Starting now, and throughout the Fall 2023 Parliamentary session, the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) invites everyone to get involved in supporting the swift passage of Bill C-284, An Act to establish a national strategy for eye care.
Have your friends, family, staff and patients sign the petition encouraging the federal government take action now. Simply print off multiple copies and encourage those in your network to sign the Petition. Download & Print the Petition!
Once a minimum of 25 signatures have been collected, please mail the paper petitions to CAO.
Canadian Association of Optometrists 234 Argyle Ave. Ottawa, ON K2P 1B9
What Is Bill C-284?
In June 2022, the Honorable MP Judy Sgro (Humber River – Black Creek) introduced Bill C-284: An Act to establish a national strategy for eye care. The bill aims to improve eye care and invest in vision research to address preventable blindness.
As optometrists, your voice is important. Send a pre-written email to your MP urging them to support a comprehensive National Eye Care Strategy and pass swiftly Bill C-284. It takes just one minute to send an email. Help us prioritize eye care in Canada, and to ensure healthy eyes and clear vision for all Canadians.
Please join our call to action and help ensure this vision becomes a reality. Send an email to your MP today.
Kirk & Kirk has released a new series of podcasts called The Eyes Have It.
Co-founder Jason Kirk meets luminaries from the worlds of sport, music, film and fashion in a series of intimate discussions that not only reveal their relationships with eyewear but also broach fascinating and, often, personal subjects.
In the first episode released September 13 on Apple and Spotify, actor Kirsten Vangsness, otherwise known as Garcia in Criminal Minds, discusses her early forays into acting and the obstacles placed in her way as a young aspiring talent.
Host, Jason Kirk, sought to produce some unusual content. “When preparing for each episode, I read previous interviews and listened to other podcasts that my guests had done. I found myself seeking out topics that they had not previously discussed, and the result was amazing, often touching and emotional conversations, as they gave generously of themselves”.
Ex-BBC presenter, Nick Coffer, of Boutique Broadcast has produced the podcasts which will be released fortnightly at kirkandkirk.com.
Marchon Eyewear and Linda Farrow, the iconic luxury London-based eyewear brand announced that they have entered into a long-term exclusive agreement for the distribution of Linda Farrow sun and optical eyewear throughout North America, including Canada and The Cayman Islands.
The Linda Farrow product offering complements Marchon’s extensive brand portfolio by offering a unique, fashion-forward line of luxury frames designed with superior craftsmanship, ultra-fine details, and uncompromised quality. The brand is known for its collaborations with many of the world’s most acclaimed designers and is well known and loved by celebrities and influencers such as Margot Robbie, Beyonce, Rihanna and Hailey Bieber.
Sun and optical frames are conceived in London and meticulously handcrafted by master engineers in Japan, using the finest and premium materials to bring the designs to life.
This agreement leverages the unique scale and expertise of Marchon Eyewear’s U.S. distribution network.
“We are thrilled to partner with Linda Farrow, a unique brand with impeccable quality and luxurious style,” said Gabriele Bonapersona, Chief Brand Officer, Marchon Eyewear, Inc. “By adding Linda Farrow to our distribution network, we are growing our luxury pillar of brands in our portfolio and confident this will add continued success for the brand’s future.”
“We are very much looking forward to working with Marchon Eyewear and are excited to see where the partnership takes us as a business,” said Simon Jablon, CEO and Creative Director of Linda Farrow.
During Vision Expo West (VEW) 2023, Marchon Eyewear will be showing Linda Farrow’s line by appointment at The Venetian Luxury Suites in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 28th – 30th.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Darin Nathan (dnathan@marchon.com). Marchon Eyewear’s other brands can be viewed during VEW at the VSP Vision booth #P19087.
Myopia has become a growing concern worldwide. The Myopia Summit is poised to drive the conversation forward by engaging speakers to highlight the research, clinical insights, technological advancements, and practice management methods to revolutionize myopia management strategies across Canada.
This event will take place on April 20-21, 2024, at the Sheraton Suites Calgary, Eau Claire, bringing together optometrists and eye care professionals from across Canada who are committed to addressing myopia through the latest research, emerging trends, and best practices.
Early bird registration for Myopia Summit will begin on October 30, 2023. Sign up for news and updates at myopiasummit.ca.
Event Highlights
The Myopia Summit will feature educational sessions with prominent industry leaders. By attending this event, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded professionals to share and learn together and gain unique insights into cutting-edge treatments, innovative technologies, and approaches to further their expertise in the field of myopia.
Presenting Sponsors
Sponsors of this event are Axis Medical, CooperVision, and EssilorLuxottica, all global leaders in myopia management. These partnerships highlight the collaborative spirit of this event.
The Myopia Summit is organized by a group of individuals who believe in the advancement of myopia strategies. Their vision is to focus on addressing challenges posed by the prevalence of myopia in patients across the country, through learning, networking and collaboration.
Stay updated on event news and announcements by following the Myopia Summit on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Powered by Eye Care Edge – Where Innovation Meets Vision Care
IMAGINEM Magazine to Launch ‘Flaunt The Frame’ Fashion Series at Vision Expo East 2024
IMAGINEM Magazine, a beacon of creativity and originality in the eyewear industry, has announced the launch of an avant-garde eyewear fashion show series titled “Flaunt The Frame”. Scheduled to debut at the Vision Expo East in March 2024, this series will be a vital addition to the show, promising to present independent eyewear collections in a never-seen-before format.
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Innovation
The “Flaunt The Frame” series is envisioned as a celebration of the craftsmanship and unique artistry that is often seen in the realm of independent eyewear. Focusing exclusively on eyewear, it intends to offer an unfiltered view of the latest industry trends through a series of five mini-shows, each embodying different themes that resonate with the currents of the independent eyewear industry.
Shan Khan
Shan Khan, an optician and IMAGINEM Ambassador, encapsulates the essence of the event as, “Flaunt The Frame is more than an event; it’s a dynamic tribute to the craftsmanship and originality of independent eyewear. As an optician and devoted supporter of independent eyewear, I’m thrilled to be part of a show that spotlights frames as true works of art where each frame becomes a canvas for innovation and self-expression.”
Fran Pennella, the Event Vice President for Vision Expos, echoes the sentiment, “We are looking forward to this new, dynamic and sought-after special event addition to Vision Expo East. The ‘Flaunt The Frame’ fashion show series promises to bring a fresh wave of excitement and value to both show attendees and exhibitors alike.”
Rachel Hill
Playing a pivotal role in the events is the Master of Ceremonies, Rachel Hill, who is renowned as a passionate advocate for independent eyewear and is a self-confessed “Eyewear Fashionista”.
Rachel, as an optician and independent optical owner, brings her perspective to guide the runway proceedings.
Her keen insight and enthusiasm are anticipated to add a rich layer of excitement and depth to the “Flaunt The Frame” eyewear fashion show series.
An Unprecedented Showcase on “The Bridge”
The show series is poised to redefine how eyewear trends are perceived, turning each frame into a canvas for innovation and self-expression. The “Bridge” at Vision Expo’s main stage, positioned at the heart of the exhibit floor, will serve as the platform for this exclusive showcase. Exhibitors have the flexibility to tailor their involvement to align with their communication goals and budget considerations, promising enhanced brand visibility throughout the event.
Upcoming Details and Media Inquiries: Further details about participation and show schedules are expected to be released in the coming months. To keep up with updates or for media inquiries, please contact:
In Episode 7 of Eye on the Industry, Kevin Wilhelm discusses mindset, marketing, coaching, and the acquisition of Cleinman Performance Partners—revealing a new growth model for independent optometry practices.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists has appointed Joelle Walker as its new CEO, effective January 2026, succeeding François Couillard after more than 40 years of leadership.
The World Council of Optometry and Alcon have released a new video featuring eye care professionals from around the world sharing how they use the Dry Eye Wheel to support dry eye diagnosis, education, and management.
Silhouette unveils SPX Illusion 2025, featuring two new lightweight shapes— including a striking geometric design—offered in five trend-forward colors like Canary Green Havana and Smokey Blossom. A refined, featherlight way to express personal style with elegance.
EssilorLuxottica will acquire Signifeye, adding 15 Belgian clinics to its growing ophthalmology network and strengthening its integrated medical eye-care strategy.
In Episode 7 of Eye on the Industry, Kevin Wilhelm discusses mindset, marketing, coaching, and the acquisition of Cleinman Performance Partners—revealing a new growth model for independent optometry practices.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists has appointed Joelle Walker as its new CEO, effective January 2026, succeeding François Couillard after more than 40 years of leadership.
The World Council of Optometry and Alcon have released a new video featuring eye care professionals from around the world sharing how they use the Dry Eye Wheel to support dry eye diagnosis, education, and management.
Silhouette unveils SPX Illusion 2025, featuring two new lightweight shapes— including a striking geometric design—offered in five trend-forward colors like Canary Green Havana and Smokey Blossom. A refined, featherlight way to express personal style with elegance.
EssilorLuxottica will acquire Signifeye, adding 15 Belgian clinics to its growing ophthalmology network and strengthening its integrated medical eye-care strategy.
In Episode 7 of Eye on the Industry, Kevin Wilhelm discusses mindset, marketing, coaching, and the acquisition of Cleinman Performance Partners—revealing a new growth model for independent optometry practices.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists has appointed Joelle Walker as its new CEO, effective January 2026, succeeding François Couillard after more than 40 years of leadership.
The World Council of Optometry and Alcon have released a new video featuring eye care professionals from around the world sharing how they use the Dry Eye Wheel to support dry eye diagnosis, education, and management.
Silhouette unveils SPX Illusion 2025, featuring two new lightweight shapes— including a striking geometric design—offered in five trend-forward colors like Canary Green Havana and Smokey Blossom. A refined, featherlight way to express personal style with elegance.
EssilorLuxottica will acquire Signifeye, adding 15 Belgian clinics to its growing ophthalmology network and strengthening its integrated medical eye-care strategy.
In Episode 7 of Eye on the Industry, Kevin Wilhelm discusses mindset, marketing, coaching, and the acquisition of Cleinman Performance Partners—revealing a new growth model for independent optometry practices.
The Canadian Association of Optometrists has appointed Joelle Walker as its new CEO, effective January 2026, succeeding François Couillard after more than 40 years of leadership.
The World Council of Optometry and Alcon have released a new video featuring eye care professionals from around the world sharing how they use the Dry Eye Wheel to support dry eye diagnosis, education, and management.
Silhouette unveils SPX Illusion 2025, featuring two new lightweight shapes— including a striking geometric design—offered in five trend-forward colors like Canary Green Havana and Smokey Blossom. A refined, featherlight way to express personal style with elegance.
EssilorLuxottica will acquire Signifeye, adding 15 Belgian clinics to its growing ophthalmology network and strengthening its integrated medical eye-care strategy.
