In this captivating episode of Inside the Skev, we welcomed Dr. Eric James, a stalwart in international development and humanitarian aid, to discuss his extensive career and the innovative approaches he's championed in the field. Hailing from Evanston and a proud alumnus of Evanston Township High School and the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Dr. James brought his unique blend of local insights and global perspectives to our discussion.

Our conversation took us through the riveting journey of Dr. James, exploring how his formative years led to a lifelong commitment to aid and development. Dr. James opened up about early career decisions, the compelling call to humanitarian work, and provided an intimate look into the challenging environments he's worked in. He recounted impactful experiences that have not only shaped his approach to aid but also transformed the lives of many in over twenty countries.

A deep dive into his influential book, "Managing Humanitarian Relief," revealed Dr. James's motivation for writing and its substantial influence on how aid organizations operate. He also shared the innovative spirit behind Field Ready, an organization redefining how aid is delivered through cutting-edge solutions.

The conversation touched on the recognition Dr. James received from Rotary International, highlighting the synergy between large organizations and humanitarian efforts. We also discussed the increasing number of global crises and Dr. James's insights on adapting aid distribution in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.

The transition from crisis response to long-term community resilience was another focal point, with Dr. James detailing Field Ready's contributions to empowerment and sustainability. Technological innovation's role in Field Ready's success was explored, with special mention of Dr. James's time at Singularity University.

Looking ahead, Dr. James offered his vision for the evolution of international aid and advice for those inspired to join the field. For further information and to delve into Dr. James's works and initiatives, listeners can visit ericbooks.com and fieldready.org.

Don't miss this insightful episode that bridges the gap between local actions and global changes, highlighting how individual journeys can contribute to a greater good.

In this enlightening episode of "Inside the Skev," host Aaron Masliansky engages in a deep and inspiring conversation with Dick Peach, a pivotal figure in the Skevanston and Evanston communities. Known for his extensive involvement in various facets of community life, Dick shares his rich experiences, from growing up in a rural-like Skokie to leading significant community initiatives. His roles as the President of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Evanston, along with his contributions to local high schools, environmental efforts, and vocational learning, are just a few highlights of his remarkable journey. This episode promises a wealth of insights into community leadership, the power of involvement, and the evolution of the Skevanston area.

Dick Peach's Background: Discussion about Dick's upbringing in Skevanston, his education, and his service in the Vietnam War. His diverse career includes working at Rand McNally, managing a professional sports car racing team, a car dealership and Dempster Auto Rebuilding.

Community Leadership: Insights into Dick’s leadership roles in the Evanston Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Evanston. His approach to leadership emphasizes delegation, trust, and community involvement.

Rotary Club Projects: Exploration of the Rotary Club's local and international projects, including significant initiatives in Guatemala and Africa. Discussion about Dick receiving the prestigious Bill Logan Legacy of Service Award.

Civic Engagement and Advocacy: Dick's efforts in advocating for small businesses and vocational education in Evanston. He played a key role in establishing the auto shop program at Evanston Township High School and has written award-winning articles on fishing and environmental issues.

Personal Stories: From being Santa Claus in downtown Evanston to his deep passion for fishing, Dick shares personal anecdotes that reflect his diverse interests and commitment to the community.

Advice for Future Leaders: Dick encourages active community involvement and highlights the importance of diverse opinions and respectful dialogues for effective community leadership.

Dick Peach’s story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community. His dedication to various causes and his ability to inspire change are evident throughout the episode. Listeners are invited to explore more about community initiatives and are encouraged to engage in their own local issues.

Stay tuned for more episodes of "Inside the Skev" with Aaron Masliansky, where community stories and insights come to life.

Welcome to Inside the Skev, the podcast that explores the important stories shaping our community. In this episode, host Aaron Masliansky speaks with Matt Poole and Margaret Isaacson, dedicated professionals at the Evanston Ecology Center. The Evanston Ecology Center is an integral part of the Parks and Recreation Department for the City of Evanston, fostering environmental awareness and promoting outdoor recreation throughout the community. Matt, the Recreation Manager, and Margaret, the Program Coordinator, share their passion and commitment to environmental stewardship.

In this engaging conversation, we discuss the Earth Day events planned for April 22, 2023. Residents can look forward to a variety of activities, including a guided nature walk, a bird watching hike, a tree planting ceremony, a children's art contest, and a complimentary community lunch to celebrate Earth Day together.

In addition to Earth Day celebrations, the Evanston Ecology Center has ambitious plans for the future. One such initiative is the construction of a kayak launch on the canal, designed to provide a safe and accessible way for residents to enjoy paddling activities. Another exciting project in development is a state-of-the-art nature classroom, aimed at enhancing environmental education through hands-on learning experiences.

If you're interested in visiting or learning more about the Evanston Ecology Center, the facility is located at 2024 McCormick Blvd., Evanston, IL 60202. For further information or inquiries, please call (847) 866-2992 or visit their website at https://www.cityofevanston.org/government/departments/parks-recreation-community-services/ecology-center, where you'll find the latest news and resources related to their environmental programs.

In closing, Aaron thanks Matt and Margaret for their dedication to environmental stewardship and their ongoing contributions to the Evanston community. He encourages listeners to participate in Earth Day events and support the Evanston Ecology Center's initiatives as a valuable part of the City of Evanston's Parks and Recreation Department.