'Crossroads: Change In Rural America' Brings A Slice Of The Smithonian to Small-Town Georgia

Rural America is often painted in broad strokes. Small towns have been hit hard by population declines as more Americans flock to urban and suburban areas, and unemployment and the opioid crisis has been rough on small, financially-strapped communities.

But the reality of life in rural America is far from this sweeping image of "doom and gloom." A new Smithsonian exhibit called “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” aims to add some dimension to those images – and generate conversations about rural history, identity and visions for the future.

On Second Thought host Virginia Prescott spoke with Lori Smith, President of the Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce, and Robbie Davis, Project Director for the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street traveling exhibition service, about how the show is already changing Thomaston.

Listen to their conversation here.

Four Democratic primary candidates have emerged in the race to challenge incumbent Republican Sen. David Perdue. GPB

Political Rewind: 4 Go For Perdue's Seat, But No One For Isakson's Yet

So far, the four Democrats who have officially launched their campaigns are aiming for Sen. David Perdue’s seat. When will Democrats begin lining up for a shot at the seat that Sen. Johnny Isakson is giving up? Why has no African American candidate come forward to run?

Listen to Wednesday's Political Rewind here.

Keitaro Harada, music director and artistic director designate of the Savannah Philharmonic.

'We Immediately Clicked': Meet New Savannah Philharmonic Conductor Keitaro Harada

In July, the Savannah Philharmonic announced its new, second-ever conductor. Keitaro Harada, or Kei, as he likes to be called, grew up in Tokyo, but he’s no stranger to Georgia: he studied at Mercer University and was assistant conductor of the late Macon Symphony.

More recently, Harada wrapped up four years as associate conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony. He takes the stage Sept. 14 as the Savannah Philharmonic's music director designate. He spoke with GPB’s Sarah Zaslaw about music, love, community and batons.

Listen to their conversation here.

For these stories and more visit GPBNews.org.