I developed a love of rivers by innertubing the Kings River in the Sanger, Reedley and Kingsburg area of California, starting around 1970. In 1982, I became a whitewater kayaker and soon explored more and more of the rivers and creeks around the Fresno area. I continue to enjoy paddling rivers and meeting other boaters. I feel a responsibility to protect our rivers and encourage others to also protect our rivers and share their joy.