Waaaay back in 1996, I photographed the late Fred Griffith and Connie Dieken of WEWS “The Morning Exchange” in Cleveland. Fred passed away at the age of 90 yesterday (July, 19, 2019).
In the summer of 1996, I photographed Fred and Connie in vintage costumes at various shops at Grand Pacific Junction in Olmsted Falls to promote the city's annual Heritage Days festivities.
I remember Fred as an easy-to-photograph celebrity who gave me as much time as I needed to create some fun images in his “old-time” attire. So many members of the media will give you two-minutes (if you're lucky) to get the shot and then they're gone. Not Fred. He was a kind, smart, witty and a true gentleman.
Later that year, I was asked to appear on “The Morning Exchange” at WEWS Channel 5 in Cleveland – hosted by Fred and Connie. The main focus of the interview was exploring the type of photos that should be used on photo Christmas cards. (see video, below).
A funny thing happened during the live broadcast. Fred accidentally knocked a large print off the display easel I brought along (you'll hear it falling at the 4:06 mark). Fortunately, the camera was focused on a greeting card at that moment so you don't see me turning and catching the print before it hit the floor! And I did it without missing a beat in my narration.
Fred was an amazing man who will certainly be missed.
Did you watch Fred Griffith when he was at one of the Cleveland TV stations? Do you have a favorite memory from one of his shows? Please share it in the comments area.
