Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Chris Hicks
From Huntsville to the Quad Cities: Bobby Becker's Theater Journey
In this episode of Footlights, we dive deep into the multifaceted world of Bobby Becker, an accomplished musical theater performer and creator whose journey began in the charming city of Huntsville, Alabama. From an early age, Bobby was captivated by the magic of theater, first taking the stage at just five years old at an arts magnet school.
A Fundamental Research Plan for Autonomous Cyber Defence
This joint report from MITRE and The Alan Turing Institute’s Centre for Emerging Technology and Security (CETaS) continues the series of studies commissioned by the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) on autonomous cyber defence (ACD). Concerns around how offensive AI could increase the volume, scale and stealthiness of cyberattacks persist, particularly because of the immense economic and societal damage they can cause if such attacks are aimed at critical national infrastructure (CNI).
Camping options abound in the Q-C: New amenities at Geneseo Campground, plus other area camping options
Just two miles from downtown, next to the Hennepin Canal, the Geneseo Campground provides a blissfully bucolic, fully shaded oasis for those who appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer.
SEO Consulting Experts Celebrates a Decade of Digital Excellence in Florida
SEO Consulting Experts Celebrates a Decade of Digital Excellence in Florida SEO Consulting Experts, an innovative digital marketing company, is proud to announce the celebration of its 10th anniversary! LARGO, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES, March 13, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- SEO Consulting Experts, a trailblazer in digital marketing solutions, is delighted to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
It’s a “Knock Out” for children from Colchester Garrison and beyond
Essex Freemasons donated £15,000 to the ABF The Soldiers’ Charity to support “Operation Camouflage” In support of the Armed Forces Covenant, Essex Freemasons donated £15,000 to the ABF The Soldiers’ Charity which in turn was given to the Army Welfare Service (AWS) to facilitate “Operation Camouflage” and combining this with local authority Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) funding this tremendous event was able to happen.
New York International FC President Nick Platt On The Club's Progress & Future – The Soccer Times
After a successful freshman season in Division 2 of the Cosmopolitan Soccer League, Chris Hicks of From the Lion’s Mouth had a chat with New York International FC president Nick Platt about his thoughts on the previous season and also looked ahead to future challenges. From an organizational perspective, how successful do you and the board view the concluded Division 2 inaugural season?
Aviation Maintenance Professionals (AmP) welcomes Chris Hicks
April 2022 Dallas, Texas - Arlington based aviation maintenance organization, Aviation Maintenance Professionals (AmP), announces that Chris Hicks joined AmP as Director, Sales and Marketing.
UT Extension News: Drilling Vs Discing
By Chris Hicks, County Director – UT Extension Smith County I had a question come through on email this past week that is one of those frequently asked questions without a one-size-fits-all answer. The question was essentially, “Which is better when establishing a forage crop: conventional tillage and broadcasting seed or drilling seed with a no-till drill?” It’s a great question and the answer depends on the site, the equipment one has access to, and the time available.
UT Extension News: Smith County Cattlemen’s Association Annual Meeting & Open Beef Show
By Chris Hicks, County Director – UT Extension Smith County The Smith County Cattlemen’s Association went with a back-to-back format for their Annual Meeting and Open Beef Show this year, hosting the Annual Meeting on Friday night, May 7, and the Open Beef Show the next day. At the Annual Meeting, over 100 Smith County beef producers enjoyed a meal sponsored by Smith Farmers Co-Op and heard updates from the local and state Cattlemen’s Associations, UT Extension, and NRCS.
UT Extension News: Celebrate Summer With Smith County Extension
By Chris Hicks, County Director – UT Extension Smith County Mark your calendar for Wednesday, June 9 to “Celebrate Summer with UT Extension.” You can join us from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at our office at 125 Gordonsville Highway in Carthage for food, prizes, and more! UT Extension, which over the years has gone by other names such as the Agriculture Extension Service, has been around for over 100 years working to improve the lives of Tennesseans.
