Scroll down to view all episodes from Season 3 of Evanston Rules
SEASON 3
EPISODE 1
In Season Three's 1st episode, we (LAURICE and RON) are switching seats with one of our good friends and favorite guests from Season One, Judge LARRY AXELROOD.
Larry asks us some questions about how we got to where we are today and where we see Evanston Rules going and growing. And we answer with our typical no holds barred style
EPISODE 2
The Art of History. The 2nd episode from Season 3 of the Evanston Rules podcast features Janet Dees. Janet is a curator and art historian who speaks about her life experiences and how they inform her work in art history and vice versa.
Janet is the Steven and Lisa Munster Tananbaum, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at Northwestern University‘s Block Museum of Art.
Check out “A Site of Struggle: American Art against Anti-Black Violence” Edited by Janet Dees
EPISODE 3
In this 3rd episode from Season Three, we spoke with Dr. Devon Horton, the former Superintendent of Evanston/Skokie District 65. Dr. Horton's passion for his work shines through as he shares his deep belief and unwavering commitment to achieving equity in education.
Dr. Horton is the Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools.
EPISODE 4
In "Ahead Of Her TIme", our 4th episode from Season Three, we spoke with Dr. Mabel Williams, a cherished educator, mentor and Evanston resident of over 60 years, who has not only called this community home, but has also contributed significantly to its educational landscape. Her legacy embodies the values we strive to uphold, and her story is a testament to the impact one can have on a community.
Dr. Williams dedication to lifelong learning and self-improvement serves as an inspiring example to us all.
EPISODE 5
In "Building Equity" our 5th episode from Season Three, we speak with Dr. Allan Alson, the former superintendent of Evanston Township High School, District 202. Dr. Alson talks about his move to Evanston, addressing perceptions about the community, and candidly sharing how he didn't let initial impressions affect his belief in Evanston's potential. With this perspective, he committed to creating an equitable Evanston, embracing the differences that make him stand out. He's bold, courageous, and committed to the work. Dr. Alson is not just an ally; he's an accomplice in making Evanston even better.
EPISODE 6
In “Making History In Education", our 6th episode from Season Three, Dr. Campbell discusses his tenure at ETHS, where his passion for teaching continues to drive his role as Superintendent. He opens up about the memorabilia in his office, connecting him to his ancestors and grounding him. This link fuels his dedication to improving Evanston for future generations
Dr. Campbell is an unapologetic advocate for equity in education. Listen to understand the transformative journey he's leading.
EPISODE 7
In this 7th episode from Season Three, we had the pleasure of interviewing Schenita Stewart, Evanston's first Black female police chief. She shared personal photos of her family and spoke about the significant influences in her life. We discussed her experiences growing up in Evanston and the importance of her role in the community where she was born. Chief Stewart speaks openly and passionately about her dedication to Evanston and her vision as police chief. Listen to understand and to hear her inspiring story and deep commitment to her hometown, Evanston, Illinois.
Schenita Stewart is the Chief of Police at the Evanston Police Department in Evanston, Illinois. Episode photo credit: Rich Cahan.
EPISODE 8
In Episode 8, Carlis Sutton, a living encyclopedia of Evanston's Black history, shares his extensive knowledge about the vibrant community that existed before integration. He recounts the critical role of Community Hospital in serving the Black community when other hospitals refused them care. Listen as he offers rich insights into the historical institutions that shaped Evanston and the changes the Fifth Ward has undergone over the years.
Discover the profound history and enduring spirit of Evanston through Carlis’s captivating storytelling.
EPISODE 9
In Episode 9, part 2 of Carlis Sutton’s two-part episode within our series, this episode continues exploring Carlis's personal experiences, including being barred from Evanston Hospital and St. Francis Hospital, and receiving a polio vaccination in a basement—a stark illustration of the era’s racial segregation. He also praises the exceptional Black doctors who brought hope to the community and reflects on the enduring bonds within the Fifth Ward, where he grew up.
This two-part episode with Carlis is part of a larger series featuring various interviews that uncover the resilient spirit and rich history of Evanston. Join us as we explore these compelling stories.
