For example, it is expected Hatch will run an aggressive turn-out-the-vote effort statewide which will, of course, help other GOP candidates down the ballot.

And you also never turn down the chance to have the president of your own party come to an event for your candidate, said Hansen. Although any number of other incumbent Republicans, in states where the president may have an especially poor job-approval rating, are not asking Bush to campaign for them.

For $500, a luncheon attendee will hear a short speech by the president. Those who pay more likely will get a few minutes in a before-luncheon reception for the president. It is unclear at this time whether they will be able to pose with Bush for a quick photo, Hansen said.

Besides speaking to the veterans' convention and spending the night in Salt Lake City, Bush is expected to meet briefly with leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a courtesy visit U.S. presidents often make when in Utah.

Bush last met with all of the church leaders when he came to the opening day festivities for the 2002 Winter Olympics, hosted here. They presented Bush with his genealogy, with the president then telling reporters he was just glad they found no "cattle wrestlers" among his forefathers.

That time Bush did not spend the night here. He arrived in the morning, attended a special ceremony in the Capitol, met with church leaders and then formally opened the Olympic Games in Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah. He then flew out of town.

Hansen said tickets to the Bush fund-raiser can be purchased by calling the Hatch campaign headquarters, 801-747-5333.

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E-mail: bbjr@desnews.com