ATLANTA — Election day is now less than two months away, and the frenzied race for your attention is only speeding up.
Sophisticated campaigns are spending millions of dollars on commercials and fundraising appeals, and rallies across the country.
But 11Alive's Sunday politics show, The Georgia Vote, continues to ensure everyday voters remain at the center of the conversation.
Meet Parker Smith, founder and teacher at Guitar Shed
Smith started his business as a one-man band, working as a solo entrepreneur giving guitar lessons in Atlanta's Kirkwood neighborhood.
Nearly a decade later, his shop, nestled just inside the DeKalb County line, has expanded to employ nearly 30 instructors. He estimates that more than a thousand students have come through his doors over that time.
To Smith, music is "a way to express yourself." He said he shares that with a wide range of students.
"We teach students from all levels from five to 85, and it's different for each age group," said Smith.
In a world where there can be pressure to excel, Smith preached the value of trying something new -- like learning to play an instrument.
"It's humbling," he said. "It's good for you and you surprise yourself."
Issues he cares about
Safety
When asked what issue would have the biggest impact on how he votes, Smith said public safety.
"As a teacher, and a new parent, I think safety is the biggest thing that we're looking for," said Smith.
The economy
Smith ranked economic issues as his second priority.
"As musicians and teachers, a lot of us are struggling to pay the bills," said Smith. "I know a lot of teachers are getting priced out of neighborhoods that they want to live in or having trouble buying groceries."
His biggest worry headed into the election
"I think the thing that worries me the most is, no matter what the outcome is, hopefully people don't resort to violence," said Smith. "I think just realizing that whoever wins, we're all on the same team together and hopefully there's not a bad outcome."
What he's optimistic about
"I'm optimistic about the kids that we interact with," said Smith. "For better or worse they've had to deal with a lot of more serious issues and I feel like they're being more proactive, they're being more empathetic."
"Hopefully they can lead the way and we can help kind of guide them into the future," he said.
