Dee Griffin

Jena 6: Update

2007-09-14T22:41:00Z

Today, a Louisiana state appeals court dropped the remaining charge of aggravated battery against Mychal Ball who was convicted of beating a fellow student last year. According to reports, a black student asked a teacher if he could sit under a tree designated "white only." Soon after, three nooses were found hanging from the tree. Over the next several months, racially motivated fights broke out. A black student was eventually beaten by a white student. The accused attacker was given a misdemeanor. Then, a group of six black teens, including Mychal Ball, beat a white student. The "Jena 6" were charged with second degree attempted murder. According to CNN, school policy says students face a 3 day suspension for fighting.

There's no denying there should be some punishment for fighting, on both sides. Most people supporting the "Jena 6" (both black and white) want equal punishment. If one group gets jail time, so should the other group. Equal time for equal crime.

I called Jena's sheriff's department to ask about the correct pronouciation. I'm told, for the record, it's pronounced "Gee-na." Also, the small town is expected to swell by more than 40,000 people next week for a rally in support of the "Jena 6." Stay tuned to Eyewitness News Everywhere for the latest.

So, what do you think?

Jena 6: What do you think?

2007-09-13T20:27:00Z

A week from today, 16 year old Mychal Bell will learn his fate for taking part in a racially motivated fight. He was a part of a group of African American teens who sat at a "white only tree" at a school in Jena, Louisiana last September. Soon after, three nooses were hung from the tree. School officials labeled it a "prank." Later a black student was beaten by white students. One teen was charged with a misdemeanor. Then, black students beat up a white students. That student had minor injuries. According to a CNN report, the school policy is the students get a three day suspension for fighting. Still, the accused teens were charged with felonies. Mychal Bell's charges were reduced and he was found guilty at trial. Next Thursday, he faces more than 20 years in jail.

I have emails from viewers dating back 6 months on this. It's made the rounds on the internet and on "youtube." Groups from across the country are traveling to Louisiana next week for Bell's sentencing. People from all ethnic backgroups are joining forces. This isn't an "African American" fight. It's a fight about, and for, all people. They are showing their support of the teens and hoping to shed light on what could set a legal precedent in the judicial system. There are three groups leaving from Memphis to join the rally outside the courthouse in Louisiana. People across the nation are encouraged to wear black as a sign of support.

So, what do you think?

Click here to watch video describing the circumstances surrounding the "Jena 6".

The best 5k Run/Walk is coming!!!!!!!!

2007-06-20T21:24:00Z

Save the date: Friday August 24, 2007. At 7pm we're kicking off: "Dee Griffin hosts the 4th Annual Celebrity 5k Run/Walk."

This is part of the LeMoyne-Owen College's UNCF Hank Aaron Celebrity weekend. The 5k run/walk is fun for everyone. We have a great list of sponsors who are rolling out the red carpet for a night of fun, food and fabulous music. Even if you don't run, you can walk. 75% of the proceeds go to LeMoyne-Owen College. 25% is spread among the 39 UNCF member colleges/universities.

So mark your calendars, spread the word and gather your friends. Get ready, Get set... GO! for a great cause.

Eyewitness News Gets Results: Justice for All

2007-06-11T21:24:00Z

Governor Phil Bredesen recently signed into the law the "Rosa Parks Act." This comes on the heels of my special report "Justice For All?" This means, anyone with a felony conviction during the civil rights movement can have their records expunged.

This past February, I revealed that dozens of former civil rights demonstrators are still living with criminal charges. They participated in the "sit-ins" that started on March 19, 1960 in Memphis. Over the next four years, they marched, demonstrated and screamed for equality. Their voices fell on deaf ears. Instead, they were beaten and jailed. Most of them were told charges would be dropped. But, they weren't. Dozens of them couldn't get jobs due to their records. A lot of them went to their graves with records. A large majority had to move out of state to get jobs.

I contacted a lot of people for research. I interviewed Mrs. Elaine Lee Turner and Mrs. Johnnie R. Turner for my story. Then, I contacted State Rep. Lois DeBerry. Within weeks of the story airing, Rep.DeBerry drew up a bill. She presented it to the state house and State Sen. Jim Kyles took it to the state senate. Both the house and senate voted in favor of passing the "Rosa Parks Act." Alabama passed the same act last year. Tennessee is only the second state to do so. Others are trying to come up with legislation. Some people don't want their records expunged. Understandably, they say it's a badge of honor.

