June, 2017 The annual dinner hosted by Tommy Gallagher signaled the onset of the Texas American Irish Cup Challenge that celebrated a milestone of twenty years in 2017. Over 50 at- tendees enjoyed an evening of reminiscing with old friends at the Dallas Petroleum Club. Three of the four original founders of the tournament, Mike Corboy, Tommy Gallagher, and Jack Sistrunk were in attendance. Special mentions and presentations were made to Jack Sistrunk (original founder), Charlie Martin, Sr. and Tommy Gallagher. Rick Bush, Golf Chairman, started the weekend off by making a toast and inviting everyone to the Irish Welcome Party the next day at the new tournament venue, Maridoe Golf Club. June, 2017 Hosts Mary & Rick Bush warmly welcomed approximately 75 guests at Maridoe Golf Club. The Irish Welcome Party was rained out so the party had to move indoors to the clubhouse. Twenty-four Irish golfers flew in from Ireland to attend the weekend festivities. The evening allowed old friends to reunite while making some new ones. Paddy Shanahan, who was in attendance, was recognized for having attended all 20 golf tournaments. June, 2017 Underwriters June & Archie Bennett opened their home to family members and friends, all the visiting Irish Golfers, and major sponsors to help them celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Texas Irish American Cup Challenge. Archie Bennett, Jr. and his band entertained the crowd throughout the evening. A special presentation was made by Tommy Gal- lagher and all the guests to express their thanks for such a lovely evening and their support of The Ireland Funds. Paul McCormack of GroundZero360 Exhibit—part of the Tour- nament’s recognition of 9/11 first responders and families— presented the Bennetts with a survivor tree branch, display box and print from 9/11. Tommy Gallagher Party Irish Welcome Party Bennett Estate Party 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 1 Jack Sistrunk, Tommy Gallagher 2 Rick Bush, Brian Casey, Eamonn Quinn, Tony Condon, Cliff Miercort 3 Tom McCarthy, Daryl Johnston, Conor McCarthy 4 Dr. Sam Chantilis, Mike Corboy, Kevin Curley Photos: Can Turkyilmaz 1 Rick Bush, Albert Huddleston, Tommy Gallagher 2 Jack Sistrunk, Lou Ann Corboy, David Newman, Netta Blanchard, Mike Corboy 3 Waymon Levell, Mary Bush, Ann Levell, Rick Bush Photos: Can Turkyilmaz 1 June & Archie Bennett 2 Rick Bush, Mary Bush, Tommy Gallagher, Ginny Edwards 3 June & Archie Bennett, Tommy Gallagher Photos: Can Turkyilmaz TEXAS AROUND THE WORLD connect 2017 • 89