Elora Fergus Podcast

The October 7th Centre Wellington Town Hall was a deeply passionate affair, highlighting the struggle between a "close-knit" community's concerns and the realities of immense tourism pressure. We go inside the packed Jefferson Elora community hall, where residents gathered to confront polarizing issues like rapid growth and infrastructure strain. Mayor Shawn Watters addressed significant resident frustration and the surge in tourism. The biggest news confirmed at the meeting? Reiterating the paid parking system for tourists to manage the impact of over 750,000 annual visitors. Plus, we discuss the Mayor's biggest surprise and his call for "respectful dialogue". Co-hosts Ryan Joyce and Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy (speaking independently of her Councillor role) break down how residents can best approach staff and council for education and understanding of the municipal process.

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tim Murton, the acclaimed artist and "monster maker" behind Elora's legendary Monster Month. This annual event, which Murton started 28 years ago, has become a beloved tradition in Centre Wellington. In this episode, we sit down with Tim right in the heart of downtown Elora, coffee in hand, to explore his journey from a sought-after scenic designer in the movie industry to the creative force behind our local Halloween spectacle . In Our Chat with Tim Murton: From Film to Monsters: Tim worked as a scenic designer for movies like The Piano and Resident Evil before starting his monster-making journey The Origin Story: His doctor advised him to do something "crude" for himself, which led to him creating his first ghouls and hanging them on his house. The Power of Creativity: Tim finds it "really refreshing" to be around the "plasticity of mind" of young, creative people . He believes Halloween gives everyone the license to be creative and express their fears and desires without judgment. Balancing Scary and Funny: The key to his monsters is a simple pattern of "scary faces" that also make people laugh. He views his art as a way to prepare people's spirits for the dark months of the year with a sense of humor . A Cultural Responsibility: Tim felt a responsibility to continue Monster Month after people knocked on his door asking for the monsters when he didn't put them up one year. His biggest fear is for the event to become too commercial. The Future of Monster Month: Tim hopes the event will become a "festival of creativity" that others who love and support it will continue for years to come. All this and more!  Don't forget to subscribe to the Elora Fergus Podcast and follow us on social media!

Get ready for the biggest month of the year! This episode is your definitive guide to all the ghoulish fun happening for Monster Month in Elora and Fergus . 🎃 The month is packed with family fun: from the Monster Month kick-off at "The Awakening", Magic Show Matinee and Comedy Hypnosis to the thrilling Salem Frights hell ride, Pumpkin Day, Monster March and more! Don't miss a single scare! Here's a look at the events in October: OCT 3: The Awakening! OCT 4: Magic Festival – Family Magic Show Matinee: An Afternoon of Fun OCT 4: Hilariously Hypnosis Comedy Show  OCT 4, 11, 18, 25: Monster Tours OCT 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 26, 31: Fergus House of Horrors! OCT 11: Pumpkin Day OCT 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31, Nov 1: Salem Frights Haunted Attraction OCT 18 & 19: Fall Festival – Artisan Market OCT 18: Monster March! OCT 18, 24, 25, 30: Fergus Ghost Walks OCT 23: Candlelight Elora OCT 24 & 25: Cemetery Tours OCT 24 & 25: Murder Mystery at the Museum OCT 25: Halloween Haunt Street Walk OCT 25: Spooky Hive - All ages welcome OCT 25: Halloween Drag with House of Kameleon OCT 25: The Monster Mash OCT 26: Mystic Sunday OCT 30: Halloween Trivia Contest at the GrandWay OCT 30: 'Lifting the Veil' OCT 31: Hallow'Tots OCT 31 & NOV 1: Beyond the Veil NOV 1: Pumpkin Walk (Upcycle your Jack-O-Lantern)

Step into the world of spooky fun! Join us as we explore the magic behind Sensational Elora's Monster Month, from its monstrous origins to the community spirit that brings it to life. This episode features an exclusive interview with Barbara Lee from Sensational Elora, the organization behind Monster Month. She explains how this month-long event celebrates all things Halloween and the "dark side with a sense of humour". The episode also includes a rare, exclusive interview with a Monster from Monster Month. In this episode, you’ll learn: The History of Monster Month: The tradition started when local artist Tim Burton began mounting creepy monsters on buildings downtown Elora, which eventually grew into the huge event it is today. The “Monster Spa”: The monsters are pulled out of storage in the summer for a “spa treatment,” where volunteers repair them. Key Events: Monster Month features a variety of activities, including the Awakening, Monster March, Pumpkin Day, and the Soup-Off. How to Get Involved: Sensational Elora, the non-profit organization that runs Monster Month, relies on volunteers and donations to support the events and raise money for the food bank. You can find volunteer, donation, and sponsorship opportunities on the Sensational Elora and Monster Month websites. Don't miss a single episode—subscribe now and visit EloraFergusPodcast.com for more!

