CRB/CRS Announces 2024 Tom Rivers Award Recipients

(Nashville, Tennessee - January 23, 2024) The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. (CRB) announces the recipients of the 2024 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award, which this year is being presented to two outstanding individuals: Storme Warren of TuneIn Radio's "The BIG 615" and Tim Leary of WIRK/West Palm Beach, Fla. This distinguished award, not given annually but on a merit basis, recognizes individuals in the country radio industry who demonstrate a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity in serving their community. 

Storme Warren, a presenter at "The BIG 615" on TuneIn Radio, has been a major force in charitable initiatives like The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, Operation Song, and ACM Lifting Lives. His support for songwriters and the U.S. military led him to join Operation Song, where he now serves on the board. Storme also holds a public director position on the ACM Lifting Lives’ board of directors, focusing on health-related music therapy initiatives. Over the course of his career, Storme has been instrumental in various charitable endeavors, cumulatively contributing to raising nearly $50 million. His roles have included being an auctioneer, master of ceremonies, and an active promoter for these charities.

Tim Leary, the co-host of The Tim & Chelsea Morning Show on WIRK/West Palm Beach, Fla, has dedicated over two decades to public service and community enrichment. His long standing commitment as an Assistant Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America has earned him numerous awards, including the Messenger of Peace and The Commander’s Award for Public Service. Tim’s efforts extend beyond scouting; he has been a pivotal figure in fighting hunger and supporting breast cancer research. His initiatives include helping to elevate WIRK’s “Friends Feeding Friends” food drive, alongside unique campaigns like the “Tats for Ta-Tas,” raising significant funds and awareness for these causes.

Beverlee Brannigan, chair of the CRB Awards Committee, comments, “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.”

Named in honor of the CRB Board member, Tom Rivers was known for his work at WQYK, Tampa/St. Petersburg and WUSN, Chicago, and was highly regarded for his public service.

CRS 2024, scheduled from February 28 to March 1, promises a dynamic schedule filled with educational panels, virtual networking, and workshops aimed at providing valuable insights and takeaways for attendees.

For more information, please visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.

Darcie Van Etten