NATCHEZ &045; For the past five weeks, Rivergate Bowling has been drawing record numbers of visitors to Natchez to participate in their annual Grandmas and Grandpas bowling tournament.

This year&8217;s event is scheduled to last seven weeks with over 240 four-person teams from as far away as Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas competing in the event. Only eight of the 240 teams consist of Miss-Lou residents.

According to the participants the appeal of the event is not the numerous prizes, or the free buffet at the Isle of Capri. It&8217;s all about the spirit of the event and having fun with friends. From the tie-dye T-shirts to the blaring music and participants dancing, a simple glance inside the alley will tell you that fun is a big part of the draw.

&8220;We try to plan a different theme every year, and this year it&8217;s the 60s,&8221; Rivergate Bowl manager Anne Hash said. &8220;It&8217;s gotten bigger all 19 years. People love Natchez and love the tournament.&8221;

Talk to any of the tournament bowlers and you will find that everyone is having a great time.

&8220;We&8217;re from Katrina country,&8221; Sonya Taranto, of Mandeville, said. &8220;Around us there isn&8217;t much to smile about; but we come here, have a good time and everyone is friendly and happy.&8221;

Taranto is just one of many who have come to Natchez for years to enjoy Grandmas and Grandpas.

Mel and Betty Tauzier have been participating in the event since its inception.

&8220;We just love Natchez,&8221; Mel Tauzier said. &8220;For us this is an opportunity to get out of town, which is something we love to do.&8221;

Betty Tauzier and her friends Taranto, Loretta Stansbury, Theresa Gonzales and Margie Calato don&8217;t even bowl. They come for the atmosphere and to spend time together.

&8220;We don&8217;t care to bowl, we let our husbands do that. We&8217;d rather sit here and play cards,&8221; Stansbury said.