The 2009 National League Champion Phillies clinched Game 1 of the 2009 World Series against the New York Yankees last night!!

Cliff Lee dominated the Yankees in a remarkable 6-1 victory at Yankee Stadium. He threw a six-hitter as he continued one of the most impressive postseason performances in baseball history. Chase Utley hit a pair of home runs against Yankees left-hander CC Sabathia to join Babe Ruth as the only two left-handed hitters to hit two home runs against a lefty pitcher in a World Series game.

“It doesn’t really matter that much,” Utley said.

Here is what matters: The Phillies took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, and 18 of the past 21 teams to win Game 1 have won the World Series, including the past six winners. But besides guaranteeing they will leave Yankee Stadium on Thursday (7:57 p.m. ET, FOX and Postseason.TV) with no worse than a split, the Phils let the favored Yankees know they are for real. They let New York know that Yankee Stadium does not intimidate them. They let the world know the Yankee mystique does not worry them.

The Phillies want to become the first National League team to win consecutive World Series since the 1975-76 Reds.

If they must beat the Yankees, they must.

“This is the same game I’ve been playing my whole life, and this is the stage that I’ve wanted to get to as a little kid,” Lee said.

Lee appeared positively unaffected by the Yankee pinstripes in a World Series atmosphere. He pitched the first complete game in the World Series since Marlins right-hander Josh Beckett threw one against the Yankees in Game 6 of the 2003 World Series. He was just the third pitcher in World Series history to have no walks and 10 strikeouts in a game. Pittsburgh’s Deacon Phillippe (Game 1 of the 1903 World Series against the Red Sox) and Brooklyn’s Don Newcombe (Game 1 of the 1949 World Series against the Yankees) were the others.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been nervous playing this game,” Lee said. “It’s what I’ve been doing my whole life. I put all the work in. You do everything you need to do to prepare, and I try not to leave anything to chance. So what’s the point in being nervous? I’ve already done the work. It’s game time — time to go out there and have fun and execute and let your skills take over.”

NOW for all you Yankee’s fans staying at The Independent Hotel on Sunday, November 1st & Monday, November 2, 2009 here is the deal from The Independent Hotel located in the “City of Brotherly Love” - The Phillies have “STEAKed” their claim to the 2009 World Series Title  - Should the Yankees lose Game 4 or Game 5 - show your ID with a NYC area address at the Front Desk prior to checkout to receive a “Complimentary” $5 Gift Certificate to Reading Terminal to enjoy an Authentic Philadelphia CheeseSTEAK” - The Independent Hotel’s way of easing your pain - GO PHILLIES!

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

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We are excited to share that Glamour Magazine UK just highlighed The Independent Hotel Philadelphia as “fabulous” in their exciting September 2009 issue.

Read more, click here: The fashionista’s guide to Philly - Glamour Magazine

The Independent Hotel is also featured as the hotel for www.taxfreephilly.com promotion.

Date:

June 7, 2009

The Race

The world’s most competitive cyclists turn their sights on Philadelphia for the annual Philadelphia International Championship every June, when about 300,000 fans line an arduous road course to watch hundreds of elite pro cyclists whip through some of Philadelphia’s most beautiful streets.

The scenic course includes the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and, of course, the infamous Manayunk “Wall,” a 17% grade hill rising sharply off the banks of the Schuylkill River.

The race is a culmination of a weekend of related festivities that are great for the entire family.

Best Places To Watch

The best places from which to watch the race are:

• the “Feed Zone” located near the start/finish line along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway,
• the Family Fun Zone on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art,
• along Main Street in Manayunk,
• along the Manayunk Wall,
• Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park,
• and various spots along Kelly Drive in Fairmount Park, which you must walk to since the Drive is closed to traffic.

Thinking of coming to see the Race?  The Independent Hotel in Philadelphia is now taking reservations.  Click on make a reservation or call us today! 

The Independent Hotel, Philadelphia’s newest premier boutique hotel, has partnered with the Spirit of Philadelphia to bring you a most entertaining and unique dining experience. 

Come aboard and enjoy the most entertaining lunchtime experience in Philadelphia featuring our Grande Buffet! This two-hour cruise on Philadelphia’s historic harbor is perfect for an afternoon getaway, a birthday, office party, entertaining out-of-town guests, you name it.

