By Jeanne Mangus
Anyone who has ever walked down the ramp at Access #5 to the beach has seen Mr. Bill Makey, known as Surfer Bill, sitting under his umbrella intently watching the exquisite blue ocean. He parks his truck in the public parking lot, and it is always loaded with two surfboards. He has a deep passion for this sport. Because of this passion, he has been teaching people of all ages the “ins and outs” of the art of surfing for years...out of the goodness of his heart. Bill often tells people his joy comes from instilling a surfing passion in others. Bill also tells of his surfing trips he has taken all around the world. He is quite an interesting story teller of these adventures as he mixes the tales with both facts and humor.
Bill is truly one of a kind. He is so generous with his time. He shares his wisdom and stories, and he shares his full knowledge of the sea, its currents and nuances. Come meet him sometime. Learn how to catch that wave. He just wants you to enjoy and learn the art of surfing. I saw Bill working with a 5 year old child and my niece, who is 50, this summer. They both were able to catch a wave or two during his instruction. He gets them up no matter what their age. We thank you Surfer Bill. You are the best. You are one of those people that make Surf City a special place.
