Optical Prism September 2012

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 2 | V o l . 3 0 N o . 4w w w . o p t i c a l p r i s m . c a

T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R E Y E C A R E P R O F E S S I O N A L S

The Boomer Issue:

Health advice, tips and technology

An Interview with

Mary Walsh:Actress shares her battle with AMD

Race for a blind-free world

Silmo 2012 Preview

O P T I C A L P R I S M | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2 3

c o n t e n t sSeptember 2012 Vol.30 No.4

Features14 The race for a blind free world

by Sheila O'HearnThe latest research in preventing eye disease in baby boomers

22 Warrior princess fights AMD: Mary Walsh shares her storyby Sarah McGoldrickActress Mary Walsh shares her battle with macular degeneration

26 Eyewear for the active boomerby Matt HarrisThe right styles and designs for active boomers

28 Shedding light on eyewear for boomersby Sarah McGoldrickHelping boomers find the right eyewear for daily wear

30 Industry fights back against cutsby Sarah McGoldrickThe eyewear industry demands province stop cuts to fees

32 Silmo PreviewA sneak peek at one of the industry’s premiere eyewear events

On opticalprism.ca this month:

k Vision Expo West live coverage

k Boomer Eye Health

k Fall Preview: Styles and Designs Departments6 From the editor

8 PreviewEvatik Eyewear, A Splash of Colour, Betsey Johnson, Funky Vintage and more

34 GlimpsesRonor and De Rigo join forces, Polycarbonate lenses

36 Events Calendar

37 Classifieds

38 Frame by FrameStyle is centre stage in Stratford, Ontario

ON OUR COVER: Mary Walsh

Publisher 416-432-8473Robert May [email protected]

Associate Publisher 416-233-0779Mary Lu May [email protected]

Editor 226-383-3855Sarah McGoldrick [email protected]

Assistant EditorLeah Miller [email protected]

Art Director 416-456-3739Rhoda Tang [email protected]

WebmasterGrant Heaslip [email protected]

ContributorsAdrienne Brown, Matt Harris, Sheila O’Hearn

Advertising:Tel: 416-233-0779 Fax: 416-233-1746E-mail: [email protected] ads: [email protected]

Website: www.opticalprism.ca

Optical Prism (ISSN 0824-3441) is published 8times a year by Nusand Publishing Inc. Issued in January-February, March, April, May-June, July-August, September, October, November-December.

Responsibility: Nusand is not responsible forthe opinions or statements of its editors orcontributors. All rights reserved. Reproductionof any article, photograph or artwork is strictlyprohibited.

Subscriptions: One year subscriptions rates:Canada $45.00; Outside Canada $90.00. Non-paidsubscriptions to Optical Prism are limited tooptometrists, opticians, ophthalmologists andbuyers and key executives at retail chain storeheadquarters. All other individuals are eligiblefor subscriptions at the above annual rates.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Optical Prism, 225 The East Mall, Suite 1113,Toronto, Ontario, Canada M9B 0A9.

GST Registration Number: 88541 6529 RT001.

Printed in Canada by General Printers,Oshawa, Ontario

Canada Post Publications Mail Sales ProductAgreement No. 40040464

Optical Prism225 The East Mall, Suite 1113,Toronto, Ontario, Canada M9B 0A9.Fax: 416-233-1746 [email protected]

T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R E Y E C A R E P R O F E S S I O N A L S

6 O P T I C A L P R I S M | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2

f r o m t h e e d i t o r

I t was the end of the Second World War, soldiers were returning home from the front

and across the globe new babies werebeing born at a tremendous rate.

Those babies are all grown-upnow and playfully referred to as theBaby Boomer Generation.

Today this generation is livinglonger, healthier lives than theirparents could have ever dreamed of experiencing.

Retirement comes at an earlierage and baby boomers are seekingout fun and exciting activitiesunattainable by earlier generations.But the one thing baby boomershave not been able to escape is thetrials and tribulations of growing old.

This issue explores the manyfacets of dealing with age-related eye issues and how both the medicalfield and the government are dealingwith the volume of patients nowseeking treatment.

In addition, eyewear makers are lining up to offer the latest intechnology and style to ensure babyboomers don't have to wear thesame chunky, bulky glasses theirparents did years before them.

Baby boomers represent a newvibrancy and zest for life when itcomes to getting older and the eye industry is there to make sureboomers are met with options all the way.

In this issue we are pleased toshare with you the personal experienceof Canadian actress Mary Walshwho has been living with maculardegeneration for several years. Walshoffers insight, inspiration and hopeto anyone facing this disease.

While reading this issue taketime to preview what's coming up atSilmo Paris slated for October of thisyear. This world-renowned eventfeatures the latest technology, stylesand workshops to help the eyeindustry meet the demands of theirdiscerning clientele.

This issue also features someunique information on alternativecare for those suffering with eyediseases, looking at both a medicaland holistic approach to preventionand treatment.

We also invite you to check out our newly designed websitewww.opticalprism.ca. Here you will find links to great articles,information you won't find anywhereelse as well as all the great contentfrom our magazine.

Don't forget to follow us onFacebook and Twitter too where youcan get up-to-the-minute news andviews from the industry and connectwith your contemporaries.

We also look forward to seeingmany of you at Vision Expo West inLas Vegas September 5th to 8th. We will be tweeting and sharing ourexperience. Please connect with us sowe can share your experiences too.

Enjoy another great issue ofOptical Prism.

Sarah [email protected]

A booming generation


p r e v i e w

Washed Ashore

F or a polished and refined look,

Evatik Eyewear introduces

Driftwood/style 9049 for men.

The company is known for offering

expression that embodies the fusion of

innovative design and technology, and this

frame hits the marks with sleek lines and

a clean and minimalistic look. Crafted with

care in titanium and acetate, these semi-

rimless frames look light on the face but

very masculine. 9049 is available in brown,

black or grey.

For more information, visit

www.evatik.com

A Splash of ColourFor Fall

This H2O-themed collection by

Theo fixates on the eyebrows

and doesn’t let go. Using

powerful fluorescents in eye-catching

colour combos will take your dramatic

look even further. Models Bo, O, Nivo

and Carro play on the French word for

water. The Belgian manufacturer also

works in some more subtle colour

blocking on more shape-heavy frames

within the collection. All are uniquely

built so the angled temples connect

to the frame at the nose bridge.

For more information,

visit www.theo.be


Funky Vintage

T he Japanese-designed Mizyake

Couture collection from Optika

has released 20 new styles for the

fall season. Featuring oversized vintage metal

frames and exceptional lens depth for

progressive eyewear users, the collection

continues to make a striking visual impact.

The advantage of metal frames is the ability to

use super light weight stainless steel to provide

maximum comfort and durability. Mizyake 4631

Cerise is a take on the latest trend of crystal

coloured acetates. Other colours include citrus

green, rich violet, and dark chocolate brown.

