Discover AYA Optical’s Aurora, the pinnacle of contemporary eyewear elegance. This new optical style features an ultra-slim acetate rim and a flattering hexagonal shape, adding sophistication to any ensemble. Designed with an exquisite otter motif by Ojibwe artist Donald Chretien, Aurora is available in baby blue and crystal peach, embodying resilience and joy.
We believe that art is transformative, and that eyewear can be the canvas to share stories and art from around the world. AYA Eyewear was first launched in 2009 in collaboration with renowned First Nations Artist Corrine Hunt and has continued to flourish and grow every year.
We are committed to the details and realize that beautiful design takes time, precision, and attention, so we don’t cut corners. We stand by our product. We treat our artists as our partners and make sure that their stories and art are always shared in the most heartfelt authentic way.
We take pride in our service and seek opportunities to give back to the communities we serve and the artist’s charities of choice.
AYA Eyewear is truly a brand that stands out from the crowd and is loved by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.
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CNIB Lake Joe, in collaboration with Canadian Blind Hockey, wrapped up an inspiring Camp Abilities Blind Hockey program. From July 1-6, 2024, youth ages 8-18 who are blind or have vision loss gathered at the camp to learn and play the sport of Blind Hockey, focusing on skill development and cultivating a love for the game.
The highlight of the week was the visit from Mark DeMontis, founder of Canadian Blind Hockey and the 2024 recipient of the NHL’s Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award. DeMontis joined the camp on July 3 and 4, sharing his journey and inspiring the young athletes. He spoke about the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award, symbolizing what can be achieved through dedication and community support.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in activities designed to enhance their hockey skills and build confidence. On-ice sessions were held at Humphrey Arena in Parry Sound, ON, while off-ice activities took place at CNIB Lake Joe in MacTier, ON. Special ball hockey sessions, featuring National Team players as mentors, added excitement and learning opportunities.
Eugene Chong, General Manager of CNIB Lake Joe, expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support from Canadian Blind Hockey and the impact of the Camp Abilities Blind Hockey program. “Every child deserves the chance to experience the thrill of playing sports,” Chong stated. “This program not only teaches valuable skills but also instills confidence and fosters a sense of community among participants.”
Introduced at CNIB Lake Joe in 2022, the Camp Abilities Blind Hockey program has grown significantly, attracting more participants each year. The program’s success is due to the collaboration between CNIB and Canadian Blind Hockey, with dedicated staff and volunteers working together to create a supportive and accessible environment for all participants.
Mark DeMontis highlights the remarkable journey of camp participants, many of whom are experiencing Blind Hockey for the first time. “Some have never held a hockey stick before, yet they’re engaged, asking questions, and learning the game,” he shares. “The future of Blind Hockey hinges on the passion and determination of these youth. Supporting their development is my daily motivation. Winning the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award is a testament to our community’s dedication to advancing Blind Hockey as a Paralympic sport.”
The event concluded with a celebration of the participants’ achievements, highlighting the skills they developed and the friendships they formed. The Camp Abilities Blind Hockey program continues to pave the way for more inclusive sporting opportunities for youth with vision loss across Canada.
Opticians’ Educational Trip Highlights Innovation and Hospitality
by Shan Khan
In the evolving field of eyecare, continuous learning is vital. I recently joined 18 Canadian opticians on an educational trip to Alcon’s headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. Hosted by Alcon, the visit combined advanced learning and Texan hospitality.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Stacey Gavin, Director of Education and Professional Affaires, Priya Malik-Patel, Director of Marketing, and their team. Their hospitality set the tone for a week of intensive learning and camaraderie.
Focus on Multifocal Contact Lenses
The trip’s primary focus was on multifocal (MF) contact lenses, a growing area in optometry with significant potential for improving patient care and practice revenue. Leading the sessions were Dr. Shaun Moore from Ontario and Dr. Jessica Crooker from Massachusetts, both experts in the field. Dr. Moore provided a structured approach to fitting MF lenses, simplifying a complex process. Dr. Crooker emphasized clear communication with patients and managing their expectations, crucial for successful MF lens fittings.
Dr. Moore and Dr. Crooker highlighted how mastering MF lens fitting enhances patient satisfaction and drives practice growth. Offering solutions for presbyopic patients who want to avoid reading glasses can attract a broader client base and strengthen relationships with existing patients. Satisfied patients are likely to refer friends and family, aiding organic practice growth.
Hands-On Workshops and Demonstrations
A highlight of the trip was the live workshops, offering hands-on experience in fitting MF lenses. We learned effective chair time management and techniques for achieving optimal visual acuity. Troubleshooting and adjusting lens fits were also covered, providing valuable skills for our practices.
An unforgettable part of the trip was observing live cataract surgery demonstrations using pig eyes. Witnessing advanced surgical techniques up close deepened our appreciation for the precision required in eye surgeries.
Texas Hospitality
Beyond the learning, the trip was enriched by Texan hospitality. Stacey, Priya, and their team ensured our comfort, organizing everything with a personal touch. From accommodations to delicious local cuisine, their efforts made the experience memorable.
