Newport Beach to honor fire and rescue workers

Taking full advantage of its proximity to the coast, the Newport

Beach Fire and Marine Department will honor its top employees at a beach

party Friday night.

The awards ceremony, which will be held between 5 and 10 p.m. at the

Newport Dunes Resort and Marina, is the second time the department has

held a party to recognize its very best in various divisions. Awards that

will be handed out include Firefighter, Marine Safety Officer and

Seasonal Lifeguard of the Year.

This year’s event will feature a gourmet barbecue prepared by chefs at

the Dunes Resort. While guests enjoy the meal, live entertainment will be

provided by The Fabulous Jetsons.

Following the awards ceremony there will be a fireworks show and a

bonfire social. Best of all, the public is invited to attend to meet the

people who work tirelessly to protect them.

The inaugural event last year attracted more than 350 people and

organizers expect another good turnout. The cost is $25 per person, and

there are special sponsorship packages for businesses that pledge $300

for a table of 10. For more information, call the Newport Beach Chamber

of Commerce at (949) 729-4400.

-- Greg Risling