These metal and plastic frames are for both

men and women.


www.optikaeyewear.com

White Lightning

Legacie brings us a new Betsey

Johnson collection just in time

for fall. Bolt of Light exaggerates

nature’s most attention-seeking act by

embellishing this collection with a

lightning bolt motif. Metal temples

in the shape of a lightning bolt are

decorated with glittering stones in

contrasting colours. Wild Thing, a cat-eye

optical style, boasts a glittery acetate

frame front, while Thunderstruck, a glam

sunglass, offers a multicoloured layered

laminate frame front.


www.legacie.com

p r e v i e w


Phototastic

Natural colouring in a sunglass is the focus

of Rodenstock’s newest product on the

market, the Colormatic IQ 1.54 index. The

specialized photochromic lens material is made of

100% UV A and UV B filtering that absorbs six per

cent more UV at 400 nm than other photochromic

lenses. Once inside, this new Colormatic IQ material is

almost completely clear indoors, with only a five per

cent base absorption. Rodenstock’s standard anti-

aging factor for significantly improved lifetime of the

photochromic effect is also built in, and is available

across Canada in all freeform single vision and

progressive lenses, including MyView and Impression

lenses by Rodenstock.

For more information, visit www.rodenstock.com

Black and Blue All Over

T hree of Orgreen’s newest models

this year are Carter, Drummer

and Kube. The unisex frame Carter

makes use of earth tones with mint green on

the inside and charcoal on the outside, bringing

a 1950's feel. The unisex frame Drummer is a

retro bohème look made of green havana acetate

that was discovered in Japan and is originally

from the 1960's. Kube is a square unisex frame

with subdued colours that melt into the soft

corners. A splash of colour near the upper part

of the brow is a new feature that ties in well

with the aqua or amethyst with a titanium rim

underneath.

For more information, visit www.orgreen.dk


p r e v i e w

Design with you in mind

C reative design with a wealth of individuality and style reflects the spirit of our time. It plays around with exuberance, dynamics and power,

combining elegance and freedom.Silhouette Titan Sculpture eyewear is synonymous

with three-dimensional design and top qualitymanufacturing using high-tech materials with a realattention to detail. The temples are tensioned by thecontrast between the high-tech materials titanium andSPX. The contrasting fine faceting on the inside andoutside underlines the model’s three-dimensional design,with the high-tech SPX polymer picking up thedynamics complementing the fine titanium lines.

Classic, durable and yet still stylish, this collection,available in six different colours, has that certain somethingthat is needed to capture the world far away from thefashion mainstream.

Silhouette’s high-quality Austrian manufacture—80percent of the design is completed by hand in innumerablesteps—is a guarantee of the exacting standards ofperfection that set all Silhouette eyewear apart.

For more information visit www.silhouette.com.

A Needy Pair

Always there when you need them,

these readers by Ronor are designed

to last while still looking trendy.

Designed by opticians for eye care professionals,

these glasses are set to meet the high standards

of the European CE product conformity code.

Readers in the I Need You collection are

PD-standardized at 31-31, are mounted with

aspheric acrylic lenses and come with a serious

coating that protects from scratches. Each of

the eight models comes with a matching case

and a one year warranty against manufacturer’s

defects.

For more information, visit www.ronor.com

WorldThe Race for

a Blind-free

b y S h e i l a O ’ H e a r n


It’s said of age that those in their 50s are now the new 40s, and the 40s are the new 30s, but nobody thought to tell the eyes,”

says eye practitioner Dr. DagmarLutzi of Waterloo, whose words sum up what baby boomers, bornbetween 1945 to 1964, may be facing with eye health care.

Although vision loss amongboomers is projected to reachepidemic proportions globally, the statistics in Canada alone arestaggering, calling for costly healthcare solutions and health interventionfrom government right down toindividual citizens.

A detailed report from theFoundations for a Canadian VisionHealth Strategy, prepared in 2007for the National Coalition for VisionHealth, shed sobering light from the storm of concern, very muchbrewing six years later, providingstatistics from coast to coast.

The Coalition was established in 1998 to identify priorities forimproving vision health, and also to promote and coordinate advocacy,education, initiatives and information-sharing networks, nationally andprovincially.

The Strategy states that overfour million Canadian adults areafflicted with one of the leading age-related blinding ocular diseases,placing glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy,cataracts and macular degeneration(AMD) highest on the list. The good news for boomers who heedthe warning is that most of thesediseases are treatable or preventable.Even refractory vision loss (AMD)responds to some form of low visionrehabilitation, and stem-cell researchis currently the promise of the future,with its goal to eradicate AMD.

Meanwhile, the aim of thecoalition stands firm in 2012, as it did in 2007: to decrease grimstatistics through a vision health

strategy that includes prevention andincreased opportunities for a moretimely diagnosis and treatment ofblinding ocular disease.

“Unless Canadians rise to meetthe challenge of this gatheringstorm, the quality of our visionhealth care system will erode and the number of Canadians needlesslyexperiencing avoidable blindness willsurge,” the report states ominously.

Projected Vision Loss StatisticsSo, what exactly do the statisticsshow? As of 2007, 108,000 Canadianswere legally blind; another 278,000Canadians were visually impaired;610,000 (self-reported) had difficultyseeing ordinary newsprint or the faceof someone clearly at four metresaway. From 1997 to 2007, thenumber of blind and visuallyimpaired Canadians had increased 37per cent, and this figure is projectedto double between 2006 and 2031.

Will baby boomers live to see it?

“


In the next 20 years, aging babyboomers born between 1945 and1965 will have more than doubledthe number of Canadians over age64 – from 4.3 million in 2006 to 9.1 million in 2031. The number of Canadians aged 40 and older with visual impairment or blindnessnumbered 278,000 and l08,000,

respectively, in 2007, and is forecastedto double by 2031 to 560,000 and215,000, respectively. In 2006,estimates of the direct annual cost of vision loss in Canada rangedbetween $2.7 billion and $2.9billion. The estimated total ofindirect cost of vision loss in 2006was $7.9 billion, ranking vision lossthe ninth most costly group over

digestive and endocrine disorders,such as diabetes and thyroidconditions.

While advances in cataractsurgery have been hugely successfulto date and glaucoma is treatable, eyediseases, such as macular degenerationcontinue to challenge eye practitionersand researchers alike.

“Glaucoma is a disease that isusually dependent on genetics andage it is not easily preventable byalternative lifestyles,” Dr. Lutzi says.“(AMD) is on the rise becausepeople are living longer, although we are getting increased amounts ofUV coming through the atmosphere,which has also been linked to thiscondition. The primary treatment

for glaucoma is still topical eye dropsand laser trabeculotomy. Cataractsurgery made great inroads with the introduction of intraocular lensimplants over 30 years ago, andremains highly effective.”

