Marco auxiliary issues advisory about boating classes, inspections

For more than 40 years, the Marco Island Coast Guard Auxiliary has been teaching boaters to get to know and enjoy local waters safely. The final classes for the 2009 season are:

• GPS: 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday and Thursday, Nov. 3 and 5 – In this two-day class, students gain hands-on experience using a Garmin GPS 72 handheld unit.

• Boaters Local Knowledge: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10 – In one evening, students learn about shelling, fishing and navigating the waterways around Marco Island, Isles of Capri, Goodland, Everglades City, Keewaydin Island and Naples.

A new season of classes will begin in January. All classes take place at the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary station in Caxambas Park on Marco Island. Registration is required by calling Doug Johnson at 642-8406.

The auxiliary also offers free vessel safety checks to ensure that your boat meets federal, state and local requirements. To schedule a safety chedk, call Ron Klein at 775-7599 or the auxiliary station at 394-5911. 