What’s the best way to tell your friends and neighbors you’re having a party? By throwing another party of course!

Midtown Village will be hosting a launch party on September 28th to let everyone know of their upcoming Fall Festival. This fall will mark the fifth year that Midtown Village will be in the spotlight, showing everything they have to offer to natives and first time visitors alike. The festival will feature area restaurants, bars, shops and other activities that will make the 6th largest city in the country feel more like a tight knit community…which it is.

Consider the launch party a preview for what’s in store later this fall. You will be able to sample the fares of local restaurants and bars while listening to live music. There will also be a silent auction sponsored by various Midtown Village businesses. Reservations are required and tickets can be purchased on www.PartyTicketsOnline.com. Some of the proceeds will benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.

Need a place to crash? Look no further than Midtown Village’s very own Independent Hotel. Call or go online to make your reservation today.

When: September 28th from 6pm-8:30pm

Where: Holiday Inn Express Ballroom and Poolside Deck (1305 Walnut St) 

This summer, Philadelphia is celebrating its vibrant “Gayborhood” with two weeks of events, taking place from Saturday, July 10 through Saturday, July 24. Dubbed There’s No Place Like Home, the two-week celebration features a ribbon-cutting ceremony, block party, photo exhibit and over 20 special offers. The celebration will take place concurrently with QFEST – Philadelphia’s LGBT Film Festival.

Since its inception in the 1970s—when the gay community began migrating from west of Broad Street near Rittenhouse Square to its current location on the east side of Broad around 12th Street—Philadelphia’s “Gayborhood” has developed into an impressive cultural, retail and dining destination. Over the last two years, the neighborhood has welcomed many new businesses, renovations and developments, and July’s celebration will recognize the efforts of the business owners, non-profit organizations, public officials, residents and visitors who invested time, passion and resources to make the ‘Gayborhood’ a dynamic, thriving city enclave.

Special Events:

• Southwest Airlines’ “Grand Reopening” Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: Saturday, July 10, 4:00 p.m., in front ofThe Independent Hotel (1234 Locust St). Featuring a press conference and an appearance by Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, this is the official kick-off of the “Gayborhood” celebration.

• Opening Reception: Celebrate at Q Lounge + Kitchen immediately after the press conference on Saturday, July 10th.

• QFEST Film Screening: Following the press conference on Saturday, July 10 at 6 PM, bars throughout the “Gayborhood” will play the documentary film “Welcome to the Gayborhood” simultaneously.

• Gayborhood Photo Retrospective: Opening Saturday, July 10 and running through July 24 at the William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce Street. This photo exhibit will display images from phases in the historic evolution of the “Gayborhood.”

• Wells Fargo’s “Gayborhood” Block Party: Sunday, July 11 from 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - 13th Street between Locust & Walnut Streets and Camac Street between Locust & Spruce Streets. Local businesses, organizations and vendors will participate in this entertaining and unique, outdoor community-building event.

• Re-Launch T-Dance with Dj Roland Belmares: Sunday, July 11 from 4:00 p.m.- 10:00 p.m. at Voyeur Nightclub – 1221 St. James Street.

Rainbow Discount Pass Deals:

• Voyeur Nightclub: Save $5.00 on admission to “Re-Launch with Dj Roland Belmares” on Sunday, July 11th – 1221 St. James Street – voyeurnightclub.com

• Absolute Pop: Save 15% on purchases – 137 S. 13th Street – absolutepopart.com

• IHOP: Save 20% on your bill – 1320 Walnut Street at Juniper Street – ihop.com

• Ettore Salon & Spa: Save 25% off any service (not valid with any other discount) – 1201 Market Street at the Philadelphia Marriott Hotel – ettorespa.com

• Q Lounge + Kitchen: Save 15% on dining bill and $2 off all Happy Hour drinks (excluding existing happy hour specials) – qphilly.com

• T Bar: Save 15% on food and drink – 117 S. 12th Street – tbarteas.com

• Woody’s: Free admission to the dance floor before midnight, save 20% on food, save $2.00 on all call and premium Happy Hour drinks – 202 S. 13th Street – woodysbar.com

• 12th Air Command: Free admission to the dance floor on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights – 254 S. 12th Street – 12thair.com

• El Vez: Save 10% of your food - 121 S. 13th Street – elvezrestaurant.com

• Blue Lotus Gallery: Buy one and save 50% on the second item of equal or greater value – 111 S. 12th Street – bluelotusgallery.com

• Fruits, Flowers, Incredibly Edible Delites: Save $5.00 on your purchase – 135 S. 13th Street - fruitflowers.com

• Stir Lounge: Save $2.00 on drinks (excludes Happy Hour specials) – 1705 Chancellor Street – stirphilly.com

• The Independent Hotel: Save $40 on all available room rates – 1234 Locus Street – theindependenthotel.com

• Philadelphia Movie Sites Tour: Save $7 or 20% on all tours booked – departs at the Independence Visitors Center - 6th & Market Streets – moviesitestour.com

