Latest news with #Soper
Time Business News
20-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Do Sunglasses Replace Eye Tests? Expert Advice
Sunglasses are more than just a stylish accessory; they protect your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. With growing awareness of UV damage and the increasing popularity of polarised lenses, many people now wear sunglasses daily. However, a common question arises: Does wearing sunglasses regularly reduce the need for eye tests? The short answer is no. While sunglasses play a vital role in eye protection, they do not replace the need for a routine eye test. Eye tests serve an entirely different purpose that sunglasses alone cannot fulfil. They detect vision changes, underlying health conditions, and early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration. Sunglasses protect your eyes from sun damage, especially those with 100% UVA and UVB protection. UV rays can harm the cornea, lens, and even the retina, contributing to eye conditions such as: Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye) Cataracts Macular degeneration Pterygium (a growth on the eye's surface) Wearieye's Soper sunglasses help prevent these issues by acting as a barrier between your eyes and direct sunlight. Polarised lenses can also reduce glare, improving visibility and comfort, especially when driving or outdoors. However, this protection does not extend to internal eye health or provide a clear picture of your overall vision status. Routine eye examinations are an essential part of preventive healthcare. Even if you have no noticeable vision problems, an eye test can uncover silent conditions that may progress without symptoms. Optometrists use advanced tools to evaluate eye pressure, peripheral vision, retinal health, and more. In fact, many systemic health issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even brain tumours, can show early signs in the eyes. These signs can go unnoticed without a professional exam until they become severe. This is why wearing high-quality sunglasses should not replace your regular eye care routine. For most adults, it's recommended to have an eye test at least every two years. However, if you: Have a family history of eye disease Wear prescription lenses Are over 60 Experience symptoms like headaches or blurred vision You may need more frequent testing. Children and teens should also be checked regularly to ensure their vision is developing correctly. Wearing sunglasses doesn't alter this, and even with daily UV protection, eye health still requires internal assessments that only an optometrist can provide. At Optikal Opticians, we offer comprehensive eye exams using cutting-edge diagnostic technology. Our highly experienced optometrists conduct in-depth assessments, including retinal imaging and visual field testing, to monitor every aspect of your eye health. We also provide a premium selection of sunglasses that combine fashion with complete UV protection, helping you care for your eyes inside and out. Whether you're looking for prescription shades or everyday sun protection, we have tailored options to suit your lifestyle. While some smart eyewear and lenses may offer features like blue light filtering or digital strain reduction, they still cannot detect or diagnose any eye conditions. That requires specialised tools and the clinical expertise of an optometrist. Think of it this way: just as wearing sunscreen doesn't mean you don't need a skin check, wearing sunglasses doesn't eliminate the need for eye exams. Sunglasses are key to keeping your eyes healthy, especially in bright or reflective environments. But they should not give you a false sense of security regarding overall eye health. Regular eye tests are irreplaceable and remain the best way to detect early warning signs of disease and manage your long-term vision. Combining protective eyewear with scheduled exams is the most effective way to safeguard your sight. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Irish Sun
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
BBC presenter & film producer left six-figure sum for his wife after death aged 95
A FORMER BBC presenter and film producer left a six-figure sum for his wife following his death last year, aged 95. Tony Soper, the former BBC wildlife presenter, died in September 2024 and left a £628k fortune to his family. 