Bridges are so much more than simply connecting point A to point B. They captivate and enthrall us and some even seem to defy the laws of physics, but for author and librarian, Katharine Branning bridges are also conduits of ideas and values. For over 30 years Branning, author of the new book An American Woman’s Letters to Turkey: Yes, I Would Love Another Glass of Tea, has travelled annually to Turkey. Her trips have allowed her to better understand her own Christian spirituality, and values of beauty, art and nature.
In the Washington, DC area, a group of Turkish professional volunteers started airing the first “Turkish-American Hour” show in September 2005. Since that time, they have produced over 60 programs. They received the Community Access Magic (CAM) Award in the International Category from Prince George’s County Community TV (PGCTV) two years in a row, in 2007 and 2008. The leading name of Turkish American TV, Hurriyet Ok, at the same time works at the World Bank. Ok answered TURKOFAMERICA’s questions. 
Turkish Cultural Foundation agreed to fund a new agreement with WACA to continue the program that brings Turkey to American educators around the nation. The 3-part program, which includes a teachers workshop on Turkey, a TCF-sponsored and organized Teachers' Study Tour to Turkey and public programming on Turkish culture, called "Portraits of Turkey" now enters its fifth year. 
