Couldn't help noticing the "3,999" that popped up when I posted my last post... So, this is 4,000 on the "new" forum- which brings me to my real subject.
How long have y'all been on OptiBoard, how did you find it, and how has it contributed to your career/life?
Personally, it was back in 1996 or so (I think I had over 1,000 posts on the old format- this one is much better!), and my very first post inquired about the theoretical possibility of a clear polarizing filter (turns out it is possible- they have them for laser applications- but its not feasible for ophthalmic devices- drat!). I found Optiboard while doing a search for the American Board of Opticianry's website.
Career-wise, my move from my home state of Pennsylvania to Florida was- in part- due to a practice consultant contacting me after noticing some postings I had made on Optiboard (I've yet to LOSE a job due to OptiBoard- I guess time will tell... ;^).
I've met (and had the priviledge to personally meet) numerous Optiboarders who I am extremely proud & fortunate to know, including obviously Steve and the lovely Marlena (I hope I've remembered Mrs. Machol's name correctly- I'm horrid with names and its been a couple years now). In fact, I believe one of her few postings on our board was in response to one of my posts (as I recall, she pretty much thoroughly took apart the logic of some of my political beliefs- amazingly, it was a fun experience!).
Since joining Essilor four years ago (well in two days it will be four years), my attendance has become spotty (travel and a family will do that to you), but this is still- in my opinion- one of the finest examples of what the internet can truly be- a community of people sharing their passions/occupation/and lives! (I love seeing posts like the current ones on our kids, our pets, who's hot on the silver screen, etc.- being away from home a lot, I don't know a lot of people "in person," but I feel I've gotten to know a lot of you on-line...)
Anyway, enough sap- I guess I'm just hoping there will be an OptiBoard years down the road when I get to post 8,000! Thanks for the memories, everyone- and thanks for OptiBoard, Steve!
PS- and for those of you who haven't had the good fortune to be around long enough to remember a gentleman named Darris, I'll sign off using his style...
Pete "did you ever stop to think... and then forget to start again?!?" Hanlin
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