Catherine Tsilfidis, Ph. D., theDon and Joy Maclaren Chair forVision Research, Ottawa HospitalResearch Institute, concurs. “As faras I know, (AMD) is on the risebecause of our aging population,”she says “It is estimated that one innine people over the age of 65, andone in four over the age of 50 willget it. As our population ages, and agreater population of people are over65, the incidence in the populationwill rise.”

Visual impairment also doublesthe difficulties with daily living andsocial activities, doubles the risks offalls, triples the risk of depression,and quadruples the risk of hipfractures. Eye disease and conditionsimpact on every level of the healthcare system.

Vision Loss Prevention InitiativesAnti-VEG therapy, also used in thetreatment of some cancers, is beingused for patients with wet AMD toprevent further loss of vision, “andcan actually slightly improve vision,but rarely to a pre-AMD level,” Dr. Lutzi cautions. People of everyage are strongly encouraged to wear UV protection sun glasses toreduce the risk of cataract and AMD.Eye vitamins are available to reducethe risk of AMD, and people whosmoke should consider butting outfor good , as AMD has “definitelybeen linked to AMD,” Dr. Lutziadds. A regular intake of dark greenveggies is also helpful.

HA

RLE

Y D

AV

IDSO

N H

DX

83

4.

CO

UR

TE

SY O

F V

IVA

Many boomersare unawarethey have aneye problem.


On a local level, eye practitionersare urged to provide education andtake advantage of multi-mediaresources to get the message out to the general public to care betterfor their eyes, including going forregular checkups.

According to a recent CNWreport that was based on a sub-sample survey of 452 respondents,aged 50-64, “Beyond examiningvision and eye health, optometristsalso have the ability to diagnoseserious eye diseases like glaucoma,also known as the silent vision thief.Yet 45 per cent of aging (Canadian)baby boomers are not aware thatoptometrists can detect diseases likeglaucoma. More importantly, manyboomers are unaware that earlydetection and treatment can helpprevent blindness or control seriouseye disease.” An eye practitioner’s

ability to detect brain tumours behindthe eyes can additionally save lives.

Strides in Stem Cell ResearchMolecular biologists continue to forge significant partnerships with The Foundation FightingBlindness (FFB), for one, includingthe support of other organizations,private sector and corporatedonations, provincial and federalgovernments, to develop pioneeringtherapies to treat vision loss. TheFFB and its partners currentlysupport 21 trailblazing researchgroups at universities and hospitalsacross Canada, committing $5.5million towards these projects.

Dr. Derek van der Kooy and his team exemplify one such group,credited with making the extraordinarydiscovery that retinol stem cells are present in the adult human eye.

The bottom line is that stem celltherapy and its potential could benefitmore than a million Canadians atany stage of degenerative eye diseases,regardless of a person’s age, includingthose affected by AMD, retinitispigmentosa, and corneal diseasesthat cause blindness. Combined with the development of hyaluronanand methylcellulose (HAMC), a biodegradable gel, to help spreadimplanted cells across the retina, and other drugs into HAMC toenable transplanted cells to makeconnections with the nerve cells of the eye, the hope and goal is to restore vision completely.

The time-frame is anotherquestion, however. Will babyboomers reap the benefit of today’sresearch and be spared the potentialof contracting macular degenerationor other blinding ocular diseases?

Regular visits to an eyedoctor can prevent seriousand long lasting damage.

“I do not believe that blindnesswill be eradicated during the lifetimeof the baby boomer,” Dr. Lutzinotes. “Although stem cell researchis promising, it is still in a very earlystage and the physiology of the eye and optic nerve is exceedinglycomplex.” Dr. Tsilfidis adds, “Todate, there have been no clinicaltrials involving stem cells that have shown any effectiveness inimproving vision. Most of thestudies are simply Phase Two trails,aimed at determining primarily if stem cells are safe rather thaneffective.” In a four-month follow-up of two patients, one withStargardt’s disease and the otherwith dry macular degeneration, no harmful effects of the stem cellsinjected into the eyes were evident,which was the primary aim of thestudy, “but there was no realimprovement either,” Dr. Tsilfidissays. “However, in my opinion, a four-month follow up is not long enough to determine ifsomething can go wrong (such astumorigenic potential or tumourdevelopments). We don’t knowenough about how and if stem cells will integrate into the retina,and even if they do, we don’t know how this will translate intousable vision (for example, if theperson will be able to see). Whensomeone loses vision and if thevisual cortex in the brain isimpacted, then simply replacing cells in the retina, even if theyestablish local connections, may not translate into improved vision.”

On the other hand, stem cellshave tremendous potential todifferentiate into multiple ‘cells’

types, “and if we can figure out how to get them to effectivelydifferentiate into the desired ‘cells’types and integrate into the retina,”Dr. Tsilfidis says, “the potential toimpact a myriad of diseases isimmense.”

The greatest obstacle is in thedevelopment of better methods forcontrolling stem cells, “so that theycan coax these cells into producingdifferent kinds of eye cells, such asretinol and corneal cells,” states the Foundation Fighting Blindnessorganization, in its grant report.Although stem cell therapies are not expected to benefit baby boomersin their lifetime, their childrenmight well be the recipients. Onlytime will tell.

“There are some promisingresults obtained in animal models of retinol disease that suggest thatretinal progenitor cells (not stemcells, but cells that have exited thecell cycle and started to differentiateinto rod precursors) can integrateinto the adult retina and canimprove vision in mouse models of disease,” Dr. Tsilfidis explains.“This is very promising, andsuggests that this approach shouldwork in humans as well. Any diseasethat has photoreceptor damagecould be impacted favourably, fromAMD and retinitis pigmentosa torare Leber’s congenital amaurosis,and many others.”

For a list of clinical trialsunderway in various retinol eyediseases involving stem cells, visitclinicaltrials.gov. Many studies arebeing conducted outside NorthAmerica, and some are activelyrecruiting patients. •


MODEL IS WEARING E-9047

FIND US:

WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WESTGROUPECHANNEL

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WESTGROUPE

WWW.TWITTER.COM/WESTGROUPE

SILMOOCTOBER 4-7, 2012HALL 6 BOOTH B75

VISION EXPO WESTSEPTEMBER 6-8, 2012BOOTH 18023

e v a t i k . c om

800.361.6220A brand of

VISIT US AT:

b y S a r a h M c G o l d r i c k

Warrior

princess

degeneration

chargeagainst macular

leads the

To millions of Canadians she is a warrior princess, satirically fighting to bring the truth

about Canadian politicians to lightin a time when many citizens remainin the dark.

As fictional character MargDelahunty, it seems nothing can get past her trademark suit ofarmour, but as herself, actress Mary Walsh has fought a lifechanging battle.