• Duross & Langel: Save 25% on all Duross & Langel hand made soaps – 117 South 13th Street - durossandlangel.com

• XIII on 13: Save 13% on all purchases – 211 South 13th Street

• 13th Street Pizza: Free large fountain soda with any purchase – 209 South 13th Street – 13thstreetpizza.com

• Giovanni’s Room: Save 10% on purchases (not in addition to any other equal or greater discount) – 345 S. 12th Street – queerbooks.com

• K Salon: Save $5.00 on haircuts ($25.00 - $35.00 range) and receive a complimentary bottle of shampoo or styling product – 1216 Locust Street

• Tabu: Save 20% on food and $3.00 drafts all day/every day – 200 S. 12th Street – tabuphilly.com

• Valanni: Save 10% on your bill (excludes tax & gratuity) – 1229 Spruce Street – valanni.com

• Charlie Salon: Save 40% on haircuts – 203 S. 12th Street

• 12th Street Gym: Purchase 1 day pass and get a 2nd pass FREE – 204 S. 12th Street – 12thstreetgym.com

• Soleil Tanning Salon: 20% off one Advanced Tan – 202 S. 12th Street – soleiltanningservices.com

• Holiday Inn Express Midtown: $119.00 rate (plus tax), includes a deluxe continental breakfast, passes to Bally Total Fitness and free wireless internet – 1305 Walnut Street – himidtown.com

• Solefood at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel: Save 15% on lunch or dinner (excluding alcohol and tax) – 1200 Market Street – loewshotels.com

• Tavern on Camac: Save $2.00 on all drinks (excluding Happy Hour) – 243 S. Camac Street – tavernoncamac.com

• Andre Richard Salon - Save 10% off haircuts - 1218 Locust Street - andrerichardsalon.com

• Jake’s Sandwich Board: Save 10% off you order – 122 S. 12th Street - jakessandwichboard.com

• The Wardrobe Boutique: Save 10% on one item in the store (excludes designer items) – 1822 Spring Garden Street

For more information, please visit:

www.facebook.com/visitgayphilly

When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to resolve their stress which has worned them down, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to vacation!!

…and Vacation you shall!

Come to Philadelphia to celebrate our Nation’s birth in the only true way it can be celebrated…in the location of it’s actual birth!  While visiting the city, and staying with all of us here at The Independent, you’re only a few steps away from the Independence Mall National Park, and Philadelphia Art Museum, and Rittenhouse Square (the prime locations to celebrate the parturition). 

Wawa presents welcome AMERICA Philadelphia, the official celebration of the 234th Birthday of the United States of America.  From June 25th, 2010 - July 5th, 2010, there is just a revolutionary-size amount of cool things to do.  The 25th kicks of “Taste of Philadelphia”, followed by an amazing night on the 26th, when the city will provide free fireworks, and a free concert that boasts Morris Day & The Time (funk included).  Join Morris Day, Jellybean Johnson, and the others of the iconic band as they run down their hits from the ’80s and ’90s to give you a funkadelic time.

Over the next few days, relax and enjoy the city, and during the next three evenings, enjoy a movie under the stars at Rittenhouse Square, the Art Museum, or Penn’s Landing, where movies such as Grease, Rocky, and Avatar will be screened for the crowds.  Guess what?!?!  They’re free…

Then, on the 3rd and 4th, really get in the patriotic mood and have fun at the city block party in Chinatown, all culminating with Goo Goo Dolls providing the star-power to the celebration on the night of the 4th, followed by probably the most impressive fireworks display presented anywhere from sea to shining sea.

Sooooooo, what are you waiting for?  If you have finished reading this and have not yet booked your stay with us you better start moving…we’ll wait…

…

…all booked and ready to go?  Good.  We’ll see you soon! 

Book a 10-day Advanced Purchase for a discounted rate (please note, Advanced Purchases are non-refundable, non-canceable, and non-changeable reservations that are pre-paid and charged on the day they are booked).  Time is running out for that great rate, so hurry!!

For more information on welcome AMERICA Philadelphia, please visit:

www.WelcomeAmerica.com

Sometimes one musical just isn’t enough… Meet June. She can’t pay her rent and must face her evil landlord. Can her handsome leading man save her? How would Rodgers and Hammerstein envision the story? Perhaps in Kansas in August, with a Dream Ballet! Would Stephen Sondheim present the landlord as a tortured, artistic genius who slashes tenants’ throats in revenge because they don’t appreciate Art? Jerry Herman’s version may be a splashy star vehicle, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s a rock musical and Kander and Ebb’s, set in a seedy Cabaret in Chicago. It’s hard to imagine a musical tribute as complete—or as funny as—The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!). [http://www.walnutstreettheatre.org/season/musical.php]

May 4th, 2010 - June 27th, 2010

Reserve your room today and spend the night after the great show!

