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Each year at Diamond Ball, Tri-City Hospital Foundation bestows its greatest expression of appreciation, the Legacy Award, on an extraordinary member of the local community. Through their ongoing actions, accomplishments and generosity; Legacy Award winners contribute to creating a better North County. For 2014, the Foundation is honored to present the Legacy Award to Bob and Sandee Carter. The Carters, who have lived in Vista for almost 36 years, have co-owned the Ocean’s Eleven Casino since 1997. As it has grown over the years, the casino has become one of Oceanside’s biggest employers, financial contributors and community supporters. They also co-own the Bicycle Casino in Bell Gardens, Calif., which is another major contributor to the wellbeing of its surrounding community. But their inherent spirit of volunteerism really started at birth - both Bob and Sandee grew up with giving in their blood. “Bob and I were raised with parents who had not only great work ethics, but concerns about the community and quality of services offered to residents,” says Sandee. So, when the Long Beach natives moved to North County, it was only natural to start giving back right away. Education and children’s causes have always been important to the Carters, but healthcare — and their connection to Tri-City - began when Bob experienced his first massive heart attack at 36. He was treated at Tri-City Medical Center, and he and his family were wowed by the quality of care he received. Sandee says they were immediately inspired to give back and support Tri-City, and both went on to serve on the Tri-City Foundation Board of Trustees for decades. Sandee also continues to give her time by acting as chair for a number of large-scale Foundation events. For years, Bob & Sandee have been steadfast supporters of Tri-City Hospital Foundation and the patients served at Tri-City Medical Center. They are an integral part of improving the quality of healthcare available to the people of North County and the Foundation is forever grateful for their passionate involvement. The Carters will officially receive their award at the Diamond Ball on Nov. 15, 2014, which is — appropriately — National Philanthropy Day. Purchase tickets to celebrate with Bob and Sandee at TriCityHospitalFoundation.org — don’t miss out on a night of fun, giving back and honoring the people that make the North County community great.