Let us walk you through a cruise:

• Big smile - a keepsake photo of you and your party will be taken upon boarding, so go ahead and “mug” for the camera. (You can pre-purchase or decide at the dock when you return.)
• “This way please” - we will greet and seat you. Please note that many tables are designed for cabaret-style seating with other guests, reminiscent of ocean-going cruises. Order drinks, then feel free to get up and explore the ship - especially our outdoor strolling decks.
• Bon Voyage! - As the ship pulls away from the dock, grab your streamers and your drinks and join our Spirit entertainers in a festive Bon Voyage toast.
• Bon Appétit - Once you’ve been invited up to our Grande Buffet, take as little or as much as you like. You can even go back for seconds and thirds as long as the buffet is open!
• Oooo, ahhhh - while you dine, we’ll entertain you with a fascinating narrated tour of Philadelphia’s breathtaking skyline easily seen from our huge panoramic windows.
• Live Entertainment - Throughout the cruise, Spirit’s staff will dazzle you with impressive renditions of your favorite tunes. Sit back, relax and enjoy the talent.
• Stretch your legs - head topside for the largest outdoor patio deck in Philadelphia and catch a breath of fresh air and an amazing view.
• Rock ‘til you dock - from line dances to Top-40 hits, our DJs know how to get everyone up and dancing, right to the end of your cruise.

About the Spirit of Philadelphia
Perfect for parties of two to 500 guests, the three-deck Spirit of Philadelphia offers a sleek and fresh approach to dining and dancing on the water:

• Three climate-controlled dining & entertainment decks
• Huge panoramic windows all around
• Bathrooms on two interior decks
• Outdoor strolling decks at bow and stern
• Full outdoor patio deck topside with cafe-style seating
• Full-service bars
• Handicap accessible
• Two dance floors and staging areas
• Flexible seating arrangements

Packages starting at $264.00 and includes:

* Overnight accommodations for (2) people

*(2) Tickets aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia

*Two hour festive river cruise

*Bountiful Buffet

*Narrated skyline tour

*Vibrant entertainment with a lively DJ playing a full range of dance hits

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

The Independent Hotel, Philadelphia’s newest premier boutique hotel, has partnered with the Spirit of Philadelphia to bring you a most entertaining and unique dining experience. 

Come aboard and enjoy the most entertaining lunchtime experience in Philadelphia featuring our Grande Buffet! This three-hour cruise on Philadelphia’s historic harbor is perfect for an afternoon getaway, a birthday, office party, entertaining out-of-town guests, you name it.

Let us walk you through a cruise:

• Big smile - a keepsake photo of you and your party will be taken upon boarding, so go ahead and “mug” for the camera. (You can pre-purchase or decide at the dock when you return.)
• “This way please” - we will greet and seat you. Please note that many tables are designed for cabaret-style seating with other guests, reminiscent of ocean-going cruises. Order drinks, then feel free to get up and explore the ship - especially our outdoor strolling decks.
• Bon Voyage! - As the ship pulls away from the dock, grab your streamers and your drinks and join our Spirit entertainers in a festive Bon Voyage toast.
• Bon Appétit - Once you’ve been invited up to our Grande Buffet, take as little or as much as you like. You can even go back for seconds and thirds as long as the buffet is open!
• Oooo, ahhhh - while you dine, we’ll entertain you with a fascinating narrated tour of Philadelphia’s breathtaking skyline easily seen from our huge panoramic windows.
• Live Entertainment - Throughout the cruise, Spirit’s staff will dazzle you with impressive renditions of your favorite tunes. Sit back, relax and enjoy the talent.
• Stretch your legs - head topside for the largest outdoor patio deck in Philadelphia and catch a breath of fresh air and an amazing view.
• Rock ‘til you dock - from line dances to Top-40 hits, our DJs know how to get everyone up and dancing, right to the end of your cruise.

About the Spirit of Philadelphia
Perfect for parties of two to 500 guests, the three-deck Spirit of Philadelphia offers a sleek and fresh approach to dining and dancing on the water:

• Three climate-controlled dining & entertainment decks
• Huge panoramic windows all around
• Bathrooms on two interior decks
• Outdoor strolling decks at bow and stern
• Full outdoor patio deck topside with cafe-style seating
• Full-service bars
• Handicap accessible
• Two dance floors and staging areas
• Flexible seating arrangements

Packages starting at $329.00 and includes:

* Overnight accommodations for (2) people

*(2) Tickets aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia

*Three hour festive river cruise

*Bountiful Buffet

*Narrated skyline tour

*Vibrant entertainment with a lively DJ playing a full range of dance hits

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

The Independent Hotel Philadelphia is Philadelphia’s newest premier boutique hotel.  Located just minutes from the University of Penn campus, The Independent Hotel

Sunday May 17, 2009

At the University of Pennsylvania, you’ll find a historic, Ivy League school with highly selective admissions and a history of innovation in interdisciplinary education and scholarship. You’ll also find a picturesque campus amidst a dynamic city and a world-class research institution

The Independent Hotel, Philadelphia’s newest premier boutique hotel, wishes to congratulate it’s Community Partner Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Center City Campus, for being ranked as one of America’s best hospitals!  Thomas Jefferson Univerity Hospital has been granted MAGNET® recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) MAGNET Recognition Program®. ANCC is a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association.

