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Former Alderman of the 3rd Ward, Ara Goshgarian, joins The Lake Forest Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation reflecting on his six impactful years serving the City of Lake Forest. Hosted by Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Skoo Walker, this farewell episode covers key moments from Ara's time on City Council, leadership through challenging issues, and the lasting value he places on transparency, civic service, and community engagement.✅ Topics Discussed in This Episode:➡️ Ara's 6-year journey as Alderman for Ward 3➡️ Transparency, city governance, and how the caucus really works➡️ The new police station: why it was needed➡️ Parks and Rec board controversy explained➡️ Volunteerism and public engagement in Lake Forest➡️ Ara's personal path: From LFHS football to orthodontist to public servant➡️ How local politics really works in Lake Forest➡️ Shoutouts to former colleagues, staff, and political opponents✅ Key Moments:0:006:15 Dr. Ara Goshgarian joins the show – Ara C. Goshgarian, D.D.S.8:32 Ara Goshgarian City Council Send-Off41:45 Alderman Nick Bothfeld will be taking over as 3rd Ward Alderman42:42 Ara's contested election against Joann Desmond44:40 Ara's football career46:05 “Wishbone Ara” of Lake Forest High School Football46:45 Shoutout to Ara's coach George Barry https://uwwsports.com/honors/athletic...50:28 How did Ara get involved with volunteering?51:40 Ara's first interactions with the Caucus53:29 Pete's resignation from Caucus clip54:55 Mayoral contested election55:55 Regina Etherton new Caucus president clip •
On this episode of The Lake Forest Podcast, hosts Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, Skoo Walker, and guest Jeff Erso dive into the city's decision to dissolve the Parks and Recreation Board, why it happened, and what it means for residents.✅ Why the Parks & Rec Board was dissolved✅ Friends of Lake Forest Parks: Helping or overstepping?✅ Who should control events like Lake Forest Day?✅ Is it time for a separate Park District?✅ Lake Forest vs Lake Bluff youth sports✅ Why local businesses are hurting downtown✅ How to fix the beach concessions✅ Sunday BBQs at Duffers featuring Liam Sheridan✅ Golf simulator upgrades at DuffersSupport The Lake Forest Podcast:
Former Alderman Jed Morris joins Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Jeff Urso to cut through the noise and lay out the real story behind Lake Forest's new police station. Why did the city move fast? Why Field Drive? Was this a smart investment — or a political vanity project? Jed pulls no punches as he breaks down why the old Deerpath facility is falling apart, why expanding it wasn't an option, and how Lake Forest scored a once-in-a-generation real estate deal.We also dive into the real numbers:
Jeff Urso from Duffers and Donnati's Pizza joins Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Skoo Walker on The Lake Forest Podcast to break down all the big local news! We talk election victories, Oakwood Avenue madness, fake poop grabbers, beach sticker drama, new restaurants, prom season, and Duffers' big Sunday plans.Here's what we cover:
Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Skoo Walker dig into whether the Lake Forest Police are truly enforcing local laws—or if they're turning a blind eye to avoid backlash from wealthy residents and influential parents. From cell service problems to poop bag violations, scooter laws, and the enforcement of beach rules, this episode challenges the idea of equal treatment under the law.✅ We also discuss the legacy projects of Lake Forest mayors, including the new police station plan.✅ Plus, is it time for Guardian Angels to patrol Lake Forest?✅ Can robot lawnmowers be upgraded to scoop poop?Key Moments:0:002:24 Cell Phone Issues continue5:45 Pete's cell phone study can save the city $25,0006:46 Viktor from Caucus clip https://youtu.be/iMvkI6wrK6413:12 Each Mayor tries to leave behind a legacy Randy Tack's is the Police Station is there a study showing adding a 2nd floor to current Police Station?29:44 Lake Forest Police Need to enforce poop bag pick up31:22 Police Chief video on fines for dogs at the beach32:18 Lake Forest Police don't enforce the scooter law then why would they enforce the dog law?37:03 Speed Cameras in Lake Forest especially on Oakwood Ave45:05 How do we influence change?50:25 Skoo and Pete doing a podcast on Oakwood videoing lawbreakers51:52 Why aren't the Lake Forest Police enforcing the law?55:20 Cops aren't writing kids tickets for fear of rich parents in Lake Forest?1:01:45 Do we need the Guardian Angels in Lake Forest Illinois? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guardian_Angels1:03:19 Can we reconfigure the lawn mower robots to pick up dog poop?1:05:35 There are areas of Lake Forest Beach that can be designated dog friendly1:07:13 Elizabeth Holeb thank you for your service Katie Skibbs takes over https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/04/08/lake-forest-new-finance-director/1:07:45 Does Jason Wicha Lake Forest Illinois Manager promote Woke policies?1:13:41 Why didn't they hire from within to replace Elizabeth Holeb?