4 Wildlife presenter Tony Soper died last year, aged 95 Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd 4 He left a £628k fortune to his family following his death Credit: Getty 4 Tony Soper Date: 19/06/69 Photo: Salmon Neg No: W6104 Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd Soper left instructions in his will for his estate to pass to his wife Hilary, who he had lived with in a home in Slapton, Devon. He was born in Southampton in 1929 and brought up in Plymouth. It was there that he began his long career at the BBC as a trainee engineer in 1947 before progressing onto radio and producing. His TV break came when he filled in as unofficial assistant floor manager for Wild Geese in Winter in 1954. Read more Showbiz news And his debut as a presenter was on Animal Magic with Johnny Morris in the 1960s. He was the co-founder of the BBC's Natural History Unit which began in 1957 in Bristol and has produced countless wildlife programmes around the globe. The unit has become world renowned and produced the Planet Earth series narrated by another wildlife icon, Sir David Attenborough. According to his , he started working as a freelancer in 1963 so he could live closer to the sea in Devon. Most read in Showbiz As well as a wildlife camera operator, Soper was also a film producer and went on to present a number of TV shows. His skill in front of the camera earned him the nickname 'One-take Tony'. BBC presenter Tony Soper introduces Birdwatch He presented Birdwatch, Birdspot, Discovering Birds, Discovering Animals, Beside the Sea, Wildtrack and Nature. Soper later pursued a career in leading wildlife cruises to the He also penned a string of books about wildlife in the UK and further afield. Following his sad passing last September, former colleagues flocked to social media to Lorraine Kelly said at the time: "On one of my very first shows presenting on TVam, this wonderful kind man came on to talk about his book on owls. "He was a joy and a delight." Wildlife presenter Stephen Moss said: "Very sad news - Tony Soper was a huge influence on generations of birders and broadcasters. "I had the huge privilege of working with Tony and getting to know him. "The last person who was there at the start of the BBC Natural History Unit - a lovely man." Soper is survived by his wife Hilary, his two sons Tim and Jack and his five grandchildren. 4 Soper began his career at the BBC as a trainee engineer in 1947 Credit: Collect
Scottish Sun
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
BBC presenter & film producer left six-figure sum for his wife after death aged 95
The wildlife icon passed away in September 2024 STAR'S ESTATE BBC presenter & film producer left six-figure sum for his wife after death aged 95 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A FORMER BBC presenter and film producer left a six-figure sum for his wife following his death last year, aged 95. Tony Soper, the former BBC wildlife presenter, died in September 2024 and left a £628k fortune to his family. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 4 Wildlife presenter Tony Soper died last year, aged 95 Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd 4 He left a £628k fortune to his family following his death Credit: Getty 4 Tony Soper Date: 19/06/69 Photo: Salmon Neg No: W6104 Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd Soper left instructions in his will for his estate to pass to his wife Hilary, who he had lived with in a home in Slapton, Devon. He was born in Southampton in 1929 and brought up in Plymouth. It was there that he began his long career at the BBC as a trainee engineer in 1947 before progressing onto radio and producing. His TV break came when he filled in as unofficial assistant floor manager for Wild Geese in Winter in 1954. And his debut as a presenter was on Animal Magic with Johnny Morris in the 1960s. He was the co-founder of the BBC's Natural History Unit which began in 1957 in Bristol and has produced countless wildlife programmes around the globe. The unit has become world renowned and produced the Planet Earth series narrated by another wildlife icon, Sir David Attenborough. According to his website, he started working as a freelancer in 1963 so he could live closer to the sea in Devon. As well as a wildlife camera operator, Soper was also a film producer and went on to present a number of TV shows. His skill in front of the camera earned him the nickname 'One-take Tony'. BBC presenter Tony Soper introduces Birdwatch He presented Birdwatch, Birdspot, Discovering Birds, Discovering Animals, Beside the Sea, Wildtrack and Nature. Soper later pursued a career in leading wildlife cruises to the Arctic and Antartica. He also penned a string of books about wildlife in the UK and further afield. Following his sad passing last September, former colleagues flocked to social media to pay their tributes. Lorraine Kelly said at the time: "On one of my very first shows presenting on TVam, this wonderful kind man came on to talk about his book on owls. "He was a joy and a delight." Wildlife presenter Stephen Moss said: "Very sad news - Tony Soper was a huge influence on generations of birders and broadcasters. "I had the huge privilege of working with Tony and getting to know him. "The last person who was there at the start of the BBC Natural History Unit - a lovely man." Soper is survived by his wife Hilary, his two sons Tim and Jack and his five grandchildren.