Get ready for a jam-packed episode! Elora Fergus Podcast hosts Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy and Ryan Joyce dive into a couple of major events coming to our community this week and next! First, Barbara shares all the details about the inaugural Zehrs All Clubs Day—a unique new event uniting local service groups to combat food insecurity and bring our community closer together. Then, Ryan takes us into the world of illusion as he talks about the fifth annual Ontario Magic Festival, celebrating our area's magical history with two incredible shows for both kids and adults But that’s not all! We also highlight the importance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and explore the incredible talent on display during the annual Elora Fergus Studio Tour. Tune in to get the inside scoop on these can't-miss fall events and discover why this autumn is going to be especially magical. Upcoming Events in Elora & Fergus Zehrs All Clubs Day When: Saturday, September 27th Where: Behind the Fergus Sportsplex What: A free family event with food, games, face painting, and more, uniting community service clubs to help address food insecurity. Ontario Magic Festival When: Saturday, October 4th Where: Fergus Grand Theatre What: Two shows featuring world-class magic: a family matinee at 2 p.m. and a hypnotic comedy show at 7:30 p.m. Visit: https://magicfestival.ca PLUS: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation When: Tuesday, September 30th Where: Fergus Grand Theatre What: An important evening of remembrance and learning, encouraging the community to wear orange in solidarity. Elora Fergus Studio Tour When: September 27th & 28th and October 4th & 5th (10 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Where: Various artist studios across Elora, Fergus, and the surrounding area What: Meet local artists and explore their creative spaces. Visit: https://elorafergusstudiotour.com   

What if you could walk straight into a fairytale? That’s exactly what Enchanta delivers right here in Centre Wellington—and this episode takes you behind the scenes of this one-of-a-kind experience. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: 🌲 How Enchanta transforms the forest behind the Sportsplex into a glowing, multi-sensory fantasy realm. 🧚 The inspiring origin story—born out of lockdown as a way to bring imagination and wonder to life. 🎭 What’s new for 2024: two immersive paths, a kids’ zone with face painting and puppetry, and the “Scrolls of the In-Between” literary exhibit. 🎶 The epic weekend lineup of concerts, art installations, and performances from over 30 vendors and local artists. 💡 How the community can support Enchanta—through tickets, volunteering, and the new Zero Barriers program, ensuring everyone can join in the magic. ✨ Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this festival is pure wonder you won’t want to miss. 👉 Subscribe to the Elora Fergus Podcast and share your thoughts with us at eloraferguspodcast.com

Step right up—it’s almost fair time! 🍂🎡 The Fergus Fall Fair is back, celebrating 188 years of agriculture, community, and family fun. In this special episode, Ryan and Barb sit down with Russell Gammon, one of the region’s most passionate voices in agriculture, to uncover why this fair is more than just rides and cotton candy—it’s a living tradition. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: 🎃 The fascinating history of the Fergus Fall Fair dating back to 1837. 🐑 What makes this fair unique, from sheep-shearing demos to wildlife rescue showcases. 🌱 How 4-H builds leadership, confidence, and skills—and why it’s not just for farm kids. 🐄 The story of a celebrity cow named Vanilla (yes, really!). 🙌 The vital role of community volunteers who keep this 188-year-old tradition thriving. Whether you’re a longtime fairgoer or planning your first visit, this episode will get you excited for one of Centre Wellington’s most beloved events. 👉 Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today and share your feedback with us at eloraferguspodcast.com.  