Golf lovers — this one's for you! Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Skoo Walker are joined by special guest Drew Weiss (Joe's son) as they break down the best golf courses in Lake Forest and the North Shore.✅ Public courses, private prestige, and goat ranches✅ Real talk on Deerpath, Veterans Memorial, and Lake Bluff✅ Tips for value golf, TopGolf alternatives, and simulator spots✅ Scoo and Pete trade stories on cheating, raffles, and golf cannons✅ Drew shares what Gen Z really wants from a golf day✅ NIL talk: Drew's college work behind the scenes at Liberty University✅ Plus: Is Chip Beck the best local pro?Whether you're a casual golfer, weekend warrior, or club regular — there's something here for you.Key Moments:✅ 0:00 Intro✅ 2:43 Drew Weiss✅ 3:44 Elite Golf course episode • Top 4 Golf Golf Clubs in North Shore ... ✅ 4:18 Where's the best place to play in Lake Forest Illinois if you're broke✅ 4:46 Deerpath Golf Course https://www.deerpathgolf.com/✅ 5:07 Veterans Memorial Golf Course North Chicago https://www.visitlakecounty.org/Veter...✅ 5:53 Deerfield Golf Course https://www.deerfieldgolf.org/✅ 5:54 Buffalo Grove Public Golf Course https://www.buffalogrovegolf.com/✅ 6:19 Glenview Park Golf Course https://glenviewparks.org/facilities/...✅ 6:25 Willow Hill Golf Course https://www.willowhillgolfcourse.com/✅ 7:01 Brae Loch https://www.braelochgolfclub.org/✅ 8:23 Lake Bluff Golf Course https://www.lakebluffgolfclub.com/Rates: https://www.lakebluffgolfclub.com/rates/✅ 16:07 Sunset Valley Golf https://sunsetvalleygolfclub.org/✅ 16:40 Village Green Golf Mundelein https://www.villagegreengc.com/✅ 17:45 Chevy Chase Golf https://www.chevychasecountryclub.com/✅ 18:06 Hawks View Lake Geneva https://www.hawksviewgolfclub.com/✅ 19:04 Trappers Turn Wisconsin Dells https://www.trappersturn.com/wisconsin/✅ 19:46 Top Golf https://topgolf.com/us/?gclsrc=aw.ds&...✅ 20:15 Duffers Golf https://dufferspub.com/index.html✅ 24:40 Golfing at Wrigley Field? https://upperdeckgolfing.com/wrigleyf...✅ 24:52 Stadium Links https://www.stadiumlinkstour.com/✅ 26:07 Knollwood Club https://www.knollwoodclub.org/web/pag...✅ Onwentsia Club https://www.onwentsiaclub.org/Default...✅ Shore Acres https://www.shoreacres1916.com/✅ Old Elm Golf Club https://www.golfdigest.com/courses/il...✅ Northmoor Golf https://www.northmoor.org/✅ 27:34 Bobolink Highland Park IL https://www.bobolinkgolfclub.com/✅ 28:00 What is the #1 Course?✅ 29:49 Which is more prestigious Knollwood or Onwentsia?✅ 32:20 Exmoor Golf Highland Park IL https://www.exmoorcountryclub.org/✅ 34:15 Conway Farms Golf https://www.conwayfarmsgolfclub.org/✅ 37:50 Fred Jackson Golf Tournament at Deerpath Golf Course
In this episode of The Lake Forest Podcast, Pete Jansons and Skoo Walker dive into the latest buzz around town. From power outages and Deerpath construction headaches to a deep discussion on the Lake Forest Rec Center, CROYA, and the ever-confusing Caucus process—it's all here. Plus, throwbacks to WSNS Channel 44, MLB blackout frustrations, and a big win for the LFHS JV Hockey team.✅ Lake Forest power outage update and Deerpath construction chaos✅ LFHS JV Hockey wins STATE—congrats to the team and Coach Steve Sarauer✅ CROYA vs Rec Center: What's the difference and who's it for?✅ Caucus process confusion: Bylaws, advisory boards & interview gripes✅ White Sox nostalgia: Channel 44 static, Pat Kelly bat day & short-shorts✅ Spring sports season begins: lacrosse, baseball, softball & turf talk✅ What's next under Michael Wick's leadership of Parks & Rec?Key Moments:✅ 0:00 Skoo Walker and Pete Jansons host The Lake Forest Podcast✅ 2:25 Power outage in Lake Forest, Illinois✅ 3:22 Deerpath Road update
The Lake Forest Podcast, hosted by Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss, dives into the results of the recent Lake Forest Caucus executive committee vote, local political developments, and community news.✅ Caucus Vote Recap: 81% approval and what it means for Lake Forest's future✅ Bylaws Changes: Timeline and feedback from Regina Etherton and Joe Weiss✅ Local Journalism: Shoutout to Dan Dorfman and discussion on the state of local reporting✅ CLC Board Elections: Discussing Janet Gibson and Dawn's candidacy✅ Local Politics & National Impact: How national policies affect Lake Forest✅ Safety Concerns: Highland Park, Deerfield incidents, and Lake County's crime policies✅ Upcoming Mayoral Speculation: Discussion on potential candidates and issues✅ Lake Forest Sports Update: Shoutouts to Lake Forest JV Scouts Hockey Club and other teams✅ Special Guest Mention: Jed Morris to return with police station updates✅ Support The Lake Forest Podcast!Help us keep the show going
In this episode of The Lake Forest Podcast, we sit down with Regina Etherton, the Vice President of the Lake Forest Caucus and the incoming President, to break down:✅ The controversy surrounding the Bylaws changes!✅ What REALLY happened with the Ad Hoc Committee?✅ Why does the Caucus President hand-pick their successor?✅ Should the leadership selection process be more democratic?✅ Does the Caucus need a steady fundraising strategy?✅ How does the Caucus define a "conflict of interest"?
