Capitol Words a project of the Sunlight Foundation

Rep. John Shadegg

Madam Speaker, I rise today to proudly recognize Betty Knight Scripps, newspaper heiress, for her extraordinary and generous charitable spirit, and her countless contributions to society. She is viewed by many as America's first lady of philanthropy.

Mrs. Scripps and her late husband, Edward W. Scripps, advanced the interests of freedom and a free press through their work as publishers of a chain of newspapers throughout the United States, and through their active involvement in the Inter-American Press Association, which advanced the causes of independent journalism and a free press throughout Latin America.

In 1984, Mrs. Scripps established the Edward W. and Betty Knight Scripps Foundation to serve mankind by supporting the advancement of health care, education, journalism, the First Amendment, and the arts and culture.

For eight years, Mrs. Scripps served as General Chairman of the Washington National Opera Ball raising record-breaking proceeds for the 50-year-old organization, bringing together leaders of the diplomatic, government, corporate and arts communities in our Nation's Capital. Mrs. Scripps has also chaired the International Red Cross Ball in Palm Beach, Florida, and the English National Ballet Gala in London, England.

Mrs. Scripps is undoubtedly one of Scripps Health's and Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla's most esteemed benefactors, as evidenced by her leadership, commitment and generosity. Mrs. Scripps has chaired the prestigious Candlelight Ball, which has raised close to $20 million in philanthropic support for exceptional, life-saving care at the nonprofit hospital. Mrs. Scripps continues the legacy of the Scripps family member who founded the hospital in 1924.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives join me in recognizing Betty Knight Scripps, an extraordinary American and humanitarian.