Changes for WMO

And other fun weekend events

Author

John Apolinar
February 05, 2025

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Since WMO is this week, all tickets for hole 9 are on sale for $342 (includes drinks and food) with an additional 10% off code for using MULLIGAN. See here.

In today’s Scottsdale Scoop:

  • A quick and dirty breakdown for WMO

  • A new Scottsdale bar and restaurant

  • Other weekend events for everyone avoiding WMO

Let’s get to it.

— John Apolinar

SCOTTSDALE SNAPSHOT

Waste Management Open Announces Major Changes for 2025

Remember last year's tournament? The one that turned into a viral mud-wrestling spectacle with 54 arrests and 211 ejections? Thankfully the "People's Open" is getting a much-needed attitude adjustment for 2025.

After 2024's rain-soaked chaos that had pro golfer Byeong Hun An calling it a "(expletive) show," organizers are teeing up a new mantra: "better, not bigger." Think less frat party, more fairway finesse which I’m sure we’ll all appreciate.

What's New in '25:

  • A fresh entrance at Greenway Hayden Loop (traffic is already terrible but hopefully this helps)

  • Wider walking paths

  • Digital-only tickets with specific day assignments

  • Strategically relocated refreshment vendors

The infamous 16th hole – golf's rowdiest amphitheater – will still welcome its traditional chorus of cheers and boos, but with a beefed-up security presence.

Quick Stats:

  • Tournament dates: Feb 3-9, 2025

  • Location: TPC Scottsdale

  • Weather forecast: Mostly sunny (praying there’s no rain this year)

  • Fun fact: This 93-year-old tournament has raised over $200M for local charities

Want to join the (hopefully more civilized) fun? Grab your tickets at wmphoenixopen.com

Tournament Schedule:

  • Feb 3-4: Practice rounds

  • Feb 5: Pro-am tournament

  • Feb 6-9: Main event

  • Nightly: Birds Nest entertainment

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BUSINESS BUZZ

Dodo Bird Just Opened Off of Hayden & Thomas

Dodo Bird Kitchen & Cocktails is Scottsdale’s newest culinary hotspot, blending playful charm with an upscale vibe. I got a chance to pop in here on Saturday after seeing their Instagram posts all week and glad I did. It’s not too upscale, I’d say the right amount to feel classy but also let your hair down and have fun.

Located in the space formerly occupied by Shanghai Palace, the menu featured dishes like duck-fat fries and unique craft cocktails. I tried the Chicago Sausage appetizer and it was great. I’ll definitely be back.

Bam Kazam: An Arcade For Adults…But It’s Real Life

I knew I was going to cover Bam Kazam when I started the newsletter. It’s like a real life comic book/arcade/escape room. Not exactly sure how to describe it 😂 but it’s fun and so unique!

It reminds me of a real life arcade game, but has team activities with mental and physical challenges. The physical challenges are a bit hard so keep that in mind. Tight rope walking, “the floor is lava” challenges. It’s a good mix up from the standard dinner and a movie entertainment.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just local businesses I wanted to highlight. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

WEEKEND LINEUP

During the Week

🏌🏼‍♂️ Waste Management Open | TPC Scottsdale | 7AM (Goes 2/3 to 2/9)

🥂 Pro-Am Waste Management Open Afterparty | Cottontail Lounge | 9PM (Goes 2/5 to 2/9)

Friday, February 7

🍷 Orin Swift Wine Dinner | Maggiano’s Scottsdale | 6:30PM

🥃 Mezcal & Mulligans  | Bang & Olufsen Scottsdale | 5PM

 🍗 Grilling on the Green w/Jack Arnold | Camelback Golf Club | 5PM

🎤 Melissa Villasenor Standup Comedy | Desert Ridge Improv | 7PM (multiple days)

Saturday, February 8

🍅 Old Town Farmers Market | Old Town Scottsdale | 8AM

🔖 Shred It Event | Scottsdale Police Department | 7AM

🩷 5th Annual Family Fun Valentine’s Festival  | Arizona Boardwalk | 8AM

Sunday, February 9

🏈 Skybox Sunday Big Game Viewing Party | W Scottsdale | 2PM

🏈 Viewing Party for The Big Game | Grand Vista Lounge | 4PM

🏈 Super Bowl Party | Orange Tree Resort | 4:30PM

THE GOOD LIFE

Featuring this weeks most expensive home sold at $3.25M. The European white oak floors and saltwater pool have me sold!

Here’s the Realtor.com link if you want to see more pics.

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