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Anita Myers, Emotional Intelligence Strategist and founder of Innerscope365, LLC. Anita shares insights on mastering emotional intelligence, tapping into inner power, and redefining wellness. She also discusses her books, including Hearts Do Matter and The Undercover Superhero.Hosted by Pete Jansons, Skoo Walker, and Joe Weiss, this episode dives deep into self-awareness, personal growth, and practical strategies to enhance emotional well-being.✅ Topics Discussed:
Pete Jansons, Skoo Walker, and Joe Weiss dive into the Lake Forest City Council's latest debate over corkage fees and BYOB regulations. Should local businesses be forced to charge a minimum fee? Should the government stay out of pricing? Or is this a necessary regulation for restaurants?
✅ The Lake Forest Podcast welcomes back Jeff Urso, co-owner of Duffer's Pub, Donati's Pizza, and Bratski's, plus Supervisor of Shields Township! Jeff sits down with Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss to talk about: ✅ The latest at Duffer's – including new menu updates
Pete Jansons, Joe Weiss, and Skoo Walker are back with all the latest updates from Lake Forest!
In this episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, Pete Jansons hosts an in-depth conversation about the pressing issues facing Lake Forest today:
Happy Thanksgiving from the Lake Forest Podcast!
With plans for a new cell tower in Lake Forest, Illinois, concerns about safety and 5G radiation are on the rise. In this video, inspired by The Action Lab's scientific approach, we address common questions and debunk myths surrounding 5G and cell tower radiation. In The Action Lab's demonstration, we see how RF levels are significantly higher when holding a phone close to your head compared to standing near a cell tower (watch here: • Is the 5G Radiation From Your Phone K... . Using a 5G radiation detector, they highlight the difference between harmful ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation, like that in 5G technology, which WHO classifies similarly to everyday items such as coffee. Recent studies from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other trusted sources reveal no link between 5G radiation and cancer or other health risks. Sources and Additional Reading: The Action Lab Full Video: • Is the 5G Radiation From Your Phone K... WHO Q&A on 5G and Health: https://www.who.int/news-room/questio... WHO-Led Study on Mobile Phones and Cancer Risk (2024): https://www.reuters.com/business/heal... American Cancer Society on Cell Towers and Cancer Risk: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-pr... American Cancer Society on Known and Probable Human Carcinogens: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-pr... National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Study on Radiation Exposure: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles... We hope this video provides clarity and reassurance. For more informative breakdowns, subscribe and stay tuned! #LakeForestIL #5GSafety #5GMythsDebunked #RadiationFacts #WHOStudy #CellTowerSafety #5GTruth #ElectromagneticSafety #LakeForestCellTower --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lakeforestpodcast/support
In this episode, hosts Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss delve into the local political landscape of Lake Forest, focusing on recent rumors and controversies surrounding Phil Arouca. They analyze his potential candidacy for the District 67 School Board, examine his political affiliations, and discuss his involvement with the Lake Forest Caucus. The conversation also highlights Lori Fitzgerald as the superior, Caucus-vetted candidate. Notably, Lori was initially a contested candidate until she discovered the existence of the Caucus, which influenced her decision to align with it. Key Points Discussed: The validity of rumors regarding Phil Arouca's interest in the District 67 School Board. Arouca's political endorsements and donations, including his support for both Randy Tack and Prue Beidler. Comparative analysis of political donations by Phil Arouca, Prue and Frank Beidler, and Lori Fitzgerald. Lori Fitzgerald's journey from a contested candidate to a Caucus-aligned choice. Pete Jansons' perspective on Phil Arouca's political actions and affiliations. The broader implications of these dynamics on the Lake Forest community. Join us as we unpack these developments and explore their impact on local governance and community relations. Key Moments: 0:00 Pre-show banter: Trump victory and discussing Kari Arouca rumors about running for the District 67 School Board; analyzing validity 3:56 Phil Arouca rumors 4:15 Lori Fitzgerald clip 4:44 Phil Arouca as a member of the Lake Forest Caucus endorsing Randy Tack for mayor 5:06 Phil Arouca, still a member of the Caucus, sends a letter endorsing Prue Beidler over Randy Tack 6:00 Does Phil Arouca have an agenda? Examining her political leanings and donations to Eric Rinehart 7:36 Was Phil Arouca expelled from the Caucus? 