Fun Facts   

Every painting tells a story. How do you look at paintings? What do you see? Would the historical context matter? Would you like to develop observational skills for describing and interpreting paintings? Can you appreciate art even if it doesn't appeal to you? Come and explore art in history, especially if this is something new for you.

Trace the fascinating evolution of Mardi Gras- from the raucous carnivals of Ancient Rome to today’s vibrant, music-filled celebrations in New Orleans. Explore the history, traditions, and cultural influences that shaped this festive season, blending revelry, pageantry, and spirituality into one of the world’s most colorful spectacles.

Discover the fascinating story of how the Bald Eagle became the national symbol of the United States. This lecture explores its ecological role, behaviors, cultural significance, historical myths, and legacy. From Native American lore to America’s Great Seal, we will unravel the mysteries of our nation’s symbol.

Ever heard of Frogs? How about Sharkansas Women's Prison? This fun look at Florida's relationship to some of the (often intentionally) worst science fiction movies showcases Florida’s B-movie glory, starting with Creature From the Black Lagoon and moving through not-quite-classic sci-fi “masterpieces” like Devil Fish and 2-Headed Shark.

See clips from films made in Florida - and films made about Florida. From Sunshine State to Where the Boys Are to Gone Fishin', you'll get an overview of what Florida-made and Floridacentric films say about our state. Expect lots of movie clips, discussion and a question and answer period.

Whether you were once watching Jack LaLanne in your living room, sweatin to the oldies, donning your leg warmers, going to the club to lift weights like Arnold, or are currently taking advantage of the many opportunities to live an active lifestyle, come join this one-hour lighthearted conversational look at the history of fitness in America.

<p>Brave enough to face Friday the 13th? For centuries, people have feared this famously unlucky day, and the curious superstitions that surround it. In this lighthearted and intriguing class, participants will explore some of the most peculiar and entertaining superstitions from days gone by. From forbidden acts to quirky rituals meant to reverse bad luck, this session offers a fun look at the odd beliefs that once shaped everyday life. Just in case, don&#8217;t forget to toss a little salt over your left shoulder before attending.</p>

Every painting tells a story. How do you look at paintings? What do you see? Would the historical context matter? Would you like to develop observational skills for describing and interpreting paintings? Can you appreciate art even if it doesn't appeal to you? Come and explore art in history, especially if this is something new for you.

As American as apple pie? How about as American as beer? Much better.

Indigenous people were brewing beer long before the pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock. Oh, and why did the pilgrims land there? Beer. Actually, the impending lack thereof caused a bit of a detour to the original plan.

Our country is a melting pot of nationalities, ethnicities, and cultures, and our food and drink reflects this wide-ranging composition. We'll explore the development of beer as it weaves through the history of America, and, of course, there will be samples.

Note: Students must 21 or older. All registered participants are fully aware alcohol will be distributed in the classroom for possible consumption and will accept full responsibility for transportation to and from the classroom.

A controversial design for an unusual art collection, the Guggenheim Museum took famed American Architect Frank Lloyd Wright more than 2 decades to realize, with his death coming 6 months shy of the unique building's completion. Storyteller Timothy Totten will bring to life the tortured and unique story of the controversial museum through 100+ pictures and more than a dozen fascinating accounts by the players involved.

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.

Hollywood and the motion picture industry looms large in our lives. We've seen great movies, mediocre movies and flat out bad ones. Jerry Colen will be with us not to discuss any movie, but to talk with us about some of the sex, scandals and murders with which some of our famous, or is it infamous movie stars have been involved. Jerry says that this lecture will be a bitter-sweet, perhaps, funny and always entertaining look at the "other side" of the camera.

Tourism has been an integral part of Florida's identity and economy since it became part of the US in 1821.  This presentation delves into the variety of Florida tourist attractions throughout the state's history, looking at how natural Florida was marketed to visitors. It examines how things changed dramatically in October 1971 with the opening of Walt Disney World and how tourism affects the state today. 

Hear the 'back-story' concerning movie studios, the stars they created, and the murders, mysteries and mayhem of Hollywood's Golden Age.