“I was dizzy. I would have to go lie down because I was feelingnauseous. Straight lines were nolonger straight,” said Walsh recallingwhen she began to feel somethingwas beginning to go wrong with hersight. She added she had regularfeelings of vertigo but initiallydismissed it as the usual trials andtribulations of getting older.

After more thorough testing the

diagnosis was Macular Degeneration,a disease that affects more than one million Canadians.

The disease affects the ability to see centrally both far and near.Macular degeneration can often resultin legal blindness leaving those withthe disease with significantly reducedsight and the inability to continueactivities such as sports or driving.

Walsh said the fast action of herdoctors in Canada and the UnitedStates helped curtail further damageand she has been overwhelmed bytheir expertise and ongoing supportfrom her first diagnosis to thepresent.

“Everyone was so kind andcompassionate. It was just fantasticand I could not have asked for

more,” said Walsh. The actress, whose career

includes This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Hatching, Matching andDispatching and more recentlypromoting the exploration ofliterature through CBC’s MaryWalsh: Open Book.

She said she continues to pursue her love of reading and is

presently writing a book Crying For The Moon.

Like most people who receive a troubling diagnosis Walsh said she was initially unsure of how itwould affect both her personal lifeand career.

“I had feelings of total despair.It was a very dark time.” she said.“Who wants a blind actress?”

Mary Walsh shares her story


By the time Walsh wasdiagnosed it was too late to undergotraditional laser treatment whichwould have used high energy light to destroy actively growing abnormalblood vessels. .

Instead doctors suggested sheundergo surgery where they wouldcut the eye open to remove abnormalcells and reduce the formation ofscar tissue and damage to the retina.

Walsh experiences ‘wet’ maculardegeneration which requires regular treatment with Lucentis, a prescription injection which

offers a revolutionary restorativetreatment and helps reverse some ofthe damaged caused by the disease.

“It can undo the damage thatwas done,” said Walsh noting she isnow able to continue with regulardaily activities such as reading,driving a car and continues to workon a variety of on-screen projects.

Raised in Newfoundland, Walsh noted she is pleased to see the progression of treatment forboth macular degeneration and othereye diseases in her home provinceand across Canada. She said in the

past many people in Newfoundland,particularly in remote areas, oftenwent blind because there was noaccess to the technology needed to treat diseases such as maculardegeneration.

“Things have changedremarkably,” said Walsh adding now Atlantic Canada is home tomany experts in the field all ofwhom Walsh said filled herexperience with compassion andkindness.

Walsh also attributes her successat fighting the disease to her family and friends includingThis Hour Has 22 Minutes co-starCathy Jones who went with Walshto appointments and stood by her as she undertook her battle with the disease.

“I am so lucky in so many ways.I feel so grateful,” she said.

Walsh is also becoming morevocal in raising awareness aboutmacular degeneration. She hasparticipated in several rides forsight and is a supporter for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind.

Walsh is also preparing to work on her latests movie project,The Grand Seduction, a remake of La Grade Seduction and will be directed by Don McKellar. The film will be shot on locationin Newfoundland and Walsh is

anxious to get on set. She addednothing is going to slow her down.

“Everything feels like a fairytale.I am reading working and driving. Ihave had the best care one couldhope to receive,” she said.

More information aboutMacular Degeneration is available atthe CNIB website www.cnib.ca. •


3 breaking news

3 web-exclusive editorials

3 the latest fashion trends

3 Optical Prism’s online directory

3 employment opportunities

3 equipment for sale

3 business opportunities

Your gateway to the Canadian optical marketplace

opticalprism.caT H E W E B S I T E F O R C A N A D I A N E Y E C A R E P R O F E S S I O N A L S

CChheecckk oouutt ooppttiiccaallpprriissmm..ccaa

iinn SSeepptteemmbbeerr ffoorr tthhee ffoollllooww

iinngg::

VViissiioonn EExxppoo WWeesstt lliivvee cc

oovveerraaggee

BBoooommeerr EEyyee HHeeaalltthh

FFaallll PPrreevviieeww:: SSttyylleess aanndd DDeessiiggnnss

Eyewearfor theactive

boomerb y M a t t H a r r i s

Stylish for all ages. Lace patterned acetate frames: Fysh F-3467. Next page, Rhinestone decor, Superflex SF-375. Both carried by WestGroup.


T he idea that golf is the only thing keeping boomers active these days is

definitely on the way out. The fact is, there are plenty

of boomers in today’s society that are taking part in a wide range ofactivities to keep healthy—anythingfrom tennis and hiking to watersports and yes, golf as well.

Those who require eyewear havea plethora of options when makingtheir selection, but they need to keepa few basics in mind when they arelooking for something new.

Rick Leroux, the director ofmarketing and communications for the lens division of CentennialOptical Limited in Toronto, saysthere are several reasons for boomersto consider getting new glasses oreyewear—a change in prescriptionbeing at the top of that list.

“This is a normal occurrence as we age,” he said. “There are also reasons to own more than one pair of eyewear—it’s a good idea to have different styles for work, evening wear, sports and other activities. Aside from thefashion and functional aspects oftheir frames, most people will alsorequire different types of lenses fordifferent activities.” Leroux talkedabout people who spend lots of timeworking in an office with computers,or about those who have hobbies likesewing or woodworking and how thelenses will differ depending on theperson’s needs.

“Computer lenses will providewider, clear fields of near andintermediate vision, and will easevision and physical problems

associatedwith ‘computervision syndrome’,”he said. “Everyoneshould have a pair ofpolarized sunglasses for driving,water sports and other outdooractivities. Some people may want a dedicated pair of reading glasses,while others find a pair ofprogressives more convenient.”

Beverly Suliteanu, the vice-president of product developmentfor West Groupe, said boomers arelooking for something modern andwith fun styling with ‘an abundanceof colour that is also comfortable towear’ when choosing their next pairof eyewear, adding that it’s important to choose a complementary style forone’s face shape.

“The frame shape shouldcontrast your face shape, and theframe size should be in scale withyour face size,” she said. “Eyewearshould reflect your best feature,therefore don’t be afraid of colour.”

Suliteanu gave the products ofFysh UK as an example of somethingboth fun and funky that boomersgravitate to.

“Each colour representsindividuality and an attitude,mimicking the boomers character of freedom of expression,” she said.“With the abundance of colour andfunky temple designs, consumershave a vast selection to choose from. All Fysh models have thedepth to accommodate multi-focallenses, which is essential for thismarket.”

