Politicians underestimated this reporter. Bless their hearts.
Virginia Ellis was the first woman to lead this newsroomâs statehouse bureau. She died on Christmas Eve at 77.
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Virginia Ellis grew up with grandparents who instilled a sense of truth and justice in her, said her son, Barry Schnitt. It was something that was very core to her personality in all things. [ Courtesy Barry Schnitt ]
St. Petersburg Times newsroom met to hash out plans.
Bob Haiman, then managing editor, chose a handful of reporters to head into the storm.
Get rain gear, he told them,
cash, gas and tell your spouses youâll be gone for several days.
Yiayia Maria always chose happiness
The daughter of Greek immigrants lived in Palm Harbor and died of natural causes at 88.
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Mary Poniros, pictured at center with a friend, left, and her daughter, Despina Catsikopoulos, right, loved to dance. She danced here at the wedding of her grandson, John Catsikopoulos. She also loved Motown and baking her famous Greek cookies. [ Courtesy Maria Catsikopoulos ]
Updated Dec. 14, 2020
As she lay dying in her daughterâs Palm Harbor home, Mary Poniros told her youngest granddaughter this: âI have no ill will toward anyone. I love you all. See you soon.â
Mrs. Poniros, known as Yiayia Maria, didnât come to that peaceful place from an easy life. It was a choice.