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
Target Recalls 4.9 Million Candles, Some Sold In Illinois
It's been a short while since we've had to tell you about a product recall, but when a major retailer recalls nearly 5 million of anything, it's a pretty big deal.
Fun Fact: Duct Tape Was Invented By An Illinois Mom During WWII
One of the most used and loved products in the world today was invented by an Illinois mother during World War II, who hoped to save soldiers lives on the battlefield, especially her own sons. When no one would listen to her, she decided to write a letter to the President of the United States. Spoiler alert: He listened to her.
Illinoisans Have The Best Chance Of Wild Animal Attack In Midwest
Having lived here my entire life, I have to wonder how is it that Illinois leads the Midwest, and a big portion of the entire country, in dangerous wildlife encounters.
Bagged Lettuce Shortage In Illinois? Here’s Why It’s Happening
Bagged lettuce and salads are the second fastest selling items in grocery stores, behind only bottled water. However, an unusual reason is keeping the country's number-one supplier of those products, Dole, from getting pre-packed lettuce and salads to grocery stores in Illinois and nationwide.
Wisconsin Idiot Kills Bald Eagle, Faces $100K Fine And Jail
When someone decides to do what an unknown person (at least for right now) in Wisconsin did earlier this month, shoot and mortally wound a bald eagle, my inability to comprehend why gets shoved aside and is replaced with good, old-fashioned anger.
Here’s How Christmas Lights Affect Your Illinois Power Bill
A study takes a look at the costs for running Christmas lights between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, at an average of 7 hours per day.
Naperville Woman Takes 2nd Place In Nathan’s Hot Dog Contest
Naperville's Sara Rodriguez (pictured on the far right) ate more hot dogs in 10 minutes than Joe Dredge and I have eaten collectively in the last two years. Well, more than me, anyway.
New Law May Bring More Cameras To Illinois Expressways
The law, signed last week, requires state agencies to come up with a plan to increase the number of cameras along expressways in Cook County.
CDC Says Kissing Bugs Have Moved North, Including Illinois
After reading about what these little critters do, I think we'd all prefer to be overrun with "friend zone" bugs.
Some Little-Known Facts About Illinois’ Favorite Easter Candy
For those wondering about Illinois' favorite way to get a good sugar-shock, look no further than the humble Peep.