Leroux noted many boomerscrave the convenience of havingmulti-function glasses, while some

still want onesfor specific tasks.“Many wearers will enjoy theconvenience of photochromic lensesas everyday wear, and different lensmaterials and treatment options willfit different lifestyles and activityrequirements of wearers,” he said. “The past 20years have seen a lot of changes inthe evolution of progressive additionlenses. The demand for ‘no-line’bifocals exploded in the 1990’s asbaby boomers entered their 40’s and started experiencing presbyopia.This led to kind of an ‘arms race’ in progressive designs by lensmanufacturers—in the past decade,the industry has been revolutionizedwith the advance of customizedlenses and free-form manufacturing.The Canadian market for progressivelenses is now split about fifty-fiftybetween customized and traditionalprogressive lenses.”

Though boomers are becomingincreasingly more active, it is easy toquickly discover which lens is rightfor consumers.

A helpful tip for eyewearprofessionals is a simple survey—askcustomers what they do and what theyneed their glasses for. By getting toknow the patient more, their needscan be serviced better. •

lightforboomers

b y S a r a h M c G o l d r i c k

Shedding

on eyewear

Canada’s population is aging at a rapid pace. The result is a Boomer Generation (45-65 yrs old)

that is ready to put a significantinvestment in eye care and eyewearover the next few years.

As a result of this increaseddemand, eyewear designers andtechnology providers are quicklydeveloping new tools and devices to assist boomers in maintainingactive, healthy lifestyles withouthindrance from eye problems.

Many boomers have difficultyaccepting that their sight is changingand are often reluctant to make the necessary lifestyle changes toaccommodate their sight. In addition,

more than half are unaware theyhave an eye issue often resulting in more severe or untreatabledamage.

“Typically problems with agingeyes begin in the 40s age range orolder,” said Dr. Vincent Young, a ophthalmologist with the AlbertEinstein Health Care Network.

He notes as eyes age theyundergo significant changes in theamount of light that reaches theback of the eye as well as anincreased sensitivity.

This age range is also the timewhen eye diseases such as cataractsand glaucoma can begin to form.The lens of the eye can becomecloudy and yellow making it difficultto see clearly.

PH

OT

O C

OU

RT

ESY

OF

TR

AN

SIT

ION

S O

PT

ICA

L


Eyeglasses wearers may need toupgrade to bifocals or progressivelenses.

Young notes many people seesignificant improvement in theirsight thanks to innovations such as photochromatic lenses.

“Photochromatic lenses, such as Transition Lenses, allow a personto have the addition of sunglasses infront of their eyes,” he said addingUV damage plays a significant rolein the overall health of the eye. He said illnesses such as maculardegeneration creates a break down in photo receptors causing a loss of central vision, making outsideinfluences such as strong light amajor irritant to sufferers.

For some boomers eye irritantssuch as UV rays go beyond theirimmediate vision and alternatives are required to block out additionallight from the sides of the face.

“A lot of prescriptions don’twork with sunglasses,” says DaveDean, VP of Marketing for LiveEyewear. He notes most glasses stop at a point on the face that leaves a gap for light to slip in at the sides.

The company used this issue to develop the Cocoon sunglasseswhich wrap around the faceprotecting wearers from harmful UV rays. Unlike traditional wraparound glasses, they are not bulkyand carefully frame the face.

“This is the time of life whenyou want some thing that works andlooks decent,” said Dean adding the eyewear industry is more awareof the design desires of glasseswearers than ever before.

Blue Light EffectOutside light irritants don’t justcome from the sun. The variouselectronic devices we carry aroundemit blue light which puts strain on our eyes as we stare at computerscreens, handheld devices andtablets.

“This current generation aredealing with more exposure to bluelight,” said Rick Leroux, Director of Marketing and Communicationswith Centennial Optical Limited(Lens Division).

As young boomers may not have discolouration or much damage to the eye, there is little to filter blue light from reaching the inside of the eye.

Also particularly vulnerable are shift workers who are oftenexposed to irregular amounts of light.

A study by the University of Toronto found people exposed to bright indoor light who werewearing blue-light–blocking togoggles people exposed to regulardim light without wearing goggles, found that the levels of the hormonewere about the same in the twogroups strengthens the hypothesisthat blue light is a potent suppressorof melatonin.

The study suggested that shift workers and night owls could protect themselves from damage if they wore eyewear that blockedblue light.

Centennial has developed a Blu-Tech Lens which filters this light and reduces the level ofvulnerability and damage to the eye. Blue light generally

falls between 500–700 on thespectrum and few glasses areequipped to handle this level ofintensity.

“Most lenses will not block thatlight spectrum,” said LeRoux, notingmore research continues to be doneto provide consumers with eye wearthat will accommodate this level oflight exposure.

As we continue to use more and more digital devices it is criticalfor both researchers and eye careproviders to address the visual issuesthey will cause in the future. It isimportant for eye care providers tobe more diligent in raising the issuewith their patients to proactivelyprevent future damage. •

Cocoons

angering


The Ontario eye care industry is fighting back against recent and proposed cuts to

eye care services across the province. The Ontario Ministry of Health

and Long-term Care has proposedcuts in the areas of diagnostic andtreatment technology which eye care providers believe will leave ashortage of practitioners in thesehighly specialized areas.

The industry believes the safetyof patients will also be compromisedas wait times will increase and accessto coverage for things such asanaesthesia will be reduced.

The province projects an annualsavings of $338 million through the

cuts to fees and services. “Many surgeons are not going

to do surgery if the patient is notgoing to get anesthetic,” says Dr.Navdeep Nijhawan of the EyePhysicians and Surgeons of Ontariowho has been outspoken critic of theproposed cuts. “The fees are goingto be reduced so much, hospitalswon’t be able to support surgery.”

He said the industry has alreadymade voluntary cuts to fees over thepast three years by 16 per cent.

Further cuts, he says, will leave patients without services andpotentially sight saving diagnostictests and treatments.

Among these is the OpticalCoherence Tomography Test used to identify glaucoma, diabetic

retinopathy and other diseases whichmay cause blinding in the eyes.

“We already reduced the fee by 10 per cent,” said Nijhawan.“The government wants to reducethe fee to where we can’t cover thecost of the test.”

The original fee for the test was $70, which the industry reducedto $63. The government now wants to drop this fee to $25.

Nijhawan says many in theindustry will simply no longerpurchase the equipment needed to perform procedures because theywill never make their money back.

“They are not going to buy amachine for $90,000 which meanswe are going to be having longwaiting times.”

Ontariob y S a r a h M c G o l d r i c k

eyecare providers

Provincialregulations

People suffering with maculardegeneration are among thoseNijhawan foresees suffering thegreatest from the reduction in fees.The disease requires regular testingto monitor the level of degeneration.With access to fewer testing sitessuffers will have to undergo moreregular injections in the eye as thedisease is allowed to progress fasterand go untreated longer.

The Ontario Health MinisterDeb Matthews has stated that shedoes not believe the cuts will impactpatients, noting they are freezingOHIP billing across the board at $11 billion similar to measures taken in 2011.

