Biden Cabinet Member visits American Paper Optics in Bartlett

BARTLETT, Tenn. — A member of President Joe Biden’s cabinet toured a small business manufacturer in Bartlett that makes solar eclipse glasses.

Preparations underway for solar eclipse in the Mid-South

American Paper Optics, a sunglass store located in Bartlett, is getting national attention from those in the White House.

Isabel Guzman leads the Small Business Administration and is the leading advocate for millions of small businesses in the U.S.

“John Jerit is an incredible founder,” said Guzman. “When you talk about small businesses who have a vision for the future, they see things differently in the world. They innovate and start their own product or service of business.”

She tells us it was important to stop by APO Bartlett because it is an example of what the SBA is all about.

“The American Optic Company has been able to do projects with NASA, with the parks, as well as with the National Science Foundation. So truly helping us with making sure our federal spending also goes to small businesses to create local jobs. The great work that John has done here to create jobs in this economy is really what we want to celebrate here,” said Guzman.

The owner tells me they are selling thousands of solar eclipse glasses each day. So, get your glasses and don’t forget to look up.

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On April 8, parts of the US will see a total solar eclipse. Memphis is not in the path of totality but will still see a show.

“People can come together and watch this event. If you are in Memphis, you are going to get 98%,” said John Jerit, CEO of American Paper Optics. “I am going to say please go to Little Rock to get 100%. It’s really important to have this moment to take your kids out of school and get there – you are not going to forget it.”

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