[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 84 (Wednesday, June 24, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S7031]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

                      CHILDREN'S SCHOLARSHIP FUND

  Mr. COVERDELL. Mr. President, I rise today to commend the 
recent actions of two businessman and philanthropists, Mr. Ted 
Forstmann and Mr. John Walton.
  On Tuesday, June 9, 1998, the two men launched the Children's 
Scholarship fund with an initial contribution of one hundred million 
dollars. This fund is going to provide scholarships to help families of 
modest means send their children to private or parochial schools where 
they will face strong academic challenges.
  As this body, indeed this nation, continues to debate the future of 
education, one fact is clear--a good education is the key to a 
promising future. The best way to help young people is to ensure that 
they have a solid education that challenges their minds and helps them 
reach their full potential. Mr. Forstmann and Mr. Walton are helping 
many children along the path by giving their hard-working parents a 
helping hand.
  Through grass roots initiatives such as the Children's Scholarship 
Fund, we will we ensure that our country remains the world's leader.
  I would like to wish the Children's Scholarship Fund the best of luck 
over the next several months as they look for people across America 
willing to serve as partners in this effort. The fund has already 
contacted more than 300 mayors and community leaders to seek their 
partnership with the fund and provide scholarships in their 
communities. Also, I would like to offer my assistance in contacting 
cities and other municipalities in my home state of Georgia.
  Once again, Mr. Forstman and Mr. Walton should be commended for their 
commitment to the education of our nation's youth, and I thank them for 
their generosity.

                          ____________________