The trip to Alcon headquarters was not just about knowledge acquisition; it was about building professional and personal connections. It reinforced the idea that learning in the medical field never stops. The skills and insights gained in Fort Worth will enhance our practices and benefit our patients. Thanks to Alcon’s hospitality, we left Texas with new knowledge, fond memories, and renewed passion for our profession.
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ClearVision Optical is launching a new brand, Uncommon, for men who are confident in their purposeful approach to fashion. The attainably priced collection offers innovative designs, extraordinary attention to detail, and premium materials such as high-grade acetate, titanium, beta titanium, and stainless steel.
Introducing Uncommon Eyewear
Uncommon is an option for the men who choose the timeless over the temporary and the authentic over the generic, and who thoughtfully curate the various aspects of their lives. These men are intentional in selecting pieces in their wardrobe and their accessories, and in expressing themselves in understated yet unique ways.
“Our new collection fills a crucial gap in the market by catering to men aged 35 to 55 and beyond who seek fashion-forward eyewear distinct from the athleisure trend. We’ve designed this collection for men who appreciate detailed craftsmanship and are not swayed by brand names, but by details and individuality. We surveyed hundreds of eyecare professionals, and found a desire for larger frame sizes, premium materials, and attainable pricing. All are thoughtfully incorporated into this collection. When a man picks up one of our frames, he’ll immediately notice the superior finish, unique colors, and distinct character that make these frames truly Uncommon.”
David Friedfeld, co-owner and president, ClearVision Optical
Innovative Intent Meets Discoverable Details
From the ways neutral colors are made rich and vibrant with premium acetate to the unique designs of the hinges—some created exclusively for this collection—Uncommon took a purposeful approach to the subtle details that make the brand truly one-of-a-kind.
Even where shapes range from thicker modern fashion styles to retro-inspired fronts, the designs are unified in the ways they subtly incorporate elements. Dual Line embellishments, exclusive hinges, engraved Windsor rims, wood grain patterns—all these features and more speak to the thoughtful approach to the collection. One detail is found on every frame: A touch of textured olive colour inside the temple tips.
Uncommon collection- Classic
Larger Fitting Sizes Make Room for Every Fashionable Man
In 2023, ClearVision surveyed eyecare professionals to better understand how men buy eyewear and ensure that the company would serve the needs of both ECPs and their patients with the Uncommon collection. The data carried a strong message: Men want eyewear that fits comfortably and they’re having trouble finding it.
Nearly half of the survey respondents said larger sizes are the top need in men’s eyewear. Additionally, comfort and fit were rated as the two top factors influencing men’s buying decisions.
In addition to the regular XL Fit sizing found across ClearVision’s brand portfolio, Uncommon features an expanded XL selection with options up to an eye size of 62, and temple lengths up to 160 mm. This extended range ensures that, for every man looking to depart the ordinary, size isn’t a barrier.
Uncommon collection- Retro
Key Styles in the Uncommon Collection
The Uncommon collection features three design stories—Retro-Inspired, Classic, and Fashion—as well as an expanded size range for XL frames, up to size 62, that borrow from the Classic and Fashion design languages. Across all stories, the eyewear includes discoverable details, innovative components, and premium materials, for a distinct look and hand feel.
Independent eyewear brand Article One and performance-running brand Ciele Athletics debut the sophomore edition of the Article One x Ciele GTGlass performance sunglasses. Earning several accolades for technical design, the brands collaborated again with the GT Glass 2.0, boasting a refreshed vintage shape, performance material updates, and new colourways.
Established in 1997, we’re a design house first, an innovator with a proven record of setting industry standards, of working with top tier manufacturers and suppliers to create new eyewear designs that stay ahead of the trends.
Our releases are frequent, distinct, and tell a consistent story without overlapping existing styles across Brands. Each one of our Brands tells a unique story that identify and serve a captive audience. Think durable, handcrafted frames designed to appeal to a diverse range of lifestyles so your clients can connect with the perfect piece instead of feeling shoehorned into a more generalized look.
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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.
CORE has published issue 87 of Contact Lens Update, summarizing key findings from the TFOS DEWS III dry eye reports. Expert-authored content and downloadable PDFs provide clinicians with practical guidance on diagnosis, management, and evolving best 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.
CORE has published issue 87 of Contact Lens Update, summarizing key findings from the TFOS DEWS III dry eye reports. Expert-authored content and downloadable PDFs provide clinicians with practical guidance on diagnosis, management, and evolving best 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.
CORE has published issue 87 of Contact Lens Update, summarizing key findings from the TFOS DEWS III dry eye reports. Expert-authored content and downloadable PDFs provide clinicians with practical guidance on diagnosis, management, and evolving best 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.
CORE has published issue 87 of Contact Lens Update, summarizing key findings from the TFOS DEWS III dry eye reports. Expert-authored content and downloadable PDFs provide clinicians with practical guidance on diagnosis, management, and evolving best practices.
