< PreviousDave Brannon 202 3 EDITION 50 INARIZ ONA WM Phoenix Open , CO U R T E S Y O F W M P H O E N IX O P E NFor many attendees of the WM Phoenix Open, the best part of the tournament is the famous 16th hole. For Dave Brannon, WM Phoenix Open’s zero-waste orchestrator, his answer is a little different. “When the sun just comes up, and the course is clean,” says Brannon. “There’s an enormous sense of pride in knowing what it takes to get that done every day. It’s my favorite part of the tournament.” As the lead who oversees WM Phoenix Open’s zero-waste efforts at TPC Scottsdale, Brannon helps ensure “The Greatest Show on Grass” is also the greenest. That’s no small feat, given the sheer size of the WM Phoenix Open (in 2022 alone, tournament attendees produced more than 1,000 tons of compostable, recyclable or donatable materials). But Brannon, a Waste Management veteran of over 16 years, is happy to play a role in this vital initiative: “The WM Phoenix Open is a very prideful event for anyone working at Waste Management,” he says. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people attend the WM Phoenix Open. Ensuring an event this large goes off without a hitch takes months of preparation—10 months, to be exact. Once the tournament begins, Brannon and his 500-plus person team become part of a 24/7 operation to make sure attendees don’t know what lay there the night before. “Sometimes, you can’t even see the grass on the course. It looks like a silver Coors Light sheet,” says Brannon. Starting each morning around 5 a.m., Brannon works between 11–15 hours daily to help his day crew keep the grounds clean and organized during the tournament. Once his shift ends, a night crew brings all materials to Waste Management’s Deer Valley Transfer Station for further sorting. During Phoenix Open week, the Deer Valley Transfer Station allots half of its facility to Brannon’s team, helping to guarantee everything ends up in the proper place. “We’re meticulous with tracking the materials coming in and make sure nothing leaves without going to a compost facility or a recycling facility,” says Brannon. In the seven years since Brannon joined the WM Phoenix Open, he’s seen the event eclipse its original goal of keeping trash out of landfills to become a bonafide zero-waste tournament. The evolving mission gives Brannon’s team the space and freedom to innovate. In recent years, they figured out a way to get creative with water conservation: “We now capture ice that melts at the 16th hole’s stadium bars and use it or repurpose it,” he says. And in 2023, the WM Phoenix Open will only have trucks using clean CNG natural gas on-site; this was a goal Brannon stated was years in the making. “Sometimes you have to set those pie-in-the-sky goals and push the boundaries of where you currently are,” says Brannon. Brannon credits the success of the WM Phoenix Open’s sustainability program to a tremendous amount of planning, organization and great partnerships and believes any company can become more sustainable with the right tools. Waste Management currently works with the likes of the NBA, NASCAR and TopGolf to execute comprehensive sustainability programs and is also an Official Sustainability Partner to the PGA TOUR. Given sustainability’s relevance in today’s world, Brannon isn’t surprised that others are looking to Waste Management for guidance. “I think it’s a great thing.” n www.wmphoenixopen.com/sustainability INARIZ ONA 51 202 3 EDITION People to Know: Dave Brannon WM Phoenix Open’s Zero-Waste Orchestrator GET TO KNOW THE MAN MAKING “THE GREATEST SHOW ON GRASS” THE GREENEST. BY CASSIE BRUCCI PROFILELife loves to throw curveballs. One second, you’re flying high, on top of the world, and feeling like life is happening for you. Next, you’re stressed, overworked and feeling like everything terrible is happening to you. When this happens, a simple change in perspective can greatly influence everything. For Amy Bockerstette, no matter the challenge, she tells herself, “I got this.” Back in 2019, at a WM Phoenix Open practice round, Amy, the first-ever athlete with Down syndrome to receive a college athletic scholarship and the first-ever athlete with Down syndrome to compete in a national collegiate championship, hit the famous 16th-hole par-3 tee shot into a bunker. Unphased, Amy said to herself, “I got this” before hitting the shot out of the sand to within eight feet of the hole. After sinking the