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

Direct from Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theater in New York City, a sensational new stage production of Dreamgirls comes to Philadelphia at the Academy of Music! Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, Dreamgirls tells the story of an up-and-coming, 1960s singing girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy-Award winner Tom Eyen, Dreamgirls features the unforgettable hits: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.” Broadway director and choreographer Robert Longbottom (Bye Bye Birdie Broadway revival) and co-choreographer Shane Sparks (TV’s So You Think You Can Dance), along with some of Broadway’s top designers, re-envision this Tony and Academy Award winning musical so it sparkles like never before! [http://www.visitphilly.com/events-calendar/]

Be sure to reserve your room today, and enjoy our WINE AND DINE package to complement this amazing Broadway staple!

June 22nd - June 27th 2010.  RESERVE TODAY!!

http://reservations.WineandDinePackage

We all have things to do…may they be important, or just fillers to make the time pass.  Most of us never have time to travel the world, most likely because we have obligations to our kids, spouses, jobs, and friends.

If you have ever been to Epcot located within Disney World in Orlando, Florida, you’ll find the entire world within your reach.  So much diversity within such a small enclosed area is just a pleasure to experience…but there’s always the factor that it’s fabricated (which it is) and you never have the true feeling of traveling the world.

Well, visit Philadelphia sporadically all summer long, and you get a taste of the world every week, with PECO’s Multicultural Series.  This series celebrates diversity all summer long, and you can too!

For a worldy taste of music, games, food, and more, visit:

http://www.delawareriverevents.com

Keep checking back every so often for a complete listing of events!!

JANE SMITH’S TO DO LIST: FRIDAY

1. Drop kids off at school.
2. Doctor’s Appointment.
3. Client Meeting/Closing Negotiations.
4. Lunch Meeting with Boss.
5. Pick kids up at school.
6. Grocery shopping for weekend.
7. Feed kids.
8. Drop kids off at Grandmom’s house for weekend.
9. MEET SIGNIFICANT OTHER THE INDEPENDENT HOTEL FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY WITH THE HOTEL’S SIGNATURE ROMANCE PACKAGE!!

 Jealous yet?  I would be too.  Jane Smith was surprised with a staycation from her significant other, and they’re enjoying the romance package this weekend.  Our signature romance package Romance Independent Style, will really help set the mood with inclusive overnight accommodations for two, a bottle of wine and a cheese and cracker presentation for the room, turndown service with chocolates, and complimentary light fare breakfast for two!  Let’s just say the Smiths’ night will be unforgettable! 

http://reservations.RomanceIndependentStyle

Which package would you like to surprise someone with?

For the History Buffs, try our Ancient Rome and America Exhibit Package. 

The Ancient Rome and America exhibit at the National Constitution Center (located almost too conveniently from the Independent) is appearing through August 1st.  This package will truly make you feel like a V.I.P.  This includes accommodations at the Independent, two V.I.P. Passes to the Ancient Rome and America exhibit, which includes access to the award-winning theatrical performance “Freedom Rising” and Singer’s Hall.

http://reservations.AncientRomePackage

Explore the city for the first time.

Don’t worry, we won’t hold it against you.  There is a first time for everything, but visiting Philadelphia for your first time should be highest on your to-do list.  If you’re a professional tourist, a family looking for a way to connect with the birth of our Nation, or a business person that has a day or two to explore, look no further, we have the best packages to offer you.

• Brotherly Love Trolley Package

This package is a great way to see the city at your own pace.  With overnight accommodations, and two adult tickets for the Trolley Works (which are good for 24 hours with unlimited on/off privileges) take your time, soak in the city, and indulge in everything Philly has to offer.  Oh, and don’t forget “taste of Philadelphia” treat waiting for you when you check-in!

http://reservations.BrotherlyLoveTourPackage

• iGlide Tours

iGlide Tours- a Segway Experience Tour of Philadelphia in the most EXCITING & FUN way possible, on the Segway PT.  After a brief training, your experience guide will escort you through Philadelphia’s (Art) Museum District speaking to you through state-of-the-art wireless headsets. The historical narrative will entertain you throughout your unforgettable experience.

Your experience will include:

·         Overnight accommodations for (2)
·         (2) – iGlide Philadelphia Art Museum District Tour Tickets
·         Riding your own Segway PT

http://reservations.IGlideTourPackage

• Philly Food Tour Package

Indulge in Philly’s food, history, culture, and fun!  Eat like a local on this Philadelphia-themed tour that is a unique and fun way for visitors to experience the city!

This fun and delicious tour takes place in the heart of Philadelphia and includes over 7 stops including the Reading Terminal Market, more than 2 hours of indulging and less than 30 minutes of walking. This event is perfect for people of all ages. Make room, this is not only a tasting adventure, but a meal!  

The package includes overnight accommodations for two adults, (2) tickets to the Flavors of Philly Tour, and a Philadelphia Treat that will be given on the tour.

