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
Here’s Where To Go In Illinois For The Absolute Best Stargazing
There's no shortage of really cool celestial events every year, but for Illinois residents who never really get a good look at meteor showers, planetary alignments, comets, and eclipses, here's where to go to see things in the heavens like you've never seen before.
No Overseas Travel Needed: Check Out The 7 Wonders Of Illinois
There's no need to spend a bunch of money traveling throughout the Greek Isles and Egypt if you're looking for wonders (although that would be fun). The 7 Wonders Of Illinois are all within easy driving distance.
Check Out This Grilling Hack That Will Save Illinois Summer BBQs
You can't get the grill to fire up, or even worse, the heat goes off after about 3 minutes. Instead of cursing and kicking things, try a tip from a legendary home improvement expert.
This Blooming Illinois Plant Looks Pretty, And It Can Kill You
Here in Illinois, it's springtime and we're headed for summer. Of all the various plants and flowers blooming now in our state, make sure you completely avoid this one at all costs because it can take you out.
It’s May In Illinois, So Why Are There This Many June Bugs?
Maybe it's just me, but I somehow thought that something called a "June" bug would have the decency to start showing up next month. However, we've just crossed the mid-point of May, and these things are all over Northern Illinois.
This Is The Single Best Selling Item In Illinois Grocery Stores
We've looked at some of the most expensive grocery items, the most stolen grocery items, and even the hardest to find grocery store items. Today, it's the best-selling grocery store item, and there's every chance you've got some at home (or just ran out, and are heading to the store for more).
You’ll Never See Baby Pigeons In Illinois–Here’s Why
There are lots of theories about why we don't see baby pigeons here in Illinois, or anywhere else for that matter. The answer is something that applies to nearly every songbird you can think of, including Illinois' official state bird, the cardinal.
Illinois And Wisconsin Can’t Agree On The Bug We Hate The Most
You say "tomato," I say "mosquito," you say roaches, I say bedbugs. Here are the bugs we Midwesterners hate most, by state.
Here’s Why WWII Kept The Cubs From Getting Lights For 47 Years
If you're under the age of 40, you probably don't remember when the Chicago Cubs added lights to Wrigley Field back in 1988. The interesting thing is that the Cubs could have installed lights at Wrigley 41 years before that. Here's why they didn't.
Illinois’ Best Burger? Foodie Website Says Go Here
When you want an outstanding example of the art of burger-making in Illinois, where do you go? Is getting an absolutely top-notch burger worth making a road trip (especially with gas prices this high)?