difficult shot, the crowd went absolutely wild. But for Amy, it wasn’t a surprise. She knew she had it. This incredible moment was seen front and center by many on social media. But other backstage “I got this” moments are continuing to make an even bigger impact. Later in 2019, Bockerstette went on to launch the I GOT THIS (IGT) Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities how to play golf. “I actually started the I GOT THIS Foundation [on] my 21st birthday . . . to pay it forward,” says Bockerstette. Tracy Hupko, the executive director of the I GOT THIS Foundation, says that inclusivity has increased in the sports world, yet there is still more to be done, which is where IGT comes in. “Today we see more and more people with physical and intellectual impairments becoming more involved in sports,” says Hupko. “Our work focuses on how to connect and communicate with our athletes to best deliver a method of instruction that will positively impact their performance on and off the course.” One way they’re moving the needle forward? Their IGT Golf Academy. Launched in Phoenix, the six-week program provides athletes (and a playing partner) with a toolbox filled with instructions, equipment and everything else they might need to conquer the sport. Combined with professional instructors, the athletes have the chance to learn the fundamentals, such as stance and grip and building motion. “Our IGT Golf Academy offers professional instruction with a 6-to1 athlete instructor ratio,” says Hupko. “Such professional instruction builds a foundation of skills that will allow more playing opportunities such as participating in Special Olympics, on school teams and, most importantly, an opportunity to make memories with family and friends.” And you don’t have to live in Phoenix to participate. While Valley participants might get the chance to chat with the “Amazing Amy,” athletes in other states will also get the opportunity to experience the IGT Golf Academy in 2023 when it partners with Touchstone Golf and XXIO to sponsor 12 academies nationwide. “It’s a privilege. I’m telling you, this whole journey’s just been an incredible privilege,” says Amy’s father, Joe Bockerstette. “She [Amy] has a gift that who could have ever predicted that a girl with Down syndrome would have the sort of coordination and capability to hit a golf ball the way she does.” As for Amy’s next endeavors—a busy 2023 golf schedule, musical theater pursuits, like Shrek the Musical JR, and, perhaps, even a potential podcast—one thing is for certain. Her “I got this mentality” will endure. n Learn more about the I GOT THIS Foundation at www.igotthis.foundation 202 3 EDITION 52 INARIZ ONA The Future of Inclusive Sports Amy Bockerstette and her foundation, I GOT THIS, is changing the way in which athletes with intellectual disabilities are learning the game. BY ALYSSA GRABINSKI PROFILE Amy Bockerste e“She [Amy] has a gi that who could have ever predicted that a girl with Down syndrome would have the sort of coordination and capability to hit a golf ball the way she does.” -Joe Bockerstette INARIZ ONA 53 202 3 EDITION WM Phoenix Open , I GO T THIS F OUND ATIONFor Him A great look for him, still rocking the plaid, but just enough in the pants, pairing it with a cool polo, vest and loafer combo will undoubtedly keep you comfortably chic on the greens. 202 3 EDITION 54 INARIZ ONA What to Wear What an amazing event bringing together golf, style and fun! The WM Phoenix Open is the perfect reason to bring out your statement-making, yet comfortable and weather-appropriate, pieces. MEN’S PIECES Alan Paine Pique Polo, from $100; Eton Wind Vest, from $225; Mason’s Plaid Chino, from $218; Santoni Loafer, price upon request. STYLE WOMEN’S PIECES Paul Smith Shirt Dress, from $495; Officine Générale Sneaker, from $165. Complete outfits for him and her available at The Clotherie at Biltmore Fashion Park. For Her Feel cool, confident, fun and free with a short sleeve, A-line number paired with sneakers. , DUKE PHO T OGRAPHY WOMEN’S PIECES Favorite the Daughter Sunday Dress, $248; Serra The Valley Denim Jacket, $197; Helen Kaminski Loto Hobo Bag, $260; Lucca Accessories Felt Rancher, $54; DIFF Eyewear Bella II Sunglasses, $115; KAANAS Binjal Leather Heel, $119. Complete outfit available at Jules & JC Scottsdale. For HerFor Him An effortlessly chic sundress, like this halter with cut-outs, paired with neutral accessories and an olive green denim