FAIRFAX, Va.—The Optical Laboratories Association (OLA) released its list of nominees for the 2008 Awards of Excellence, with final winners scheduled to be announced at the OLA 2008 in Nashville, Tenn., this November.

Nominees were named in the following categories: Dress Frames, Safety Frames, Specialty Frames, Children’s Frames, Lens Design, Lens Materials and Treatments, Marketing, Surfacing Equipment, Surfacing Material & Tools, Finishing Equipment, Finishing Material & Tools, Lens Treatment Equipment, and Accessory Products.

For a complete list of the OLA Awards of Excellence nominees, go to  VisionMonday.com

“These products and companies have been selected by OLA members to be considered for an award. This alone is high praise for each of these products,” said Barney Dougher, OLA President. “OLA believes it is important to recognize the ophthalmic industry suppliers who have made an outstanding contribution to the laboratory community and allied professions. An OLA Award of Excellence is the most prestigious award our industry offers,” said Dougher.

This begins the “campaign” phase of the program, where each final nominee company can “lobby” their customers for their votes, according to an announcement from the OLA. The award process will enter the voting stage in the fall. Ultimately, OLA members determine the award winners. In late September, every OLA lab member will be sent a ballot, and each company has one vote to cast for their choice. Final winners will be announced at the President’s Banquet on Nov. 8 at The OLA 2008 in Nashville, Tenn.