Mr. Harrisburg started with AGC at age 20 as a janitor responsible for cleaning the rest rooms at Television Center. Staff and visitors alike quickly appreciated how immaculately clean they were at all times and recognized a man of talent who had what it takes to become a giant in the industry. Chet Wrinkley, who worked as a news writer for AGC World Monitor, recalls, "One day I made the mistake of bypassing the cafeteria at Television Center and went to a local fast food restaurant for lunch. Unfortunately, I got really, really ill shortly after I returned from lunch, and I had to race to the rest room before it was too late. When I saw Mr. Harrisburg on duty, I knew that I could relax and do whatever needed to be done without having to be concerned about the cleanup afterward." Wrinkley continued, "My word, you should have seen that stall! I mean, it had--" at which point we interrupted Wrinkley before he concluded, "An hour later, I went back and no one would ever know that anything untoward had happened there. Mr. Harrisburg was just amazing!"
Although everyone at Television Center believed that Mr. Harrisburg was destined for greater achievements, Harrisburg was overcome with modesty and humility and declined efforts to promote him. Finally, the founder of AGC called him into a meeting at which he insisted that Harrisburg take on greater responsibilities. "We can always find someone else for the toilets," he said. "You start moving up the ladder here."
Harrisburg took the founder of AGC at his word and took a paint brush and became the staff painter, climbing ladders daily to make sure that the ceilings were painted properly, as well as insuring that all sets were painted in colors suitable for a television network that broadcast in full color. Everyone loved the bright, cheerful colors of AGC's sets, and AGC producers appreciated Mr. Harrisburg's speed and accuracy. The consensus was that he was still destined for higher achievement.
Once again, the founder of AGC called Mr. Harrisburg into a meeting. This time, it was ratings sweep period. The founder told Mr. Harrisburg, "We need to do well this sweeps period. You're one of the most talented people in here. What can you do to help?" Mr. Harrisburg quickly responded, "I'll do whatever I can, sir. You can count on me." That night, on his way out of Television Center, the founder found Mr. Harrisburg with a broom in his hand, sweeping the floors after everyone else had left. "That's it! Enough of this tomfoolery!" shouted the founder, who continued, "We're starting a new variety program in three weeks, and I'm making you are the co-host. Stop being so modest and unassuming and start acting like the co-host of a major variety program!"
On the day of the premiere of AGC Variety Hour, a guest failed to appear on account of a torrential thunderstorm, and no one was prepared-- except for Mr. Harrisburg, who had prepared some fill-in material just in case something of that sort happened. Harrisburg's act went over so well that his contribution became more than merely introducing acts and standing aside; he often performed with the acts. He has also become a fine complement to Rhetta Trenton, his co-host. "We have developed into a dynamic duo because we work so well together," Trenton assured us. "He's just a great fellow and loves to share the spotlight not only with the acts but with me as well."
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