Otago Daily Times
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Otago Daily Times
Invercargill losing long-serving councillors
Their decisions come at a time when the majority of current councillors are putting their hands up for another stint. Kett made up his mind three years ago that this would be his last and said that would not change. 'I'd always go out in person and talk to the people that called me, so I'll miss all that. 'I'll miss most of the councillors,' he added with a laugh. It had been a difficult 2024 for the councillor, who faced both the death of his wife and numerous health difficulties. Multiple knee operations late last year and two heart attacks under anaesthetic forced him to step aside from council duties while he recovered. Despite the setbacks, he was now feeling 'bloody good' and was sad to be leaving. 'With all my health issues since October, it's a wise decision." Soper's nine years at council ends a long political career. She spent time on the district health board and had two stints in Parliament as a Labour MP - first in 2005 and again from 2007 to 2008. Soper said she made the decision to finish up at council 'some time ago' and wanted to leave with dignity. 'Very early in my career I discovered you can help individuals - but if you want to make really lasting changes for large groups of the population, then get involved where the power actually is." Her highlights on council included fighting to keep the children's library in its current location, the council's credit rating, and supporting the appointment of mana whenua representatives. Mayor Nobby Clark's recent use of his casting vote to not update council's procurement policy in support of Palestine was a lowlight for the councillor. 'It was a definite low point. It was a very straightforward, principled decision for council to make.' Soper said she would likely do more travel with husband David once she had finished up. Who is standing again? Invercargill will be in for a new mayor with Nobby Clark repeatedly ruling out the possibility of a second term. The mayoral race includes four current councillors: Tom Campbell, Alex Crackett, Ria Bond and Ian Pottinger. Deputy mayor Campbell is all-in with his bid having ruled out running for council, while Crackett is also leaning in that direction while keeping her options open. She recently quit her job to focus on her campaign. Town crier Lynley McKerrow and TikTok enthusiast Tom Morton are also throwing their hats in the ring for mayoralty. Other councillors standing again include Grant Dermody, Trish Boyle, Steve Broad, Barry Stewart and Darren Ludlow. Allan Arnold could not be reached for comment. Nominations officially opened on Friday and candidates have until August 1 to put their name forward. Voting documents will be sent out in September ahead of election day on October 11. • LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
Calgary Herald
19-06-2025
- Business
- Calgary Herald
More than half of Canadian renters eager to buy a home: Royal LePage
Article content More than half of Canadian renters are eager to buy a home, and the conditions for doing so have improved as interest rates decline, supply increases and affordability improves in many markets across the country. Article content Still, many would-be buyers are holding out for interest rates and prices to drop further before jumping into the market. Article content Article content A recent Royal LePage survey conducted by Burson said that 54 per cent of renters plan to buy property in the future, 16 per cent are planning to do so in the next two years and 21 per cent plan to buy in the next two to five years. Article content Article content 'We continue to see that many tenants are motivated to get a foot on the property ladder. In Canada's least affordable cities, entry-level opportunities have improved significantly, with home prices off last year's peaks, incomes up and borrowing costs trending lower,' Phil Soper, chief executive of Royal LePage, said in the report. Article content Article content While 28 per cent of Canadians who currently rent said they considered buying a property before signing or renewing their current lease, there are a few things keeping them on the sidelines. Article content Asked what factors influenced their decision to keep renting (respondents could choose more than one answer), 29 per cent said they were waiting for interest rates to lower and 40 per cent said they're waiting for property prices to decline. Article content 'History suggests they may be disappointed,' Soper said. 'Over the past 75 years, Canadian home values have risen approximately five per cent annually, running consistently ahead of inflation. The window of opportunity may be narrower than it appears, and strategic buyers are beginning to move.' Article content Article content Of those who currently rent, 28 per cent said they are working towards buying a property and continuing to rent allows them to save up for a down payment. Article content Article content Even in a softening market, affordability remains a long-term challenge for renters. Rents have declined for eight consecutive months, but, according to the report, asking prices have risen by an average of 4.1 per cent annually over the past five years, outpacing wage growth. Article content Across Canada, 15 per cent of tenants said they spend more than 50 per cent of their net income on rental payments. Atlantic Canada had the highest number of respondents who spend more than half of their net income on rent, at 31 per cent, followed by British Columbia (23 per cent), Alberta (18 per cent) and Ontario (15 per cent). Article content But homeownership isn't a goal for everyone. Overall, 31 per cent of renters said they don't plan to buy a home. For many respondents, who could pick more than one answer, the decision is financially motivated.