See The Starr(s)

Haven’t been to one of the new Stephen Starr restaurants?  Haven’t been to one at all, you say?!  Well, you need to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s staples…A STEPHEN STARR RESTAURANT!  With our Wine and Dine Independently package you’ll receive inclusive overnight accommodations for two, a complimentary bottle of wine from the hotel, and a $50.00 gift certificate valid at any 12 Starr Restaurants scattered throughout the city.  This package is great for a weekend getaway, a gift for a friend or loved one, or even for yourself if you’re travelling on business.

http://reservations.WineandDinePackage

Parking Wars

Parking in the city can be difficult, but no worries, with our Philly Overnight Package, and our Vist Philadelphia with Love Package, parking is included.  Of course, there are other specials that go with this package; for example: in addition to the complimentary parking for two nights, the overnight package includes gifts upon check-in, and the “Philly’s More Fun” Teddy Bear!  This package is available 7 days a week, because remember, Philly is more fun when you sleep over! And now your weekend is whenever you want it to be.

http://reservations.PhillyOvernightPackage

Our Vist Philadelphia with Love package also includes a welcome gift and complimentary parking, but it also includes  a $20.00 gift certificate to Reading Terminal Market, one of the most popular spots in the city for food and fun.  For a true Philadelphia experience, this is a great package.

http://reservations.VisitPhillywithLove

All of our signature packages are great for any occasion, and for any person, couple, or group.  For more information regarding our packages, visit the reservations section of our home page:

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

Or call us directly to talk with a Guest Service Representative, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year!!  Call us today at: (215) 772 -1440

We’ll be seeing you soon!!

Advancing GLBT Rights.

1964 marked an extremely imporant milestone in American History, and the world, for rights of human beings.  First lauded by the late President John F. Kennedy as new era for America, the Civil Rights Act was a major legislative accomplishment for the country, and it continues to this day as one.  Began by Kennedy, and seen through by the late President Lyndon B. Johnson, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was, and still is, missing an extemely imporant part of equality within its wording in America…sexual orientation.

It wasn’t until October 28th, 2009 (not even 6 months) that the Matthew Shepard Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama.  Although this law challenges the legality of hate-crimes as extended to the GLBT community, it still doesn’t challenge the inequality of rights for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Americans pertaining to discrimination.  Technically, a person of homosexual orientation can be denied services within an establishment, and there is no legal backing oppossing such acts of discrimination.  Members of the same sex are not legally allowed to enter into a marital agreement (with the exception of a few states, but not on a federal level), and up until this Census, there was no choice for a citizen to identify his or herself as a homosexual, bisexual, or transgendered individual.

Enter the Equality Forum in Philadelphia.  For a few days in the middle of spring, healthy debate, initiatives, idea-sharing, and overall fun is shared amongst the GLBT community.

From April 26th until May 2nd of this year, visit Philadelphia to support equal rights for the GLBT community.  Join community leaders, organizers, fellow members and supporters of the GLBT community, politicians, artists, and be witness to one of the most peaceful, organized, and interesting forums in the world.

Experience a special GLBT art exhibit, a special performance by Brian Sanders, panel discussions, fun parties around town, and mingle with the city’s GLBT community during this week. 

Situated within the “Gayborhood” of Philadelphia, and near every single location involved in the forum, The Independent Hotel is the perfect place to stay during this impressive gathering of GLBT supporters.  Stay with us and enjoy the greatness of Center City, complimentary wine and cheese Mondays through Thursdays, complimentary internet, phone calls, DirecTV, and complimentary breakfast while visiting.  We’ll have you prepared, from start to finish, for each event, meeting, panel, and party the Equality Forum has to offer.  You’ll be steps away from every event the forum has to offer.

You’ll have to hurry, because our rooms won’t last long.  Book your room today, and enjoy the 2010 Equality Forum how it’s supposed to be!

For more information on the 2010 Equality Forum, please visit:

http://www.equalityforum.com

To review availability, rates, and book your room, visit our website:

http://www.theindependenthotel.com

Max Yesgur, a local of Bethel, New York, one day decided that something needed to be done.  Something (actually, someone) needed to bring a list of the world’s greatest musicians to one place, and introduce them under one bill.  Max Yesgur took this idea, threw in some peace, love, and a splash of color(s) and the Woodstock Music Festival was born.  The idea was receated in 1994 and 1999, but it never held the same promise as it once did in 1969.

Max Yesgur didn’t create something new, he just made it a lot better.  Since those three days in New York, festivals in America have never been the same.

Festivals have become a staple of Philadelphia culture, especially during the summer months.  So, now that you know of a great place to stay while visiting (The Independent Hotel, of course), why not plan a trip revolving around one (or more!) of the great  festivals the City of Brotherly Love has to offer?

Join us later this spring for the Brandywine River Blues Festival.  Have a night out on the town, take the elevator home with us that evening, and venture off to the Chaddsford Winery the very next day.  Enjoy the area’s signature wines, pack a picnic for the day, and enjoy some great blues music.  With Chaddsford Winery less than an hour away from us, there is no reason not to make a weekend that includes the city and the country all in one trip.  You’ll have to hurry fast, because this secret will get out sooner than you think.  Book your room now for May 30th and 31st, and catch this great winery estate in the middle of the most beautiful time of year!