Fall is almost here, and there's a ton happening in Elora, Fergus and the surrounding areas! Tune in as we give you a rundown of all the can't-miss events coming to Elora and Fergus in September 2025.  From antique cars to steampunk costumes, and goats to family fun, we've got your social calendar covered. We'll also tell you about a few free events you can attend and give a special shout-out to the people and organizations who make these things happen.  In this episode: Dates and details for the Antique Classic Car Show and the Cogs and Clockworks event.  A preview of the Fergus Fall Fair, including its focus on agriculture and family involvement.  Information on the "furry" and fairy-themed event, Enchant.  A special mention of the free family picnic day sponsored by local service clubs. Subscribe to our podcast and tell a friend. Connect with us and listen to more episodes at eloraferguspodcast.com

Were you there for the 80th anniversary of the Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games? Join us as we recap our experience at one of the biggest events of the year. We'll take you back to the Friday night Tattoo ceremony, where we celebrated the four pillars: pipes and drums, heavy events, dance, and heritage.  We’ll also share highlights from our interviews with Outlander star Charles Vandervaart and former soccer player Steven Caldwell, and reveal what it was like to be at the incredible Bay City Rollers concert.  Takeaways: A personal take on the 80th Fergus Scottish Festival, including a recap of the Friday night Tattoo ceremony and its historical traditions. Highlights from key interviews with Outlander star Charles Vandervaart and TSN sportscaster Steven Caldwell. An inside look at the excitement of the Bay City Rollers concert, which packed the Sportsplex with over 10,000 people. Recognition for Elizabeth Bender, the executive director, and the 400 volunteers who made the event possible.  Subscribe to our podcast and tell a friend. Connect with us and listen to more episodes at eloraferguspodcast.com.

Why is a podcast a must-listen for anyone who loves Elora, Fergus and the surrounding communities?  In our very first episode, we're pulling back the curtain to give you the inside scoop on our new show. Hosts Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy and Ryan Joyce explain how they’ll provide on-demand community information, behind-the-scenes insights, and local secrets.  You’ll also get to know a little more about your hosts and how they are a reflection of the community.  In our first episode: Discover the purpose of the Elora Fergus Podcast and its focus on on-demand community information for Fergus, Belwood, and the surrounding areas. Learn how the show is a perfect opportunity to get behind-the-scenes insights and sneak peeks into local events and hidden gems. Meet your hosts Barbara Lustgarten-Evoy and Ryan Joyce, and their deep-rooted connections to the community.  Find out why the podcast is designed to be short, informative, and evolve with listener input. Subscribe to our podcast and tell a friend. Connect with us and listen to more episodes at eloraferguspodcast.com.

This episode we’re talking with the Fergus Fall Fair Ambassador, Dillon Bernier about this years’ Fair postponement, the local impacts, and how we can stay connected with the Fall Fair and Fergus Agricultural Society.  Listen Here. https://bit.ly/33Ee5Kv 

What does back to school look like in Centre Wellington during COVID?  What are the new procedures and steps our school boards and schools are taking? With huge thanks to Barbara Evoy and Cogeco, we share this interview with Upper Grand District School Board Superintendents Gary Slater and Carlo Zen.  Show Links: https://bit.ly/2RfapsN

Today is a big episode! Three guests from the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games join us and give their unique perspectives and feedback from this year’s Wee Digital Ceilidh!   Show Links: https://bit.ly/2DNNr8O   We start the conversation with Elizabeth Bender, the Fergus Scottish Festival Coordinator who shares the online response, feedback from the community and the local events. We discuss Elizabeth’s personal favourite moments, a few special emails, and what it all means for the future of the Fergus Scottish Festival.   Next, Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games Board of Directors President, David Radley joins the podcast and shares his views about this year, the tough 2020 decisions, feedback he received from all around the world, and what changes we might see for future Games. He also discusses some of the unexpected surprises from this year's Wee Digital Ceilidh.   Finally, we are joined with Festival Vice President, Stephen Cole. Stephen’s design work can be seen all around town and with the Festival’s brand. He's behind the new Fergus logo, the Fergus Scottish Festival’s brand and familiar signs all around Centre Wellington. Stephen discusses how the Festival is changing, the importance of volunteering and how you can get involved.

Today I’m chatting with the Fergus Scottish Festival Coordinator, Elizabeth Bender about the upcoming digital Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games.  (Show links: https://bit.ly/2Xx0YIB  )  This year would have marked 75 years of tradition in Centre Wellington, but Elizabeth calls this year “74.5”  :) On this episode, we chat about the recent tough decisions, what it means for the future of the Festival, plus we get insight for what to expect at this year’s digital celebration, the Wee Digital Ceilidh (pronounced “Kay-lee”) If you ask Google “What’s a Scottish Ceilidh?” you discover it’s a traditional social gathering. I asked twice and was told, “...simply means a social visit.”  The Festival Scottish Festival and Highland Games present this year’s Wee Digital Ceilidh to their faithful patrons, guests, and over four hundred volunteers who contribute their hard work and time year-after-year.   The result of their efforts has given our community an amazing gift that brings over 24,000 people to Centre Wellington in a single weekend. This year they hope to do the same-- albeit virtually.   Trusted traditions modernized.  

Today on the Elora Fergus Podcast we’re talking with Fergus Bagpiper Extraordinaire, Peter Hummel aka Peter Piper.  In this episode, we chat about Peter’s music interests before the bagpipes, his introduction to the pipes and his Greek family upbringing.  https://bit.ly/32GzqE5  Since the start of this pandemic, Peter has stepped outside and played his pipes in tribute to healthcare and front-line workers.  We talked about where the inspiration came from and one of the biggest surprises that have come from his daily tributes.   Peter shares his journey from growing up outside Niagara Falls, Ontario to living and working in Fergus with his family for over twenty years.  He also shares his meaningful Scottish discovery. We talk about postponing the 75th Annual Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games and we both share a little insight and behind the scenes sneak-peak into the upcoming Wee Digital Ceilidh. Peter also shares a few of the passion projects and where he volunteers his services, plus two great behind the scenes Riverfest stories.   I think you’re really going to love this episode! 

Today on the Elora Fergus Podcast we’re chatting with the one and only, Barbara Evoy!  She is the host of her own TV program on Cogeco and radio show on the Grand 101.1.  She is also of not one, but two books and she’s involved in all corners of our community. https://bit.ly/390yH1v  Barbara is a self-proclaimed performer at heart.  She’s ambitious and hardworking.  She is also the victim of abuse and Barbara uses her experiences to help inspire others.   As a kid, Barbara moved around to various Canadian cities before eventually settling into The Township of Centre Wellington where she has become a leader, communicator and performer. Oh, and “Citizen of the  Year”  too :) I think you’re really going to enjoy this episode with Barbara Evoy

Today on the Elora Fergus Podcast, I'm talking with Mary Lloyd! She is a Wellington County Councillor and local business owner.   Mary Lloyd is the owner of Sensational You located downtown Fergus and Wellington County Councillor for Ward Five. She is a well-known leader who has dedicated a lifetime to the betterment of our community.   So, where does her spark come from? Mary suspects it might be a trait passed onto her from her a father and mother. Listen now to hear why!   I really enjoyed this chat with Mary Lloyd and I know you will too! Show Links: https://bit.ly/2O3fkLK   

Today on the Elora Fergus Podcast, we’re talking with Jackie Ranahan and if you’re interested in Groves Community Hospital, impacts of the new hospital, operating a local business, female entrepreneurship or strong community leadership, I think you’re really going to enjoy this episode.   If you are a local business owner, Jackie has some great thoughts and advice that’s to Centre Wellington.   She is the owner of Mach One Communications, a design and branding firm and also runs Centre Wellington Ball Hockey and Royal City Ball Hockey with her husband.   Jackie is a mover and shaker in Centre Wellington.  Over the years she has served the community in multiple ways and various roles including Past-President of the Rotary Club and Past-Chair Groves Foundation. She has also recently started a new venture into coaching, personal development and helping others find their next steps.   I put Jackie on the spot and asked her to share three local businesses that are inspiring her and asked her to share some of the biggest challenges she’s faced as a female entrepreneur.  Jackie shares some of the struggles starting her first business and advice for other women.   And with the big day approaching, the hospital is on a lot of our minds.  Jackie is the Board Chair for the Groves Memorial Community Hospital so we start this episode to clarify the three different organizations, major milestones over the past ten years, and the economic opportunities that our fancy new hospital is already providing.   This is a great chat, let’s get started! Here’s Jackie Ranahan, a local business owner and an inspiring leader in our community. Show Notes https://JackieRanahan.com Jackie Ranahan Instagram Mach One Communications Centre Wellington Ball Hockey Download 6 (FREE) Virtual Elora & Fergus Backgrounds

In this episode, host Ryan Joyce chats with Lori Arsenault, Groves Hospital Foundation Executive Director. They discuss exceeding $20 million dollar goal, how that money is spent, Aug 9 hospital opening, local impacts and more.   Subscribe to the Elora Fergus Podcast and listen now!

On this episode, host Ryan Joyce talks with Patti Boutin owner of the Elora Mercantile. We discuss here families origins from a tiny Quebec village famous for whales and how she ended up in Elora, plus reopening and the feedback, changes to the store, Jennifer Lopez trivia, and so much more. http://EloraFergusPodcast.com