It’s been five years since a 5-alarm fire tragically burned the 150 year old Morris clubhouse situated on the southern tip of City Island, at Belden Point. But “Project Phoenix,” as it was named, has finally risen from the ashes and the new 16,000 square foot clubhouse is scheduled for its grand opening. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by cocktails and reception on Saturday, May 21, 2011.
The events begin with a flag raising ceremony at 6:00 p.m. sharp to indicate the official start of the boating season. Ribbon-cutting ceremony starts promptly at 6:15 p.m. followed by cocktails and Into Commission reception at 7:00 p.m. Event is black tie only and offered at $125.00 pp. Reservations must be made by May 1 by calling 718-885-9814.
The new clubhouse supports the 112 year old club’s membership of sailboat, powerboat and beach members on City Island. The former Victorian-era clubhouse burned in a tragic fire in the early morning of March 10, 2006. Since that day, club members have donated considerable time and effort in the process of rebuilding the clubhouse. The new 2 story clubhouse boasts a 250 seat ballroom, full service bar and smaller ante-rooms used for club offices and member meetings. A new caterer hosts the food service at the club. Dinner is offered Wednesday through Sunday.
Rather than dissolve the club and sell the property to real estate developers or other business interests, the members committed to rebuilding the clubhouse to preserve the beauty and ecology of the Bronx waterfront and to maintain the rich nautical heritage of City Island. “The new clubhouse is not only energy efficient,” says Board Chairman Steve Lott, “but also situated to provide a panoramic view of Long Island Sound and New York City. The ballroom is the perfect location to host a wedding or other formal event.” Commodore Steve Breines adds, “The members have worked tirelessly together on this project to not only better the club but also to keep an active a boating community on historic City Island.”
For more information about the Morris Yacht & Beach Club, visit: www.morrisybc.com.
About the Morris Yacht & Beach Club
The Morris Yacht & Beach Club, located at the southern tip of scenic City Island, NY, offers its members and their families a complete yachting facility for power and sail, a beautiful 5 acre park with a breathtaking view of Long Island Sound, a sand beach for swimming and sunbathing and a 100+ car parking lot. A 25-ton travel lift supports over 110 yachts of all sizes. The club, a founding member of the EBYRA, is also host to the Fordham Sailing Program and a new Junior Sailing program. Access is easy by car or by the #6 subway.
The clubhouse is available to hold parties, weddings, or meetings for private events. Contact Megan Hayes or Paul Carroll at 914-269-4043 for reservations.