9:10 Elon Musk's Latin tweet: "Novus Ordo Seclorum" https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1854313...12:39 Phil Arouca will not join the podcast, prompting Pete to form his opinion 17:35 Pete's thoughts on Phil Arouca 21:10 Discussion on tampons in men's restrooms 24:00 Pete connecting the dots on Phil Arouca and forming his opinion 25:42 Overview of political donations made by the Arouca family 31:00 Joe Weiss shares screen on political donations by Phil Arouca, Prue Beidler, Frank Beidler, and Kari Arouca 32:50 Comparison of Lori Fitzgerald's political donations to Phil Arouca's 36:35 Update on Prue and Frank Beidler's political donations 42:45 Rick Lesser and discussion on Jewish Amish Trump voters in Arizona 43:28 What would change Pete Jansons' opinion on Phil Arouca 44:00 Lori Fitzgerald's initial contested school board candidacy 45:00 Reason for discussing Kari Arouca and Prue Beidler's agenda 47:45 Susan Garrett clip 48:05 Pete's issues with the Caucus • The Great Resignation Lake Forest Pod... 48:16 Prue Beidler Gerhards clip • A Funny Thing Happened on the Way To ... 52:28 Pete's summary of his opinion on Kari Arouca 53:10 Discussion on "Go Scouts vs Libertyville" Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth discussions on local politics and community matters! #philArouca #PeteJansons #JoeWeiss #LakeForestPolitics #District67SchoolBoard #PoliticalEndorsements #PrueBeidler #RandyTack #Caucus #PoliticalDonations #LocalElections #SusanGarrett #LoriFitzgerald #kariarouca --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lakeforestpodcast/support
oin Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss as they delve into the latest election results in Lake County, sharing their in-depth analysis, local perspectives, and discussions on key political takeaways. From the performance of candidates like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump to the outcomes of local races such as the State's Attorney and County Board, this episode covers it all. Tune in for a candid conversation that explores voter trends, the impact of national figures on local elections, and the implications of these results for the community. Whether you're a resident or simply interested in local politics, this episode offers valuable insights and lively commentary. Key Topics Discussed: Performance of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump in Lake County State's Attorney race and Mary Cole's candidacy County Board results and implications Voter trends and turnout analysis Fiscal perspectives and referendum impacts Don't miss out on the latest local political commentary from Pete and Joe on the Lake Forest Podcast. Hashtags: #LakeForestPodcast #ElectionResults #LakeCounty #LocalPolitics #PeteJansons #JoeWeiss #PoliticalAnalysis #VoterTrends #CommunityInsightsTranscript --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lakeforestpodcast/support
In this episode, we're addressing the ongoing debate around the proposed cell tower in Lake Forest's 4th Ward. While some opposition groups prioritize maintaining certain aesthetics, we're here to make the case that reliable cell service is a necessity – not a luxury – for our community. With frequent dropped calls and unreliable connectivity, this tower could be a game-changer for local residents and businesses. We'll discuss why we believe function should come first, especially for the 4th Ward's everyday needs, and how enhanced service can benefit everyone. Plus, we'll touch on Lake Forest's local elections and highlight our dedicated sponsors who support the community and this podcast. Join us for an in-depth look at an issue that affects us all!" Hashtags: #LakeForestPodcast #4thWardConnectivity #CellTowerDebate #FunctionOverAesthetics #CommunityFirst #LakeForestNews #LakeForestNeeds #LocalElectionsLakeForest --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lakeforestpodcast/support
Join us for an exclusive interview with Ryan G. London, President & CEO of the Lake Forest Open Lands Association (LFOLA), as he shares insights into the organization's mission to preserve and protect nature in the community. We dive deep into the significance of LFOLA, the success of their Bagpipes & Bonfire event, and how conservation efforts are shaping the future of Lake County. Ryan also talks about the exciting upcoming initiatives at LFOLA, including the Oaktober Tree Sale and what's next for nature preserves like Mellody Farm. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the importance of local conservation, community events, and the long-term impact on the environment.
