For those of you who do not know who Hal Fishman is, He was a local TV anchor here in Los Angeles at KTLA Channel 5 since 1965. He passed away August 7, 2007 after recently being diagnosed with Colon Cancer.
Hal Fishman had an irresistible personality and charisma, you could tell he loved his job and I would crack up on his genuine sense of humor. I learned that in many instances he would ad lib, say if the teleprompter were not working and not miss a beat. He also did commentary on news events from time to time and you could tell he was passionate about what he was commentating on.
I would write in to the station sharing my 2 cents on his commentary from time to time expecting it would go to the spam folder. I usually got a response back from Hal a day or two after, thanking me for commenting (No it wasn't an auto response from the server) he touched upon a couple of points or two on what I had written.
There was a bond between Hal and his viewers, I felt he was genuine and honest and not a "celebrity" Many stations and anchors have an obvious political hidden agenda.
Hal was a journalist and had a background in political science. He was a teacher at Cal State Los Angeles who happened to fall into the Anchor job as a result of his popularity.
He also had a passion for aviation since his childhood. I later learned that is why he was so passionate and excited to report on events having to do with this topic.
Here is a guy I have never met personally yet I have a deep sense of loss as if he were a relative of mine. Hal thank you for so many years of service to your viewers and for keeping us informed on so many topics over the years. On my next trip to Catalina Island I will order a "Buffalo Burger" (one of Hal's favorite I learned) in your honor! I will also find some way to bring to light colon cancer (The American cancer Society)this blog is one way.
A tribute on Hal can be found on the KTLA Channel 5 website by clicking here
To his wife Nolie and son David my condolence's.
Hal like an old friend you will be missed dearly, your legacy will live on in our hearts and with those who recognize what an Icon and legendary figure both on and I am certain off the air as well. You will be missed here in Los Angeles and throughout the world.
God Bless you Hal Fishman
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