retinal atrophy is analogous to one of the leading cause of inherited blindness in humans and the findings may lead to new treatments for blindness in humans.” Read more.

New from Badgley Mischka

“Elegant designs seamlessly integrating contrasting colors and textures are a hallmark of the Badgley Mischka brand. Riva and Lela, the latest additions to the Badgley Mischka eyewear collection, feature a unique combination of colors, eye shapes and embellishments to create eyewear perfect for the modern, couture woman.” That’s the word from Midwest Lens. Read more.

Additions to Magic Clip by Viva

“Viva International Group presents two new styles for men from the Magic Clip Eyewear Fall 2013 collection. The new assortment introduces handmade acetates and an updated color palette combined with the versatility of magnetized polarized lenses,” according to Midwest Lens. “Multi-layered acetates and trend-right shapes deliver a contemporary look as seen in styles M 414 and M 415. Model M 414 features a rounded square frame front and is offered in black over green, navy over grey and tortoise over grey. Model M 415 features a modified rectangle front and is available in black over grey, brown grey striated and brown over olive. The matte metal beveled temple design paired with handmade acetate tips completes the look of both styles.” Read more.

Lloyd Klein Enters Eyewear Biz

Lloyd Klein now is designing eyewear. The designer says that he wants to evoke a sense of old Hollywood glamour with his line of optical frames and sunglasses. So he named the lines after Marilyn Monroe and Marlon Brando. The frame lines are said to be clean, simple and colorful.  Ivory + Mason by Lloyd Klein eyewear is the latest expansion of the LKLA - Lloyd Klein Los Angeles brand. Read more.

New from Boss

 The optical  frames in the new Boss Eyewear collection feature minimalist design as well as a reportedly innovative lens mounting technology. The combination is said to have led to the creation of models that combine maximum comfort with an avant-garde design. A company spokesperson says that the new mounting system eliminates the holes in the lenses and therefore any possible tension, avoiding any risk of image distortion or deformation. These glasses present a new design concept for the rimless models with rectangular or softly rounded oval lenses. The new models come in the following color combinations: gray/green, black/white, black/blue, red/blue.

AV Studio—a New Brand from Match

Match Eyewear has launched the brand AV Studio, a partner to Adrienne Vittadini Eyewear. “The AV Studio collection, currently in previews, will be officially unveiled at the 2013 Vision Expo West, and will debut with 18 ophthalmic and 8 sun wear styles,” according to Midwest Lens. “AV Studio reinvents casual elegance by bringing a bold and sexy edge to classic eyewear designs. Innovative shapes and textures, surprising colors and fun, flirty styling provide a fresh and sassy take on modern Adrienne Vittadini’s New AV Studio refinement.” Read more.

Horsting and Snoeren Start Eyewear Line

“Forever bespectacled Dutch designers Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren are launching a range of eyewear in Europe for spring 2014 with France’s Paget Group,” reports WWD. “The sunglasses and optical frames, dubbed Viktor & Rolf Vision, reflect the designers’ couture spirit and penchant for glamour. The first collection comprises about 25 models for women and men and will be unveiled at the Silmo trade fair later this month in Paris. Styles include the one favored by the two men.” Read more.

New from Cruz

“A&A Optical announces the release of three new styles from the Cruz eyewear collection: I-516, I-710 and Woodward Ave,” according to Midwest Lens. “Affordable luxuries designed for the discriminating, modern man. Cruz™ eyewear offers a selection of fine, hand crafted frames which complement any lifestyle and any age. Encompassing a unique mixture of elements in colors, coatings, materials and shapes, Cruz™ eyewear connects with today’s modern man.” Read more.

AllAboutVision Ups Donations for World Sight Day Challenge

AllAboutVision is kicking off a new promotion to support Optometry Giving Sight. It will donate an additional $25 to any contribution made to the World Sight Day Challenge by practices listed in our free Practitioner Directory. That is enough for five people to receive an eye exam and glasses. Only donations made through AllAboutVision.com’s Online Contribution Form before October 31 apply. Eye care practices, and all members of the ophthalmic community, can participate in
the World Sight Day Challenge by hosting in-office fundraising events, collecting staff donations, or making personal contributions.

Benny Bassant “Home” after Heart/Lung Transplant

Benny Bassant (center with surgical mask) has returned home to recover from his heart/lung transplant. As you may recall, Benny, the husband of an eye care provider working for Opticare, an 18-store practice of opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists in Connecticut, had a congenital disease and, as a result, needed a heart and lung transplant that he received about a month ago. Last week, he visited the optical lab at Opticare’s Chesire location.

