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Ponoka library’s speaker series highlighting interesting life stories

630 CHED newscaster Bob Layton set to speak in March
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The follow-up on a new initiative started last winter is proving not only successful, but popular with the public.

Ponoka Jubilee Library’s Life Stories Series, now in its second season, is about presenting an individual or group each month in an effort to provide residents with an education on the people behind the community and its history.

“The presenters are from the community as a whole and help highlight the history while providing people with an education on what makes these people and others tick,” explained Dan Galway, library manager.

“The response to the two we have held already (this winter) has been pretty good.”

That said, Galway believes the next three series sessions each run from 7 to 9 p.m. will be interesting and for those who want to hear some great life stories.

It all starts with the Ponoka Word Weavers on Feb. 21, with nine different members of the local writing group presenting some of their original works.

That’s followed on a special night on March 24 where Alberta media personality, author and entertainer Bob Layton will come and speak about the many stories that have highlighted his more than four decades of broadcasting.

He will also talk a bit about his latest book, Welcome to Radio! My life in broadcasting, so far, filled with unique stories and may even speak about his life outside of radio, which includes public speaking and entertaining audiences with puppets.

Another local is on the schedule for Apr. 18, one who recently gained recognition on a national stage.

Chevi Rabbit, a transgender First Nations individual who is from the area though now lives in Edmonton, was named in December among the top 25 most influential human rights advocates as well as being named in the 2017 Top 40 Under 40 list in an Alberta magazine.

Rabbit’s stories will be about life growing up, the various challenges faced and what continues to drive her could prove to be interesting.

The big part of each evening is the question and answer session, something Galway explained often takes up more time than the actual speaker.

“The Q and A has been super successful and everyone loves interesting stories,” he said.

“It has actually been quite long sometimes, but that shows that the audience is truly engaged. This part of the night is really where the speakers have felt they have made a connection to the community.”

More information can be found by going to www.ponokalibrary.prl.ab.ca.