2024 Newsletter: 2nd Edition

Dear Owners,

Summer greetings from The Manhattan Club where New York City has never been hotter!  

Your hospitality team has curated an array of exclusive experiences and hot offerings to make your stay unforgettable. If you have not reserved your next stay with us, please do so and take advantage of New York City’s sizzling summer activities and events. 

Sincerely,
Joshua A. Wirshba – General Manager / Managing Director 

Owner Spotlight

We are thrilled to highlight the stories of our Owners! Meet Mrs. Bial, from Florida, who has been visiting us every summer for the past 25 years. This time the trip to her “home away from home” was extra special as she was celebrating her 87th birthday.

In 1999, my husband and I made a life-changing decision: we purchased two weeks of ownership at The Manhattan Club. From the moment we stepped into this elegant haven, we knew we had found our home away from home.

 

Tragically, my husband passed away in 2000, leaving me with a void that seemed insurmountable. However, The Manhattan Club provided a comforting escape, a place where I could reconnect with fond memories and find peace. In 2001, seeking to extend my time in this cherished place, I purchased two more weeks, allowing me to spend a full month each year in the heart of New York City.

For over two decades, I have returned to The Manhattan Club annually, each visit filled with joy and discovery. The exceptional service and care from the staff have made every stay a delight. Whether sharing time with family and friends or enjoying solitude, I have always felt embraced by the warmth of this special place.

 

This year was particularly significant as I celebrated my 87th birthday at The Manhattan Club. It was a month filled with unforgettable experiences: I saw four fabulous Broadway shows, explored the city's renowned museums, and even spent hours admiring the intricate craftsmanship in the jewelry district on 47th Street. Each year brings new adventures and memories, reaffirming why I cherish this annual tradition.

 

Despite concerns from some about safety or the challenges of traveling alone at my age, I feel completely at ease and secure at The Manhattan Club. The community here is my extended family, offering a sense of belonging and support that is rare to find.

 

As I look forward to many more birthdays and new experiences, I remain grateful for the decision we made back in 1999. The Manhattan Club is not just a destination; it is my sanctuary, my celebration of life, and a testament to enduring memories.

 

To those who worry about my safety or think I am too old to enjoy these adventures alone, I say this: you are never alone when you are surrounded by family at The Manhattan Club.

 

Please contact Owner Services to share your story in the next newsletter!

 

Property Updates

Fitness Center 

In our ongoing efforts to ensure our Fitness Center remains state-of-the-art, we have upgraded our cardio equipment to enhance your enjoyment.

As part of this upgrade, we have included a Hydrow rowing machine, fulfilling a much-anticipated addition alongside our existing Treadmills, Recumbent bicycles, and Elliptical units.

 

Conservation Program 

 

For over 20 years, The Manhattan Club has been dedicated to supporting our conservation policy. This policy is central to our commitment to honoring "going green" and ensuring a safe and sustainable environment for all Owners, staff, and New York City.

The following conservation upgrades have been implemented this year:

LED Lighting Upgrade:

• Installation of LED lighting in suites, bathrooms, hallways, and back of the house areas. LED lighting improves energy efficiency and reduces energy consumption.

Sustainable Green Practices: 

We are proud of the progress we've made and continue to strive for excellence in our green initiatives. Your support has been instrumental in these efforts, and we look forward to your continued partnership as we work towards a greener future.

 

• Linen and Terry Signage Reminder: Signage that can be placed on the bed if you do not want your sheets to be changed. Additional signage has been placed in the bathroom(s) advising that if you wish to reuse your towels, please place them on the towel rack. Choosing to reuse linen or terry and opting to not have the sheets changed, helps us reduce water and energy consumption.
• Toiletry Amenity Update: By 2025, The Manhattan Club will have replaced all small plastic bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and bath gel with larger, pump dispenser bottles installed directly into the bathroom walls. This change not only reduces plastic waste but also ensures a more convenient and luxurious experience.
• Arrive System: The Arrive platform is designed to streamline the check-in process. This platform will enable us to transition to a paperless operation at the Front Office. By reducing our reliance on physical paperwork, we aim to create a more efficient and environmentally friendly process that benefits both our staff and Owners.  

