'Really Touching' As Children's Charity Honors Late Little Leaguer

Long Beach NY

19 May, 2022

1:34 PM

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LONG BEACH, NY — The child who died suddenly playing Little League is getting another tribute. The U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots is posthumously honoring Lazar LaPenna as co-chairman of their seasonal program. The fourth-grader from Long Beach collapsed during an epileptic seizure last month running to first base. As part of the ceremony, the Toys for Toys will donate approximately toys to the Long Beach Christmas Angel in Lazar's name. "It's really touching and I know he's smiling down at us right now, loving all the attention," Lazar's father, Greg LaPenna said. LaPenna selected that charity because of a connection for Lazar and the family. Johanna Sofield is the chairperson and longtime family friend. Her sister-in-law Janine Sofield was one of Lazar's former teachers, LaPenna said. Toys for Tots will also provide Hess trucks to LaPenna's Long Beach-Lido Beach Little League team.