A full list of episodes from Season 2 of Evanston Rules
SEASON 2
EPISODES 1 & 2
In the 1st and & 2nd episodes of our second season, we talk with our very own DR. RON WHITMORE. Listen as he speaks his truth and doesn’t hold back as we delve into a range of topics including family, home, loyalty, racism, education, opportunities, and living in Evanston as a father, teacher and unapologetic black man. We are proud and honored to share a piece of Ronnie’s story with all of you. Come to understand.
EPISODE 3
In this episode we have an authentic conversation with BOB LAMEY. Listen as he unpacks his childhood, family and friends while growing up in Evanston. Bob doesn't pull any punches as he shares his perspective about life. His experiences drive his work ethic, success and loyal relationships.
EPISODE 6
This episode features GAIL HUTCHISON, a native Evanstonian and a powerful yoga and meditation instructor. Gail gives us some insight into the benefits of self care for all people, but, in particular, black people. Gail states “We can’t pour from an empty cup”, a phrase that should encourage everyone support themselves and work on healing. As a black woman, Gail shares her valuable input about race, who gets opportunities, being honest and acknowledging and learning the past so that we can move forward.
EPISODE 7
This episode features PAT HUGHES, SR., who has made Evanston his home since he moved to our town in 1955. Pat attributes who he is to his upbringing, his diverse group of friends and meeting the love of his life, Brigid, while still in middle school. Pat practices an attitude
of gratitude as he tells us about his large family whose family ties run deep through the community. His desire to lead a life of service and pay it forward have guided him to be a person we and the community are grateful for. Listen To Understand!
EPISODES 8
In this episode, we talk with RODNEY WILLIAMS, a native Evanstonian, who has risen through the ranks of corporate America in marketing at Moët Hennessy, Jackson Family Wines and Mondavi Wines, while always standing up for what is right. Rodney pays it forward and moves the needle toward a level playing field. Join us as we talk to him about living with integrity, the importance of staying connected to your roots and showing up every day and living as an unapologetically and righteous black man, doing the right thing.
EPISODE 9
This episode features Blaire Frett, Ilana Marder-Eppstein, Lydia Collins, and Louise Bond of the group of Talking Whiteness on Central Street. Talking Whiteness challenges the status quo on their home turf in Northwest Evanston with conversations that could be had around the dinner table.
These organizers created a model that puts them face to face with their neighbors, asking pointed questions to encourage people to look at their privilege while talking about whiteness. As we say, there is no equity without action and these four people are out there making a difference. Tamika Mallory says, “we don’t need allies, we need accomplices,” And these folks are just that; we are happy to call them Evanstonians.
EPISODE 10
The fruit clearly doesn't fall too far from the tree. In this episode we speak with KIMBERLY HOLMES ROSS, who is truly her mother's child. Listen, as Kim describes growing up in Evanston, attending District 65 schools and Evanston Township High School. And why she is drawn to the work she is passionate about, serving her community. Kim opens up about her family, her childhood, and why she has chosen to follow in her mother's footsteps. Kim has spent a life walking the walk and continues to give back to the community and is unapologetic about her work and her love for it.
EPISODE 11
This episode features WILLIAM H. LOGAN, JR., also known as Bill or Chief Logan. Listen, as Chief Logan talks about his family and growing up in Evanston. You will hear about his storied career with the Evanston Police Department, which he joined in 1957 and rose through the ranks to become Evanston’s first Black Police Chief in 1984. Chief Logan’s contributions to the Evanston community as the co-founder of numerous organizations shaped the path for access and opportunity for black youth. Chief Logan truly led the village by his example of caring for the place we call home.
EPISODE 12
The story of the Logan family continues in this episode with GILO KWESI LOGAN. In our last episode with his father, retired police Chief Bill Logan, we spoke of his father’s contributions to our hometown. In this episode, The Beat Of His Own Drum, we to talk with Gilo, who explains how his name evolved from Gary to Gilo. He shares his experiences growing up as a young black male and how his experiences abroad have shaped his life and helped define him as a human being. And as Gilo says, I am because we are. And because we are. Therefore I am.
