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

Located in North Phoenix at Desert Ridge Marketplace, Pigtails Desert Ridge is an intimate speakeasy discreetly located next to its sister concept, The Whining Pig. Designed for craft drink enthusiasts in a relaxed yet elegant setting, it features low lighting, leather booths, copper accents, and a massive living plant wall for a genuine speakeasy experience without the pretension—or the need for a secret password. Guests can enter through the back hallway of The Whining Pig or via the exterior side entrance marked by a glowing neon sign. The real draw is an inventive cocktail program built on unexpected flavors, paired with sophisticated raw bar bites, craveable snacks, top-notch hospitality, and a fun exit through a secret bookshelf door.

Pigtails Desert Ridge

Barrio Queen brings the history and culture of Mexico to the Valley of the Sun by serving fresh, authentic cuisine using traditional recipes from barrios of Mexico. In addition to its family recipes, the restaurant is known for its unique drinks and extensive tequila and mezcal menus. There are currently seven locations.

Barrio Queen Desert Ridge Marketplace

Located in North Phoenix at High Street off exit 32 and the 101, Ocean Prime is an ideal place to socialize, talk business, celebrate and indulge. From our main dining room, to our lounge, three stunning private dining rooms and seasonal, partially-enclosed terrace, guests can enjoy the vibrant energy of High Street from any area of our restaurant.

Ocean Prime

The Keg Steakhoouse + Bar is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion with friends and family. Quality, comfort and value are three key ingredients that make the Keg experience unlike any other. When it comes to steak, we serve only the finest cuts, aged for tenderness and seasoned with a unique blend. Classic cocktails, delicious appetizers, succulent seafood, and an outstanding wine list round out our classic menu The Keg has introduced a brand new takeout menu for online ordering and curbside pickup. Enjoy your favorite appetizers, entrees, and desserts from home, all designed and packaged to give you the next best thing to dining in our restaurant.

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar Desert Ridge Marketplace

Rustler's Rooste mountaintop eatery boasts live country western music, casual dining, indoor waterfall, entertainment, our famous tin slide, gift shop and a panoramic view of the valley lights from any seat in the house. Rustler's Rooste seats 1,500 guests and is the perfect hilltop location for your corporate event, birthday party, high school reunion to wedding/reception, and everything in between. We can even be open for private daytime events. Rustler's Rooste serves the finest steaks, ribs, chicken and the freshest seafood. Appetizers are different and delicious. (Yup, we've got rattlesnake). Our desserts will tempt you. We have above standard liquors and wines, and, of course, a variety of your favorite beers. Better come hungry. We are open 364 nights a year (closed on Super Bowl Sunday) with holiday specials and menus, patio seating, free parking and unlimited fun. Rustler's Rooste, where the sidewalk ends and the west begins.

Rustler's Rooste

Port of Subs made-fresh-to-order sandwiches are prepared especially for you and the unique taste comes from freshly sliced, top quality meats and cheeses, freshly baked breads and zesty dressings and spices. Port of Subs also offers a breakfast sandwich, hot sandwiches, fresh salads, chips, an extensive line of party trays, desserts and a variety of refreshing beverages.

Port of Subs Desert Ridge Marketplace

At Smoothie King, you’ll find the industry’s first and original nutritional fruit and function-based, fresh-blended smoothies. Our quest is simple – make living a healthier more active lifestyle delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re trying to lose a few pounds, have a little more energy at the end of the day or simply feel better about your diet, every smoothie we make is blended for a specific purpose.

Smoothie King Desert Ridge Marketplace

Locally owned, and family managed, List My Rental Home offers vacation rental management services that provide a convenient and pleasurable experience for both homeowners and guests.

List My Rental Home

The only full-service all-suite property in Tempe features a resort-style interior courtyard. A comprehensive $6 Million property renovation featuring all new furnishings and decor in our 224 two-room suites completed in late 2007. Centrally located to all Phoenix area attractions and 2.5 miles South of Arizona State University. Rates include a full cooked-to-order breakfast, evening cocktails, and complimentary airport shuttle. Property-wide Hard-wired HSIA available. Meeting space for groups from 10-500. Garcia's Restaurant features Mexican cuisine and specialty margaritas. Gift Shop and 24-hr. Fitness and Business Centers on property. Arizona Mills Mall within two miles, 10 championship golf courses within five miles. Lowest rates guaranteed on our website. Rates: $89–$189

Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Tempe

Tia Carmen pays homage to chef Angelo Sosa's Aunt (Tía) Carmen and celebrates the local landscape, farmers and community of the Southwest reflecting a mix of tradition and modernity. Open for breakfast, and dinner, the menu showcases flavors imbued from a wood-fired grill and American Indian and heirloom food products.

Tia Carmen

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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