Community Corner

Former Major League Umpire Signs Copies Of New Book This Weekend

'Called Out But Safe, A Baseball Umpire's Journey' chronicles the life of Al Clark from childhood to his firing and his current life as a motivational speaker.

Al Clark, the former umpire known for his disgraceful firing from the MLB for misusing and failing to report money spent on the league's credit card, transcended his sordid past and is talking all about it in his new book, "Called Out But Safe, A Baseball Umpire's Journey."

Clark and his co-author Dan Schlossberg of New Jersey will be at Bookends Bookstore in Ridgewood signing copies of the book this Saturday at 11 a.m.

The book, released May 1, chronicles Clark's life from childhood, his firing and his present life in which he is a motivational speaker.

It features career facts and photos from his time as an adored umpire for his showy, but firm and fair calls.

Clark spent 120 days in a minimum security prison in 2004, spent four months under house arrest, was fined $400,000 and given two years probation. He is now often a guest lecturer who enjoys giving his opinions on baseball.

Those interested in attending the signing may contact Bookends at 201-445-0726.


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