EPISODE 13
DENISE MARTIN has overcome what for many would be roadblocks to success, but as you’ll hear in this episode, her determination at every juncture has shown her to be a formidable yet compassionate competitor. Denise’s Evanston public school education started at Dewey School. Because of forced integration, she and the rest of the black student community were then bused to Walker for 6th grade. She went on to Skiles, ETHS and finally to Northwestern University where she earned two degrees. After graduating from Northwestern, Denise worked as an administrator at ETHS. In her exemplary career she took seriously her relationship with the black community. She loves Evanston but says about it, “no bulls-eye yet, we keep shooting narrows. We got lots of arrows.” In addition to her many personal and professional accomplishments, she’s made community involvement a priority in her life as she supports and celebrates Evanston, continuing to make it a better place.
EPISODE 14
OLIVER RUFF brings to mind three words, consistency, present and commitment. He has always been exactly the same, whether in friendship, inspiring his many students, or by showing up to affect positive change. Mr. Ruff is a person who cares, is committed and passionate about Evanston and its residents. He grew up in Evanston, taught school and became an administrator in District 65. He credits his mother with his solid foundation and strong work ethic. Mr. Ruff is a founding member of numerous foundations as well as the eponymous scholarship, Oliver A. Ruff Education and Mentoring Scholarship. We say, there is no equity without action and Mr. Ruff certainly does just that.
EPISODE 15
In Season two’s 14th episode, we talk with 4 founders of The AUX: JACQUI WHITE, LORI LASER, TIFFINI HOLMES and TOSHA WILSON. Listen as we learn about their huge efforts to build a community space owned by the people - a commercial hub led by black ownership that has been envisioned by its founders to bring healing, wellness and racial equity to Evanston.
We learn about the experiences that brought all of them together and the importance of The AUX’s work with connectivity and working collaboratively to create a space where all are welcome. Come to understand.
Scroll down to view all episodes from Season 1 of Evanston Rules
SEASON 1
EPISODES 7 + 8
Featuring DINO ROBINSON, a game changer who ensures the black experience along the North Shore is not forgotten or ignored. Dino didn’t see the contributions of Black people represented in the local historical societies, so he created Shorefront Legacy Center.
EPISODE 9
Featuring ETHS students and recent graduates, past and present members of SOAR, a student-led initiative to increase consciousness about social justice issues, anti-racism & empowering students in their racial identity development. We were blown away by Liana Wallace, Kayla Henning, Carmiya Bady, and Nora Miller, who are the brightest of lights, as well as TaRhonda Woods, an engaged and revered SOAR facilitator and teacher at ETHS.
EPISODES 10 + 11
Featuring The Miller Family: TEEL, WILLIE and ALYSON MILLER. Listen as we learn about how two prominent Evanston families, the Millers and the Spencers merged to bring humanity and humility to the place we call home.
EPISODE 13
BOBBY BURNS shares how the various people in his life have made a difference. He mentions our very own Ron Whitmore who was his kindergarten teacher as a character of influence. In our conversation, Bobby recounts his life choices and the lessons he learned on the way with full transparency.
EPISODE 14
Listen as we learn about ROSE JOHNSON’S journey from Tallahassee to Spelman College to Evanston with her family. Rose's experiences an educator, school board member, parent and community activist have been a driving force for her truth while living in Evanston. Rose has been—and continues to be—involved making a difference. Come to understand.
EPISODE 15
As we end a year of chaos and uncertainty, we found an opportunity to come together on Saturday, December 19, 2020, and celebrate our commonality: Evanston Township High School. We reminisced and told old stories, but also dove into pertinent issues like Covid-19, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the continued brutality faced by people of color in our country.
EPISODE 16
Featuring CEDRIC SINGLETARY, the founder of the Facebook page, “You Know You From Evanston When.” He discusses his perceptions of the duality of Evanston and how his experiences growing up in Evanston have influenced him. Being a self described underdog, Cedric tells us about the the resilience modeled by his elders and how those experiences made him who he is.