Central Los Angeles : Lasorda Fields ‘Man of the Year Award’ From Youth Center
Clad in Dodger caps and jerseys, youths swarmed a decorated table at the Westin Bonaventure hotel, eager to get an autograph from Tommy Lasorda, who was honored Thursday as “Man of the Year” for his contributions to the Hollenbeck Youth Center.
“It is important that we help build charismatic future leaders of our country,” Lasorda said while signing the Dodger programs waved at him. “I am proud and happy that I am part of that.”
More than 800 people attended the Salute to the Los Angeles Dodgers benefit luncheon in downtown Los Angeles, where Lasorda and his wife, Jo, named “Woman of the Year,” were honored by the Hollenbeck Police Business Council and the Hollenbeck Youth Center.
Lasorda and his wife were recognized for 16 years of volunteer work for the center, which provides educational, recreational and cultural activities for underprivileged youths in East Los Angeles. In addition to providing free baseball clinics, VIP baseball tickets and free educational seminars, Lasorda and his wife have made financial contributions to the center.
Film and television star Tom Arnold, former Mayor Tom Bradley and Dodger players attended the event. Also in attendance were about 300 students, mostly from East Los Angeles schools. . . .
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