Betty Knight Scripps Illuminates Spirit of Generosity as General Chairman of 81st Annual Candlelight Ball

For the eighth consecutive year, philanthropist and newspaper heiress Betty Knight Scripps will serve as General Chairman of the 81st Annual Candlelight Ball, to benefit Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla. Through Mrs. Scripps’ continued leadership and generosity, the ball has raised nearly $20 million in philanthropic support to further lifesaving care at the nonprofit hospital.

One of the most highly anticipated and prestigious fundraising events in San Diego, the 81st Annual Candlelight Ball will be held on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, at the Grand Del Mar. Guests will enjoy spectacular holiday décor, fine dining and dancing to The Bob Hardwick Sound. The ball will also include an appearance by guest of honor, Academy Award-winning actor and La Jolla native Cliff Robertson.

“The celebration of the Candlelight Ball serves as a reminder to the community about the premier health care and state-of-the-art services that are available at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla,” says Mrs. Scripps. “I am delighted to further the legacy of exceptional medical care in our community.”

Mrs. Scripps is Chairman of Scripps Enterprises, Inc., a private firm with holdings in publishing, real estate, oil and gas. Her philanthropies are numerous. In addition to Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, they include the University of Virginia, the Miller Center – where she established the Scripps Library, the Mayo Clinic, the American Red Cross, Monticello, Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies, the Hampton Classic Horse Show, the English National Ballet and the Scripps Institute of Oceanography to name just a few. The Scripps League Education and Research Fund has provided financial assistance to students at Brigham Young University’s School of Journalism for many years.

For tickets or to learn more about the 81st Annual Candlelight Ball, please call 858-678-6349.