“My commitment to Ontarionsto provide the best health carepossible is unwavering, even duringthese tough economic times,”Matthews said in a written statementto Optical Prism. “That is why weare increasing healthcare funding $1 billion this year compared to last year.”

In the statement, Matthewsnoted the average ophthalmologistbills the province $666,000 annually,a 60 per cent increase since 2003.She added medical technology andevidence-based care is evolving,which means doctors can see morepatients, perform more proceduresin less time and with better resultsthan in the past.

“I want to assure Ontarians that none of the fee changes we’vemade will affect patient care,” shesaid. “The changes made to a selectnumber of OHIP fees bring theminto line with current medicalpractices and new technologies.

Where opthalmology is concerned,new technology has reduced the cost to perform the diagnosis andshortened the time it takes toconduct certain procedures.”

Matthews creditedophthalmologists with their ability to reduce wait times and act aspartners in healthcare. She noted the province has increased doctorcompensation by 85 per cent since 2003.

“We will protect our investmentin doctors, but now is the time tomake new investments in home and community care, not onincreasing compensation fordoctors,” she said.

Those in the industry however,feel taking a knife to service fees willnot solve the problem and will put a greater burden on the system.

“In northern areas it will beeven worse,” he said, noting places

in northern Ontario often require air transport for treatment anddiagnostic tests. “As time goes on itwill be harder to provide care.”

Nijhawan believes rural

communities in particular will haveto send their patients further andfurther away for diagnostic care. He says many patients are not insound enough health to make thelong journey and may forgo gettingthe treatment they need because oflack of access to a vehicle to getthem there.

Nijhawan is also concerned that new doctors will be reluctant to practice in Ontario causingadditional wait times and sub-optimal care.

He encourages members of theeye care community to contact theirMPP to learn more and share theirconcerns about the proposedchanges to care. •


*Additional information about this issue can be found on the Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website at www.epso.ca orthe Ministry of Health and Longterm Care website at www.health.gov.on.ca.

Eye care professionalsfear cuts will lead tolong wait times.


The very best the eye wear industryhas to offer will be on display at Silmo 2012 this October.

The event features both both an image and business-based exhibits focused on addressing theexpectations and concerns of bothexhibitors and visitors.

SILMO 2012, MONDIAL DE L’OPTIQUE with its win-winstrategy, gives all professionals whoattend the opportunity to enjoy thepositive synergy of a leading tradeshow aimed at an entire industry, aleading trade show that spotlightsinnovation and discovery.

The event features a full andvaried trade show including allplayers in the eye-care and spectacletrade (frames, sunglasses, lenses,contact lenses, instruments andequipment, low vision, machines and components).

It offers a high-performance and comprehensive trade show withalmost 900 exhibitors, 1,400 brandsand 35,000 international visitors.

The organizers of Silmo 2012are pooling all their resources tostrengthen exhibitors’ brand image,help them position themselves intheir competitive environment,present their know-how andinnovations, work on prospectingnew customers and benefit from theimpact of a leading, media- conscioustrade show. Visitors are qualifiedbuyers, distribution networks,independent opticians and decision-makers from around the world, andthey come to take advantage of thisunique event, assess the state of themarkets, place orders, and find outabout and connect with the world of eye-care and spectacles.

Specific and accessible tools areavailable for their use throughoutthe event.

For the third time, the SilmoAcademy will help them to enrichtheir knowledge, explore and discusscurrent issues. For this new edition,the theme of “refraction” will be onthe table for two days as part of thetrade show.

In order to maintain links withall the professionals from the worldof eye care across every continent,The Link by Silmo community will act as the information-sharingnetwork. This is an internationalexchange forum available 24 hours a day throughout the year.

This platform enable them take advantage of this unique event,assess the state of the markets, place orders, and find out about and connect with the world of eye-care and spectacles.

For the third time, the SilmoAcademy will help them to enrichtheir knowledge, explore and discusscurrent issues. For this new edition,

Silmoto feature latest inindustry information and


the theme of “refraction” will be on the table fortwo days as part of the trade show.

With its clear and selective approach, Silmo2012 provides a relevant offer, enhanced by originalevents that add value to innovations, reveal trendsand spotlight new collections, new products andbrand launches. At each edition, the Silmo d’orceremony, which takes place in an amazing location in Paris, awards the innovations that have been chosen and acclaimed by professionals.Innovations in frames, lenses and equipment reward the R&D effort made by businesses in the sector. Silmo sets the future outlook in terms of design, new consumer expectations and majortrends. The digital magazine MO by Silmo waslaunched at last year’s event. This interactive andoriginal support tool provides follow-up before,during and after the trade show on major trends,and filters the very best exhibitor offer from a design perspective. This dynamic decoding provides a cross-functional, inspired approach to design.

SILMO 2012 runs October 5 to 7 at ParisNord Villepinte. For more information visitwww.silmoparis.com. •

technology


g l i m p s e s

Y ounger Optics is the first to release Transitions XTRActive finished single

vision (FSV) lenses in polycarbonate.These lenses are available in an Rxrange of -6.00 to +4.00, cylinder outto -2.00. This means that labs havethe ability to fill a greater number of prescriptions with finished lenses,rather than processing semi-finishedXTRActive lenses.

This is the latest addition toYounger Optics’ extensive line ofTransitions FSV lenses, which

includes several materials andcoating options. ECPs can order any of these Transitions FSV lensesfrom their favorite full- servicelaboratory.

“Younger Optics is committedto supporting the entire line ofTransitions Optical lenses,” saidDavid Rips, president and CEO of Younger Optics. “Younger is still the world leader in TransitionsXTRActive lenses.”

Finished hard resin lenses arealso available. In addition to finished

Transitions XTRActive, YoungerOptics also offers XTRActive lenses in semi-finished hard resin,polycarbonate, Trilogy and high-index 1.67.

Younger Optics has won 24 OLAawards, and for more than 50 years,has been bringing innovative productsto the optical industry. For moreinformation about Younger Optics,NuPolar lenses and other products,visit the company’s web site atyoungeroptics.com, or call (800)877-5367.

T he world-renowned Italian fashion house, De Rigo Vision International has chosen Ronor as a partner by granting

exclusive rights to distribution within Canada for itscomprehensive portfolio of brands and collections tooptical professionals.

Ronor created a new division under the name“Ronor Occhiali,” emphasizing its Italian connection.

Four collections, Ermenegildo, Zegna, Givenchyand Chopard are now available to Canadiancustomers. The complete portfolio of brands willgradually be introduced across the country.

Founded in 1978, De Rigo is already present in more than 80 countries and tirelessly continues to grow each year.

The latest “Coup Master” has just signed thelicense for “Lanvin Eyewear” a prestigious hautecouture brand.

