CONTACT LENSES TODAY

November 18, 2002

Contact Lenses Today® is edited by Dr. Joseph T. Barr and the staff of Contact Lens Spectrum. This week CLToday® reaches 9,055 readers in 74 countries.


OAA to Promote Ortho-K
The Orthokeratology Academy of America (OAA) is a recently formed corporation with non-profit status pending. Its goals include the encouragement of research and educational activities and to serve as a forum for the development and exchange of ideas and concepts regarding orthokeratology. The OAA has a cooperative arrangement with the International College of Orthokeratology that will allow it to set standards for its members and to set and apply fellowship requirements universally. For more information, or to apply for membership, which costs $200, visit http://usok.org.

Refractive Surgery Update
I recently recieved the following information from my local "ReVision" Advanced Laser Eye Center and thought that you would be interested. In its update, the Center mentions that a US Navy surgeon informed the Center that LASIK is not approved for aviation or for diving (Navy Seal) candidates. LASIK is approved for others who, at three months post-op, were no more than 8.00D pre-op, have 20/20 post-op BCVA and have no more than 0.50 change in sphere or cylinder in the most recent month before entry and have no visual symptoms related to surgery. PRK (EpiLASIK) is allowed for all categories of Navy and Marines with similar criteria.

Paragon Hits Significant Milestone
Paragon Vision Sciences announced that Joe Sicari, president and CEO of Paragon Vision Sciences, is officially over the hill. Upon reaching his 50th birthday, Joe was reported to be somewhat dazed and confused by the events, which were marked by conspicuous consumption of Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon. An anonymous company spokesperson confided that the Italian Stallion is experiencing mood swings and forgetfulness. When questioned, Kathy Shafer, vice president of Marketing, commented, " These problems are not uncommon in the elderly. It is the job of the management team to take the pressure off of Joe so that he can concentrate, period. At this critical juncture, we need to deal with the basics." The company refused to comment on rumors of Sicari's retirement, citing that they do not discriminate based on age.

Messages of encouragement during this difficult time can be directed to Joe Sicari at Paragon.

Editor's Commentary: CRT -- Corneal Refractive Therapy -- Vision
It's not often that people can show the kind of sincere gratitude and respect that some people in our industry show for certain industry leaders. Some leaders lead and some leaders follow. Some industry leaders couldn't tell you the difference between a sigmoid and a sphincter. One particular leader stands out. His vision and understanding of the science and the art of contact lenses and lexicology have caused those around him to express their deep appreciation of his efforts (or at least his age). Yes indeed, Joe Sicari, even at 50, he understands his landing zones, and most fortunately, he understands his wines. Happy Birthday, Joe. It's all down hill from here.

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