Mayor Tom Barrett sent a letter to President Bush Thursday, Feb. 16 inviting him to his State of the City Address Monday, Feb. 20 at Tech High School. The president visits Milwaukee on Monday.

In his letter Barrett wrote, "You may be interested to know that President Theodore Roosevelt visited Tech in its infancy, and I think that it's high time that another president graced the hallways of a Milwaukee landmark. This would be your opportunity to experience first-hand the challenges and promise of today's urban America."

Barrett wrote that he will discuss the importance of partnerships needed to ensure healthy starts for families, youth education, street violence and the work force.

"When it comes down to it," he wrote, "those are your priorities as well."

The mayor said he would welcome the opportunity to yield some of his time for the president to speak.

"Mayor Barrett is looking forward to hearing back from the President regarding his invitation," said Eileen Force, communications director for the mayor's office.

"Partnering with the mayor at Bradley Tech on Monday would give the president a chance to visit with a diverse group of Milwaukeeans from all walks of life and stand with the mayor as he outlines his priorities."