FEBRUARY 2018 8 | barrier alone, and there’s no reason to think the growth will slow. “What gives us pride is that all of the monies raised are given back to the community,” Sugich said. “Last year, we raised a record $10.1 million for the community. It’s the first time we exceeded $10 million, and the third straight year over $9 million.” The money raised from the event is spread throughout the Valley to dozens of charities annually, with some major donations designed to really make an impact. Phoenix Children’s Hospital has been on the receiving end of $750,000 over the past three years, and St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance has received more than $450,000 in the past two years. The Thunderbirds also started their own charity, The First Tee of Phoenix, in 2003. “We’re big supporters of other sports in the Valley, as well as The First Tee of Phoenix,” Sugich said. “The idea was to provide affordable access to golf for young people, and we now impact more than 120,000 youth annually with youth programs.” The Thunderbirds also enjoy a special relationship with Special Olympics of Arizona, which includes helping run the competitions themselves. “We donated $150,000 so they can have those competitions, but also The Thunderbirds and our families were out there giving out trophies, and helping with the operations and organization,” Sugich said. “It’s something we feel very proud of.” There are other impacts as well. While most attendees are enjoying a day away from the office, Sugich said an estimated 100,000 people come into the Valley each year for the tournament. An economic impact study commissioned by The Thunderbirds and conducted by Arizona State University estimated an annual economic impact on the Valley of $390 million. And unlike, say, a Super Bowl, that’s money the Valley sees each year. So as you watch the best of the best tee it up, and while you knock down your favorite beverage, you can feel good about it all — after all, you’re helping the community in the process. “There’s something for everyone,” Sugich said. “People know that by supporting the Open, they are supporting hundreds of charities across the Valley.” @tevans927 Tom Evans CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

FEBRUARY 2018 | 9 fiffffiflth,-′  ′,t      BEHIND THE DOOR SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION FEATURED LISTINGS Spectacular four bedroom, 2 bath home located in the extremely popular “3 C’s’’ school district area of McCormick Ranch! This beauty sports 2451 square feet, a true split master floor plan, towering vaulted ceilings, wood and tile floors, dual pane windows, wood burning fireplace and a spacious 2 car garage. The master suite is enormous and has a seating area, double vanities, separate shower and tub, a huge walk- in closet and doors to the backyard. The open kitchen includes an island, updated cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and looks out to the gorgeous backyard. The backyard is an entertainer’s dream with a massive covered patio, sparkling diving pool and lots of grass for play. The community of McCormick Ranch has miles of paved trails, lakes, green belts and public parks! 8537 E. San Lorenzo Dr., scottsdale, AZ 85258 7518 N. 6th place, Phoenix, AZ 85020 Steve Caniglia Shelley Caniglia North Central Corridor gem extremely well located on a beautiful cul-de-sac street! Five true bedrooms PLUS an office/library/exercise room off the master bedroom, 3 bathrooms and 3044 square feet. Fully re-painted inside and brand new carpet throughout in 2018. Two fireplaces, wood floors, granite countertops, 36" five burner gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances, double sinks, kitchen island, maple shaker style cabinets, under cabinet lighting, recessed lighting throughout all common areas, dual pane windows and doors, wood plantation shutters, gorgeous diving pool with filter, pump and in-floor cleaning system all replaced in 2017. Extra deep 2 car garage and Madison Schools. Down the street from the bridle path and all of the hot new restaurants, shopping and nightlife that North Central Phoenix has to offer! Shelley Caniglia: 602-292-6862 | Steve Caniglia: 602-301-2402 The Caniglia Group TheCanigliaGroup.com | UrbanConnectionRealty.com