TRUSTEE SINCE 2007

Following graduation from New Trier High School and Elmhurst College, Mr. Knowles enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve and served 3 years of active duty. He obtained his law degree from the John Marshall Law School in 1976 and, from 1976-78, served as a Task Chairman of the US Congressionally chartered Personal Use Radio Advisory Committee to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). He next worked as a criminal prosecutor (Assistant State’s Attorney) in Lake County and then in private practice for over 40 years. He has experience as a police and fire dispatcher as well as a past Radio Communications Chairman of the North Region Mid America Red Cross Disaster Service.

Mr. Knowles played in an 8 piece jazz band (double bass) starting in high school with other members from Evanston and Niles High Schools. Starting in 1962 this band played in the Evanston Fourth of July parade, did so until 1968. Mr. Knowles then became involved as a two-way radio communications volunteer, assisting with the parade and fireworks shows each year (CB and Class A [now GMRS] 2-way radio). He has served as Communications Chairman of the EFJA for over 50 years.

The tradition of the Evanston celebration is a constructive positive activity that has served the area well for a number of generations and should continue well into the future. As a trustee this is my opportunity to contribute to guiding this fine organization for a bright future into decades of the new millennium.

The Evanston celebration has a wide variety of diverse activities, from morning games and fun run to afternoon parade and evening concert and fireworks show. There are volunteer opportunities for people with an extensive variety of different interests who would enjoy contributing to the spirit of the day. It’s a patriotic chance to help shape the continuing future, and a very rewarding, satisfying experience!