What do pre-schoolers have to do with economic development? The future economic vitality of the Permian Basin sits right now in our childcare centers and pre-kindergarten classrooms. Today's students will be tomorrow's workers and taxpayers. From the Governor on down, Texans are focusing on our children for workforce preparation and readiness so Texans remain competitive in our global marketplace. Bi-partisan legislation passed in the last session of the Texas Legislature is helping to ensure that Texas is making the most of its investment in its youngest children.

We are inviting you to attend a forum and luncheon on Early Childhood Education as Economic Development, presented by United Ways of Texas and the Texas State Center for Early Childhood Development at University of Texas. This event will begin the conversation about how our community, led by influential business men and women, can work together to prepare kids for school by helping to lay the foundation for a workforce that you and your business will need in the future.

Midland's Jose Cuevas, and Odessa's Lorraine Perryman are co-chairing this forum so that business leaders have the opportunity to learn more about how early education has an impact on economic development and how business leaders can help the Permian Basin remain a great place to live and a profitable place to do business. Special guest, Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Tom Craddick will attend and comment on issues addressed at the forum.

The United Ways of Midland and Odessa, in partnership with local Chambers of Commerce, will host this forum and luncheon on Friday, March 4th from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Conference Room of the Region 18 Education Service Center located at 2811 La Force Blvd.

Please confirm your attendance at this important event by contacting Ms. Roxanne Jones at (512) 478-6601 or via e-mail at rsvp@uwtexas.org by March 02, 2005.