by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Howie Newman has done it all. The Brooklyn, New York native, who moved to Massachusetts for college and never left, has an extensive resume that includes singer, songwriter, sportswriter and comedian. On Wednesday, April 19, in the midst of April break, he brought his “Musical Baseball Show” to the Islington branch of the Westwood Public Library (WPL) to entertain families of all ages.
The hour-long program featured several original songs by Newman, as well as baseball trivia and lore, a couple of children’s songs, and a look at some of his personal baseball memorabilia.
Mr. Newman shared several interesting stories with the audience, such as his experience as a sportswriter with the pre-laptop portable computer known as the Tandy. Once connected to a phone socket, a story would be converted into sound beeps, which could then be translated into text. He also talked about his “Dump the DH” campaign in 1985, which was based on the belief that the designated hitter rule should be eliminated in the MLB. Though the crusade gained national attention and even earned a “Dump the DH” bumper sticker a spot in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, it was unsuccessful. Though it sure makes for a great story today!
The event concluded with a rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” which got everyone singing along. There was also a free raffle, which awarded one lucky audience member a copy of one of his “Baseball’s Greatest Hits” CD’s.
For a list of upcoming library events visit WestwoodLibrary.org.