Emergency Contact Information

Your Manhattan Club Hospitality team provides you with the specific security and hospitality policies that correspond to our unique Manhattan Club culture. In that spirit, we want to ensure expeditious and efficient measures in responding to any unforeseen medical or other emergency that may unfortunately occur during your stay with us. Having you provide us with an “Emergency Contact” that we can notify in the event of any unforeseen emergency, will assist us in helping you. If you have not updated your profile already, please click on the button to the left to provide this very important information.  

2024 Big Apple Star Award Nominations

We are delighted to announce our participation in the 2024 New York City Hotel Association Big Apple Star Awards. This year, we proudly recognize and celebrate your hard-working staff members whose dedication and excellence drive our success. The following are our nominees:

James Kingery Assistant Director of Engineering  

Adam Djonovic Owner Receptionist

Dalma De Jesus Housekeeping

Ragib Gjonbalaj Housekeeping

Employee Recognition

Lissie Hernandez 
Newly Appointed Director of Operations 

Lissie Hernandez brings an exceptional wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Director of Operations at The Manhattan Club. With an extensive career spanning 34 years in the hospitality industry, Mrs. Hernandez has constantly demonstrated her commitment to excellence and guest satisfaction. 

Prior to her current position, Mrs. Hernandez honed her expertise at several prestigious establishments, including opening hotels. She served as the Director of Housekeeping, Human Resources, Food & Beverage, and Revenue Management, where her leadership and strategic insights significantly enhanced operational efficiencies and employee engagement. 

Mrs. Hernandez’s journey at The Manhattan Club began 16 years ago when she joined The Manhattan Club as The Director of Front Office Operations. Her unwavering dedication and remarkable performance in this role led her to her recent promotion to Director of Operations. In her new capacity, Mrs. Hernandez is committed to ensuring that Owners receive unparalleled service. Every aspect of her experience is meticulously curated by working with all departments. Here at The Manhattan Club, we ensure that our hospitality services and enhancing technology is everyone’s number one priority.  

Owner Representative Patti Soltys 

Hello fellow Owners!

As many of you know, I have been on The Manhattan Club Association Board for many years. I am reaching out to you

with a couple of thoughts.  

First, my experience and that of so many others, is that when we walk into the Club, we are greeted by many familiar faces. 

That is very impressive as for employees to work at the Club for so many years means things are going well.  And in speaking with them, to the person, they are quick to appreciate the leadership team.  Happy employees make for happy Owners and Guests, and this is one of the many special aspects of our Club.

 

As many of us who bought pre-construction or early on in the history of the Club are aging, it is important that we introduce our family — children and grandchildren and others — to the benefits of Ownership.  For me, it is so appreciated to know what to expect and to know my room will be clean and ready and staff is there to help.  As the cycle of life continues, we want to be sure we keep our Club vital.  So, think about bringing your family for a visit — we now have some great new offerings in the lounge.  After a day of shows and sightseeing, come to the Owner’s Lounge and enjoy Pizza, Mini Rubens, Bavarian Pretzels, Chicken Quesadilla bites and much more.  The concierge team can not only help plan your Broadway shows or dinners but also plan events for the family.  My son grew up with vacations to NYC and stays at the Club.  We took him to see Phantom of the Opera when in middle school and that convinced him he wanted a career in media/film/theater.  He now graduated from New York University and has his own media company in Manhattan. I truly believe the exposure we gave him in the unique New York area cultivated his interests.   We are always open to your feedback and ideas about how to encourage the next generation.

Finally, on my last visit, I met a woman at breakfast in the lounge who was a new Owner after inheriting her unit from her Mom.  We started to chat, and I found she had some questions which I was able to respond to.  That made me think that when I am at the Club, I will set a “coffee hour” in the lounge and let in house Guest know the particulars if they want to chat.  One of the senior members of the Management Team will join me as they are rich with information.  

