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Boatnik fun buoys up weekend Photo by Bob Pennell A race-boat driver greets the Boatnik crowd Saturday as he approaches Riverside Park in Grants Pass. The festival, expected to draw more than 10,000 people, continues through Monday along the Rogue River. There's more than boat races to enjoy at Grants Pass festival By KATHY MORGAN GRANTS PASS -- Water isn't the only thing the Rogue River is full of this weekend. Boats, boats and more boats fill the waterway during the 40th Boatnik festival, which continues today and Monday. But more numerous than the boats are the spectators here to enjoy the carnival, skydiving demonstrations, slow-pitch softball tournament and, of course, the boat races. Organizers expect more than 10,000 people over the entire weekend, according to Keith Trahern, coordinator of the hydroplane races. Today's temperatures are expected to be in the low 80s, with lots of sunshine. A parade kicked off the fun Saturday.Floats, bands and service organizations marched under the famous "It's the climate" sign that greets all entering this Josephine County seat. But for many folks attending this annual salute to summer, it's not the climate but the people that make Boatnik what it is. Hydroplane racer Don Nisly of Willamina has been coming here for three years. "I just love it here," says Nisly, who races the boat Bad Intent. "It's the first time I get to race my boat each year. And there's something about Boatnik. The people are wonderful." Nisly has won several second places during his three years here, reaching speeds of almost 100 mph. "This year I'm trying for first place," he says. "I think this boat can do it." He glances lovingly at the purple and yellow craft that sports a 427 Chevy engine. "It has 1,000 horsepower. Isn't it a beauty?" Romance of a different nature brings others to the shores of the wild and scenic river. Charlene and Allen McGuire are on their anniversary weekend. The two live in Cave Junction but decided to celebrate 24 years of marriage with a jetboat ride and a look at the Boatnik. They sit basking in the sun and each other's gazes. "To be honest, we didn't even realize Boatnik was on," Charlene says. "But we're so glad we came. This really adds to the excitement. And the people here are so friendly. It's romantic." Speaking of romance, Melisa Bamber draws more than casual glances as she stands in the park dressed in bridal finery. No groom, however, is in sight. "I'm here to remind people that we are brides of Christ," she says. "This is to draw their attention to God, not me. I'm not really getting married. But I'm having fun, too." Then there's 11-year-old Zach Bullard. He doesn't even notice the bride. "It's my birthday," he says. The Grants Pass native has come to the Boatnik ever since he can remember. "My mom and dad call it `Zach Day,' but I know it's really the Boatnik Festival and it's always fun. I like the carnival. It's a great way to celebrate my day." Betty and Jim Nelson of Canyonville have been making the trip south for 28 years. "The boats change and the speeds increase, but one thing remains constant: This is the friendliest place on the face of the Earth," Jim says. "If you haven't tried it, come on down. You'll meet all kinds of people. Just look around." Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA