NE Valley Times

The city of Scottsdale has announced new operating hours for its library branches and senior centers, effective immediately. All four library locations will now be open every day, with extended hours from Monday to Thursday. Senior centers Granite Reef and Via Linda have also adjusted their schedules to accommodate visitors during weekdays.

Scottsdale is hosting a vaccination clinic at Scottsdale Stadium on January 11th and 12th, offering all three types of vaccines without the need for prior registration. Additional vaccine events are scheduled at Horizon Community Center and Eldorado Park throughout January, February, and March.

A community town hall discussing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s work is set for January 17th at Horizon Community Center. The event aims to explore lessons from King's writings relevant today. Registration is required for this free event organized by the Scottsdale Human Relations Commission.

COVID-19 cases in Scottsdale saw a significant increase towards the end of December 2021. Residents are encouraged to follow health guidelines such as vaccination, mask-wearing, physical distancing, hand hygiene, and staying home when unwell.

Scottsdale Public Art is presenting an exhibition titled "FIRST: Native American Artists of Arizona" until March 30th at the Civic Center Library. This showcase features both traditional and contemporary Native American art.

Patricia Russell-McCloud will headline the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration on January 12th at Embassy Suites Scottsdale Resort. The Gold Palette ArtWalk will occur on January 13th with live demonstrations and entertainment in the Scottsdale Arts District.

Neighborhood College's spring session begins soon with two tracks focusing on city programs and safety tips available online or in person. Additionally, a webinar on electric vehicles will take place on January 13th as part of the Green Building Program initiatives.

Traffic restrictions are expected due to Rock 'n' Roll marathons passing through Scottsdale on January 16th. Drivers should use alternative routes during this time frame.

Mayor David D. Ortega has postponed his State of Scottsdale address due to rising COVID-19 cases but plans to release a video presentation in February highlighting community achievements and challenges ahead.

Residents can recycle natural Christmas trees until January 17th by utilizing designated collection bins across various city parks or through their regular green waste pickup service.

In partnership with the National Forest Foundation, efforts continue to improve water quality by reducing sedimentation in local watersheds through fire risk reduction projects benefiting both residents and businesses in Scottsdale.