Meanwhile, see you around the Club!

Owner Experiences 

Owners attending The Intrepid Museum

Owners attending the NY Yankee Owner Event in the Audi Club Suite

Owners Friends and Family Trip in New York City

Owner Testimonials

We are proud to provide you with testimonials from your fellow Manhattan Club members that have recently stayed at the Club.

“Adam and Jerry front desk are always most helpful. Anthony and all the bell captains are always courteous, and most accommodating. My guests and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay.”

 

February 2024

"As always, staying at the Manhattan Club was a wonderful experience. Thank you to all staff and management. All staff members were extremely helpful.”

 

March 2024

“Our stay was perfect!  I had requested a larger room since I was coming with my daughter and two teenage grandsons. Our suite layout was just right! The rollaway bed was already in the room when we arrived.  We couldn’t have been happier!”

 

March 2024

“It's been over 20 years, and we love coming to The Manhattan Club. Thank you to all of the Bell Staff - Anthony, Faisal, Ismael and the rest, including the captains! Extraordinarily friendly, and helpful. They are like family!”

 

April 2024

“Andrew is always a warm welcoming host. We miss Michael in the lounge in the evening, but it is good to see him in the mornings. Yvette and Jerry are helpful. And of course, Anthony and Joel are great. We are happy 19 years after our first visit. Thanks to all!”

 

April 2024

“Our experience is that at reception, Lizette was outstanding, friendly, and courteous. All traits that we take seriously. She is a great person to have on staff and make our day!”

 

April 2024

“Sabina, I wanted to wish you my warmest congratulations on your promotion.
You have always shown the utmost compassion and professionalism in carrying out your duties. You and the staff you oversee are what have made this little place “The Manhattan Club”, our home away from home. We have been through some difficult times but with the staff’s devotion to service and commitment, we have survived, and I am very grateful for that piece of stability in a crazy world. Thank you, be well. See you soon.”

 

April 2024

“Dalma the housekeeper was very friendly and accommodating.”

 

April 2024 

Exclusive Owner Perks

Take advantage of your exclusive Club Lounge Summer Promotions and Tastings.  
Your Club Lounge menu offers a variety of refreshing summer beverages and an extended selection of menu items crafted to enrich your experience. Click the Button Below to access your Club Lounge Menu

Please refer to the below planned Summer events in The Club Lounge.

• Thursday, July 4th – Independence Day Cocktail Promotion
• Tuesday, July 9th – On the Rocks Blue Hawaiian Cocktail Complimentary Tasting
• Thursday, July 11th – National Mojito Day - Promotion
• Saturday, July 13th – World Rum Day Angostura Rum Promotion
• Wednesday, July 24th – National Tequila Day Margarita Promotion
• Thursday, August 1st – National Spritz Day – Ketel One Botanical 
• Cocktail Spritz Promotion
• Sunday, August 18th – National Pinot Noir Day Promotion
• August 26th – September 2nd – US Open Tennis Honey Deuce Cocktail Promotion
• September 2nd – Labor Day Weekend Cocktail Promotion
• September 22nd – First Day of Fall Bourbon Promotion

Exclusive partnership with City Experiences

Come aboard and experience your city like never before! Elegant or casual dining, sightseeing, cocktails, live music, and iconic skyline views all from the water. 
Book an excursion to either The Bateaux NY or The Spirit NY. The Bateaux New York is Manhattan’s only all glass, European inspired vessel offering unparalleled views of the iconic city skyline. For parties of all sizes, this unique and elegant venue makes any occasion unforgettable. The Bateaux provides an upscale experience characterized by elegant, high-quality cuisine, a refined atmosphere and live entertainment. The Spirit New York offers a fun and festive experience with a chef-prepared buffet, DJ entertainment, and incredible skyline views from a climate-controlled interior and open-air exterior decks. For more information and to book tickets, please click the button below

Owners receive an exclusive discount on booking. Use promo code TMC10 at checkout for 10% off each ticket.

