LongBets.Org is designed

…as an arena for competitive, accountable predictions (Long Bets).

…as a forum for focussed discussion and debate about prediction.

…as an attractive tool for philanthropic giving.

…as a way to foster better long-term thinking.

What a great idea…

LongBets.org

I heard about this in the gym this morning: Tim Marquez and his wife Benadette are offering to pay for a college education for any child who graduates from three Denver high schools this year. 50 million dollars, people. They are giving 50 MILLION dollars to give these kids a chance. I came home and read about this and it made me cry like hell.

These are some highlights from articles in The Rocky Mountain News and the The Denver Post:

“Students graduating this spring from three Denver high schools will have their college costs covered under a new scholarship program that officials say will soon expand to all city high schools.”

“Students from South, Lincoln and Montbello high schools – who will pilot the program – jumped to their feet in a standing ovation for oilman Tim Marquez and his wife, Bernadette, whose $50 million donation is launching the private Denver Scholarship Foundation.”

“In Denver, 63 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch – a federal benchmark of poverty.”

And look at this. All students:

“Asked whether students in the country illegally would be eligible, Tim Marquez said he wants to help all students, whatever their immigration status. State law requires proof of residency to get in-state tuition at public schools. “We want to help everybody we can and follow the law,” Marquez said.”

“I started crying because this means so much,” said Dominic McGee, 17, a Montbello High School senior. “This gives everyone an opportunity.”

Pluto (energy that empowers) in Sagittarius (education, generosity).

Why can’t everyone sitting on 50 million dollars do something like this? I will never understand. And giving begets giving, I think. Will these lucky souls, these students give to others in the future? I think so.

Do you know what it feels like to stand next to someone (poor) who just found out their kid will be going to college in six months? I do. Because this is what happened to me, today in the gym. I am moved to my core by this couple’s gift and send them a million thank yous on the wind.