SCENE + HEARD: Shows Optical Lab Division Meeting to Kick Off on Oct. 2 By Staff Monday, September 23, 2013 9:45 AM LAS VEGAS—The annual Optical Lab Division meeting at International Vision Expo West will offer a customized experience and promises to be a complete lab event with each component, from education to exclusive receptions, events and exhibits, designed to help labs grow and succeed. Below, are just a few reasons why optical lab professionals should plan on attending. Networking: The three-day meeting provides you with access to hundreds of like-minded lab professionals and nearly 14,000 eyecare providers attending International Vision Expo West. Education: Created with lab operators in mind, the 2013 program features thought leaders, specialized experts and panelists tackling five trending industry topics of importance to labs: Making Eyewear to the Standard, Marketing Essentials for Optical Laboratories, The Influences of ECP Buying Groups on Optometrists’ Lab Selection, Legal and Regulatory Update for Labs and Looking at Your Customers’ Profitability. Special Events: Join more than 300 of your peers in celebrating the rich heritage of this strong and diverse industry at our 14th Annual Optical Pioneers Hall of Fame banquet— featuring the Directors’ Choice Award recipient and Hall of Fame Honorees. Held on Wednesday, October 2 from 6:30-9:30 p.m., the event will recognize the contributions of eight industry veterans. *Tickets are free for members of The Vision Council. Exhibits: The Optical Lab Division meeting is combined with the continuing education and expansive exhibits at International Vision Expo West— the largest ophthalmic event in the Americas. Boasting more than 5,000 brands, 475 exhibitors and 190,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, the meeting provides the perfect setting to test drive equipment before implementing new ideas and technologies into your business. Free Registration: Members of The Vision Council can attend the Optical Lab Division meeting for free. Register now and receive complimentary access to all breakfasts, lunches, educational programming and special events— including the 14th Annual Optical Pioneers Hall of Fame Banquet. To register and reserve your complimentary Hall of Fame ticket, go to www.cvent.com/d/lcqyn1/4W. For more information about the Optical Lab Division meeting, visit thevisioncouncil.org/labmeeting.