Stasi Used Sunglasses for Disguises

“The images, uncovered in Berlin, also show secret policemen [from the East German Stasi] wearing tinted sunglasses and other strange items of clothing,” reports the Daily Mirror. “Fake moustaches, tinted sunglasses and extraordinary hats were among the disguises donned by feared secret policemen during the Cold War, as these recently-unearthed photographs show.” Read more.

New from Gant

“The Gant Fall 2013 optical collection presents classic and vintage-inspired silhouettes with unique color details that give each frame a contemporary flair,” notes Midwest Lens. “The optical collection focuses on two key trends including two-tone colorations in the Gant men’s collection and retro-inspired designs in the Gant Rugger grouping.” Read more.

Vision Plays Role in Hearing Language

“University of Utah bioengineers discovered our understanding of language may depend more heavily on vision than previously thought: under the right conditions, what you see can override what you hear,” reports Medical News Today. “These findings suggest artificial hearing devices and speech-recognition software could benefit from a camera, not just a microphone.” Read more. The discovery makes one wonder about the potential success of students whose vision is not properly corrected.

New from Ogi Eyewear

“Ogi Eyewear is excited to debut 5 all new styles to enhance the ‘Mommy and Me, Daddy and I’ Collection, solidifying Ogi Kids as a leader in the children’s eyewear segment. By creating fun frames that bridge the gap between playful and practical, Ogi injects a spirited liveliness into each kid’s style. With the…collection, Ogi creates fashionable frames for kids that emulate the sophisticated, yet exciting eyewear their parents wear,” notes Midwest Lens. “Each style is available in a variety of bright colors carefully picked to exemplify the playful nature of the collection and to individually express each child’s unique personality. Ogi consistently redefines children’s eyewear by developing styles that are in sync with the latest fashion movements for tomorrow’s influential trendsetters.” Read more.

Cataract Surgery Prolongs Life? A Study Implies Such

Science Daily notes that “people with cataract-related vision loss who have had cataract surgery to improve their sight are living longer than those with visual impairment who chose not to have the procedure, according to an Australian cohort study published this month in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. After comparing the two groups, the researchers found a 40 percent lower long-term mortality risk in those who had the surgery.” Read more.

New from Viva’s Skechers Collection

“Viva International Group delivers a mix of sport and lifestyle designs with three new men’s ophthalmic frames in the Skechers Eyewear Fall 2013 collection,” according to Midwest Lens. “Rubber-enhanced temple treatments in contrasting colors add a dose of style, while offering comfort and superior fit. Flat metal design details in matte colorations compliment the collection’s overall aesthetic.” Read more.

Pharrell Williams Designs for Moncler

“Pharrell Williams is making good use of his five-year-long relationship with French eyewear brand Moncler by releasing a collection of shades. The stylish producer will also front the collection's advertising campaign,” reports BET.com. “The titanium shades, which have been described as "halfway between futurism and '50s style," will be released in Paris Sept. 26 during the SILMO- International Optics and Eyewear Exhibition. It will be available through Moncler boutiques, their website and other retailers.” Read more.

Register for OpticalCEU’s Fall 2013 Conference on Oct. 20th

Need to renew your state license and ABO/NCLE certification (see details about the elimination of ABO/NCLE’s certification grace period)? You can with the best value in continuing education - a full-day, 7-credit program from F.E. Enterprises (click this link).
Pick up the latest ideas in the field - from preserving vision health to new contact lens technologies.  The six courses at the Grand Pequot Ballroom, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT on Sunday, October 20, will help you discover how to fit irregular corneas with contact lenses, provide top-notch patient care by identifying vision health issues, and learn about new technology in spectacle and contact lenses.
Register for OpticalCEUs Fall 2013 Conference for opticians and eye care providers. Here are the seminars being presented:
The Miracle of Sight and How to Preserve It  Speaker: Deborah Kotob (2 ABO ) 9am-11am NEW!Grading Contact Lens Complications  Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) $65 11am-Noon 
Fitting Irregular Corneas  Speaker: Joe Forte (1NCLE ) 1 pm-2 pm NEW!Beam Me Up!  Understanding the Slit Lamp  Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE) 2 pm-3 pm NEWDiseases of the Eye  Speaker: Joe Forte (1 ABO ) 3pm-4pm NEWAugmented Reality Contact Lenses  Speaker: Linda Conlin (1 NCLE)4 pm-5pm
Since Conlin founded OpticalCEUs in 1999, it has provided opticians with accredited continuing education units. Each year, hundreds of opticians use the earned credits to fulfill their licensing requirements in many states, such as Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, to name only three. Opticians also apply their earned credits to their ABO and NCLE certifications.
Conlin added that in addition to the conference, OpticalCEUs provides opticians with a blog designed exclusively for their needs--Optical News from OpticalCEUs. The blog provides optical news from around the Web in digest form with links for more information.
For more information about the conference or the blog, send an email to F.E.Enterprises@OpticalCEU.com.

