Irish John Gore will receive the American Hero award as part of Hospice of the Conejo's 22nd annual golf tournament and banquet starting at 11 a.m. Mon., May 18 at Sunset Hills Country Club.

Gore was born in Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland, and immigrated to the U.S. in 1963. He became an American citizen in 1977. He worked for 48 years in the newspaper business, including a post at the Thousand Oaks News Chronicle, predecessor of the Ventura County Star. He retired in 1999.

Gore is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks. He was recently elected as a trustee of the CaliforniaNevadaHawaii District of Kiwanis. He also helped launch the American Youth Soccer Organization in Torrance, coaching boys' and girls' teams.

A three-time cancer survivor, Gore has served local charities including Hospice, the Wellness Community Valley/Ventura, American Cancer Society Relay for Life and Conejo Valley Days.

"Cost for a barbecue lunch, golf and banquet honoring Irish John is priced to go fast, $99 per person," said event chair Irene Brennick. The entry fee includes green fee and cart; tee prizes; prizes for longest drive, closest to pin; and putting contest.

The banquet will get under way at 6:30 p.m., with some surprises to underscore Gore's contributions, said Brennick.

For more information, call (805) 495-2145, e-mail hospice@adnetsol.com or visit www.hospiceoftheconejo.org.