Less than five percent of hospitals in the US have achieved MAGNET status which recognizes superior patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice.

Highly regarded as the “gold standard” of nursing excellence, MAGNET recognition provides a benchmark by which consumers and patients can measure the quality of care they can expect to receive at a hospital.  MAGNET-recognized hospitals are associated with improved patient care outcomes as well as attracting top notch physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals.

“Jefferson is extremely proud of the high caliber of our nurses and the exceptional care they provide to patients,” remarked Mary Ann McGinley, PhD, RN, senior vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. “MAGNET status validates what we already know and enhances our reputation as a center of excellence.”

“Through our journey to achieve MAGNET status, the significant contributions that our nurses make to the profession are even more evident,” Dr. McGinley noted.  “In their everyday practice, Jefferson nurses apply their clinical knowledge, expertise and research to improve care and to create an environment of excellence for our patients.”

Hospitals applying to the MAGNET Recognition Program must demonstrate and document along with sources of evidence that the fundamental characteristics identified as the “14 Forces of Magnetism” are internalized within the institution.  Organizational structure, quality of nursing care and the professional environment are vigorously evaluated. Jefferson’s 1200-page MAGNET application document filled 10 volumes which included written narratives, exhibits and demographics. MAGNET organizations must provide annual monitoring reports and apply for re-designation every four years.

“MAGNET recognition further strengthens Jefferson’s position as a leader of quality care and nursing excellence,” commented Thomas J. Lewis, Jefferson’s president and chief executive officer.  “Jefferson is honored to be among the best in the country for both medical and nursing services.  It’s why patients choose Jefferson.”

While visiting Jefferson Hospital, we would love to be your host hotel.  To book your room simply click on “Reservations”

April 23 - 25, 2009

As the first and oldest of relay meets, the Penn Relays has always tried to stay at the forefront of advances in the sport.  From April 23 to April 25, Philadelphia will be dashing with spectators from around the world who are eager to see tomorrow’s Olympic stars at one of the oldest and longest-running track and field events in the world.

So who competes in The Penn Relays? Men and women from high schools, colleges, clubs, the armed services, prepatory schools and even elementary schools. This year, during some 33 hours of competition, participants from ages eight to 80 will run more than 425 races — that’s more than one race every five minutes.

Equality Forum 2009 Visit www.equalityforum.com for more information.

Equality Forum is a national and international GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus.  Equality Forum presents annually the largest and premiere national and international GLBT civil rights forum. Equality Forum 2009 has 34 panels, 8 parties and 10 special events. There is no registration fee and all panels are free.

There’s a revolutionary new way to see historic Philadelphia - The Independent Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia.  Follow in the Founding Father’s footsteps with this self-guided fun-filled activity for the entire family!  This tour takes you on a walking journey through America’s most historic square mile - the birthplace of our nation. 

Step back in time to see where The Declaration of Independence and The United States Constitution were created.  The 3-mile journey features more than 30 historic sites in the Independence Mall area, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House and the National Constitution Center.

Included in this package;

Overnight Accommodations for (2)

Self-Guided Walking Map

Philadelphia Treat Upon Arrival

2 p.m. Late Checkout

Packages starting at $149.00 single/double occupancy plus applicable taxes and based upon availability

Click here to make your reservation:  http://theindependenthotel.com/philadelphia/?cat=22

Excursions, a half-hour TV show aired nationally to more than 60 million homes, is heading to Philadelphia.

Each year, Excursions does a series of shows in which it visits the most prominent and interesting destinations in a particular city or region. The TV show chose Philadelphia as one of it’s destinations this year.

The largest city in Pennsylvania and one of the leading urban cores in the United States, Philadelphia was an easy choice for Excursions’ producers. 

“There isn’t much Philadelphia doesn’t have,” says Chris Willis of 463Media, location scouts for the Excursions TV show.  “Culture, fine dining, world-class hotels, fascinating neighborhoods, great sports teams.”

“We look for destinations that offer something original,” Willis says. 

With that said…The Independent Philadelphia Hotel has been chosen as the “Best of Philadelphia” by Excursions TV for providing unique upscale accommodations & exceptional guest service! 

The Independent will be featured on the Style Network channel Friday, March 20, 2009 at 5:30 a.m. and locally on Sunday, March 22, 2009 on Fox 29 at 3 p.m.  Click here to view Excursions TV’s segment on The Independent Philadelphia Hotel and all that this wonderful hidden gem has to offer!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdYyYunzVmQ

Excursions TV is a half-hour show dedicated to providing its viewers with a fresh and unique perspective on travel. Each feature tells a story from the insider’s perspective, going behind the scenes to discover the most interesting tales and using the powerful medium of television to relay them.