This alliance is also very important. This willallow the company to assert its position as a leadingplayer in Canadian frames and eyewear.

Ronor distributes brands from Germany

including the Humphreys collection and the NordicKing Size private label.

“This year Ronor celebrates its 30th anniversaryand many exciting things are planned.

The company has waited many years before wecould come to Canada. We are excited to join thestability and reputation of De Rigo. The whole teamsupports the De Rigo Group approach to RonorOchialli,” said Michele Aracri, CEO of De RigoVision SpA.

The superior quality and attention to detailmake the collections from De Rigo perfectly unique.Artisans continue to proudly manufacture the framesin the traditional way.

“We are honoured during this 30th anniversary,to have a trusted place in the house of De Rigo,” said Robert Charbonneau, President and Owner of Ronor International Inc. “Each of our authorizedsellers will find a tool to differentiate themselves andcarve out a place in the frame segment. What a greatway to mark 30 years of service in the opticscommunity in Canada.”

Ronor International Inc. and thehouse Italian De Rigo Vision SpA:

Younger Optics Offers Finished Lenses in Polycarbonate


a d v e r t i s e r i n d e x

Bausch + Lomb 17

COS 7, 33

Essilor 40 (OBC)

Menicon 39 (IBC)

Optic Plastic 20

Optical Group 35

Optical Prism—Web 25

Optika 11

Optiq Frames 2 (IFC)

Rodenstock 4

Spectacle Eyeworks 24

Transitions Optical 13, 36

Viva 19

Western Optical 5, 21

A line of optical polishing pitch that is made from all-natural wood resin,

rather than petroleum by-products,and can precisely match the opticsbeing polished is available fromMeller Optics, Inc. of Providence,Rhode Island.

Gugolz Polishing Pitch fromMeller is made from all-naturalwood resin, instead of petroleum

byproducts, and comes in fivegrades from very-soft to very-hardwith melting points from 52°C to 87°C.

Allowing users to exactly matchpitch hardness to the optics beingpolished, this pitch is ideal forblocking, lapping, and polishingvirtually any optical substratematerial.

Eliminating the need for

screening, filtering, or mixingadditives, Gugolz Polishing Pitchis ready to use by simply slicingthe amount required, melting, and pouring onto the lap.

This all-natural pitch is totallyconsistent from batch-to-batch interms of hardness and consistency.

Available through MellerOptics, Inc., orwww.melleroptics.com.

Polishing Optics is All-Natural


g l i m p s e s

E v e n t s C a l e n d a r

Lenses to enhanceany lifestyle

Transitions®

VI lensesTransitions®

XTRActive™ lensesTransitions®

Vantage™ lensesTransitions®

performance sunwear

DATES EVENT CITY VENUE WEB EMAIL

Sep. 5–8, 2012 Vision Expo West Las Vegas, NVSands Expo &Convention Center

www.visionexpowest.com/[email protected]

Sep. 20–22, 2012

44th Sally LetsonSymposium onCornea, Cataract andRefractive Surgery

Ottawa, ON Westin www.eyesite.ca [email protected]

Sep. 27–29, 2012NBAO Annual General Meeting

Moncton, NB Delta www.opto.ca

Sep. 28–30, 2012

Newfoundland andLabrador Associationof OptometristsAnnual GeneralMeeting 2012

Gander, NL Hotel Gander [email protected]

Oct. 3–6, 2012EVER, EuropeanAssociation for Visionand Eye Research

Crete, Greece Creta Maris www.ever.be [email protected]

Oct. 18–20, 2012Alberta Association ofOptometrists AnnualGeneral Meeting

Calgary, AB

Westin Hotel(Conference) andCalgary TelusConvention Centre(Optifair)

[email protected]

Oct. 26–27, 2012

SaskatchewanAssociation ofOptometrists 103rdAGM & Trade Show

Regina, SK Delta Regina Hotel www.optometrists.sk.ca [email protected]

Nov. 2–3, 2012Association desoptométristes duQuébec Salon Vision

Montréal, QCPalais des congrès deMontréal

[email protected]

Nov. 2–3, 2012Nova ScotiaAssociation ofOptometrists AGM

Halifax, NSWorld Trade &Convention Centre andPrince George Hotel

[email protected]

Visit the 12-Month Event Calendar sponsored by Transitions at www.opticalprism.ca

OPTICAL EQUIPMENT/FURNITURE FOR SALE

Recently closed store is looking to sellall of its equipment and furniture.Things for sale include, edging equip-ment, lensometer, pupilometer, frames,and many other things.

For further detail please contact me byemail. [email protected]

Cutler and Gross is looking for full-timeand Part-time registered opticians towork in their downtown Toronto bou-tique in the heart of Yorkville. If youare a fashion forward optician, lookingfor a job in the fashion industry thiswill be a great opportunity to workwith handmade eyewear, deal withhigh end clientele and be part of ateam of eyewear professionals. Youwill also get the chance to be part ofthe design team of one of the leadingeyewear brands in the industry throughbespoke/custom made services. NewlyGrads are welcome to apply! Please email resumes to: [email protected]

Concept Eyewear is expanding toOntario and is looking for an indepen-dent, multi-line sales representative to carry the unique high-end V.Design collection from France starting inNovember 2012. Other territories arewelcome to apply for future oppor-tunities. Email resume [email protected] fax 1 (866) 357-7629. No phone callsplease.


c l a s s i f i e dP E R S O N N E L WA N T E DP E R S O N N E L WA N T E D

F O R S A L E

S A L E S R E P S WA N T E D S E R V I C E S

Does your existing space need updat-ing? Are you ready for a change? At Belmark, we specialize in the needsof the optical industry. We offer ourclients a variety of services and a convenient one-stop-shop for all theirrenovations, new construction, mainte-nance and design needs. At Belmark,we do more than construction, weexcel at creating unique contemporaryspaces, custom display fixtures, creativesignage solutions, branding and logodesign.

Call us today to book a free consulta-tion and find out how we can enhanceyour business image.

Please visit us at www.belmark.ca orcall us at (416) 913-0341.

For sale-established optical boutique inmajor Mississauga mall. Sixteen years in business. Owner/optician looking tosemi-retire, potential to stay on staff.

Please contact: [email protected]

STORE FOR SALE BRAMPTON.Very busy location–Major Inter–2 storylevel–700 sq/ft above,1500 sq/ft aprxbsmt finished with 4 rooms (1 room isused by OD). 2 washrooms. Sub-lease isavailable, $15,000 to $18,000 sale permonth with out advertisement + cash.Lots of parking front rear and around,inventory included, full new doctor'sequipment. Rent$3200 including TMI.

SERIOUS INQUIRIES PLEASE. [email protected]. Don't wait turn your keys and go.

