I met Dick at at FEST9 in Florida a few years ago. It was 102 degrees out, humidity was about 110%. Talked to him after his set. He gave me a melted guitar pick with his signature on it. It's probably worth a few bucks now.
I love surf music! I don't know if it's because of my seaside heritage or because he's also a Boston boy or what, but rest in peace Dick Dale, the King of surf guitar!