ABO/NCLE Ends Grace Period for Certification

ABO/NCLE has ended its grace period for opticians who wish to remain ABO and/or NCLE certified. Here's a copy of the notice that has been emailed to opticians.

This notice is to advise you that your ABO and/or NCLE certification is going to expire on 12/31/2013.  This is the absolute last date for you to complete all of your credits and your payment due for re-certification and to submit documentation showing proof of completion of the required number of CECs.  There is no 4th year, suspension year, late fee period, or grace period [the blog's emphasis].  If you do not submit your appropriate credits and payment(s) due by 12/31/2013, your certification will expire, and you will be required to re-take the examination(s) in order to become ABO and/or NCLE Certified again.  There are no exceptions [ABO/NCLE emphasis].

To renew your certification through 12/31/2016, you must:

1.) Complete the required number of hours of continuing education on or before December 31, 2013. ABO Certified: 12 ABO approved CECs (up to 3 may be NCLE approved). NCLE Certified: 18 NCLE approved CECs (up to 6 may be ABO approved). ABO & NCLE Certified: 21 CECs total (9 ABO approved and 12 NCLE approved).

2.)  Submit your CECs or proof of current state licensed (only if your state requires continuing education to renew) by December 31, 2013.  The ABO renewal fee is $85.  The NCLE renewal fee is $85.

You worked hard to earn your certification, don't let it slip away!

Sales Teams for A&A and L’Amy Rep Each Other’s Lines

“Starting this month, the A&A Optical sales team will represent, throughout the U.S. to all independent accounts, the new Ann Taylor ophthalmic/sun and Sperry Top-Sider ophthalmic/sun collections, both of which are brands under worldwide license to L’Amy America. Subsequent customer service support, invoicing, and shipping for those two branded collections will be handled by L’Amy America,” according to a Vision Monday post. “In turn, L’Amy America has started to introduce brands within the portfolio of A&A Optical to many new accounts both in the U.S. and abroad.” Read more.

VSP Vision Launches Sweepstakes

VSP Vision Care, Spry magazine, and SpryLiving.com have launched the "See Well & Be Well" sweepstakes. People wishing to participate must visit www.spryliving.com/VSPDirect. Individuals who enter by September 30 have a chance to win one of 10 free individual vision insurance plans for a year of coverage from VSP Direct. Each one-year plan being given away is valued up to $218.95, says a VSP spokesperson. Read more.

New from Tura

Tura, Inc., has added a women’s ophthalmic frames to its Humphrey’s Eyewear collection, reports Midwest Lens. “The latest styles feature additional plastics and combination metals that are hip and colorful, yet still with petite sizing for adults. There are also several companion models in the collection. Humphrey’s targets the youthful consumer who is fashionable, confident, and appreciates individual style. This is exemplified by its current “Positively Different” ad campaign. The frames include European-influenced designs blending edgy details and bold hues, with a focus on high quality materials and components. [It]… includes 2 sub-collections:

• “Image and Trend – 70’s retro-inspired with a fashion forward twist, yet also hip and urban with a dose of Berlin aesthetic. They are perfect for the global city dweller.
• “Smart and Pure – Scandinavian-inspired minimalist frames that are modern with strong colors and small shapes.” Read more.

More from Carrera by Jimmy Choo

The Carrera by Jimmy Choo collection uses Choo’s signature design twists, such as black/gold leopard print, black, dark gold and nude glitter. The leopard print model comes in a limited edition with real gold lenses. The five styles is said to unite Carrera’s expertise in eyewear and Choo’s feminine and powerful aesthetics, resulting in rock-chic eyewear, according to a Safilo spokesperson. Read more.

Cate Blanchett, the New Face for Silhouette’s Titan Minimal

“The Austrian eyewear brand has chosen Cate Blanchett to represent its new Titan Minimal Art collection,” writes OMG! Yahoo. “Photographed in black and white by renowned photographer Peter Lindbergh, Silhouette’s new campaign features Cate Blanchett wearing the "Titan Minimal Art - The Icon" frames, which were custom-made for the Australian actress….The campaign highlights the new prescription glasses and sunglasses from Silhouette’s Titan Minimal Art collection.” Read more.

Statins May Prevent Cataracts

"Statins lower the rate of cataract by 20 percent, according to research presented at the ESC Congress today by Professor John B. Kostis from New Jersey, USA," according to a Science Daily post. "The risk of cataract was reduced by 50 percent when treatment was initiated in younger individuals (in their 40s) and the duration of therapy was longer (e.g. up to 14 years)." Read more.