By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

The History Club doesn’t like to limit itself to one area of interest.

“Instead of just enjoying literature and the great works of the world of art, we like to look at them all and fit them all into the context of history,” says Jack Kenney, founder of the Ann’s Choice History Club. “It’s for more than just history buffs. It’s for anyone who wants to keep on learning or has an interest in the things that shaped the way our culture is today.”

The group, which averages more than 25 people at meetings and includes almost a hundred members throughout the community, was formed for those that have a desire to keep the learning bug alive. Kenney explains, “This program was based on a continuing education program that was held at St. John’s College in Annapolis, Md. The program had a huge participation level and brought in the best educators. After looking at the interests and backgrounds of my Ann’s Choice neighbors, I figured if they can do it, so can we.”

‘History in motion’
“This club really stretches the brain,” Nick Di Orio says. He and his wife Ruth have attended almost 20 meetings. “I can only describe it as history in motion. Jack connects the dots and weaves literature, law, and social details together.” Di Orio adds, “Our history lessons [in school] were confined to simple  European history. But there’s so much more to it. This club makes you understand that all of history is interrelated and flows like a river. What is happening today is in direct response to what happened over the thousands of years leading up to this moment. I wish everyone could see it that way.”

So much more to learn
“We just finished the Crusades,” Phyllis Kennedy says of the curriculum. “It was absolutely fascinating. There was so much that we learned and so many details that I didn’t know about. It’s great to expand your horizons. Many times, these meetings spur further [independent] learning.”