For more information on the Brandywine River Blues Festival, please visit their website:

http://www.chaddsford.com/root/home/index.htm

Spring has already sprung, but witness the “springing” Philadelphia style at the annual Rittenhouse Spring Festival on May 1st, 2010.  Enjoy creative local art, fashion, food, and let the WXPN family bring you some of the best local music in the area.  This festival is only one day, and attracts over 50,000 people.  Streets are closed around Rittenhouse Square for this event, so staying the night on April 30th with us, and taking a short stroll to the festival is the best way to visit!

For more information, vist:

http://www.visitphilly.com/events/philadelphia/rittenhouse-row-spring-festival/

The XPNoential Music Festival is the most popular music festival in Philadelphia every year, and attracts over 300,000 people every year.  The festival has not been scheduled as of yet, but it always occurrs in July.  Stay tuned for the latest details as they become available!

The other very popular music festival is just becoming a staple of the region.  The Roots Picnic will host some of the most popular musical acts today, including Vampire Weekend, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Mayer Hawthorne, and of course our very own The Roots with ?questlove!  This picnic has attracted more and more people every year since it’s inception in 2008, and it looks to only get bigger this year.  With many rooms left on June 5th, it’s a no-brainer to stay with us at the Independent and take a small trip to Penn’s Landing’s Festival Pier, a walk, or short ride away from the hotel! 

For More information, visit:

http://www.billboard.com/news/vampire-weekend-anchors-third-roots-picnic-1004071930.story

Are you a fan of smooth jazz like we all are here at the Independent?  Then you will love Penn’s Landing’s Smooth Jazz Summer Nights.  Enjoy the smooth sounds that only Penn’s Landing can offer every Friday night in August.  This extremely popular series is back by popular demand, and it looks as if it’s turning out to be a great month.  Let the cooooooool sounds of Jazz flow over your body on a hot August night, and then come unwind and let the music sink in while you stay with us overnight!!  Smotth Jazz Summer Nights are presented on August 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th.  Look ahead now for our rates and availability:

https://reservations.ihotelier.com/istay.cfm?hotelid=15322

For more information on Smooth Jazz Summer Nights, and other Delaware River Events, vist:

http://www.delawareriverevents.com/index.php?module=calendar&month=8&year=2010

Philadelphia has so much to offer you during the Spring and Summer months, it would be a shame not to take advantage of it.  Revel in cool music, art, food, and fashion.  Let The Independent be your guide!

Spring and Summer is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than to get out and search for adventure?

Well, look no farther…Urban Adventures will bring the adventure to you!  The new kids on the block will set you up perfectly, and do all the work.  As of right now, with three tours to choose from, there is no better way to experience the city…as an adventure!

There are three unique tours to choose from:

Essence of South Philly:

A true gem of a tour that allows the lesser known areas of the historic city to be seen, including Jewish Delicatessens, italian markets, mosaics, and much more!

4 Hours in length.

Historic Distric: The authentic historic district Philadelphia is known for.  See where America was born, meet the figures that shaped our nation, witness the awe inspiring beauty of the colonial period, and enjoy treats at some city hot spots!

3 Hours in length.

All Day, All Philly: An all day adventure where the only boundary is your imagination.  Soak up every last drop of Philadelphia.  Run up Rocky’s steps, stroll around local favorite Rittenhouse Square, and enjoy lunch at the city’s busiest market!

7 Hours in length.

STAY TUNED FOR GREAT PACKAGES!  A GREAT NIGHT’S STAY BUNDLED WITH A TRUE URBAN ADVENTURE!!

For more information regarding Urban Adventures visit the tour’s website:

www.philadelphiaurbanadventures.com

Spring is a peculiar time of year.  This season has many traditions and generational meanings attached to it, and that means there is always something new to discover.  Before it was known as Spring, this particular season was known as Lengten, or, Lenten.  This word literally means “Lengthen”.  As the days get longer, and the ground starts to sprout new life, the season moves steadily along, helping all of us forget the misery that sometimes is Winter.

As the Winter season comes to a close, the snow melts, and the ground begins to sprout, there is a buzz in the air around the city of Philadelphia.  Sure, that could just be the harassing bee announcing his presence in your ear, but it could also be the City of Brotherly Love whispering to you:”Visit Me”.

We, here at the Independent Hotel, know all too well how many great specialties the city has to offer during this season of rebirth.  That is why we would be ecstatic to welcome you to the city of Philadelphia during this most beautiful of seasons.

