Name: The Joy Bus Annual Gala
Start: 2026-10-30
End: 2026-10-30

Located in the heart of Midtown Phoenix, Mixela is a modern dining destination where global flavors meet refined culinary technique. Led by Chef Gian Franco Brugaletta, Mixela specializes in a vibrant menu of crudos, tapas, and globally inspired small plates designed for sharing, discovery, and unforgettable dining experiences. Inspired by the energy of international food cultures, Mixela blends the bright flavors of Latin America, the elegance of European cuisine, and the precision of Asian technique into a menu that feels both adventurous and refined. Whether you're searching for a unique restaurant in Midtown Phoenix, a place for creative tapas and fresh seafood crudo, or a sophisticated setting for wine and cocktails with friends, Mixela offers a distinctive culinary experience unlike any other in the city.

Mixela

A Central Phoenix wine bar featuring a chef-driven menu in a snug space.

Kid Sister

A hush-hush lounge-like lodge bar sits in the center of Arcadia with no signage but a lot of local regulars. With an impressive selection of whiskey and scotch, this neighborhood dark bar fills the evening into night with live entertainment, pool tables in the basement inspired den and a multitude of old school games. The Little Woody is an intimate space which has been a Phoenix favorite for years and is known to be the perfect place to meet up with friends and make new ones.

The Little Woody

Leave your passport behind and discover a luxury desert retreat glowing with European charm, as Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia brings the white-washed villages and sun-drenched hills of Andalusia, Spain to the heart of Scottsdale. Recognized by Travel + Leisure’s ‘Word’s Best Awards’ and Conde Nast ‘Readers’ Choice Awards,’ Omni Montelucia is an exclusive oasis inspired by the exotic locales of Morocco and Andalusia in Southern Spain. Nestled at the base of iconic Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Arizona, the campus-style resort boasts 293 spacious guest rooms, including 38 luxury suites and 2 presidential suites, 3 shimmering pools and award-winning culinary experiences including the critically-acclaimed Prado restaurant. Named after the Spanish word for jewel, Joya Spa is the property’s 31,000 sq. ft. landmark of luxurious pampering and is the heart of our Scottsdale resort and offers unique rituals including Arizona’s only modern interpretation of the Hammam. Located just 15 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), the resort’s 100,000 square-feet of meeting & event facilities include several unique outdoor wedding venues alongside multiple elegant ballrooms and privately-owned villas: all amidst 35 acres of lush desert landscape.

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Crave Café is a one-stop-shop featuring Cult Coffee Roasters, distinctive wines by the bottle, creamy gelato and decadent eats. In addition to delicious bites and many on-the-go options, you will also find traveler's essentials, sundries and numerous unique gifts to take home.

Crave Café at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Featuring a festive and communal atmosphere, Prado is a picturesque restaurant reminiscent of an old world dining room. Guests are invited to embrace the engaging ambiance inclusive of a commanding wood-fired tapas display kitchen, indoor and outdoor seating with breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain. Mbar lounge, two private rooms including Ferdinand’s Wine Cellar and Prive, and two communal outdoor dining tables. Offering seasonal Spanish-influenced fare for an approachable American palate, Prado reflects the unique flavor and heritage of Spain’s Andalusian region, while utilizing the finest and freshest local ingredients made available by Arizona’s vast farming community.

Prado at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Enjoy the casual atmosphere with sweeping views of Camelback Mountain and indoor/outdoor dining spaces. With reverence to Arizona agriculture, Taqueria Centro's cuisine is a modern, upscale take on Arizona-Mexican dishes using the finest ingredients. Thoughtfully crafted, many dishes boast colorful and unique ingredients.

Taqueria Centro at Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia

Chula Seafood is a family owned + operated fresh fish market, restaurant and seafood wholesale purveyor. Fresh fish in the desert does exist. Stop by to check out our Fish Market featuring sushi-grade fish by the pound and smoked fish or Dine in with us for grilled oysters, fish tacos, sashimi platter, poke and more. Chula Seafood specializes in species from Southern California and Baja - with product also being flown in from around the world daily. The family boat, Chula, is a sustainable commercial swordfish boat located in Point Loma. With over 25 years in the commercial fishing industry, we have access to buying directly from the local fisherman and transporting the product in our own fleet of refrigerated vans across the desert. We are bringing fresh in 6 days a week to supply not only our own restaurants, but also local restaurants around the Valley. Chula Uptown is our location in Central Phoenix with a full bar and patio. Visit our original location in South Scottsdale or our newest location in Grayhawk - North Scottsdale. You can follow our culinary and fishing adventures on Instagram @chula\_seafood Thank you for supporting your local seafood company. The Chula Seafood Fish Fam

Chula Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Restaurant

The Staybridge Suites Phoenix Biltmore is the perfect hotel for your stay in Phoenix, located near downtown and midtown Phoenix in close proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Conveniently located just across the highway from Phoenix Children’s Hospital and within just minutes of many entertainment and educational venues, our hotel offers a beautiful and comfortable home away from home whether traveling for business or pleasure. Begin your day with our complimentary hot breakfast buffet and wind down with our evening social served Monday through Wednesday. Relax in our outdoor heated pool and spa. Complimentary laundry facilities, Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and our fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center will make you feel even more at home. Furry friends are welcome - we are a pet-friendly hotel. The possibilities are endless at the Staybridge Suites Phoenix Biltmore!

Staybridge Suites Phoenix-Biltmore Area

Don Woods’ Say When is a rooftop bar with an intimate lounge and spacious terrace featuring fire pits, cozy seating, and expansive views of the Phoenix skyline and Camelback Mountain. The design of the entire penthouse level is straight out of the late 60’s and early 70’s, complemented by small bites and stunning drinks. Our cocktail menu features a rotating selection of forgotten classics. Cheers!

Don Woods' Say When

It's time to go beyond. Follow trails that reveal mighty mountaintops. Wander among iconic landscapes beneath picture-perfect skies. Let the Sonoran Desert be your guide to limitless adventure.

Visit Phoenix Sports & Events 

Hosted by The Joy Bus and co-chaired by community leaders Tran Appell and Beth McRae alongside a committee of 60 women community leaders.

This fall, The Joy Bus will bring together community leaders, philanthropists and advocates for an inspiring evening centered on compassion, connection and community impact.

Hosted at the iconic Arizona Biltmore, the annual gala will support the Phoenix-based nonprofit’s mission to deliver free chef-inspired meals and meaningful companionship to persons bravely battling cancer throughout the Valley.

This year’s gala is co-chaired by Tran Appell, founder of Axis Employment Services and longtime supporter of The Joy Bus, and Beth McRae, CEO of The McRae Agency and a respected Valley communications and philanthropic leader who has chaired numerous nonprofit events throughout Arizona.

Guests will experience an inspiring program highlighting the direct impact of The Joy Bus, including personal stories from clients and volunteers. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions, giving attendees the opportunity to contribute in meaningful ways.

Proceeds from the gala will directly support The Joy Bus meal delivery program, which provides free chef-inspired meals and human connection to individuals unable to shop or cook for themselves during treatment.

For many, philanthropy is more than an occasional activity — it is a way of life. Events like The Joy Bus Gala offer an opportunity to support a cause that is both local and deeply impactful while strengthening the spirit of community throughout the Valley.

The Joy Bus Annual Gala

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