I consider myself lucky to have been born and raised right here in the Rock River Valley, a place that my family and my wife Amy's family have called home for generations. I was first hired at WROK in 1983, and except for a short departure, I've spent my entire career right here in Rockford. Halloween of 2019 will mark my 18th anniversary of hosting the WROK Morning Show, making me the longest-serving morning show host in the station's nearly 100-year history. Amy and I have been happily married for 28 years, with two (now grown) children, Spencer (who does voice-overs for audio books and commercial voice-over work, too), and Molly (a graduate of Rock Valley College who also dazzles with service at a popular local restaurant). I'm luckier than I ever thought possible. When I'm not here at the station, I can usually be found at one of Rockford's many great, local events, either as host/master of ceremonies, or as an attendee. If we should meet, feel free to buy me 1 to 7 drinks.
Riley O'Neil
Study Claims Illinois’ Favorite Christmas Dish Is Hot Chocolate
Spoon University, in a rundown of each state's favorite Christmas dish, has totally missed the mark with this one. Right?
Chicago Police Release Marijuana Facts Video
As you may know, recreational marijuana becomes legal here in Illinois on January 1st, but the Chicago Police Department wants you to know that there are definitely rules.
You’ve Heard Of Deer In Headlights, But This?
The expression "Like a deer in headlights" generally means a look of confusion or disorientation. Like a deer in who recently found its antlers tangled up in holiday lights.
Former Byron Athlete Sues School Over Hazing
The Rockford Register Star reports that the former Byron High School player contends in his lawsuit there is a culture of “long standing, systemic, ritualized” hazing and bullying in the football program.
Another Day, Another Recall: Cheese Nips
Spinach, romaine lettuce, and meat recalls are bad enough. But Cheese Nips? Now I'm concerned.
New Study Ranks Illinois Drivers, Roads, Infrastructure
Quote Wizard compiled information from all 50 states, measuring the quality of road infrastructure, distracted driving fatality rates and insurance rates among other things.
Here’s Where To Get Warm During This Super-Cold Weather
As I write this, Rockford's current temperature is 10 degrees, with a "feels like," or windchill of 5 below zero.
We’re 1 Step Closer To Making DST Permanent
If Illinois State Senator Andy Manar gets his wish, people in Illinois would move their clocks ahead one hour this coming spring, then never have to change them again.
Another Day, Another Recall–This Time It’s Salmon
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Class I recall notice for ten lots of Cold Smoked Salmon distributed by Mill Stream Corporation (Sullivan Harbor Farm).
The Rock River Valley Blood Center Needs Platelets
Platelets support blood clotting and give those with leukemia and other cancers a chance to live.