I well remember nearly getting my head handed to me for writing up a short, positively toned review for the format and function of Frames Data as a retail dispenser’s perfect go-to when searching for eyewear. I had no clue it was considered competition to editorial efforts at 20/20. The scenario changed when Jobson actually acquired Frames Data a few years later, and I’m thrilled to note we play nice as a happy family, and in fact, there’s 50 years of Frames Data neatly sorted right outside my current office space. So with a fond Happy Anniversary salutation, it’s an honor printing the first page ever of the directory from the Summer of 1968. Powerful noting as well that the depicted Art-Craft vendor is still a viable listing in the current issue.
–James J. Spina
On another “anniversary” note, I became editor-in-chief of 20/20 twenty years ago introducing myself with a column titled “Please Allow Me to Introduce Myself…” And here’s a quote from THAT July column: “20/20 ! The definitive word when it comes to every optical aspect—be it retailing, lenses, frames, fashion, tech, education—you name it, and this magazine frames it in a style that scores with unrivaled depth and authority.” I’m still feeling it!
–JJS