Camping options abound in the Q-C: New amenities at Geneseo Campground, plus other area camping options
Just two miles from downtown, next to the Hennepin Canal, the Geneseo Campground provides a blissfully bucolic, fully shaded oasis for those who appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer.
How clinicians can support patients’ mental health during the coronavirus outbreak
Coronavirus has left many people feeling anxious, worried about what the future might bring, and deeply unsettled. These challenging times will particularly affect people with mental health problems. Healthcare professionals are having to support people with increased anxiety as a result of the virus, which is made more difficult by having to support most patients remotely. Below we have summarised what healthcare professionals can do to best support patients at this time. 1.
REVIEW: Circa 21's 'Elf' a sterling, dazzling, joy-filled production
ROCK ISLAND — The holiday season is bearing down on us with the speed of a Canadian Clipper, and one of the best “sparklyjollytwinkleyjingley” places to get into the spirit of things is at Circa '21's current sterling silver-bell production of “Elf the Musical." Even the “Grinch” at my house — who hates musicals — succumbed to the infectious Buddy and company. From the moment you walk in the door, you’re bedazzled with all the holly-jolly joys of the season and the magic that’s Christmas.
Hampton discusses water, sewer rates
WHAT WE KNOW: Hampton’s village board has been operating in deficit with regard to water and sewer services, exacerbated by the spring flooding, and as a consequence President Richard Vershaw sought a study by the Illinois Rural Water Association. At the Aug. 12 board meeting, Clark Cameron of the IRWA delivered the study’s findings and recommendations.
6-year veteran of Silvis police force K-9 officer Elko retires
On Tuesday evening the Silvis City Council and police department gathered to bid farewell to a six-year veteran of the force, K-9 Officer Elko. Over his six year tenure with the SPD, Elko has assisted in drug busts, suspect tracking, and search and rescue. Elko's retirement was prompted by recent health issues. The rather large German Shepherd, specially bred to become a police dog, came to Silvis from Czechoslovakia. Continue reading your article with a digital subscription. Already a subscriber?
Hampton considers zoning waivers
HAMPTON – Appearing at Monday’s meeting were Marty Johnson and Josh Wallace to request zoning waivers; Johnson for a shed/pool house in his backyard, and Wallace for a special use permit to use his deceased mother’s house to start a firearm repair and building business (to be sold to dealers, not the public). President Rich Vershaw explained to both men that in addition to following statutory procedures, action would be delayed as these were matters that should be taken to the zoning board.
Silvis Garden Club greenhouse a 'hidden gem' in the community
SILVIS — The Silvis Garden Club's greenhouse is a bit of a "hidden gem," said club president Kathy Hall. The 30-by-60 feet greenhouse, tucked not quite behind Schroder Mortuary, houses 21 varieties of tomatoes, peppers, herbs and hanging baskets that the club raises to sell to the public. They also provide, plant and maintain flowers throughout the city at various “adopt-a-spot” locations. The nonprofit garden club got its start with 12 members in 2001.
Camping options abound in the Q-C: New amenities at Geneseo Campground, plus other area camping options
Just two miles from downtown, next to the Hennepin Canal, the Geneseo Campground provides a blissfully bucolic, fully shaded oasis for those who appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer.
Silvis committee advances Twin Oaks TIF
Meg McLaughlin WHAT WE KNOW: At its Economic Development Committee on April 12, ordinances for advancing the Twin Oaks TIF were discussed as well as ordinances establishing incentives for both commercial and residential facades along First Avenue. The committee voted to send all ordinances to the committee of the whole. Under these ordinances residents and businesses would be eligible for funds to improve their property via forgivable loans if they meet certain requirements.
Prenzie offers gleeful, fast-paced, ridiculous comedy
DAVENPORT — It’s just the “pits” – and I mean that in the best possible way. Prenzie Players current production of “The Comedy of Errors,” directed by Adam Lewis, is a gleeful, fast-paced (it runs a mere 75 minutes) romp of a show that’s part Monty Python’s Flying Circus, part Keystone Kops, and part Three Stooges and full of belly laughs. The reference to the “pits” refers back to The Globe Theatre of medieval London.
