RAMSEY, MINN. (Sept. 30, 2008) – Vision-Ease Lens (VEL), a leading manufacturer of ophthalmic lenses, was recently named an established company finalist in the Green Award category for the 2008 Tekne Awards. Presented by the Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA) in partnership with Enterprise Minnesota and LifeScience Alley, the awards recognize Minnesota companies and individuals who have shown superior technology innovation and leadership.

 

Earlier this year, VEL announced it would be purchasing 100 percent renewable energy to power its Ramsey, Minn., facility, among other energy saving initiatives. The Green Award honors businesses that practice environmental awareness/responsibility and incorporate sustainability principles into their overall business model.

 

“Our recent sustainability initiative stems from our core operating principle to be a good corporate citizen – using our resources to provide a safe and healthy environment in the communities we touch,” said Doug Hepper, CEO, VEL. “Being a finalist for the Minnesota Tekne Awards is truly an honor, as it recognizes our contributions to our community and validates the importance of improving our environment through sustainable business practices.”

 

On Oct. 30, one recipient from a pool of three finalists will be named in 17 categories at the awards ceremony. Award categories recognize leaders and technology businesses that are emerging (with annual revenues under $50 million) and established (with annual revenues of $50 million or more).

 

“Every finalist should be proud of this accomplishment,” said Kate Rubin, president of MHTA. “For nearly a decade the Tekne Awards have shined a spotlight on our state’s best and brightest technology innovators. Great companies like Vision-Ease Lens give us hope that we’ll be in good hands for years to come.”

 

A complete list of finalists can be found online at www.tekneawards.org

 

Headquartered in Ramsey, Minn., Vision-Ease Lens is a manufacturer of quality ophthalmic lenses including LifeRx® photochromic lenses, Coppertone™ polarized lenses, SunRxÒ polarized lenses, and IlluminaÒ progressive line-free lenses. Vision-Ease Lens products are sold through independent opticians, optometrists and ophthalmologists, as well as many retail chains and dispensing markets across the country. For more information about Vision-Ease Lens and its products, visit www.vision-ease.com

 

The Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA) accelerates the growth, sustainability and global competitiveness of Minnesota's technology-based economy through public policy advocacy, member collaboration and education, and community outreach. MHTA is the only membership organization that represents Minnesota’s entire technology-based economy. MHTA members include organizations of every size − involved in virtually every aspect of technology creation, production, application and education in Minnesota. MHTA works in partnership with AeA, which represents Minnesota's technology organizations nationally. Find out more online at www.mhta.org