Sam Zelman

Dear Sally: We are so sorry to learn late of the passing of Sam, someone who both Jacqueline and I grew very fond of over the years. We will cherish the memories of the fun times we had with both of you, and hope to get back in touch with you soon. Jennifer and Jacqueline

Dear Sally, this is Rivka Witenberg - we met in Atlanta GA 30 years ago. Have tried to find you serve real times over the years with no success. So sorry to hear about Sam. We have such great memories of him in his sports car in our condominium in Druid Knoll Drive. If you feel to get in touch [email protected]
Our condolence Rivka and Ron

Sally,

Actually I don't have you e-mail. My partner, Charlie, passed 6 years ago (lung cancer at 56 yr.) My e-mail is [email protected], send along yours. Sorry to use the legacy page to communicate, but have no other way to respond to your kind note.
Irwin

So fortunate to have known Sam. He made our world a better place!

Sam was one of a kind --a pioneer of journalism, and a lovely, witty and generous friend and companion. He gave so much good advice and so much laughter to so many. RIP to a mensch and magnificent man.

A wonderful human being, unparalleled newsman, teacher, mentor and the best recognizer of news/tv talent ever! That smile in his picture was always a joy even when the stress of a newsroom permeated the room. Worked with him for three years at WJLA, Washington D.C.

I was 1 year old when Sam Zelman invented the modern TV newscast so I never worked with him. But "The Big News" has been the gold standard through all of my 35 years in broadcast journalism (mostly in LA, including 5 years producing a newscast anchored by Dunphy). Respect and thanks, Sam

The league will miss him too.

Always enjoy chatting with Sam about journalism and listening to his stories. He lived a wonderful life. I'm happy I was a small part of it.

Sam was a personal hero who forever changed the landscape of TV news. When skeptics in Los Angeles said "people will never watch an hour-long newscast," Sam proved them wrong. He said, "News is the lifeblood of citizenship. If you don't know what's going on, you can't very well function effectively as a citizen." Amen to that. RIP, Sam.

A talented, kind and generous man.

Sam hired me at CNN as a producer in late 1981. I will never forget the opportunity he gave me. It changed my career and my life forever. He was such a great teacher and newsman, and also a great man. RIP Sam I know you are still running a newsroom somewhere.

In Los Angeles, Sam was the first to hire newsreel cameramen, Hollywood film editors, and experienced print journalists to be field reporters. "The Big News" had the fourth largest audience behind the three network newscasts. Sam created the way newsrooms were built. Above all, Sam had a reputation for humor, integrity, and grace.

Sam was a wonderful man who made his life count. He will be sorely missed.

When I worked at the JCC you were always a part of what made it a good day. I loved your humor and your smile. Such a sweet, amazing man. So blessed to have known you. Sending love to you and the family, Sally.

Deepest condolences. Sam was a brilliant gentleman.

You always made me smile. I miss you Sam but I'm still smiling because of you.

A Mench of a Man.

Godspeed, old friend.

My pal Sam. You hold a special place in my heart and I will miss your sweet smile.
Love, Veronica Ochoa

I miss you already dad.