Thanks to Mrs. Elaine Lee Turner, Mrs. Johnnie R. Turner, Mrs. Grace Alston Mitchell and all hundreds of people who took a stand, by sitting down. Thanks to Rep. Lois DeBerry and Sen. Jim Kyles for taking one reporter's "idea" and bringing long overdue justice for all.

Paris, there's a problem!

2007-06-08T02:47:00Z

Paris Hilton was released from jail after serving 72 hours of her 23 day sentence. By the way, the sentence was originally 45 days. The LA County Sheriff granted a release due to some sort of "medical condition." How many people serving time have medical conditions? Hundreds probably. How many suffered "stress" due to thier sentence? Probably millions. How many get a special beauty treatments prior to turning themselves in? None.

Here' s the even bigger problem, if her parents had done a good job raising her we wouldn't be discussing Paris' bad behaviour. They too, should be held responsible. Paris and her sister are not known for making the world a better place or helping those less fortunate. No, they are known for partying! Paris gets drunk, drives (putting other people's lives in danger), drives on a suspended license, violates parole, comes to her sentencing hearing late and she acts like she's the victim. Come On! Someone needs to hold her accountable for her actions. She could have avoided all of this by hiring a driver even she insisted upon drinking. SHE HAS THE MONEY! She's just accustomed to getting away with any wrongdoing.

I applaud the millions of parents who raise their children to be responsible, law abiding, successful people. I often refer to Donald Trump who has just as much wealth as the Hiltons. His kids are remarkable. Ivanka is very intelligent. She earned her MBA from one of the top business schools in the country. She worked for a competing company when she graduated and eventually joined Trump industries. She now runs an arm of her father's company. She travels the world overseeing building projects. You don't see her in the tabloids partying. I enjoy reading articles about her drive and dedication to become a top businesswoman. Why does the world celebrate Paris for her partying, instead of Ivanka (and millions of other successful young women) for her success?

Mayoral Candidates "rough it" for a night

2007-05-31T00:54:00Z

According to the Tennessean newspaper, six of seven mayoral candidates are planning to trade their suits for jeans, their high dollar shoes for sneakers. They will give up their cozy, air conditioned homes for the bare, hot streets of Nashville. They made the commitment during a candidate forum sponsored by the Nashville Homeless Power Project. They will take what they call an "urban plunge."

Memphis is set to elect a new mayor this fall. A lot of people have expressed interest in the job. We'll definitely see them at banquets, ball games and church services. But, are they willing to leave their comfort zones and hang with those who don't have much of anything? The homeless community is, perhaps, the most affected by city budget cuts and any kind of breach in public safety. Will Memphis wanna-be politicians allow our neighbors to the east show them up?

So, what do you think?

"Women Only" floor at Hotels

2007-05-19T02:37:00Z

Tonight, on Eyewitness News Everywhere at Five, I said you would get a blog on this. So, here it is. A new Marriott opening in Grand Rapids, Michigan plans to have one floor designed "women only." A spokesperson for the hotel says the chain is bringing in the safety factor. The chain wants to look out for women who travel solo for work. The rooms will cost about $30 more than average rooms. They will have some extra "niceties" like luxury bath products and softer towels. Also, there will be a "women only" bar. The company is trying to give women an area to relax and enjoy cocktails without getting pickup lines every couple of minutes. I'm sure there are some ladies who don't mind the pickup lines.

So, what do you think? Is this fair? Is it cruel and unusual punishment for men? They will be isolated from the "women folk." Whatcha think about that???

Keyshawn a Titan?

2007-05-18T00:41:00Z

Titans Coach Jeff Fisher says he will meet with Keyshawn Johnson on Friday to talk about possibly joining the Titans. I'm not on the Eyewitness News Everywhere Sports Team, still, I enjoy sports. I must admit to "playing dumb" about sports in past attempts to attract a suitor. However, I enjoy various sports like football, basketball, golf and ballroom dancing. Yep, it's now considered a sport.

I think the Titans need a "star" like Keyshawn. Or, as sports anchor/reporter Rob Petrone calls him, "me-shawn." I still miss Javon Kearse and Eddie George wearing Titans blue. What do you think??

Shrek the Third

2007-05-18T00:25:00Z

Has anyone seen an advanced screening of "Shrek the Third?" I absolutely LOVE the "Shrek" series of movies. I still quote lines from them. Remember saying "it is not mine" after being busted with catnip? Too funny! How about the fairy Godmother flying out yelling, "can I get a whooo-whooo?" Hilarious! I am definitely planning to make some time to catch the matinee this weekend.

Go check out "Shrek the Third" this weekend. Let me know what you think. I want to hear your thoughts. Any other great movie suggestions?

Philip Workman Execution (Eyewitness Account)

2007-05-11T02:46:00Z

Over the past day and a half, I have received calls, emails and even text messages from friends who are curious about the execution of Philip Workman. I have gotten questions while grocery shopping, too. So, I figured it would be a good idea to "blog" the details that didn't make it onto the air.

Long after the sun went down and most Memphians were fast asleep, the state of Tennessee prepared to put 53 year old Philip Workman to death. For 25 years, he has declared his innocence. Within minutes, he was silenced forever.

At 12noon, I was among seven media witnesses who walked into the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville. We signed in. We walked thru metal detectors. Then, our hands were stamped. Individually, we were physically searched in private rooms. After waiting a few minutes, we were up and moving. We were escorted into a seperate building. We placed our hands under a flourescent light showing our stamps. Then, we were taken past the prison "common area" and directed into a conference room. This was considered a "holding room" for the media. We talked among ourselves for about 40 minutes. Despite the conversation, every few minutes, someone would chime in with the question, "do you think he'll get another stay?"

At 1am, we were still sitting in the holding room. We wondered aloud, "maybe he was granted a stay." The guards, instructed to watch us, didn't seem to have much information. I'm sure they were just as curious. About five minutes later, one guard stands and announced that it's time to move. My pulse is racing and I begin questioning whether I could handle what was about to happen. We were escorted pass a woman with some sort of medical kit. A few minutes later, we were informed that she was there for us just in case someone became sick. So, that knowledge didn't necessarily make my stomach feel better. I was shaking like pig on the 4th of July. My mind was spinning with questions. We were directed into a white room with six red chairs. I sat confidently and calmy awaiting what was ahead. We were issued notepads and pencils. We heard what sounded like something being wheeled into the next room. We heard chains. We then heard a door close.

At 1:20 Warden Ricky Bell did a sound check. Then, the black blinds were lifted. We saw Philip Workman on a gurny wearing a white prison-issued jumpsuit. He was wearing beige thick socks. His body and arms were strapped down. His hands were tied down with some kind of white material almost like tape. He stared straight up at the ceiling. An I-V was in his right arm. At 1:21, Warden Bell asked if he had anything he wanted to say. Workman replied, "I have prayed to the Lord Jesus Christ and asked him not to lay charge of my death to any man."

At 1:22, his lips moved briefly and his eyes blinked.

At 1:23, Workman said, "I commend my spirit into your hand Lord Jesus Christ."

A couple of seconds later, his head tilted to his left side. He took a couple of light breathes, licked his lips, then seemingly drifted off to sleep. He said nothing more.

At 1:36, the black blinds were lowered. At 1:38, a voice came over the speaker and announced Philip Workman's death.

Workman never resisted. He was very composed. He never wanted his family present. However, in a seperate room, Lt. Ronald Oliver's former wife and her two children sat and watched.

Media witnesses retraced our steps and ended up outside the building to tell the world what we saw during as Philip Workman left this world.

Teens caught passing out racist notes

2007-05-01T21:18:00Z

Today, reporter Alexis Amorose uncovers a racially charged situation in Senatobia, Mississippi. Two students passed out notes making jokes about black people. One "joke" reads: Why did so many n*** die in Vietnam? When they was told to get down they started break dancing... you know, like we're just ignorant, we're just stupid.

The students were suspended for three days. But, many people in the community feel the punishment does not fit the crime. They are calling for more time. Are these jokes simply "jokes" or do they imply a deeper hatred? Are these kids mimmicking what they hear at home? Is this merely childs play? Personally, I think it's cruel. My father, and my uncles, served in Vietnam. They sacrificed their lives for this country. Many African Americans were forced to fight, then forced to serve in segregated units because they were seen as sub-standard. Is this what they deserve? Despite their environments and lack of resources, many African Americans have worked long and hard to make a difference. Is this what they deserve. But, on the other hand, it's not what you are called; rather, it's what you answer to. What do you think? Here's another "joke" in the letter: What does the NAACP stand for? N*** around America causing problems.

