Today began with a later start (10:15 AM!) and then a trip to Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg, the Berlin/Brandenburg public radio and TV station. It was really an amazing visit, with our guides talking about the differences between American and German public radio, showing us some radio and TV studios, and even a practice session of a philharmonic orchestra. Germany finances its public radio and TV by having its citizens pay a certain monthly free if they have a TV and/or radio. I think it was about 18 euros per month (27 dollars) to have a radio and TV. In this way everyone pays for the public TV and radio. There are also commercial (private) TV and radio stations as well that have more viewers. The public radio and TV system was set up by the Americans after WWII to provide the citizens with a way to spread information, not propaganda. It is independent from the government, so it can say what it wishes to say. Also, this radio building itself has a very unique history dating before WWI, and then continuing with the Soviets taking the building and holding it even after the allies held West Berlin. The Nazis used the building for propaganda during their rule. Below you can see their philharmonic orchestra practicing in the large recital/recording studio that this building houses.
After this morning meeting we went to a Turkish Market for lunch and shopping. I had another Doner Kabob, which I have decided I really like, and then we waded through the dense market where everything imaginable is for sale. Take a look at the market below, and at the Turkish bread stand in the picture.
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