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Abbotsford historian and cartoonist entertains at hospital

Ernie Poignant, 100, did a talk and made sketches as a thank you to staff
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Ernie Poignant gave a presentation in the lobby of Abbotsford Regional Hospital on Dec. 23. (Photo by Lindsay Earle)

Noted local cartoonist and historian Ernie Poignant, 100, entertained staff and visitors in the lobby of Abbotsford Regional Hospital on the afternoon of Dec. 23.

Poignant, who was a patient at the hospital at Christmas a year ago, said he returned to talk and draw as a thank you to the hospital and to spread some Christmas cheer.

Poignant, who first began cartooning as a young boy after his Swedish-born grandmother drew a stick man, turned his hobby into a lifelong passion.

Over the years, he became know for his “chalk talks,” sketches and historical knowledge.

He recently launched a new book, Welcome to the Past!, with proceeds from sales of the book going to the Heritage Abbotsford Society.

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