Bobby Simpson, Safety Chair

Birthplace: Columbia, SC Alma Mater: Clemson University Hometown: Columbia, SC Profession: Director, Distribution Projects, Progress Energy Carolinas (31st year with Progress Energy) Family: Married 30 years (to Nancy Weathers Simpson), three sons: Kevin (age 27), Eric (age 23), Ryan (age 21) Hobbies/Interests: Paddling, jogging, backpacking, duck hunting (with the boys), snow skiing CCC member since: Early 1980s Paddling whitewater since: 1980
I have been a member of the Carolina Canoe Club for over 20 years and am finishing up my first year as your 2008 Safety Chairman. Prior to serving as Safety Chairman, I served as your Conservation Chairman for 3 years. I have been paddling whitewater since 1981, beginning as a tandem canoeist, switching to kayaking for 15 years, and am now an avid open-boater. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the Club in these leadership roles and consider serving you a privilege. During my time as Conservation Chairman we accomplished many good things, including developing a formal structure and handbook for river clean-ups and establishing a "contributions guideline" to ensure the Club's money is used effectively and that organizations who support the protection of the waterways we paddle are supported by the Club. It was my desire for some years to serve in the role of Safety Chairman and I was glad to get the opportunity to do so in 2008 and to continue the job in 2009. I have a passion for safety and believe that, especially with the growing number of whitewater paddlers, the Club must continue its strong emphasis on safety that we have become known for. In 2004, I became certified as an ACA swift water rescue instructor and began teaching the Club's SWR classes with Russ Scheve. Russ put forth a lot of time and energy to improve our safety program and I want to continue this tradition. I have a strong background in safety from my professional career and I want to see more members improve their rescue skills and take an active role in mentoring people to carry a "safety first" attitude while on the river.