The word is out...

President Bush is making his second trip to the area since his presidency began.

Mr. Bush spoke at Caterpillar in early 2007, and this time, he returns in support of Aaron Schock, a young congressional hopeful.

"At 27 years, if elected he will be the youngest member of congress" said Steve Shearer, Schock's campaign manager.

And according to Shearer the President rarely makes trips to support congressional candidates.

"He's caught the President's attention and the President wants to come lend his help" said Shearer.

Congressman Ray LaHood says he also urged the White House to send President Bush back for another trip to central Illinois.

"Aaron decided that he wanted to raise a significant amount of money, and one way to do it would be to get the President to come" said LaHood.

...A significant amount indeed.

Tickets for the event are 500 dollars a pop, and the Republican National Committeewoman for the State of Illinois, says it's well worth the money.

"We believe Aaron Schock is the future of our country.
He's young, he's energetic and he has taken hold, not just in our state, but around the country", said Committeewoman Demetra Demonte.

Despite the President's low approval ratings, LaHood believes Mr. Bush will still be welcomed with open arms.

"He'll be well received at Aaron's fundraiser and I think they'll have a huge turnout. I think the President likes Peoria and Peoria likes the President" said LaHood.

The White House has not finalized all the details, but the plan is to hold the fundraiser at a private residence.

Two possibilities are Weaver Farms in Peoria and another farm near Morton.

Democratic Candidate Colleen Callahan told the Pantagraph she sees the President's visit as a sign Schock is taking her campaign seriously.

She also questioned the appearance suggesting Schock could be aligning his policies with the President.

Again, the tickets are 500 dollarsm and you can tack on 46-hundred if you'd like to get your picture taken with the President.

Tickets for the event can be purchased through the campaign office at (309) 693-9393.