The Southeast Missourian Web staff is gearing up for beginning Internet classes.

The classes are designed for beginners who want to learn more about the Internet and World Wide Web. Practical surfing tips will be offered along with a number of informational handouts.

The classes will be offered Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 7-9 p.m. and repeated on Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 1-3 p.m.

The classes are held in Dempster Hall on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University. The university is a co-sponsor of the community training.

Each student will have his or her own computer with high-speed Internet access. Each class is limited to 38 people.

The classes typically fill up quickly, so individuals are encouraged to call as soon as possible and reserve a spot. Call Joni Adams or Peggy Scott at 335-6611 to register. Payment of $10 must be made before the class starts. Payment may be mailed or brought to the newspaper office at 301 Broadway.

The classes typically draw from a large region. Attendees have traveled from Benton, Sikeston, Marble Hill, Wyatt, Farmington, Ste. Genevieve, and Miller City and McClure in Illinois.

The Southeast Missourian has offered the beginning Internet class for more than a year -- training more than 1,000 people. An intermediate Internet class will be scheduled in November. It will address a number of topics more in depth such as e-mail, downloading and chat.