It's been pretty obvious that arenas and stadiums around the country have been capitalizing on the 9/11 attacks by issuing "no container" rules in the interest of "safety". Atlanta's Turner Field had tried that policy when they first opened. It was a change from the former Fulton County Stadium, and fans were outraged. The stadium relented, and coolers were once again permitted. When 9/11 happened, Turner Field immediately instituted a "no coolers" rule, and raised the price of beer and hotdogs a dollar. When met by opposition, they simply pulled out their 9/11 chit and angry fans were held in check. It was just part of the changes people would get used to after the 9/11 attacks. People in general, were more accepting of change and easier to bully around after 9/11. (Remember the 4 hour airport security lines?)

The New York Post reports that U.S. Open execs tried to take it a step further this year at Arthur Ashe stadium. They not only banned containers, but started searching people for contraband food stuffs. When food was found, it was promptly tossed into the dumpster. Spectators that had brought their family were suddenly faced with $7 hotdogs and bottled water priced upwards of $5.

This time however, the sight of gourmet food being tossed into a trash can was too much for Americans to bear. September 11th was almost two years ago, and some New Yorkers weren't going to be pushed around any more. And just how is food a security threat any way? After numerous complaints, Open management relented, and food is once again allowed into the stadium.

Game, set, and match for the fans.