Letter: O’Callaghan was accessible leader, treasured friend

Wednesday, March 10, 2004 | 8:57 a.m.

Mike O'Callaghan always held to his beliefs, and spoke for those who couldn't be heard in one way or another. He was both a down-home person, who would roll up his sleeves and jump into the situation at hand, and a fine, well-suited leader who facilitated major changes that helped mold Nevada from one era to another, paving the way. I was fortunate to have covered him as a reporter in the 1970s.

Coming from Ohio, where governors were not accessible, I was amazed, as some have noted, that I could call that back line in the mansion kitchen, in the early morning, and actually hear the governor answer the phone and willingly talk to me. I pictured him up there in Carson City and wondered at that time whether Mike O'Callaghan also had two six-shooters strapped to his side and his horse out back, ready to ride. Surely he did, in his own way.

For all the gutsy, blustery, imposing edge Mike could muster, with that mischievous Irish smile, he truly had his heart, soul and mind in the right places at the right times, and a soft spot, always, for the low down. And when you got a call from him, you knew it was important, whether complimentary or critical.

Mike was a treasured friend and adviser to me and many others. I will continue to cherish the pieces of life, those little nuggets of knowledge he passed on that I still find myself utilizing in daily life, as a citizen and journalist. The legacy lives on.

GWEN CASTALDI Editor's note: Gwen Castaldi is the senior producer and host of "State of Nevada," a public affairs show that runs on KNPR 88.9-FM, the local public radio affiliate for news.