2003 Scuttlebutt Photo Contest

“In late October 1988, I was skipping across the waves and having a great sail in NY Harbor between Ellis Island and Governors Island at 30 knots. After 40 minutes I needed a rest and did a nice crash and burn near Battery Park. I climbed up on my board and sat for a good five minutes, wondering how many people in the surrounding tall buildings were watching me. Probably no one, I thought, as they’re all busy in their own rat races.

“We packed up my gear and headed for the East River to get back to South Street Seaport. It wasn't long before a Police boat came racing up to us. The bullhorn-toting cop loudly broadcast, 'Were you the one windsurfing?' I knew it was probably illegal to be out there and the old standby of ticketing the windsurfer for no PFD would get me regardless. After I confirmed to the officer that it was me, he asked if I was okay. I was surprised at his response, but he informed me that they had gotten a lot of calls concerned about me.

“Not only had the people in the tall buildings been watching but also they were concerned when I rested too long. My confidence in humanity was buoyed. I felt a connection to all of lower Manhattan that never has since ceased.

“I know it's not a great exposure, but it's dramatic, and the tall buildings that cared enough to worry for me are still there in the background (Curmudgeon's Comment: And we now miss those twin towers with all our heart).” - H.L. DeVore