NE Valley Times

Nominations are currently open for the "All Star Awards," an initiative presented by Mayor David D. Ortega to recognize outstanding Scottsdale community members and organizations from 2021. The winners will be honored at a ceremony during the 68th annual Scottsdale Parada del Sol. Nominations must be submitted by January 24.

In COVID-19 updates, Scottsdale has reported high community transmission rates for the 27th consecutive week, with a case rate of 1,392.7 per 100,000 residents as of January 15. Maricopa County's Vaccine Dashboard indicates that 74.9% of eligible Scottsdale residents have received at least one vaccine dose, while 69.2% are fully vaccinated.

The city is facilitating access to vaccines and testing in partnership with Vincere Center Centers. Rapid COVID-19 testing is available at Granite Reef Senior Center and Mustang Library on specified days, with results provided promptly. Free vaccine events offering Pfizer, Janssen, and Moderna vaccines will continue through March at Horizon Community Center and Eldorado Park and Community Center.

Scottsdale residents can order free at-home COVID-19 tests online, limited to one order per residential address containing four individual rapid antigen tests.

The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction will take place from January 22-30 at WestWorld in Scottsdale, featuring collector automobiles and live television coverage. Additionally, Western Week runs from January 29 to February 6 in Old Town Scottsdale with various cultural activities.

Vista del Camino’s Professional Clothing Drive is accepting donations from January 24-28 to support local job seekers needing professional attire.

The Police Citizens Academy offers insight into the operations of the Scottsdale Police Department starting February 17.

The Scottsdale Sister Cities Association will host its annual meeting virtually on January 25 with Mayor David D. Ortega as a special guest.

Experience Scottsdale is organizing a webinar titled "A Look Inside Scottsdale’s Tourism Industry" featuring insights from Mayor David D. Ortega and Experience Scottsdale President & CEO Rachel Sacco.

Scottsdale has completed a solar bollard lighting project near Camelback Road and 78th Street to enhance pedestrian safety following concerns raised by residents.

For more information on traffic restrictions around Scottsdale or other city services, visit the city's official website.