Supporters of Governor Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. got to spend one-one-one time with him Saturday as he hosted an old-fashioned ice cream social in Alpine.

Many seemed charmed by the governor. Jill Johnson of Lehi brought her four children, ages 2-11, saying she wanted to children to shake hands with the governor.

"We want to teach our children the value of public service and the values that Gary Herbert and Governor Huntsman have," she said.

Richard A. and LaRee Ricks Smith of Orem said they came because "the Lt. Governor lives in our neighborhood."

The couple said they appreciate the service that Huntsman has given the community, and because "we sustain the upholding of the education system."

Richard Smith said that though the couple is not usually politically active, "I'm one of the 12 percent that sustains President George Bush as doing a good job."

Ruth¬ and Marvin Teuscher of American Fork came "because we got the nicest card telling us about this and suggested we come and it sounded a good thing to do," she said.

Just at that moment in the interview, the Governor arrived and came to shake hands.

"What are you doing wearing a U hat here," Huntsman said, pointing to Marvin Teuscher's University of Utah hat. He then thanked the couple. "I'm honored that you came out. I appreciate that."

With those comments, Huntsman moved into the crowd of more than 100 people who came to see him. Asked if she was pleased with her encounter with the state's leader, Ruth Teuscher was all smiles.

"We didn't come because we have a complaint of any kind," she said. "We have never involved ourselves in politics much and I think it is wrong not to have at least an idea of what is going on."

She paused, a wide grin breaking her lips.

"But isn't he a charming fellow," she said.

Sitting down for an interview with the Daily Herald, Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert called Huntsman's forthcoming address at the Republican National Convention "a great honor for him and for the state of Utah." Saturday's event was less about money than just "meeting and greeting, letting people know we are here and we take this campaign seriously even though we are way ahead in the polls. We know it is important to stay in touch with the constituents."

Neither Huntsman nor Herbert ever gave a speech at the event, where parents ate BYU Creamery ice cream and children played on an inflatable slide brought in for the occasion.

Herbert said energy and the price of gas had been foremost among the topics of conversation on Saturday, and he said people were appreciative of what the state has accomplished

"A lot of people have been nice, saying 'We like what you are doing' and giving us a pat on the back, which is nice," he said. "It makes us want to try harder."

Jeff and Carol Semmens of Lehi said they moved to Utah three years ago and wanted to become more active in local politics.

"We enjoy being at the grassroots level," Carol Semmens said. "It was fun to watch him [Huntsman], especially talking to the kids. He is so personal. I think it was great."