I’m Debbie Knowles, a professional musician and music teacher. I received 2 music degrees from Northwestern, so Evanston has a big place in my heart. I teach at Lake Forest College, and the Music Institute of Chicago, plus I perform with symphony orchestras, jazz bands, in musical theater shows, and anywhere else I can!

I got involved with the Evanston 4th of July Association through my
husband, Randy Knowles, who has been involved with the parade for many years as the founder and leader of the North Shore Emergency Association, and also as a trustee and an officer.

I love helping to set up the parade on the 4th. I get up close and personal with all the floats, and of course all the musical groups and bands are my favorites!

Volunteers are needed for the many aspects of the parade and other events of the 4th. Meeting people, helping organize the events and the
actual parade, working on publicity, etc.–these are all fun things to do! Enjoying the parade and band concert/fireworks at the lake front at night are also fun!