In this clip from the Lake County Bar Association Debate on October 23, 2024, Eric Rinehart discusses the role of statistics and diversion programs in addressing racial disparities in the justice system. As Rinehart concludes with, "Diversion is critical to any racial disparities in our justice system," Clyde McLemore, an African American attendee, reacts bluntly, saying, "I've never heard such bullshit!"
In this powerful closing statement from the Lake County Bar Association Debate, Mary Cole, candidate for Lake County State's Attorney, addresses Eric Rinehart's handling of the Shorbonia Poole case. Cole highlights how Rinehart's plea deal allowed Poole, previously charged with armed robbery and weapon offenses, to remain free, leading to the tragic murder of 15-year-old Valeria Rodriguez in Round Lake Beach. Cole argues that this case represents a failure of leadership and justice in Lake County. https://www.maryforlakecounty.com/ https://www.maryforlakecounty.com/lake_county_bar_association_debate https://www.maryforlakecounty.com/rinehart_s_sweetheart_deal_leads_to_murder_of_round_lake_beach_girl
Join Skoo Walker, Joe Weiss, and Pete Jansons as they cover all the latest in Lake Forest!
#LakeCountyElections #StateAttorneyDebate #MaryColeHey everyone! Welcome to Just a Guy's Opinion. Today, we're talking about the 60% staff turnover in the Lake County State's Attorney's office. Is it due to poor leadership and a toxic work culture, or is the only answer to increase expenses? Join us as we break down both sides, with Mary Cole highlighting the need for better office culture and training, while Eric Rinehart focuses on salary raises as the solution. Does throwing money at the problem fix the issue, or is there a deeper need for leadership changes? Let's dive in. A vote is a terrible thing to waste. Fair Use: This video contains clips from the Lake County, Illinois, Candidate Forum: Circuit Court Clerk and State's Attorney, co-sponsored by the Leagues of Women Voters of Lake County and Mano a Mano Family Resource Center, held on Oct. 10, 2024. The content is used under the principles of fair use for commentary, criticism, and analysis. All rights belong to the original copyright holders. #LakeCountyElections #StateAttorneyDebate #MaryCole #EricRinehart #Leadership #JustAGuysOpinion #VoteResponsibly #LeagueOfWomenVoters #LWV #LakeCountyIL #Election2024 #PoliticalDebate #ManoaMano #CircuitCourtClerk --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lakeforestpodcast/support
In this episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss sit down with Lake County Clerk Anthony Vega to discuss everything you need to know about voting by mail, important election updates, and behind-the-scenes insights. Pete even does a Vote by Mail Unboxing of his own ballot! Tune in to learn about the upcoming elections, ballot tracking, and more.
In this special episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, hosts Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss are joined by former Lake Forest Mayor George Pandaleon.
In this episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss dive into the latest news and happenings around Lake Forest!
In this important episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, hosts Pete Jansons and Joe Weiss sit down with Dr. Matt Montgomery, Superintendent of District 67, to discuss the recent hiring issue at Cherokee School. Dr. Montgomery provides a detailed account of the hiring oversight, the immediate actions taken to address the situation, and the ongoing improvements to the district's hiring processes. The conversation highlights the challenges of maintaining high standards, the district's commitment to transparency, and the importance of community trust. Key Moments: 0:00 Pete and Joe pre-show banter 3:15 Parents Care Clip •
In this critical episode of the Lake Forest Podcast, Mary Cole, Lake Bluff Trustee and candidate for Lake County State's Attorney, joins us once again to discuss the pressing issues facing Lake County. From the tragic shooting in Round Lake Beach to the challenges posed by the Safety Act, Mary breaks down why this election is more important than ever.
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