Friday, December 25, 2009; A24

I was an intern in the sports department of WRC-TV during the summer of 1991.

This meant a lot of logging baseball games in a very specific way, highlighting in red the plays that would possibly get airtime. This meant working in an intense atmosphere where perfection was the standard. This meant getting the opportunity to see the king of D.C. area sports, George Michael, put together the best sports broadcast in town.

George, who died Thursday at age 70, made a huge impact on me that summer. His work ethic was a great example of how much work it took to complete a "fun" sports broadcast.

I recall logging a baseball game and George asking all the interns, "Who has a good game going?" My sense of humility won over, and I didn't speak up. When a producer came over and pointed out that I had several worthy highlights, I circled them and continued my work. When I was called into the editing bay with George and the editor to choose the highlights from my game, George asked me why I hadn't spoken up. I simply said, "I messed up." He appreciated my candor and taught me how to compile a highlights package.

He led by example, demanding the best of everyone, even one insignificant college intern. It is an experience I will always cherish.

Rest in peace, George.

Robin McClain, Los Angeles

The writer is director of media and communications for the Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau.