Good morning, Scottsdale.

Joseph M. Ciolli, CEO of Grimaldi’s, has expanded the NYC-rooted pizza brand with a new winter menu for 2026 and a location opening in Dubai after moving operational headquarters to Scottsdale.

His background at ASU and 22 years in Paradise Valley have shaped the company's nationwide growth.

On Christmas Eve, chef Joey Maggiore showcased his family's Feast of the Seven Fishes menu at The Italiano near Loop 101 and Shea, serving clams, mussels and lobster to honor a long-held Italian tradition.

Local Italian-Americans celebrated this cherished culinary ritual with joy.

Three Scottsdale students earned a 4.0 GPA and were named to the Southeast Missouri State University president’s list during the fall 2025 semester.

Andrew Carroll, Nina Schuberth, and Spencer Wareing received the honor after completing at least 12 hours of credit.

Isabella Bascon-Castillo, an EVIT student at Arcadia High, led a Dec.

12 toy drive that gave Head Start preschoolers holiday gifts and support. She organized donation calls plus stepped out of her comfort zone to help families in need.

Tonto National Forest officials have extended the temporary closure of the lower Salt River area to most horses and pack animals after detecting an equine virus in 17 wild horses— the closure, in effect since early December, may remain until March with a possible lift as early as January.

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.

The Sound of Simon & Garfunkel

3-6 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Theater — Cost details not provided — Experience a nostalgia-filled afternoon of Simon & Garfunkel classics followed by dinner in Old Town.

Arizona Balloon Classic

4-9 p.m. — Wild Horse Pass Stadium — Prices vary — Experience breathtaking balloon ascensions and dazzling evening glows amidst food, music, and family fun.

Songs from Film - A Revue

2:00-3:30 p.m. — ASU Kerr — Check local listings for ticket prices — Enjoy an intimate revue of songs and musings from iconic musicals and unforgettable cinema classics.

Aloft Live! featuring Chris Yak Acoustic

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back live acoustic performance by Chris Yak while sipping cocktails and light fare.

Jourdan Rolland Music Event

2-6 p.m. — Continental Golf Club — Free entry — Enjoy a lively mix of genres from this engaging Arizona musician.

Scottsdale Book Festival

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM — Scottsdale Civic Center — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of books and storytelling with over 200 authors and live entertainment.