Silvis advances Twin Oaks TIF project
WHAT WE KNOW: At its Feb. 7 committee of the whole meeting, Silvis council members approved advancing an ordinance establishing an interest parties registry for the Twin Oaks Tax Increment Financing district. WHAT’S NEW: On Tuesday, the council approved creating the ordinance. A public hearing on the proposed TIF district is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. April 16 at city hall, 121 11th St., Silvis.
Graphic lessons launch Citizens Police Academy
Editor's Note: Christine Hicks is a correspondent for The Dispatch-Argus who is participating in the Citizens Police Academy presented through April 3 by multiple law enforcement agencies in the Quad-Cities. At last it's Jan. 23. Since I received the letter several weeks ago informing me I had been accepted to participate in this year’s Citizens Police Academy in the Quad-Cities, I’ve been on pins and needles to start. And now it’s here.
Trash pickup delayed in Hampton
HAMPTON – At Monday’s Hampton board meeting, Supervisor Scott McKay reminded the community that due to the severe temperatures predicted for Wednesday, garbage pickup for the village is being delayed until Thursday. The board also approved sending McKay to the Illinois Rural Water Association in February at an amount not to exceed $500 for registration, lodging and meals.
Prenzie presents chilling, thrilling, energetic "Macbeth"
“Something wicked this way comes,” and it comes by way of Prenzie Players’ "Macbeth," a wickedly well-performed tale of intrigue, ambition and murder. One of Shakespeare’s most well-known works, this marks Prenzie’s first time it has repeated a script — and it is worth the rerun. Part of the play’s notoriety revolves around the “curse” attached to it.
Silvis hears efficiency analysis proposal
SILVIS – City officials on Tuesday heard a proposal by Ryan Wobler of Energy Systems Group of Itasca to conduct an analysis of Silvis' efficiency and infrastructure. No further discussion was held and no vote was taken on a letter of intent proposed by Wobler. Also at the meeting Mayor Matt Carter honored long-time city attorney Graham Lee who is retiring from his service to the city. Lee said the Silvis council was one of the best in the Quad Cities.
Massive sewer project reviewed in East Moline
EAST MOLINE — Council members received a presentation from Greg Rykaert, Loren Rains and Chad Johnson of the engineering firm IMEG regarding an anticipated multi-million dollar, multi-year sewer project in East Moline.
Hampton exploring TIF redistribution
HAMPTON — The village currently has more than half a million in tax increment financing funds, TIF Administrator Mike Toalson told trustees on Monday. By law, a portion of those funds must be returned to Rock Island County for redistribution to be used for improvements within the scope of the TIF district.
Ice rink being readied in Silvis
SILVIS — While the recent frigid temperatures may have some dreaming of tropical vacations, some hardy Quad-Citians are about to realize dreams of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows — after enjoying a brisk spin around an ice rink. Silvis officials are readying the return of ice skating. The city is preparing a 44-by-88-foot ice rink at Schadt Park, 1101 4th Ave. Pending inspection by the city’s risk management advisors, planners hopt to have the rink open by Jan. 1.
EM urged to move its funds
EAST MOLINE — Finance Director Annaka Whiting recommended to the council at its committee of the whole meeting that it move the city’s remaining funds on deposit at TBK Bank to Blackhawk Bank or to the city’s investment firm in Chicago. The move was initiated by TBK Bank. Some time ago the city moved its accounts to Blackhawk Bank & Trust because TBK wanted to eliminate pledged accounts.
'Big toe to your inner ear': Area physical therapist treats patients head to toe
Physical therapist Danny Fleener doesn’t remember big successes. He remembers “failures” — the clients he was unable to help — especially when he later learns something new that could have helped someone in the past. That’s what defines the East Moline man, a certified physical therapist, manual physical therapist and orthopedic certified therapist at Rock Valley Physical Therapy on Avenue of the Cities in Moline.
