Fun Facts   

Captain Puckett introduces the lecture series with an in-depth look at the Age of Exploration, spanning the 15th to 18th centuries. He covers Columbus’s voyages to the Caribbean, the Spanish Conquistadors’ occupation of Central America, and the Frances's attempt of a canal across the Isthmus of Panama.

Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

Captain Puckett will cover America's construction of a Canal across the Isthmus of Panama. He will introduce the engineers that actually built the Panama Canal, the design and location of a lake lock system, construction of a mammoth set of concrete locks, manufactured floating steel gates, electric locomotives that controlled the ships as they pass through the Canal. Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

Join us as we explore the exciting era of the 1960's, when innovative designers, skilled engineers, and bold personalities came together to create some of the most classic and collectible cars of all time. Participants will analyze these automobiles as works of art, reflecting a unique and transformative decade. Their enduring appeal is undeniable, as seen in their consistently high values. After class, bring your special ride to the back parking lot for a "show and tell" with fellow enthusiasts!

Construction of the Panama Canal was completed in 1914 and immediately began taking ships through on a limited basis. There were numerous problems with topography, rockslides, electrical issues, channel depths, and operations in general. It would not be until 1920 that the Panama Canal was fully operational. Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

Join Alvin Ross for an unforgettable journey through the worlds of music, film, and pop culture. From the smooth sounds of Frank Sinatra to the electrifying energy of KISS, from Hollywood icon Tony Curtis to rock legend Elton John, and from deep-sea explorer Jacques Cousteau to the unmistakable voice of Rod Stewart- this presentation makes unexpected and fascinating connections across decades of entertainment.

Along the way, you’ll hear captivating stories about Tina Turner, Bette Midler, Glen Campbell, Merle Haggard, REM, Jerry Lewis, The Beach Boys, Joe Cocker, Barry Manilow, Dave Matthews Band, Paul McCartney, Grand Funk Railroad, Three Dog Night, Ringo Starr, and the Everly Brothers- just to name a few. And there's more... but to find out, you’ll have to join the adventure. Don’t miss this lively, story-packed session that brings music history to life.

Captain Puckett will explain the overall requirements that enable a ship to pass through the Panama Canal. He will outline the sundry of requirements including ship measurements, monetary costs and payments, manpower assistance and detailed scheduling procedures. He will also share a Panama Canal Pilot's training and responsibilities and share some of the interesting, picturesque views of the landscape as it makes its eight-hour transit of the marvel of engineering of The Panama Canal. Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

This lecture examines the history of U.S.-Panama relations regarding the Canal Zone. Captain Puckett discusses the political, economic, and diplomatic factors that led to President Jimmy Carter’s decision to transfer control of the Canal to the Republic of Panama. Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

In 2014, the Panama Canal underwent a major expansion to accommodate the world’s largest ships. The Panama Canal also instituted a new advanced vessel communication and accounting system, purchased a fleet of larger tugboats to assist in handling the larger ships that would be passing through the new Panama Canal Mega Lock and reorganized the Panama Canal Pilot training and advancement system. The new Mega locks would limit operation mostly to daylight hours and would take an average of 12 ships a day through those new locks. Each lecture is self-contained and can be attended individually.

With over 50 years in the entertainment industry, Alvin Ross has seen it all. Now he's pulling back the curtain to reveal the fascinating world of showbiz merchandising. From designing t-shirts, posters, hats, and books to creating unforgettable props for some of the world's greatest performers and traveling shows, this presentation dives into what it takes to turn a performance into a full-scale experience.

Hear incredible behind-the-scenes stories, learn the secrets of successful tour merchandise, and discover how even the smallest items can become iconic souvenirs. Whether you're a music lover, theater fan, or just curious about the business of entertainment, this is a show you won't want to miss.

Discover the remarkable evolution of U.S. military small arms during the First and Second World Wars. This course will explore how the United States became the "Arsenal of Democracy," supplying not only its own forces but also those of its allies through industrial innovation and mass production.

You'll learn about the design, function, and history of the weapons that helped shape the modern battlefield—from bolt-action rifles and semi-automatic pistols to revolvers and carbines. Topics include:

• Weapon types and their intended battlefield roles
• Caliber, dimensions, and technical specifications
• Manufacturing origins, including production years and facilities
• Distribution to various military branches and theaters of war
• Total production numbers and historical context

The instructor will present a curated selection of original U.S. small arms from the era. At the conclusion of the class, participants will have the unique opportunity to view—and carefully handle—some of these authentic historical artifacts.

Whether you're a military history enthusiast, collector, or simply curious, this course offers an unforgettable hands-on journey through America's wartime armament legacy.

Discover the rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture that make Brooklyn one of the most legendary boroughs of New York City. From its Dutch roots to its rise as a cultural and industrial powerhouse, we’ll explore what made Brooklyn famous: Coney Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, Jackie Robinson, Nathan’s Hot Dogs, and its role in music, film, and art.

Whether a history buff, a foodie, or just love a great New York story, this course will bring Brooklyn to life with fascinating tales and hidden gems. Don’t miss this exciting journey through one of America’s most dynamic and influential destinations.

Through photos and enthralling anecdotes and stories, Master Storyteller Tim Totten brings to life the 20+ year journey to bring forth a college campus in the sunshine state that now boasts the largest single-site collection of the architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work anywhere in the world. Special attention is also paid to an ancillary project that arose from Wright's Florida visits, the Spring House.

Join Len Ferman, The Sports Time Traveler™, for a fascinating look at professional sports during World War II. Many famous athletes were drafted, including baseball legend Hank Greenberg, who served four years and saw combat. Others, with medical deferments, continued to compete—encouraged by President Roosevelt to help lift national morale. This engaging presentation tells the powerful stories of these athletes as they served and played during the pivotal 1945 season. Through vivid storytelling and historical insight, Len reveals how sports became a source of hope and resilience during one of America’s darkest times.