Good morning, Scottsdale.

Data show that Arizona highways face frequent multi-ton truck collisions — I-10, I-40, and U.S. Route 93 lead the risks with Maricopa County seeing over 80% of incidents — so drivers are urged to remain cautious amid high traffic and challenging conditions.

In 2025, major retailers closed Arizona outlets due to stiff online competition as Joann Fabrics shuttered 17 stores + a Mesa Macy’s closed, while Forever 21, Advance Auto Parts and surfwear brands also ended operations; nationwide closures reached over 6,000 amid declining demand.

Several grocery chains in Scottsdale will adjust hours for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

For example, Fry's, Safeway and Walmart will run regular hours while Costco and Sam’s Club will be closed on New Year's Day so shoppers should check local listings for exact times.

Arizona school officials are working to balance free speech + religious neutrality amid debates over prayer and curriculum; at Saguaro High, students raised concerns about a controversial club while Sen. Farnsworth plans a law to add alternative science instruction next year.

In 2025, Arizona’s night skies put on a show with many astronomical events such as meteor showers, auroras & full moons that captivated local viewers from the intense Cuadrántidas to the Gemínidas.

Residents used low light pollution spots to enjoy these rare natural spectacles.

After trading punches during the Suns' win over the Pelicans on Dec.

27, Mark Williams and Jose Alvarado received suspensions — Williams will miss today's game against the Wizards while Alvarado is sidelined for two games.

On Sunday, Dec. 28, the Arizona Cardinals played the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in NFL Week 17; the Bengals won the coin toss and drove 72 yards to score 7-0 by 9:17 in the first quarter, and FOX broadcast the game live.

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.