Scottsdale Healthcare hosted its always elegant, always fun Honor Ball on Feb. 4 at The Phoenician Resort. This year’s gala affair, attended by more than 800 guests, benefits the clinical trials program at the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center. The center, which recently marked its 10th anniversary, was the first comprehensive cancer center in the greater Phoenix area and was named for Mrs. Piper, whose charitable trust donated $15 million as a grant to establish the center at Scottsdale Healthcare.

The evening’s agenda called for little podium time and no silent or live auctions – just great food and a fun party. William McArdle of Avant-Garde created the spectacular room design with tables and chairs draped in bright pink and green and centerpieces of wrought-iron votive holders and pink and green flowers.

The Jacqueline Foster Orchestra lit up the stage in bright pink gowns on the women and bright pink ties on the men. The band not only brought guests to their dancing feet, but also pulled them into the entertainment by passing out colorful props, including Dr. Seuss-style hats, lighted tambourines and lighted eyeglasses.

The evening’s honoree was Sen. Jon Kyl, who was presented with a gold medallion in recognition of his more than 25 years of service to Arizona in the U.S. House and Senate. Attending with him were his wife, Caryll; his mother, Arlene; his son, John, and daughter-in-law, Renee.

Paradise Valley resident Helene Presutti chaired this 36^th annual event. 

Photos by Ashley Lowery