President Bush, who grew up in Midland, returned to his hometown for the first time Saturday since he became president. Bush was the star attraction at a fundraiser at the home of Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Midland. Conaway is a close friend and former business partner of the president in the energy business.

Bush is a frequent visitor to Texas and his Crawford ranch, but Conaway said that Bush has not been to Midland since leaving for Washington, although Laura Bush often visits her mother there.

Conaway said beforehand that Bush’s old Midland friends — about 500 strong — were "excited" to see him at the fundraiser.

The barbecue, which had to be moved from Thursday night to Saturday because of congressional votes on the $700 billion bailout, was expected to raise $500,000 for the Congressional Trust 2008, with proceeds going to House GOP races.

Old home ties didn’t hurt this week, either. It took a few phone calls, but Bush finally persuaded Conaway to vote for the bailout after he voted against it the first time around.