Late lifeguard Carlson, firefighter Medina honored at Newport beach party

Late Newport Beach lifeguard Ben Carlson was honored as lifeguard of the year Wednesday evening at the 17th annual Newport Beach Fire and Lifeguard Appreciation Beach Party at the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort. Carlos Medina was selected as firefighter of the year.

Carlson died in July while making a rescue in heavy surf.

Each year, the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce presents the party to honor and thank the city’s lifeguards and firefighters.

--Jeremiah Dobruck