Briefly in the news

Newport Beach lifeguards will host a blood drive Wednesday.

It is part of a countywide annual program in which lifeguards from

several departments from Seal Beach down to San Clemente participate in a

blood drive contest.

Newport Beach lifeguards are current champions and are defending the

A.J. Summers trophy, Capt. Jim Turner said. The department secured 58

blood donations last year.

“We’re going for the record this year,” Turner said. “We try to

continue the theme that we’re in the business of saving lives and giving

blood is also a way to save lives.”

This year would be the 17th annual blood drive for Newport Beach

lifeguards.

The community is invited to walk in and donate blood Wednesday at the

Lifeguard Headquarters at Newport Pier between 2 and 8 p.m. Barbecued

food and refreshments will be provided.

Reservations or information: (949) 644-3046.