It is a "blem" because some of the coating Hyside uses on the bottom is flaking off - not a huge deal to me, but it has left little black specks all over it.  The PO appears to have left it outside to store for the 3 weeks his/her return took to process and there are some dirty spots on in.  Long story, but it will stay in my boat shed but will be a gift for another for the holidays; I would like it to be squeeky clean when we walk into the house on said holiday and it is blown up under the tree!  What should I clean it with?

I have a plug-in pump; what pump should I order to have on the river with it?

Someone school me on the valves.  What maintence do they need (up-keep) and what is the secret to getting them turned off without totally extracting the pump and losing air while I fiddle with them to get them to close?

What works best as a chicken strap?

What else do I need to buy - have to haves AND nice to haves?

I am excited!  With all the rain in the South East dragging this thing out and trying it out is all I have thought about.  I have a feeling December is further away than I can stand!  Keeping this under wraps has been hard.  I have had it for awhile and only let myself pull it out today and inflate for the first time!

Hyside is great to work with; super friendly and helped me out all they possibly could.

Thanks,
KT
Watchis