On Sunday, May 22, the Coast Guard Auxiliary will conduct America's Boating Class at Bass Pro Shops in the Fingerlakes Mall. This class fulfills the New York requirement for personal watercraft operation. The class will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $35.

This beginner boating class will give the knowledge needed to obtain a boat license or safety certification in many states. Class size is limited. Sign-ups are available at Bass Pro Shops Customer Service counter or by calling the store at 258-2700. Anyone interested in taking the course needs to meet in front of fireplace in the store front vestibule 10 minutes before class starts and the instructor will lead students to class area.

Cayuga Museum plans bus trip

The Cayuga Museum will sponsor a bus trip to Washington, D.C. from Friday, July 29 through Sunday, July 31. The trip will include visits to the new World War II Memorial, the Iwo Jima Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Viet Nam Wall, the Women in the Military Memorial, and the Smithsonian Institution. Friday evening, a visit to the Marine Barracks for a concert by the U.S. Marine Corps Band is planned. Guests can stay with the bus, or visit Washington attractions on their own. On Sunday, the bus will leave Washington in the morning and stop in Gettysburg, Pa. for lunch and a guided tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield.

The bus will depart Auburn at 7 a.m. Friday, July 29 and return on Sunday evening, July 31.

Cost is $250 per person, double occupancy ($220 per person, triple occupancy and $350 per person single.) Price includes round trip bus transportation, two nights lodging at the Comfort Inn/Ballston in Arlington, VA, and continental breakfasts. A deposit of $100 per person will secure a reservation, on a first paid first reserved basis. Payment in full is due by June 10. Checks should be made payable to the Cayuga Museum. For further information, call the museum at 253-8051.

Donovan to direct drum festival

Jim Donovan, drummer for Rusted Root, will be directing the 2005 New York Drum Festival July 18 to 22, in Auburn.

The festival will be held along with the New York Dance Festival. Each event features workshops, master classes and performances by a wide array of teachers, performers and musicians.

Programs include: Beginner - Advanced Hand - DrummingWorkshops/Master Classes, Rhythmic Mantra Drum and Chant MeditationWorkshops, West African Drumming Master Classes, Central African Drumming Master Classes, Middle Eastern Drumming /Master Classes, Dance Accompaniment Training Teacher/Facilitator Program, Apprenticeships/IndividualConsultations.

Register by June 15, and receive a 10-percent discount on tuition. Financial assistance and scholarships are available. Call 252-4420 to register.