Helen Thomas

August 4, 1920 - July 20, 2013

http://www.salon.com/2007/06/28/helen_thomas_3/

American author and news service reporter, member of the White House press corps and opinion columnist.

Considered by many to be a

Trailblazing Journalist

who

"broke barriers that prevented women from rising in the Washington press corps." ~ NPR's David Folkenflik

Often called "the First Lady of the Press," she covered 10 presidents over five decades and became well-known to the American public for her hard-hitting questions asked from her front row seat in the press briefing room.

Thomas established a number of firsts for women journalists in becoming one of Washington's best known reporters. She was the first woman officer in the White House Correspondents Association in its 50-year history, becoming its first woman president. In 1975, she broke the 90-year all-male barrier at the Gridiron Club, an organization of leading Washington journalists, and became its first female president in 1993.~ Reuters

http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/01/06/veteran-reporter-helen-thomas-returns-press-fanfare/

Helen Thomas

Notable Quotes

If we care about the children, the grandchildren, the future generations, we need to make sure that they do not become the cannon fodder of the future.

We in the press have a special role since there is no other institution in our society that can hold the President accountable. I do believe that our democracy can endure and prevail only if the American people are informed.

I don't think a tough question is

disrespectful.

Most Notable historical quote

"Thank you Mister President."

Prayer of PassageOh Goddess

There is great sadnessA cherished one has gone

Emptyness engulfs meLoss languishes withinHelp me bear this griefAccompany their spiritComfort we who grieve

Let us rejoice in their lifeMay their essence be recordedIn the Great Book of Shadows

Renew our remembrance with joy~Cindy Sheehan