Good morning, Scottsdale.

AAA Arizona reported that gas prices in the Valley dropped to an average of $3.20 per gallon this week, down 7 cents from last week, offering early holiday savings for commuters with rates in Phoenix at $3.31 + Flagstaff at $3.24 + Tucson at $2.93.

Scottsdale Unified School District held a celebratory Dec.

13 ribbon cutting to launch a new athletic facility at the former Tonalea Elementary site, and on Dec. 9 the board voted 3-2 to close Pima Elementary and Echo Canyon K-8 amid declining enrollment.

A seven-story, 315-unit apartment building planned for a 4.32-acre site near Scottsdale and Bell roads in east Phoenix received approval from the Phoenix Planning Commission last week, though Phoenix City Council still needs to approve the project; developer Fifield Companies will replace a strip mall with the new apartment complex.

The Phoenix area is a hotbed for mixed martial arts as local gym Fight Ready MMA in Scottsdale joins other top regional facilities in training new fighters (which many say boosts competition).

Live Music with Bill Miles at Aloft Scottsdale

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back evening with a one-man band covering over 150 feel-good songs from the '60s to '90s.

Live Music Featuring The Hourglass Cats

7-10 p.m. — BLVD Kitchen and Bar — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of alternative tunes in the heart of Scottsdale's vibrant Old Town.

Philosoraptors Concert

7-10 p.m. — BLVD Kitchen & Bar — Free entry — Enjoy a groovy cover band playing rock, pop, country, and funk from the 60s to today.

Mariachi Sol De Mexico De Jose Hernandez

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Theater — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant sounds of maestro José Hernández and his mariachi band in a night of passionate performances.

Christmas Dinner Celebration

11am-9pm — La Fogata — $72 Adults, $36 Children — Savor a festive three-course Christmas dinner with seasonal chef-crafted dishes and delightful desserts.

Aloft Live! Featuring Eddie Unplugged

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back evening with live acoustic music and cocktails in Old Town Scottsdale.

Keyboard Conversations: Chopin — The Romantic

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the romantic brilliance of Chopin through lively polonaises, enchanting nocturnes, and more.