jacket. This shorts suit paired with the white tee and sneakers is the perfect combo to match the stylishly fun energy of the event. BY SARAH SOMMER, FASHION STYLIST, AND TOM SIMON, OPERATING PARTNER AT THE CLOTHERIE AT BILTMORE FASHION PARK WWW.STYLEDBYSAR.COM, @STYLEDBYSAR WWW.THECLOTHERIE.COM, @THECLOTHERIE INARIZ ONA 55 202 3 EDITION MEN’S PIECES House of Donaldson Navy Suit in Windowpane Pattern: Jacket $600, Shorts $300, www.houseofdonaldson.com; Cole Haan Sneakers, $160, available at Nordstrom; Vince T-shirt, $80, this or similar available at Nordstrom; MemoBottle A6, $28, available at Jules & JC. WM Phoenix Open , DUKE PHO T OGRAPHY202 3 EDITION 56 INARIZ ONA Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton Want to tee off before a long day of watching the pros take their own swings at the game? Just about 20 minutes away from TPC Scottsdale, Boulders Resort & Spa has received numerous awards for its gorgeous green track, including Best Golf Resort in the Southwest by Golf Digest (2016), ranking among the Top 25 Golf Resorts in the World by LINKS Magazine (2013) and more. Don’t miss your chance to practice like the pros. www.theboulders.com, @thebouldersresort JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa Does the name Arnold Palmer ring a bell? How about Nick Faldo? If you said yes to either of those questions, chances are you are a big-time fan of the sport. So, why not tee off on courses designed by these two golf sensations? As if you needed another reminder of why you love the game, The Palmer Signature Course and The Faldo Championship Course will ignite your passion and transport you to a world where your biggest worry is whether the wind will affect your shot. www.marriott.com, @jwdesertridge The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa I hate to say it, but we have to address it: Golfing can get pricey. Add a hotel room on top of that, and your wallet ends up feeling lighter than usual. A simple solution? A two-for-one package. At The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, book a golf package and receive a round of golf for two guests for each night of your stay. www.marriott.com, @westinkierland Stay WHERE TO BY ALYSSA GRABINSKI , JW MARRIO T T PHOENIX DESER T RIDGE RESOR T & SP A , THE WES TIN KIERLAND RESOR T & SP A , BOULDERS RESOR T & SP A SC O T T SD ALE Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North The Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is a golfer’s fantasyland. About 20 minutes away from TPC Scottsdale, you can break out the clubs at the resort’s two courses—The Monument and The Pinnacle. Plus, if your kid takes an interest in golf after attending the WM Phoenix Open, those under 15 years old can play for free after 3 p.m. with a paying adult present. And after a long day full of golf, a golf ball massage will ease your achy body and get you ready to hit the links again tomorrow. www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale, @fsscottsdale , THE HERMOSA INN , FO U R S E A S O N S S C OT T S DA LE The Hermosa Inn Located in Paradise Valley, The Hermosa Inn provides a smaller, more intimate setting to unwind after a day in the crowds. With just 43 rooms, the inn surrounds you with charm, history and art. And if one member of your party happens to have a stronger penchant for art than golf, consider extending your trip for a chance to paint in a group setting. www.hermosainn.com, @hermosainnINARIZ ONA 57 202 3 EDITION Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Seafood fans, meet Eddie V’s Prime Seafood. The luxury dining destination is known for seafood flown in from pristine waters around the world as well as premium hand- carved steaks broiled to perfection. Let the unique and addicting flavors of caviar roll off your tongue. Slurp down a dozen—or however many— oysters. Located within Scottsdale Quarter, finish off the night with a stroll and some shopping. www.eddiev.com, @eddievs_ Café Monarch Café Monarch is the second-best fine dining restaurant in the U. S., according to the 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. OpenTable has also listed the Scottsdale restaurant as one of the Top 100 Best Restaurants in America from 2014– 2021. And wine lovers, pay attention because Wine Spectator awarded the eatery the Best of Award of Excellence every year from 2019–2022. www.cafemonarch.com, @cafe_monarch Santé Restaurant A quick Google search reveals that the