Business

Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008

Biz Buzz: Dioptics ousts longtime president

CEO had led eyeglass manufacturer for more than a decade

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The longtime president and chief executive officer of Dioptics Medical Products — a San Luis Obispo-based business that designs, manufactures and distributes sunglasses, reading glasses and other eyecare products—no longer works for the company.

Henry Lane had been at the helm of Dioptics since February 1996, but as of last Wednesday, a decision was made to make a leadership change, Chief Financial Officer Janice Langley said.

Langley said she could not provide information about the circumstances surrounding Lane’s departure, saying only that the company is looking for a successor. “We have a succession plan, and we hope to have the opportunity to introduce the new CEO in the next 30 to 60 days,’’ said Langley, adding that employees have been notified.

Dioptics, which serves national and global markets with products distributed in more than 60 countries, was founded in 1979. It has operated in San Luis Obispo since 1989 and now employs about 90 people.

—Julie Lynem

Realtors raise money

The Pismo Coast Association of Realtors and the Santa Maria Association of Realtors are organizing “Bowling the Way Home” to raise funds for the Housing Affordability Fund.

The event, featuring a “1950s dress-up theme,” is set for 3 to 5 p. m. on Oct. 4. Registration begins at 2:30 p. m. This fundraiser will be held at Rancho Bowl, 128 Donovan Road in Santa Maria. The cost is $50 per bowler and includes shoe use, two games, a raffle ticket for prizes and a goodie bag to take home. All ages are welcome. For more information, call the Pismo Coast Association of Realtors at 489-7303 by Sept. 26.

—Tonya Strickland