Island life is great in the winter, but in the Spring there is just too much the city offers for you to pass over.  In just a few short weeks our boys of summer, the Philadelphia Phillies, will be officially kicking off their season on April 12th at 3:05P.M. at Citizen’s Bank Park against the Washington Nationals for their home opener.  Staying in the heart of the city, enjoy a walk, some shopping, and some breakfast or lunch, and then in the late afternoon head down to the ballpark to witness the defending National League Champions in action!

http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/schedule/index.jsp?c_id=phi

Miss the flower show earlier in the year?  Have no fear, Macy’s will come through for you for only the second time in its history as it hosts its 2nd Annual Flower show between March 28th and April 11th.  With Macy’s just a few short blocks away from the Independent, it’s almost too convenient!

Take advantage of one of spectacular packages.  The Ancient Rome and America exhibit at the National Constitution Center (also located almost too conveniently from the Independent) is appearing through August 1st.  This package will truly make you feel like a V.I.P.  This includes accommodations at the Independent, two V.I.P. Passes to the Ancient Rome and America exhibit, which includes access to the award-winning theatrical performance “Freedom Rising” and Singer’s Hall.

http://reservations.ihotelier.com/crs/p_prod.cfm?HotelID=15322&ProdID=264764&killcookie=1&LanguageID=1

Feeling charitable?  On April 29th, what many consider the busiest restaurant night of the year (and the most important) is Dining out for Life.  With most of the city’s greatest and most popular restaurants within walking distance of the Independent, make a night out of it and help fight A.I.D.S. by dining out within the city.  Every participating restaurant will donate 33% of the cost of your meal to help fight the virus.  For a list of participating restaurants, and to discover which ones are closest to us, please visit:

http://www.diningoutforlife.com/philadelphia/participating

Located right off Broad Street, the Independent is a great place for you to relax and prepare for the annual Broad Street Run.  This 10-mile run will allow the most competitive, and leisurely runners to enjoy the great sights and history of the city while jogging down broad street.  After you’re finished, unwind with us at the Independent on May 2nd!

Want to the see the Olympians of tomorrow?  Visit the city and stay with us while you attend the Penn Relays.  The Penn Relays are the single most important amateur track and field event in the country.  Witness the athletes who may one day wear the gold right here in our backyard.  Join us during April 22nd through the 24th.  After becoming tired with all the daily activity, unwind with us on property for the complimentary Guest Reception that features our wine picks and cheeses.

Even though it is now known as ‘Spring’, this great season boasts a lot of great opportunities to explore new things.  Philadelphia can be an old friend, or a new acquaintance…no matter, visit the beautiful, historic city and ‘Lengten’ your senses to something truly wonderful.  The Independent is here to welcome you with open arms.

This fall, October 2nd - December 31, 2009, the National Constitution Center will feature its newest exhibition, Diana: A Celebration.  This exhibition comes to Philadelphia for the first time, showcasing the life and work of the Princess of Wales.

Nine galleries showcase the life and legacy of Diana Frances Spencer, Princess of Wales.  This award winning exhibition offers an intimate glimpse into her childhood, her engagement to HRH Prince Charles, their fairytale wedding, their children and Diana’s tireless charity work.

Exhibition highlights include:

*Diana’s royal wedding gown, diamond tiara, veil, 25-ft. train, shoes and parasol

*28 dresses, suits and gowns designed by Versace, Valentino, Chanel, and Azagury, among others, worn by Diana during her public life

*Diamond tiaras and priceless family jewels

*Home Movies of Diana’s childhood, historical artifacts, personal letters, photos and heirlooms

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to view this historical exhibition!

The Independent Philadelphia Hotel has partnered with the National Constitution Center in creating this wonderful package inclusive of the following;

*Overnight Accommodations for (2)

*Two VIP/untimed tickets to the exhibition Diana: A Celebration

To book your package click here:  http://theindependenthotel.com/philadelphia/?cat=22

Paul Cézanne’s posthumous retrospective at the Salon d’Automne in 1907 was a watershed event in the history of art. The immediate impact of this large presentation of his work on the young artists of Paris was profound. Its ramifications on successive generations down to the present are still in effect.

This exhibition features forty paintings and twenty watercolors and drawings by Cézanne, displayed alongside works by several artists for whom Cézanne has been a central inspiration and whose work reflects, both visually and poetically, Cézanne’s extraordinary legacy.

Based on the remarkable resources of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, both in its holdings of major works by Cézanne and in its large collections of early modernist works—thanks to A. E. Gallatin and Louise and Walter Arensberg—this show is a unique occasion to experience the continuing impact of this influential painter.

Francis Alÿs (Belgian, born 1959)
“I remember blaming Cézanne (or was it that I blessed him) for having saved me from having to deal with the enigma of painting.”

Max Beckmann (German, 1884–1950)
“Cézanne was my greatest love and still is when I think of French art.”

Georges Braque (French, 1882–1963)
“To my way of thinking, there is no master equal to Cézanne.”

Paul Cézanne (French, 1839–1906)
“In my thought one doesn’t replace the past, one only adds a new link to it.”

Charles Demuth (American, 1883–1935)
“John Marin and I drew our inspiration from the same source, French modernism. He brought his up in buckets and spilt much along the way. I dipped mine out with a teaspoon, but I never spilled a drop.”