 

 

 

 

 

 

New York Yankees

 

The Manhattan Club has secured individual discount tickets to New York Yankee home games for our esteemed Owners and Guests. To avail to this exclusive offer, please click on the link above and enter Promo Code TMCNY

 

Click Here

NYC Horse Carriage Rides 

 

Book an unforgettable horse carriage ride through Central Park. Visit all well-known attractions of Central Park such as Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Fountain, and Strawberry Fields. Perfect for families, couples, groups and more.
Owners receive a 15% discount for any VIP package with promo code MANHATTAN15

https://www.nychorsecarriageride.com/ 

New York City Summer Events & Activities

Explore NYC Like a Local: Your concierge team has put together a list of must-visit events and attractions for your enjoyment. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store surrounding The Manhattan Club. 

And that's just the beginning! There are plenty more shows this summer waiting to be discovered, each offering its own unique blend of entertainment and artistry.To make your theater experience even more enjoyable, we're delighted to offer discounted tickets exclusively for you, our valued Owner. Our dedicated Concierge Managers are here to assist you in securing discounted tickets.

 

Broadway Shows

The Theater District is buzzing with excitement as numerous new Broadway Shows are gracing the stages of our beloved district. Whether you're a fan of classics, musicals, or cutting-edge performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Here's a glimpse of some of the spectacular shows currently captivating audiences:

• Hells Kitchen: "Hell's Kitchen" tells the story of Ali, a spirited 17-year-old girl searching for freedom, passion, and her place in the world. This New York City coming-of-age story is unlike any you’ve experienced before, brought to life by the iconic Alicia Keys.
• The Great Gatsby Musical: Step back into the roaring twenties with this dazzling adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless masterpiece.
• Back to The Future: Get ready for a nostalgic journey through time with this electrifying production based on the beloved film franchise. Below is a comment card received from one of your fellow Owners regarding the Musical – “Many thanks to Andrew for helping us get tickets. The show was amazing. The visual effects were stunning and a whole lot of fun. It’s worth seeing.” 
• The Notebook: Experience the epic love story of Noah and Allie brought to life in this heartwarming stage adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' beloved novel.

concierges@tmcny.com

Summer in Central Park

As we embrace the vibrant energy of summer, we want to remind you of all the amazing opportunities awaiting in Central Park. This iconic green space is bustling with new and exciting activities that should not be missed. Here are some highlights that will surely enhance your summer itinerary:

The Boathouse Restaurant Returns

 

After a hiatus since 2022, The Boathouse Central Park Restaurant has reopened its doors. This beloved establishment is not just a dining venue, but a cultural landmark steeped in the rich history of New York City. From its Victorian origins to its contemporary charm, The Boathouse offers a unique dining experience that beautifully complements the scenic beauty of Central Park. To find out more information and to book reservations, please click here

Central Park Boathouse Rowboat Rentals

 

Make a splash in Central Park and experience it in a whole new light by renting rowboats at The Central Park Lake. Whether you're arranging a romantic rendezvous, a lively family adventure, or a tranquil solo retreat, rowboats provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's tranquil charm. Open throughout the Summer Season. Reservations can be made in person.

Pickleball at The Wollman Rink in Central Park

 

Pickleball enthusiasts, rejoice! The highly popular pickleball installation is returning to Wollman Rink, courtesy of CityPickle. With 14 courts available, players of all skill levels can enjoy this fun and engaging sport. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, you can reserve courts or join open play sessions daily from 8 AM to 9 PM. For more details and to book a slot, please click here

Independence Day July 4th Events

New York City is one of the best cities to celebrate Independence Day. To help make the most of your time, we are highlighting the best and the biggest 4th of July events in NYC.

