The winds of change have certainly been blowing here at Jobson recently.

This January issue of 20/20 marks the first time in almost 30 years where the name James Spina is not in the masthead. James was an amazing friend and mentor to me, and his contributions to our industry are monumental. We wish him and his family a happy and healthy retirement. I wrote this once before, but I believe it bears repeating: When I was named Publisher over a year ago, the first note I received from James was a single word: UPWARD. I vowed to him then and want to reiterate again, that is exactly where we intend to go.

January 2024 marks the first issue of our year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of 20/20 magazine, and I could not be more excited to get started. Beginning with January and in every issue this year, our readers can find a special section dedicated to looking back at some fantastic content focused on 20/20’s importance in the establishment and growth of specific industry categories.

Additionally, we are excited to host our readers at a very special 20/20 brand experience that will be appearing on the show floors at both Vision Expo East and Vision Expo West in 2024. This installation will provide a visual representation of our industry over the past 50 years, as seen through the lens of 20/20 (apologies for the pun). Lastly, I am happy to share that we will have a 50th anniversary special edition in August that will be dedicated to looking back at our most important and memorable content from the past 50 years.

Before he left, James Spina and I talked a lot about the importance of the 50th anniversary of 20/20 and what it means to the optical industry. One of the best pieces of advice he gave me was to remember to continue looking forward this year and not spend all our energy looking back at what 20/20 has already done. This January issue is filled with beautiful visuals and interesting new content on what is happening right now in our industry. My vow to James Spina and to you is that we will continue onward and UPWARD.

• James DeMatteis
Group Publisher, 20/20 and Vision Monday
[email protected]