PADDLING -- Catch the new wave of paddle sports with my Sunday Outdoors feature story about the sport than combines elements of canoeing and surfing.

Then consider signing up for one of the special presentations or classes to be offered in Spokane this week by Seattle Stand up paddling instructor Rob Casey.

Details:

Free stand up paddling presentation at REI

What: Free presentation on stand up paddle boarding, dealing with gear, launching and basic techniques.

Who: By Rob Casey, author of ‘Stand Up Paddling Flatwater to Rivers and Surf’ (pictured).

When: Thursday, 7 p.m.

Where: REI, 1125 N. Monroe St.

Sign-up:rei.com/event/22959/session/28402 (space limited)

On-water lessons offered

Author Rob Casey is offering three-hour stand up paddle boarding lessons on local waters Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during his book tour through Spokane.

Class size: five or less

Costs: $80-$100 depending on level

Sign-up: (206) 465-7167, salmonbaypaddle.com

Stand up resources

Spokane: Mountain Gear, 325-9000; moutaingear.com

Coeur d’Alene:Coeur d’Alene Paddle Board Co., (208) 292-4156; cdapaddleboard.com

Missoula: Strongwater, (406) 721-2437; strongwaterkayak.com