Alberto Giacometti (Swiss, 1901–1966)
“Cézanne did not … seek to be original. And yet there is no painter so original as Cézanne.”

Arshile Gorky (American, born Armenia, 1904–1948)
“Cézanne is the greatest artist, shall I say, that has lived.”

Marsden Hartley (American, 1877–1943)
“[Cézanne had] ideas that were to make the world of painting over again.”

Jasper Johns (American, born 1930)
“As for the Cézanne [Bather], it has a synesthetic quality that gives it great sensuality—it makes looking equivalent to touching

Ellsworth Kelly (American, born 1923)
“Cézanne tackled and conceptualized the three-dimensional world in terms of its underlying structure and our uncertain relationships to it.”

Fernand Léger (French, 1881–1955)
“[Cézanne’s] influence was so strong that in order to free myself I had to move all the way to abstraction.”

Sherrie Levine (American, born 1947)
“I engage the idea of removing the artist completely from the artwork, so that it becomes a kind of group project with audience participation.”

Brice Marden (American, born 1938)
“Cézanne, my hero.”

Henri Matisse (French, 1869–1954)
“I thought: If Cézanne is right, I am right. Because I knew Cézanne had made no mistake.”

Piet Mondrian (Dutch, 1872–1944)
“Beauty in art is created not by the objects of representation but by the relationships of line and color (Cézanne).”

Giorgio Morandi (Italian, 1890–1964)
“We sat down around the big table and talked about art,” John Rewald recalled, “not so much about his [Morandi’s] as about the masters he admired, above all Cézanne and Seurat.”

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973)
“[Cézanne] was my one and only master! Don’t you think I looked at his pictures?”

Liubov Popova (Russian, 1889–1924)
“Cézanne no longer depicted the impression of the object, but only its essence.”

Jeff Wall (Canadian, born 1946)
“I have always admired Cézanne.”

20 Days until Opening Tap

Over 445 events at dozens of venues

in the city and suburbs
And more to come!

The second-annual Philly Beer Week (PBW) 2009 will kickoff on Friday, March 6 at 7 p.m., in the spectacular Comcast Center lobby and Winter Garden (17th street and JFK Boulevard) with the Opening Tap, a celebration honoring over 30 regional breweries whose beer help make Philadelphia “the best beer-drinking city in America.” The Opening Tap will begin with a ceremonial ‘first tap’ using the official Philly Beer Week Keg Mallet, followed by a strolling beer tasting and a festive awards ceremony. Opening Tap tickets cost $40 and can be purchased online at www.phillybeerweek.org ($50 at the door.)

“The Opening Tap is a one-of-a-kind event featuring our local breweries and their beers, as well as the men and women who create them,” says Don Russell, who along with Tom Peters and Bruce Nichols are the founders of Philly Beer Week.

Invited breweries for the Opening Tap include: Appalachian Brewing, Barley Creek Brewing Company, Brew Works, Dock Street, Dogfish Head, Earth + Bread, Erie Brewing Company, Flying Fish, General Lafayette, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Lancaster Brewing Company, Legacy, Lion, Manayunk Brewpub, McKenzie’s, Nodding Head, Penn Brewery, Philadelphia Brewing Company, Porterhouse, Reading Brewing Company, Riverhorse, Rock Bottom, Roy Pitz, Sly Fox, Triumph, Stewart’s, Stoudts, Troegs, Twin Lakes, Victory, Weyerbacher, Yards and Yuengling.

A group of local beer writers created the awards that will honor each brewery represented at the event. An emcee will announce each award and invite the brewery representative to join them, get their photo taken and receive their PBW award.

“These are not your traditional “Best Of” awards. They have a definite Philly attitude! In this town, we may take our beer seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” says Russell who created the awards with fellow beer writers George Hummel, Bryan Kolesar, Lew Bryson, Jack Curtin, Suzanne Woods, Rich Wagner, Woody Chandler and Carolyn Smagalski.

Food will be available for purchase from the Market at the Comcast Center, and live music is also planned. Attendees must be at least 21 years of age, and no children will be admitted.

Those wishing to take public transportation to Philly Beer Week, can purchase Sip Safely with SEPTA, an unlimited, all-day, bus-trolley-rail pass that will be sold for $9.00, valid any one day between March 6 and March 15. This pass is valid on SEPTA services, to encourage PBW participants to travel safely, rather than driving from event to event. Sip Safely with SEPTA passes are available for sale at most SEPTA locations.

Since the Independent Hotel’s June 2008 opening, the property added an artistic splash to its exterior with the showcasing of photography from local, Philadelphia based Photo-Artist, Jenny Lynn.  The windows, entitled, “Keys to The City,” display Center City’s landmarks and main attractions.  Jenny Lynn expressed of her project, “I’m delighted that my photo-installation, “Keys to the City”, has become part of The Independent Philadelphia.  I hope that visitors to the hotel, as well as passers-by, will enjoy what they see”. To learn more about Jenny Lynn as an artist, visit www.jennylynn.com. We urge you to personally view the stunning black and white photography during your next stay.

