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Since I am not playing my daily episode so early during my lunch break, I tested on Mom's account regarding the re-emergence of Sam.
Yes you do seem to have the option of clicking the "X" on the top right corner when Sam pops up to smile at you.
Does it work? Yes, it gets that very notification away, you can continue playing the game.
BUT there's no escape from being drawn into the contest. I clicked the "X" and played, but got credited 125 points after completing the first level of the day.
I played along and completed my episode..
Not sure whether Sam will disappear nearer end of event, as usual; but it doesn't bother me anymore, knowing that this issue will NOT be fixed. I just continue to play my daily episode, regardless.