Scottsdale Update Newsletter, Thursday, Jan. 26

HEADLINES

Protect your pipes during freezing weather. Temperatures are expected to drop into the low 30s over the weekend. This can lead to frozen pipes and costly repairs. Follow these simple tips to prevent damage.

Study finds photo enforcement makes Scottsdale streets safer. Lee Engineering, an independent firm specializing in research and forensic traffic engineering, analyzed crash data from 2007 to 2013 at 13 intersections and six street segments with photo enforcement in Scottsdale. It found crashes were significantly reduced in most areas.

Waste Management Phoenix Open tees off Jan. 30-Feb. 5. Find out why this tournament boasts the largest galleries in golf and has earned the nickname “The Greatest Show on Grass.” The Phoenix Open takes place at the Tournament Players Club of Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road.

VIDEO OF THE WEEK

Meet the 2017 Diversity Champions. Linda Groomes Walton is the founder and chief executive officer of Achieving My Purpose, a nonprofit aimed to help young women of color embrace their purpose. As director of programs at Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services, Gina Griffiths works tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals with developmental and cognitive disabilities.

EVENTS

Take steps to promote acceptance at Regional Unity Walk, Saturday. Scottsdale is joining other Valley cities for the annual Unity Walk to promote mutual respect and understanding. The one-mile walk over the Mill Avenue Bridge begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, and ends at Tempe Beach Park. There will be entertainment and cookies and hot chocolate. Bring your family, friends and pets. The Scottsdale assembly is meeting at 5:30 p.m. at the Tempe Town Lake Marina on the north side of the lake.

Learn about “The Art of the Guitar” with Jack Alves. Master guitarist, performer, composer and teacher Jack Alves explains the various types of guitar playing and the historic development of various guitars. Attend the free program from 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.

Paws in the Park delayed by rain; event moved to Feb. 4. Talk to experienced pet professionals, learn about dog adoptions, win prizes and hear entertainment – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Chaparral Park’s off leash area. Dog food donations will be accepted and will benefit Vista del Camino’s Pet Pantry and rescue agencies.

Browse the city calendar for more events.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Deliver a piece of history: Mail a letter by Hashknife Pony Express. Learn how and plan to attend the Hashknife’s arrival at high noon Friday, Feb. 10, at Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. It’s the kickoff to Scottsdale’s original party – the Parada del Sol celebration. Watch a video of past Hashknife rides.

SMoCA presents exhibit on recent acquisitions and conservation projects. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art showcases some of its collection of 1,834 artworks by 640 artists through April 23. The museum is an educational institution dedicated to presenting exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, architecture and design.

Get City Council meeting and agenda information.

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Books 2 Boogie library program introduces books to kids. Children and their caregivers participate in music, movement and song in this program that promotes bonding and highlights the natural rhythms in language. The free program takes place at various times, days and locations.

Discover the World of Craft Chocolates. Artisan chocolatiers and owners of Scottsdale’s Zak’s Chocolates discuss and demonstrate the creation of fine chocolates. You’ll learn how cocoa beans’ distinct flavors are developed through the delicate roasting of the beans. The best part – free samples! The program is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.

Green Building Lecture features edible landscapes and urban gardening. Join urban gardeners as they share the benefits and “how-to’s” of growing healthy food, herbs, edible flowers and fruit trees in our desert. This free discussion takes place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road.

Senior Makers @SPL presents Morning of Theater with award winning actor. Local thespian Mike Traylor instructs participants on how to deliver their own dramatic soliloquy. He’ll also provide stirring performances of literary stories. Two free programs are available: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Appaloosa Library and 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Civic Center Library.

Lifeguard classes start Feb. 7. Are you at least 15 and looking for a great summer job? Become a lifeguard with the city of Scottsdale. Lifeguard and swim instructor certification classes start in February and run through spring. Once you’re certified, you can apply to work for the city.

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