Art After 5: Halloween Night at the Museum Friday, October 31
Philadelphia Museum of Art
 
> official website
· · ·
Celebrate Halloween with DJ Knobhead as he spins 80s goth music. The night will also include ghost stories in the galleries, tarot card readings, spooky art tours, and a costume contest with prizes. Costumes are highly encouraged.

Spend Halloween weekend in the city!  The Independent Philadelphia Hotel invites you to be our guest & to enjoy all of the “frightening”  events Philly has to offer!

Dates:

• Friday, October 31, 2008 @ 5:00 pm

.

The Philadelphia Live Arts Festival features performances by acclaimed contemporary dance and theater companies who are selected and invited to the Festival by our producing director. While some Live Arts artists are based in Philadelphia, many come from other parts of the U.S., and from around the world

.

16 days of Bold Entertainment from around the world right here in Philadelphia! Book your stay at our wonderful boutique hotel, and enjoy some of the finest in the world of art and performance.

.

BUY LIVE ARTS FESTIVAL TICKETS HERE

.

Rooms are still available. CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ROOM!! or call 215-772-1440 to reserve. Call the Independent Hotel Philadelphia at for specials associated with the Live Arts Festival and Philly Fringe.

.

Ready to get your hands …  CLEAN?? 

.

Only a few steps away from the Independent Hotel is a wonderful little Soapery (our word for a place where they concoct wonderful soaps) called duross & langel.  Here, YOU can participate in the development of a new generation of natural and organic cosmetics through their fun and delightful workshops each 1st and 3rd Sunday morning at 10AM.  Today, we all need to be socially responsible.  So why not have some “clean” fun doing it. 

.

Socially Responsible Natural Soaps:  “our sea salts are purchased from family owned and operated salt farms on the dead sea and in the Caribbean, our shea butter is grown and harvested by a village co-op in burkina fasco, and many of the ingredients are from local market vendors here in the delaware valley. our commitment is to quality, fidelity and loyalty in all that we do. this is why we’ve placed our names on every label. we invite you to come by our modern apothecary shop and visit the soap makers at work, then test our scrubs and moisturizers, grab a free sample of soap and go have some good clean fun!” - quoting duross & langel…

.

FUN WORKSHOPS!!  Leave your pencils and type-A personalities at the door because our workshops are all about the fun. it’s 2 hours of creativity and instruction on your favorite skin care products. as a group we work to create useable art in the form of luscious soaps and balms for our store. using our proprietary base ingredients, you’ll add extracts, oils and pigments while elbow deep in all-natural elements + you get to take home a sample of everything you make!  You must be 18 years old to attend (with the exception of our classes for kids).  The cost is a non-refundable $35 pre-paid. schedule conflicts are easily resolved by calling to reschedule class placement 48 hours prior to class. classes begin promptly at time listed. approximate class time is 2 hours unless otherwise specified.  Please dress appropriately for any splatters and splashes that might occur.  To reserve a space for a workshop please call 215.592.SOAP

.

duross & langel savonniers
117 south 13th street philadelphia, pa 19107

.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT duross & langel
july 9th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
luscious grapefruit lip balms are on the menu and we’ll be brewing them before your eyes! bring the whole family for a FREE balm and a taste of capogiro’s pompelmo sorbetto which inspired us

july 12th: kezia read’s pre-party 6 PM to 8 PM
kezia is getting married and we are throwing her a pre-bachelorette bash in our kitchen.
we will laugh and play before they par-tay by creating some sensual wedding night treats for bride and groom

july 16th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
lolita margaritas for everyone! come by to share the fun as we whip up a batch of margarita soap, sip on lolita’s signature cocktail and take home a FREE sample too!

july 20th: sunday school 10 AM to 12 PM
healing elements SOLD OUT- basic skin care to soothe and heal with extracts, oils and dried herbs. the class will create soaps, balms and salves

july 20th: katie reick’s birthday 1 PM to 3 PM
our little katie is having a party for all her friends in the d & l kitchen. though katie is anything but vanilla…every soap and sugar scrub we make with be dripping with vanilla!

july 23rd: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
capogiro’s peppermint stracciatella gelato has inspired us to light the cauldren. join us while we create this new, yummy summer soap and gobble up plenty of the inspirational gelato

july 30th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
delightfully sweet nectar of mango spiced with indian cardamom inspired by bindi. both the soap and the cocktail will be flowing tonight
so join in the fun

august 6th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
james’ favorite, capogiro thai coconut milk gelato will be served, soaped and sampled for your home bathing pleasure

august 20th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
we are celebrating steve’s birthday with his favorite limoncello sorbetto from capogiro while we create yummy limoncello lip balms

august 27th: in-store event 6 PM to 8 PM
a surprise for us all