Thanks for the reply Keeton...

Just an FYI, when I called to book the RC near Central Park they quoted me a rate of 65k points per night. They had a room available with rewards, but only for one night. When I tried the Algonquin it was the same scenario, only one night available to redeem points (but at 40k/per I believe).

Since I didn't feel like hotel hopping I just decided to use the one night available at the Algonquin and pay for the other two... Maybe I'll be able to swing something while I'm there.

All in all it's not a terrible situation, I admit. Especially with the Holiday season... I still saved $550 for one night. Its just running into a couple situations where that true no blackout has really helped me out that I got spoiled.

As far as getting a partner card, I've been wrestling with the thought. I know it really does improve the value of the programs... Just not sure I want to start collecting cards for each property I stay. I've been giving the AmEx Premier Rewards some serious thought...