 

• Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks - If there’s one firework show to see when you visit New York City, it’s the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show. One of the most iconic fireworks displays in the United States is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip. For the first time in recent years, The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will light up over the Hudson River with more than 60,000 fireworks for 25 minutes. Not to be missed is the New York Fire Department’s contribution, as they shoot red, clear, and blue water 300 feet into the air from the fireboats they have stationed in the river.
• Firework Cruises by City Experiences - Experience an unforgettable way to celebrate the 4th of July; all while being on the water. While onboard either the Bateaux or Spirit Fleets, enjoy chef-prepared menus, creative cocktails, beer, wine, and New York’s most incredible views. For more information and to book tickets, please visit https://www.cityexperiences.com/
• Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest – The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is set to return this summer in Coney Island. Watch Frankfurter eating legends race the clock and chow down on as many Nathan’s Famous hotdogs in 10 minutes as they can. It’s certainly one of the most beloved traditions of New York.

Bryant Park Movie Nights

Free Movie Nights at Bryant Park are back for the summer! This beloved tradition offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy classic films under the stars, right in the heart of the city. Bring your friends, family, and a cozy blanket to experience these cinematic gems in a unique outdoor setting.

 

For a complete schedule for this summer’s Free Movie Nights at Bryant Park please visit https://bryantpark.org/activities/movie-nights

 

The Lawn opens up at 5pm. Movies start at 8pm, so be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, or feel free to bring your own picnic.

New York Botanical Garden – Alice in Wonderland Floral Exhibit

The New York Botanical Garden is getting a garden-wide exhibition for 2024 titled “Wonderland: Curious Nature.”
On view through Sunday, October 27, 2024, the enchanting display will “feature horticultural and contemporary art installations that evoke the spirit of exploration and uncanny nature of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Inspired by the classic tale and its 1871 sequel, Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There, the immersive exhibition will be a true sensory adventure, with visitors able to explore a variety of mind-bending experiences set throughout the botanical garden’s iconic glasshouse, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, in the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Building and across its stunning 250-acre grounds. For more information and to book tickets, please visit https://www.nybg.org/event/wonderland-curious-nature/ 

Grand Bazaar Flea Market

 

Nestled in the Upper West Side, The Grand Bazaar Flea Market is NYC's largest, oldest, and most diverse weekly curated shopping market. Every Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm, this lively marketplace opens its doors both indoors and outdoors, inviting you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. What makes The Grand Bazaar truly special is its unwavering dedication to the community. With every purchase you make at the market, you're not just acquiring a piece of the city's charm; you're also contributing to a noble cause. A portion of the profits from The Grand Bazaar goes towards supporting NYC public schools. Whether you're seeking vintage treasures, handcrafted delights, or simply a taste of authentic New York culture, The Grand Bazaar has something for everyone. Lose yourself in its bustling aisles, savor the diverse array of culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy that defines the city. For more information, please visit https://grandbazaarnyc.org/ 

Smorgasburg Food Market

 

Smorgasburg, the public food spectacular, is back for 2024 with dozens of great local vendors across three locations. In fact, with more than 70 vendors, it's the largest Smorgasburg lineup since 2018. Vendors this year will serve up fragrant Ethiopian stews, Hawaii-style street comforts, Italian gelato, potato puff poutine, and lots more. Smorgasburg World Trade Center runs on Fridays; Williamsburg is on Saturdays; and Prospect Park is on Sundays. Each location is open from 11am-6pm and operates weekly through October. For more information, please visit https://www.smorgasburg.com/ 

 

US Open Tennis Tournament

 

One of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, the US Open Tennis Tournament, is happening this summer from August 26th through September 8th. Watch the world’s top players, including past champions and rising stars, compete in thrilling matches. Head over to the official Us Open website click here to explore available dates and seating options. Tickets sell out quickly, so we recommend booking as soon as possible to ensure the best seats! 

For more information, visit our website or contact our Owner Services & Concierge team at (212) 453 - 8514 or via e-mail ownerservices@tmcny.com.

We look forward to welcoming you this summer and making your visit to New York City a memorable one.

The Manhattan Club