NEW YORK--Last month, the UJA-Federation of New York’s optical division honored Al Bernstein, president of Nationwide Vision Laser and Eye Centers at its annual dinner here. In addition, the group recognized the 20th anniversary of the Ben Robinson Lifetime Service Award with a special presentation to the Robinson family.

Bernstein, a 14-year optical-industry veteran, joined Nationwide in 1998 and has been instrumental in its growth and its expansion from optometric offices into refractive surgery and other areas of eyecare. He was previously senior vice president of Pearle Vision.

Benjamin Robinson founded B. Robinson Optical in 1926, starting his career as a local frame distributor. After Israel declared its independence, Robinson became involved with UJA and helped start the optical division.

In the 1950’s, Robinson’s children Mel and Marsha joined the business. Mel’s children Cliff and Lori later came on board and helped expand B. Robinson to a worldwide distributor of licensed and proprietary brands. Twenty years ago, the optical division created the Ben Robinson Lifetime Achievement Award for service to the optical industry.

UJA honoree Al Bernstein (c) of Arizona’s Nationwide Vision is congratulated by Nationwide owners Neal Weinstein, OD (l), and Mark Hechtman, OD. On hand for a special presentation marking the 20th anniversary of the UJA’s Ben Robinson Lifetime Service Award were (l to r) Cliff, Mel and Lori Robinson of B. Robinson Optical.
Joe Carlomusto of Davis Vision (l), chats with Viva’s Mitch Barkley (c) and Larry Gabel of Davis Vision at the UJA reception. Catching up are (l to r) Jim McGrann of Marchon, OfficeMate’s Lorie Lippiatt, OD, Michael Block of Block Vision and Ed Buffington of OfficeMate.
Al Berg (l) and Larry Roth (r) of Marchon visit with Viva founder Harvey Ross.