Siobhainn O'Connor
Post date: Oct 21, 2009 3:58:19 PM
Growing up in the O'Connor house, the radio show was a constant in our lives. We all helped out on the odd occasion. It was a member of the family. It required constant attention, sometimes it needed extra help, and frankly, sometimes it was just a huge pain in the rear.
Siobhainn became a permanent fixture on the The Mike O'Connor Show in 1991. She was booted straight into the fire. She read whatever was thrown at her; local events, Benefit announcements, commercials and more. She was sent running to the locker to find requested music and missing announcements. It wasn't long before
her responsibilities increased. At the urging of her father, she started selling air time and managing guests during the program. Mike was oh, so thrilled, and encouraged her to take on more and more. He felt free to take Saturdays off whenever he desired-but always listened very closely to the show. There was always a critique ready for his daughter at the end of each program. Eventually, Siobhainn took over all the duties of the program when Mike became too ill to continue. But Mike O'Connor's interest never waned; every Saturday afternoon he would inquire after the program-who was there, what happened, what was said-even after his mental abilities failed in so many other areas.
He was absolutely delighted and pleased that the legacy he created continues.
Above is a photo of the Celtic Tenors in our studio. Siobhainn is the pleased looking one in the middle. They were an absolute riot to interview, and they sang us a few songs, too!
(L to R), James Nelson, Matthew Gilsenan(rear), Siobhainn, and Niall Morris
This is a favorite photo. Grandfather, John(Jack) Whyte. He allowed us to ride on top of the hay with my Uncle Johnny. It was such a thrill! Note the enormous draft horse-my mother says they were all named "Fanny".This shot was taken sometime in the 70's. We spent summers in Ireland with my grandparents.
The Drovers stopped into the studio before their reunion concert and played a few tunes.
The 2014 St. Pat's Parade Queen!