Family asks that donations go to lifeguard association; 2 memorials Sunday

In response to a flood of support from community members, the family of Ben Carlson, a Newport Beach lifeguard who died during a rescue effort Sunday, has asked that donations be made to the Newport Beach Ocean Lifeguards Assn. in his honor.

The association has started a scholarship in 32-year-old Carlson’s name, according to the city of Newport Beach, which posted information about donating on its website.

Contributions should be sent to the Newport Beach Fire Department, Attn: NBOLA at P.O. Box 1768, Newport Beach, 92658.

On checks, the memo line should read: “Ben Carlson Scholarship Fund.” The association is a 501(c)3 non-profit and donations are tax-deductible.

Two memorial events for Carlson are set for Sunday, according to the city: a paddle-out at 9 a.m., leaving from the Newport Beach Pier, which also will serve as a gathering point for on-shore observers, and a service at 6:30 p.m. on the beach at Orange Street in Newport.

Attendees have been asked to wear casual or “aloha” attire.

—Jill Cowan