Hampton to keep meetings at village hall
HAMPTON — Village trustees on Monday conducted a lengthy discussion on whether or not to move its regular board meetings from the village hall to the Heritage Center on the Mississippi. At its Nov. 13 meeting, Trustee Steffanie Adams initiated a discussion because it was her understanding that public meetings need to be held in buildings that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Christmas in Silvis set for Dec. 1
SILVIS — Amanda Sherwood, director of Silvis Main Street, updated the council Tuesday night on Christmas in Silvis planned 5-8 p.m. Dec. 1. Events planned throughout the downtown area include ice sculpture, crafts and face painting for children, an ugly sweater or scarf contest and a mailbox for letters to Santa. A drawing will offer a first place prize of $10,000, second place $1,000 and third place $500. Tickets are available at city hall for $20 each.
Richmond Hill bags a winner in final 50th-anniversary show
The Richmond Hill Players’ 50th season has been a series of audience-requested reprisals; saving the best for last, they wrap up the season with “Escanaba in da Moonlight,” a belly laugh of a script rife with “Yooper” dialect and colloquialisms, written by award-winning stage and screen actor Jeff Daniels and raucously directed by Mike Skiles. Set somewhere deep in the forest of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the story revolves around the sacred ritual of opening day of deer-hunting season.
Resident speaks out against Silvis dog park
SILVIS — Council members were addressed at Wednesday’s meeting by resident Chris Baker who was representing the neighborhood located at 8th Avenue and 10th, 11th, and 12th streets. The neighborhood is concerned about plans to possibly locate a dog park in the mini-park adjacent to their properties. Baker stressed that she and the residents are not objecting to the city developing a dog park; they are concerned that this is not the best location.
Teens watch ballot boxes in Rock Island County
EAST MOLINE — Traditionally, election judges have been retirees with time to provide the task of making an election happen. As residents age or become seasonal residents, however, they become less inclined or able to serve. Faced with a dwindling number of judges, Rock Island County Clerk Karen Kinney came up with an innovative solution: teenagers. Through government classes, Kinney and staff recruited 35 high school students who served as election judges at 16 voting centers throughout the county.
East Moline addresses TIF for EMG project
EAST MOLINE — At its regular council meeting Monday night, the East Moline City Council dealt with ordinances forwarded from the Oct. 15 committee of the whole meeting regarding the tax increment designation for the EMG redevelopment project area.
Hampton residents question need for special insurance
HAMPTON — Village President Richard Vershaw informed the board Monday night that he has received a few calls from residents reacting to a letter they recently received regarding insurance being offered through a Pennsylvania firm that would cover residents for water or sewer repairs for which they would be responsible.
Silvis school's superintendent seeks liaison officer
SILVIS — Council members were addressed Tuesday by Dr. Terri VandeWiele, Silvis School District superintendent, who requested that the city formally provide a liaison officer for the district. She said an officer has been present on the schools’ campuses unofficially and thanked Police Chief Mark VanKlaveren for allowing this.VandeWiele proposed a 60/40 percent split between the city and the school district for salary and benefits.
Brandt in default on EM's road construction
EAST MOLINE — Tim Kammler, director of engineering services, told council members Monday that Brandt Construction is in default of its contract with the city on the 7th Street project.
Prenzie shows why 'Henry VIII' is rarely performed
“Henry VIII”: Palace intrigue, conniving royal advisers and illicit romantic trysts — all would provide juicy fodder for a telling of the Tudor reign where the male-heir-obsessed king of England’s rejection of his legitimate queen, Katherine of Aragon, in favor of the enticing tart, Anne Boleyn, should appeal to both the high- and low-born in Jacobean London’s patrons of the Globe Theatre.
