There are two sides to the National Governors' Association annual meeting in State College.

On one hand, it's a time for governors to share serious ideas about the future of their states in a new high-tech job market.

But the other side is a giddy political sideshow that's now following Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge wherever he goes.

In the days leading up to the Republican National Convention in Philadelphia, Ridge keeps coming up as a possible running mate for presidential candidate George W. Bush, governor of Texas. It's still a secret when exactly Bush will announce his pick.

Although Bush is skipping the NGA meeting, his name keeps coming up at press conferences.

Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating, another often-mentioned name in the "veepstakes," has kept a low profile this weekend compared to host Gov. Ridge.

"I will work for Gov. Bush in some capacity in one way or another after he is elected president of the United States," Ridge said at Saturday's press conference.

Even if he doesn't get tapped as Bush's running mate, Ridge said he's proud that Pennsylvania is getting more attention out of the speculation.

As for the vice presidency, "It's a very attractive and very appealing opportunity. I also like the job of being governor," Ridge said.

Ridge smiled as questions focused on Bush and seemed to enjoy toying with reporters throughout his remarks.

"I apologize we're running just a touch late. . . I was doing some fly fishing this morning," said Ridge.

"You'll be happy to know I caught two trees, a couple of bushes, hooked onto a couple of fish and I got a finger."

"Which Bush, governor?" quipped a reporter from Erie, Ridge's hometown.

When another reporter brought up his fishing remark later in the press conference, Ridge grinned.

"You're very attentive," he said. "But they got away!" he continued, laughing, and again leaving reporters scratching their heads.