The annual Waste Management Phoenix Open has officially teed off and is in full swing. The projected 700,000 attendees can expect green fairways, a star-studded pro-am list and a ramped up police presence.
"The People's Open" is widely recognized for its party-like atmosphere. In 2024, the Open was notorious for uncontrollable crowds, beer-soaked courses and tapped out alcohol stands.
Aaron Bolin, a spokesperson with the Scottsdale Police Department, said this year's strategy is to mitigate potential problems by managing overserving, cracking down on underage drinking and stopping disruptive behavior.
"This event is fun. It can be fun for all, but it’s definitely not a free for all," Bolin said in an interview with KJZZ.
Some estimates suggest over 3.5 million alcoholic beverages were served by the end of the weeklong tournament in past years. At the last two opens, between 50 and 65 people were arrested on a range of charges, including alcohol.
In response to alcohol concerns, a multi-agency DUI task force has been established to limit drunk driving. The task force will consist of over 20 police departments and will be managed by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control and the Department of Highway Safety.
"Anybody who is attending the open, just make a plan. As we ask during any task force or holiday season," Jesse Torrez, director of the Liquor Department, said. "Don’t get behind the wheel if you are impaired."
-
Although Phoenix restricts its most popular trails when extreme heat warnings are issued, danger can still arise when the trails are open this time of year. -
The challenge to Arizona’s transgender school sports ban is all but over as the sole teenager who was challenging it decided to step back from the case. Without “Jane Doe,” as she’s called, the case can’t move forward. -
The Valley was once in contention to host matches but withdrew from the bidding process after civic leaders concluded FIFA's financial requirements outweighed the projected economic benefits. -
Know how to properly extinguish a campfire -
With Phoenix's triple-digit high temperatures firmly upon us, taking a swim in ice-cold water may sound appealing. If so, Chris Ballard has something for you.