Police staffing issues arise in Hampton
HAMPTON — Trustees on Tuesday were informed by president Richard Vershaw that Police Chief Dave Pearly may ask for permission at the Oct. 22 meeting to place an advertisement for at least two full-time police officers and from two to four part-time officers. The need is the result of the recent resignations of a full-time police officer and former chief Terry Engle. Vershaw indicated the vacancies have resulted in an increase in overtime at the department.
Flag presentation highlights Silvis council meeting
SILVIS — The spectators gallery was filled at Tuesday’s meeting to witness the presentation of a very special American flag to young Liam Wilcox by Sgt. Jeremy Davis of the Iowa National Guard.Liam, completely on his own, began replacing American flags wherever he saw tattered flags flying over buildings. Fire Chief John Winters was so impressed with Liam's initiative that he posted it on social media which was seen by his nephew, Davis.
EM replaces longtime city treasurer
EAST MOLINE — Council chambers were packed Monday night as family and friends were on hand to witness the promotion of four police officers. Chief John Reynolds presided at the ceremony promoting Darren Gault to Captain, Dustin Edkin to Lieutenant, and David Rummery and Kyle Schultz to Sergeant.Also at Monday’s meeting Mayor Reggie Freeman presented Carolyn Ellis as his recommendation to replace longtime city treasurer Tony Banaszek.
Hampton eyes properties on Corps of Engineers land
HAMPTON — Village trustees on Monday approved a motion to move forward on action to change the addresses of properties located in what is commonly referred to as “Corps properties” from East Moline addresses to Hampton addresses.Residents of the properties, located south of Illiniwek Park, do not own the land but have 10-year renewable leases from the Corps of Engineers.In an ordinance recorded on Nov. 23, 1992, and under the administration of Scott Newberg, the village annexed those properties.
East Moline residents concerned about proposed sports complex
EAST MOLINE — The city council chamber gallery was packed Monday night with residents from the Forest Hills area opposed to a sports complex planned by East Moline Christian School.The school is affiliated with Victory Baptist Church at 900 46th Ave., East Moline.In July, the church sought and received a waiver of fees for the Forest Hills property purchased by the church to develop a sports complex for the school.
East Moline residents concerned about proposed sports complex
EAST MOLINE — The city council chamber gallery was packed Monday night with residents from the Forest Hills area opposed to a sports complex planned by East Moline Christian School.The school is affiliated with Victory Baptist Church at 900 46th Ave., East Moline.In July, the church sought and received a waiver of fees for the Forest Hills property purchased by the church to develop a sports complex for the school.
Hampton selects Perley as interim police chief
HAMPTON — Village trustees on Monday accepted the resignation of Police Chief Terry Engle, who has accepted a position as a security officer at the Quad-City International Airport, Moline. Engle has been with the Hampton department for 11 years, first as a part-time officer and then as chief for the past five years. Former trustee James Garrison was among several people in attendance who praised Engle’s work and expressing sadness at his departure.
Copeland named deputy police chief in Silvis
SILVIS – Mayor Matt Carter on Tuesday night swore in Mark Copeland as Silvis’ first deputy police chief.Copeland, an Alleman High School graduate with a law enforcement degree from Western Illinois University, comes to the position with 18 years of service to the city.Silvis Police Chief Mark VanKlaveren said Copeland was chosen from three "great candidates," complements VanKlaveren’s style and will bring a wealth of knowledge.
East Moline ready to ban smoking in city parks
EAST MOLINE — Mariah Benson and Jennifer DiBuono of the Rock Island County Health Department addressed the council at its committee-of-the- whole meeting on Tuesday, urging the council to enact an ordinance establishing all city parks as smoke-free.
Hampton hires firm to find extra revenue
HAMPTON — Village trustees on Monday approved a contingent fee agreement with Azavar Audit Solutions, Inc., for professional audit and compliance management services.At the May 29 board meeting, Ray Coleman of Azavar gave a presentation indicating the company helps its clients find revenue that might otherwise be missed. The firm works on a contingency fee basis taking 45 percent of revenue found for a period of three years, after which no further payment from the village would be due.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Chris
Contact Chris, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack