Americana - 04/10/2009

Matt Frei presents an insider guide to the people and the stories shaping America today. Combining location reports with lively discussion and exclusive interviews, the show provides new and surprising insights into contemporary America. After Chicago learns that it will not host the 2016 Summer Olympic Games, Americana talks to locals to learn who the real winners and losers are. Swag - the mugs, scarves, baseball hats and t-shirts sold on corners around the world - can be big money-makers and big message-senders. T-shirt fans from around the US weigh in on the impact a t-shirt can have. As the US Supreme Court begins its new session, Americana talks to top constitutional law experts about what's on the Court's docket and the possible implications these Supreme Court cases may have on the future of justice in the United States. Chickens are clucking and pecking their way into some surprisingly urban locations across the United States. Writer Susan Orlean reflects on what it means to have the feathered friends close at hand.