Getting Merrill's famous Bear Hugs! 

Merrill first said his hellos to everyone!

Merrill visited with everyone ~ letting them know what his upcoming plans were and just chatting with everyone! 

Merrill gave everyone a sneak peek of the show
when everyone was invited to stay for his sound check! 

Merrill was presented a poster signed by
everyone congratulating him on the new lodge!

After Merrill's show the "Drop Outs" gave everyone
a chance to get up and dance!

Merrill & Mary even joined in on the fun!

Saturday morning Merrill joined everyone for a question and answer session!

Merrill is signing one of his Bear Collectibles!  

 He also picked two lucky winners! The first was "Make your Dream come True!
This lucky lady won!

The next lucky winner was lunch with Merrill!
Here Merrill is peeking at the lucky name!

Can you guess who the winner was?

Merrill was then joined by Father Osmond and sister Marie!
Both were a pleasant surprise addition to the gathering!

The stories and laughs they brought along were priceless!

Marie also had some serious things to say about women's issues and took some time to answer questions from the group!

Later in the afternoon we meet back together for Merrill to let everyone in on his
plans for somethings in the works to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Merrill introduced partner Phil Morrell who informed the attendees some of the things he
has been doing in Iraq that will also be put in place for the Katrina victims.  

Merrill chatted with the attendees, prizes were given away and silent auction items given out!

Here's a lucky silent auction winner!

On Sunday, Merrill had one-on-one time
with each attendee!

Everyone said this was the highlight of the event!  

Sunday Evening Merrill gave an inspirational talk!

He was joined by his father who also said a few words in closing!