The forecasters had called for rain this past Saturday, March 23, but the only water falling from the sky were tears…and they were flowing.

Ocean City Surf Company- the new kid on the Flagler Beach surf scene hosted their first of many beach events, as well as a soft grand opening of their new digs.  The Spring Surf was created specifically for families of children and adults with special needs.  And while the shop may be new, co-owner Lance Carroll is a Flagler Beach legend.  Recently moving back to town, Lance’s involvement with surfing has never subsided and for over 3 years he and his family have been volunteer superstars with the amazing Surfers For Autism organization.

 But last Saturday was not about Ocean City Surf Company, it was a beautiful community event with dozens of people contributing, making it free for all who wanted to participate. The Flagler Beach Christian Surfers brought their army of softop surfboards, Jaii Hein donated his skills and fantastic rig of sound and music, Surfers for Autism heralded wisdom and support, Flagler Surf Club was on the scene with their hearts and man/women/kid power, Sandalina Treats drove in with yummy ice cream goodness and Goody’s Hot Dogs was serving love on a bun to over 15 participants who came to experience life changing moments

I witnessed many large smiles and wide bright eyes as first waves were being caught, but there was one specific moment when a local young man, who is a paraplegic, caught the wave of his life and changed every soul on the beach.  Colleen Conklin, one of the volunteers helping to handle the surfer couldn’t even recount the story without crying tears of joy.   It was a blessing of salty white water. — And although it didn’t appear as a classic beautiful beach day, the rays of light shining down were luminous.To find out about more events like this contact:

Ocean City Surf Company: 509 N A1A, Flagler Beach — (386) 693-4839

   Stay tuned for our April Flagler Surf Star: Hannah Blevins

Photographer: Sherry DiMartino Blevins