I grew up in the 70s in the La Quinta area of The Coachella Valley and the biggest event of the year was the Bob Hope Desert Classic.
Basically everything shut down for that week as even though the schools were still open, many of us worked the concession stands, as a standard bearer, caddied for the ams (groups were 3 ams and a pro over 4 golf courses) or just joined the party.
Arnie played well in the Hope and was always the feature group playing with Pres Ford, Hope, or one of the other big name groups. You'd have to camp out holes ahead to get a look as his army was in full force.
It was a great tournament back in those days, just a big week long party and I think Arnie got invited to every function. I doubt he could attend them all, but he always looked like he was making the effort. Just the way he connected with the fans made him different, and even with all the hubbub he managed to in it 5 times, including the first event in '60 and his last tour title in '73.
I think he will always be synonymous with that event, and while I accept that it may be just nostalgic thinking, he seemed to be perfect for it as you never heard him whine about having to play with Ams for 4 days like the modern pros who effectively changed the format because of that issue.
Some very special memories for me.