O P T I C A L S T O R E S F O R S A L E

P E R S O N N E L AVA I L A B L E

FREE!!!!!!!! GRATIS!!!!!!!! NO CHARGE!!!!!!!!

Optical Prism classified word ads are now FREE when sent to Optical Prism by email.

Not only do you get your ad in Optical Prism, the magazine, your ad is also posted onthe Optical Prism web site—www.opticalprism.ca

Please note, the maximum number of words per ad is 50, and no logos are to beincluded with this offer.

Need to hire staff? Need to sell some equipment? Just email your text to:[email protected] and reach the entire Canadian optical industry.

Deadline for next issue—September 14, 2012.

ATTENTION OPTOMETRISTSFull or part-time associate requiredimmediately for Halifax/Dartmouth,Nova Scotia. Amazing opportunitieswith above-average renumeration,signing bonus and negotiable guaran-teed salary. Minimum of 2 years experi-ence is preferred, but not essential.Please contact Dr. Miriam Debly. Allinquires kept confidential.

Experienced Optometric Assistant isneeded for a fast pace, high-endOptometric office in Orleans Ontario.The successful candidate must be out-going, organized, detail-oriented andbe able to provide high quality customer service. Must speak fluentlyFrench and English, and be available towork full-time. Email resume to:[email protected]

OSHAWA—Modern, professional opticaldispensary located within a progressiveoptometry & ophthalmology office seeksa professional optician. Professionalappearance, as well as excellent clinicalskills, customer service and interpersonalskills are assets. Pay commensuratewith experience + bonus. Monday toFriday, 1 Saturday per month. NoSundays. Available July 23, 2012. Pleasecontact Sue Mah. FAX (905) 434-7904.EMAIL [email protected]

Optician’s position available in Barrie.Looking for a self- motivated, energet-ic, and professional optician in a busyretail optical store in Barrie, Ontario.Individual must possess excellent cus-tomer service skills, proper telephoneetiquette and good problem solvingskills. Experience is an absolute must.Email your resume to: [email protected]

Optician, contact lens fitter, available 3days a week. (416) 710-6009.

Electric height adjustable equipmenttable for Sale. Brand new for $300.Call Jackson @ (604) 671-1082 or emailto [email protected]

Busy Optical store in North Vancouveris looking for a full time licensed optician or student optician. Lookingfor upbeat customer service focusedindividual who is able to work both ona team and individually. Job require-ments dispensing eyeglasses, fittingcontact lenses, and some lab edgingwork. Please respond via email [email protected].

Be a part of the growing company. Weare expanding and looking for a full-time licenced optician for for a new storeopening in Toronto. Flexible schedule,Excellent pay, New grad opticians arewelcome. Please email your resume [email protected]

FOR SALEHalf-EYES—SPLIT BRIDGE (magnet).Powers from +1.25 to +2.50. Inblack/brown/blue. $15.00 each. By thedozen only. (416) 780-9112.

OPTIKA EYEWEAR: Canada’s leadingoptical frame supplier known forpopular eyewear lines: Hello Kitty, Nat and Coco, Mizyake, and Sohoeyewear, is looking for sales rep forOntario territory. Established territory,excellent compensation package, startimmediately. Please email cv to RichardAllan at [email protected] or fax (514)334-0354. www.optikaeyewear.com

BRIOT/WECO/VISIONIXCANADA

is looking for aggressive and deter-mined sales representatives whocan professionally represent and selldiagnostic and capital equipmentproducts to eye care professionalswithin Quebec, New Brunswick,Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island,Newfoundland BC and Alberta.

Desired Skills & ExperienceB2B sales experience and opticalexperience necessary. This positionrequires extensive travel through-out Quebec and the EasternProvinces. Must be fluently bilingualin French and English for theQuebec market.

Company DescriptionBriot/WECO/Visionix Canada manufactures, sells and services a complete line of optical lab finishing and diagnostic equipment.Innovation is our hallmark. Ourstaff understands the needs of eyecare professionals and are dedicatedto helping ECPs achieve profitabilityand success.

What Briot/WECO Canada Offers:• Competitive base salary plus

commission• Health, dental, life, LTD and

vision insurance• Car Allowance• Expense reimbursement

Interested parties please forwardyour resume to: [email protected]


f r a m e b y f r a m e

2 3 4 5

Stratford, Ontario is an epicenter for creativity—the town is home to countless actors, designers, theatre buffs, and artists.

Caroline Babb, R.O. and Rob Bosworth know thiswell, which is why they’re able to cater to their localclientele so well (they’re even closed on Mondays, the same day as the theatre).

European designers and bold, unique framesdominate the walls in their store, Optical Design.“These are frames you’re not going to find in LensCrafters,” says Babb. They carry lines such as Theo,TAG Heuer, Face à Face, SALT, Alain Mikli, Beausoleil,LINDBERG and their newest addition, Lafont.

Optical Design has been open on Wellington Streetin downtown Stratford for many years, but Babb andBosworth took it over about 18 months ago, somethingBabb says has always been a dream of hers.

Emily Chandler, who lives and works in Stratford,had walked by Optical Design—Stratford’s only

1. Emily with R.O. (and store owner) Caroline Babb; 2. Eye'DC frames (a definite no!); 3. Anne & Valentin"Doha" frames (her second choice); 4. Masunaga; 5. Face a Face "Cocco 3" frames (her favourites).

Stylish frames take centre stage in Stratford

1

downtown optical store—many times, but had neverventured in. When she finally decided to visit, she wasstruck by the excellent selection and said she didn’t know how she’d narrow down her choices to just onepair of frames.

Babb and Bosworth started Emily with a variety of choices, asking all about when, where and why she’dbe wearing her glasses, then started to narrow down herselection. Although Emily is very stylish and enjoys agood pop of colour in her wardrobe, she tended to likemore neutral-coloured framed with interesting texturesinstead of the coloured options she tried.

Emily experimented with all sorts of frames, frombig, studious styles which she said would be perfect ifshe ever decided to get her PhD, to frames withdifferent shapes on each eye (Eye’DC frames, which she said were a definite no!)

While it was a tough decision, Emily’s top choicewas the Face à Face “Cocco 3” frame with pantherpattern at the temple tips. Bosworth liked the cat eyeeffect of them on Emily and she said, “I would wearthese out at night with a cute dress.”

Coming in at a tie for second was a design by Anne& Valentini called “Doha” which had similar colouringto the Face à Face frames, but emphasized a differentpart of Emily’s face, and “Acetanium” frames byLINDBERG in purple. Emily thought they were nice,but not quite exciting enough.

Both Babb and Bosworth seemed to have just asmuch fun with Emily’s shopping experience as she did—a sign they’ll continue to do well in creative, quirkyStratford. -Adrienne Brown

Optical Prism September 2012

Documents

Transcript of Optical Prism September 2012