The post-World War 2 population boom in South Florida included those who built for them. Hear about how architects’ war experiences and knowledge of South Florida resulted in landmarks such as the Fontainebleau and other buildings as practical as they were glamorous.

Local residents look anxiously towards the tropics for 6 months each year – hurricane season. Hear about the hurricanes that have reshaped everything from the economy to the landscape. Learn about how the local connection to “Hurricane Alley” has also enabled improvements in forecasting and preparation for storms.

Walt Disney had completed seemingly every project he could think of. But his wish for a new type of community led him to Florida. Learn about the planning and development of Walt Disney World and how life events and politics have altered Disney’s initial ideas.

Florida has attracted many people – including those in the music world. Hear the songs and stories from Marian Anderson, Tom Petty, Frank Sinatra and others who left memories along with musical notes. Learn how Florida became a center for everything from Southern Rock to the Miami Sound.

South Florida has one of the largest Jewish populations in the United States. It began with European immigrants viewing the area as the new Promised Land. Hear how transportation, economy and world events shaped the growth of the Jewish community, and how its members have made contributions far beyond local shores.

During the first half of the 20th century, Cuba became a center for Jewish immigrants from the Eastern Hemisphere. They established a small, but close-knit community – a community that mostly came to South Florida after Fidel Castro took power in Cuba. This program will look at the history of the Jewish community of Cuba, the move to and adjustment of thousands in the Sunshine State, and how even time and political changes could not break established bonds.

Jews were among the pioneers settling in South Florida during the early 20th century. Among their contributions were different ways of eating – not always kosher, but certainly tasty! Their legacy has been handed down to millions of people who call this region home or visit – both Jews and non-Jews. This program will highlight the celebrated restaurants, cuisine, and eating habits created and sustained by Jewish community members in South Florida through the years.

It was seen as the greatest technological achievement of the 20th century: In 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first human being to walk on the moon during Apollo 11. “One Small Step for Man; One Giant Leap for Mankind” was the culmination of more than a decade of effort, with tragedy and triumph. Learn about the building blocks to Apollo, the lunar missions that followed, and current plans for return trips to the moon.

The first Olympics in Ancient Greece honored Zeus. The Roman Empire brought an end to the ancient Games, but beginning in 1896, the modern Olympic Games have thrilled millions of sports fans with diverse sports and athletes. Hear about the rise and fall of the ancient Olympics and the evolution of the modern Olympics with challenges such as wars, illness, politics, drugs and commercialism.