Dee Speaks at Teen Parent Conference

2007-04-12T21:37:00Z

Today, I was honored to serve as the guest speaker during the 10th annual TeenParent Conference. It's sponsored by Lebonheur and Memphis City Schools. There were 300 teenage mothers, and some fathers, at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church for the conference.

We have all made mistakes or ended up in a bad situation. We are human. Still,we must rise from the ashes, like a phoenix, and move forward. Too often, we are quick to judge young girls who become pregnant. Instead, of casting stones we must step out and help them to move forward. We must also provide examples for them. It's time to stopthe talk and start the walk. Anyone can criticize. That's no problem. The bigger, and better, person takes a stand and gets out to do something about it. If you are not a part of the solution then you are definitely a part of the problem. Remember, when one finger points forward, there are three pointing back at you. So, we must get out and help our younger generation push forward to a more positive future.

To the young ladies at the conference, please hang in there. You are precious jewels. Remember, as I said, the only thing standing in the way of your success is YOU! Stay positive. Stay focused.

Check out the video from today's conference: http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=313206@video.abc24.com

Remembering Bishop G. E. Patterson

2007-04-11T20:02:00Z

Bishop G.E. Patterson: Living by Example

8:30 pm

Earth's loss is heaven's gain. Yesterday, the world lost a true man of God and a true friend to mankind. I have been honored to serve as Mistress of Ceremonies on programs that recognized and gave awards to Bishop Patterson. However, what comes to mind most is the times I have come upon him by chance. Last year, I saw him in a local restaurant. I was a bit apprehensive about greeting him. I didn't want to intrude. But, something said "you know he's a great man and would love to say hello." So, I walked over. Suddenly, I saw a big, beaming smile. He said "hi Dee." As a southern girl raised to respect her elders and treat everyone with courtesy, especially Ministers, I apologized for my appearance. I explained that I ran 6 miles that morning, went home to change and headed out to the restaurant with friends. Bishop Patterson was the most welcoming and paid no attention to my non-anchor woman clothes. He was so kind and wanted to know how I was doing.

That's the Bishop Patterson we will all remember. He was the same with everyone. I, like millions of others, grew up watching him on television. When I moved to Memphis, I couldn't wait to visit his church. It was an amazing experience.

The world has lost a true soldier for peace and love. He walked the walk and talked the talk. He was always interested in knowing more about people. My friend, and Link sister, Kathy Kirk told me tonight about how he prayed for her and ministered to her. She said, "he helped me pass the bar." He was always willing and able to pray for you in any situation. Nothing was too big or small.

I wasn't a member of his congregation. Nonetheless, I cherished Bishop Patterson and his teachings. What I learned most from Bishop Patterson is humility. He was a humble servant. Instead of beating and bashing people, he listened and prayed for them. He truly made the world a better place. He set an example for so many. He's gone. But, the person he was will never be forgotten. Rest on great servant.

Downtown Elementary "Jump/Hoop for Hearts"

2007-04-11T19:44:00Z

As many of you know, I live with heart disease. It's the one gift from my family that keeps on giving. In a "weird" way, I feel it bonds me with the people I love the most in life. My beloved Grandmother, "Mama Williams," died from heart failure. I have lost many relatives to the disease. In fact, last March I lost my Aunt Lula. Then, in October her husband, Uncle TJ, died from heart failure. My cousin, Paul, died in December. Then, my Uncle Butch, died in February. In December of 2005, I lost my Aunt Dee. These are just a few of my family members who have lived with time bombs in their chests. My mother and several of her siblings live with heart disease, too. So, it's a family affair!

That's why I continue to support any effort to raise awareness of heart disease and money to support research and medicine to combat this thief.

I was so proud to participate in the kickoff of Downtown Elementary School's "Jump/Hoop for Heart" fundraiser. Students are jumping rope and playing basketball to raise money. I was the guest speaker. I also gave each class money to "jumpstart" this year's fundraiser. It's important for children to get in some form of exercise everyday. That may be a walk with Mom or Dad. It can be running up the block and back. It can be a family game of kickball. Do something!

Thanks Coach Hill for inviting me! Take a look at my experience at Downtown Elementary..http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=309751@video.abc24.com