French word “santé” translates to the phrase “to your health.” So, raise your glass to Santé in Scottsdale because health is this restaurant’s primary focus. The full-service restaurant and convenient “grab & gourmet” marketplace embodies a farm-to-table scratch kitchen philosophy with only sustainably sourced ingredients from regenerative and organic local farms and growers. Capture the photo-op-worthy moment, but you should know that the neon signs and feather chandeliers in the background might outshine your Instagrammable outfit. www.lovesante.com, @eatatsante The Americano Less than 10 minutes away from WM Phoenix Open, this North Scottsdale scene is a hole-in-one. The funky atmosphere buzzes with a lively energy, especially needed after a tiring day outside. Lounge in a booth while surrounded by beautiful art, great company and Italian-inspired eats and relax with a glass of vino. Although, choosing one might be hard—all 200 of the curated wines are itching to be tasted. www.theamericanorestaurant.com/scottsdale, @the_americano_restaurant The Mission Mingle with your loved ones amongst the chandeliers and candlelight glow of this moody and alluring Scottsdale noshery. Kick your cravings to the curb with filling tacos or any number of modern Latin cuisine dishes. Two locations—one in Old Town Scottsdale and another at Kierland Commons— means that whether you’re staying up north or down south, you can find a location close by. www.themissionaz.com, @themissionaz Dine WHERE TO , HARLEY BONHAM PHO T OGRAPHY , EDDIE V ’S PRIME SEAF OOD , SANTÉ RES TA URANT , THE MISSION , THE AMERIC ANO WM Phoenix OpenEstablished himself as one of the early providers of cosmetic dental enhancements in the Valley 35 years ago. His private practice in Scottsdale offers all aspects of family dental care as well as creating custom smiles through cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. Gore has achieved accreditation status by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), a distinction he shares with an exclusive group of approximately 400 dentists and laboratory technicians worldwide. He also recently finished his six-year role as a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Dentistry. Throughout his career, Dr. Gore has actively given back to his community as a volunteer at John C. Lincoln Children’s Dental Clinic and the Phoenix Boys and Girls Club to provide dentistry to underprivileged children as well as the AACD’s “Give Back a Smile” program, which helps women impacted by domestic violence with dentistry services. In 1998, he founded the Phoenix Esthetic Study Club to teach other dentists the art and science of cosmetic dental procedures and has lectured to various local and national study clubs about laboratory communication to enhance cosmetic restorative procedures. When asked what he loves most about his job, Dr. Gore says that it’s “the ability to change someone’s life by providing a unique smile makeover and enhancing or building their confidence to the point where they may get a job promotion or meet the person of their dreams. It can bring tears to your eyes!” In his spare time, Dr. Gore enjoys golf, extreme mountain bike riding, waterskiing, wine tasting, photography and sports cars. ROD W.GORE ADVERTISEMENT ABOUT DR. GORE CONNECT Visit the doctor’s smile gallery of before-and-after photos at: rodgore.com Location 8535 E. Hartford Drive #208 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Phone 480.585.6225 @goregeoussmiles DDS “I LOOK FORWARD TO CONTINUING TO PROVIDE DENTAL SERVICES FOR THE PEOPLE OF METRO PHOENIX AND SCOTTSDALE FOR MANY YEARS TO COME. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO GET A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION FOR ANY DESIRED DENTAL SERVICES TO ACHIEVE YOUR POTENTIAL ‘GOREGEOUS SMILE.’” BEST COSMETIC DENTISTINARIZ ONA 59 202 3 EDITION , CO U R T E S Y @ A Z S U P E R B O W L February 12, 2023 State Farm Stadium, Glendale Go behind the ‘gram and discover events throughout the Valley leading up to Arizona’s fifth and most anticipated Super Bowl yet. Super Bowl LVII Arizona Cardinals legend and Arizona Super Bowl Host Commi ee Executive Chair Larry Fitzgerald sits down to record some soundbites for the o cial @AZSuperBowl social media channels, which include Instagram, Twi er, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn. The Host Commi ee also has Spanish-language social media channels.Next >