Kayaking Program at Gateway National Recreation Area, Riis Landing (former Coast Guard Station just west of Marine Parkway Bridge), Saturdays through August. Park rangers and local volunteers will provide free basic instruction and equipment to the public; no reservation required; grant funding from Coca-Cola Corporation. Saturdays and Sundays through August, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  To volunteer, send an email to: info@gatewaybike&boathouse.org.  Also, Gateway’s paddling rangers are available to take out groups (students, churches, scouts, summer camps, recreation groups, etc.) on Fridays and other days of the week by calling:  718-338-3799.  We’ve even heard that the rangers are willing to work with groups on bringing the boats to other locations around Jamaica Bay for paddles.  Keep in mind that in addition to Riis Landing, there are launches in Canarsie, Howard Beach, Floyd Bennett, Bayswater Park, Dubos Point (Beach 59 Street), and Beach 88 Street/Beach Channel Drive.  If you need help getting a response from the rangers, send an email to info@gatewaybike&boathouse.org, and we’ll try to help.