A Message from Robert Sparks, Executive Director of Operations

Dear Members,

I want to thank the many individuals on the Board who have warmly welcomed me with open arms to the Center and also to those individuals who have stepped into my office to give me a hearty handshake. Incidentally my office is just inside the front door where Mary’s office used to be. Mary is now in the back office with Teresa.

I would be remiss if I did not thank Teresa, Ligia, and Mary who have devoted their time to inform me on all operations of the club, the history of the Center and those who have made it what it is, and most importantly…where to turn on the lights!

I would like to acknowledge and thank Ryan Gonzales, the sales representative from Kelly Moore Paints who donated the paint for the St. Patrick’s banquet room ceiling.

I realize the task of understanding all of the groups who utilize the Center on either a daily, weekly, monthly and annual participation and their influence on the development and support of the Center. I also invite some of the newer members who perhaps haven’t had the opportunity to assist the Center by participating in the committee system to contact me at rsparks@irish-centersf.org. We would appreciate your input.

In the next few weeks and months, you will start to see a few subtle changes around the Center. I am currently reviewing all contracts, agreements and modes of operation to assure that the Center is being run both economically, safely, and legally. Some of what is being looked at will be behind the scenes and some will be more noticeable.

The UICC is a facility with a great history which should be embraced. It also sits in a neighborhood that is quickly changing with younger families that as a group we should target to use the Center with programs and offerings that will encourage them to join and enjoy what can be made available to their needs and likes.

We will be making different presentations shortly in all aspects of food offerings to appeal to different groups with special nights for families, unique choices and reasonable pricing.

One of those opportunities is a Holiday Wine Tasting on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 from 6:30 pm to 9:00 p.m. We will have vendors supplying dozens of wines for you and your guests (who are most welcome) to taste and then purchase by the case at a discounted price. Perfect for holiday gifts for family and friends or just to enjoy during the holiday season. Along with the wines, we will have hors d’oeuvres available to accompany the wines. The cost of the evening is $25.00++ per person. Call the Center at 415-661-2700 to make your reservation. Reservations are required by Saturday, November 4, 2017. A 24- hour cancellation Policy will be in Place.

Thank you.

Robert Sparks,

Executive Director of Operations