editor's letter

Upside down is Rightside up

Stephanie K. De Long

No, it's not a printer error. Part of the magazine is upside down on purpose. We hope you enjoy this dual issue—part September, part 25th anniversary. You'll recognize the pages of the anniversary section by the silver bows featured throughout, and the fact that the contents combine looks into both optical's past and future.

For those of you who have been in the business awhile, we think there'll be a few “Ah, I remember that…” moments. For those who are relatively new, these pages should add a little perspective. And, no matter what your tenure, we hope you'll have some fun.

Speaking of fun, in the 25 years of Eyecare Business, we've run lots of contests. But our very favorite is the just-completed Eyes on 25 design competition. The response was overwhelming, and though it was tough to pick just three, the winners [insert drum roll, please] are: Paul Garcia (Charlotte's Optical, Colorado Springs, Colo.), Carolyn Pressman (Dorman Center Eye Care, Spartanburg, S.C.), and Seema Nanda, OD (Texas Eye Institute, Houston). Turn to News article to see their submissions, and stop by our booth at Vision Expo West (LP5113) to see our special exhibit of several entries, including theirs, of course.

We also invite you to share your thoughts on another topic: Over the past week, I've asked a number of optical veterans what they view as the biggest industry-changing trend or event in the past 25 years. The most popular answers:

■ Optometry's expanded (read: medical) scope
■ Increase/integration of vision care plans
■ The rise…and rise…of the Internet
■ Big retail's giant step into optical
■ Supply-side consolidation

Do you agree? Let us know what you think. And thank you, from all of us at EB, for allowing us the privilege of spending 25 terrific years with you. We look forward to many more.

Steph De Long
Editor-in-Chief