CRB Reveals ’24 Tom Rivers Recipients
• The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. (CRB) announced the recipients of the 2024 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award, which this year is being presented to two outstanding individuals: Storme Warren of TuneIn’s “The BIG 615,” and Tim Leary, morning co-host on Hubbard’s WIRK (New Country 103.1)/West Palm Beach. This distinguished award, which is not presented annually but on a merit basis, recognizes individuals in Country radio who demonstrate a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity in serving their community.
Warren has been a major force in charitable initiatives like The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, Operation Song (where he serves on the board), and ACM Lifting Lives, where he currently holds a public director position on the ACM Lifting Lives’ board of directors. Over the course of his career, Warren has been instrumental in various charitable endeavors, cumulatively contributing to raising nearly $50 million.
Leary, co-host of The Tim & Chelsea Morning Show on WIRK/West Palm Beach, has dedicated over two decades to public service and community enrichment. His longstanding commitment as an Asst. Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America has earned him numerous awards, and he recently successfully coached his 20th Eagle Scout. Leary has also been a pivotal figure in fighting hunger and supporting breast cancer research via initiatives like WIRK’s “Friends Feeding Friends” food drive, as well as unique campaigns like the “Tats for Ta-Tas,” raising significant funds and awareness for these causes.
Beverlee Brannigan, Chair of the CRB Awards Committee, commented, “The fact that the awards committee selected two winners this year is a testament to radio’s commitment to local communities. Both Storme and Tim are personalities who are all-in on caring and taking action. This is the first time two individuals have been honored for this award; their outstanding humanitarian efforts have set the bar high.”
This award is named in honor of the late Tom Rivers, CRB Board member and veteran of WQYK/Tampa-St. Petersburg and WUSN/Chicago, who was highly regarded for his public service. Warren and Leary will be recognized during CRS 2024, which runs from February 28 to March 1.