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.

Step aboard one of the signature burgundy and green Victorian-style “open-air” trolleys and tour Philadelphia in style!

Enjoy the view as the past meets the present through the colorful narrative of your experienced tour guides. The knowledgeable staff will enlighten and entertain you with humorous stories and fascinating facts about Philadelphia’s famous sights and attractions.

The Brotherly Love Trolley Works Tour Independent Style is inclusive of the following;

Overnight Accommodations for Two (2)

Two (2) Trolley Works Tickets

A “Philadelphia Treat” upon arrival

*Additional tickets can be purchased at the front desk for a reduced rate of $22 per ticket

 The City Tour operates daily except Christmas and New Year’s. All tours subject to availability and are on a first come / first serve basis. Trolleys and Big Bus vehicles operate interchangeably on the tour. Your pass is good for either vehicle.

Tours depart from the northeast corner of 5th & Market Streets.

Hours:

April – November
Tours Depart Daily from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm weekdays, 6:00 pm weekends

December – March
Tours Depart Daily from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Packages starting at $179.00 single/double - click here to book your package today http://theindependenthotel.com/philadelphia/?cat=22

You are planning the perfect wedding ceremony…..the perfect dress…..the perfect reception…..why not plan the perfect accommodations for your out-of-town guests?  Introducing The Independent Philadelphia Hotel, Philadelphia’s newest boutique accommodations, specializing in offering a truly unique experience.

The Independent Hotel offers group discounts for a wedding block of (10) confirmed guestrooms or more and for wedding blocks of (15) confirmed guest rooms or more the Bride & Groom receive Complimentary Wedding Night accommodations, Fresh Flowers, Champagne on ice and Chocolates to devour….Each overnight guest within your wedding block will receive an in-room bottle of wine - chilled to perfection and exceptional service during their stay. 

You want to savor every detail…every minute of your special day and when including The Independent Philadelphia Hotel as your wedding host hotel you will allow yourself to relax in style, unwind and reflect on the beginning of the rest of your life….and yes, your guests will thank you….

Contact Gina Baldino in Group Sales at 267-765-1111 or email gina.baldino@hershahotels.com

Starting wedding package rates at $149 single / $159 double plus applicable taxes - based upon availability.

Philadelphia has cultivated a renowned dining scene, full of distinct flavors and profound cultural influences.  Designed for guests looking to experience quality dining with a sense of culture coupled with an unbeatable atmosphere, this package features the best Philadelphia has to offer at one of the hottest spots by famed restaurateur Stephen Starr.

The Independent Philadelphia Hotel has partnered with Stephen Starr Restaurants to bring to you the most exquisite accommodations and dining experience you could imagine.  The Wine & Dine Independent Style Package starting at $179.00 single/double occupancy is inclusive of the following;

Overnight Deluxe Accommodations for Two

In-room Bottle of Wine

$50 Gift Card to be used at any one of (12) Stephen Starr Restaurants

2 p.m. Late Checkout

Visit http://www.starr-restaurant.com to select your restaurant of choice - advise us at the time of your reservation and it will be our pleasure to confirm.

Click here to make your reservation now and indulge in the best of Philadelphia Accommodations and Dining;  http://theindependenthotel.com/philadelphia/?cat=22 brought to you by the Independent Philadelphia Hotel, Philadelphia’s Premier Boutique Hotel for the Independently minded.

Join the Independent Philadelphia Hotel and Midtown Village & Washington Square Merchants for a “Sweetheart Sunday” - February 8, 2009 from noon - 6 p.m for a day of sweetheart shopping and dining specials in Midtown Village & Washington Square.  Enter to win the “My Center City Weekend” contest featuring an overnight stay at The Independent Philadelphia Hotel and one of many wonderful prizes to be given away!

The Independent Philadelphia Hotel is an official drop off location for the “My Center City Weekend” contest on February 8th from noon - 6 p.m. and will be hosting an “Open House”  offering Complimentary Refreshments and tours of Philadelphia’s “Newest” Boutique Hotel.  Plan to stop by, drop off your entry, enjoy the refreshments and meet our staff!  The Independent Philadelphia Hotel will be offering on the spot “discounts” to those that book their reservation during this time.  We look foward to “welcoming” you Independent Style on February 8th from noon - 6 p.m.! 

Please call 215-772-1440 for additional information and reservations.

A Streetcar Named Desire Through Sunday, March 1
Walnut Street Theatre
Presented by Walnut Street Theatre
Call 215-574-3550 to order
> official website

In 1947, Broadway’s hottest young writer brought his newest play to the Walnut. It was an exotic, erotic, passionate and dramatic story set in the steamy French Quarter of New Orleans. Blanche DuBois, a faded southern belle, takes us on a journey of delicate indiscretions, lost dreams and bruttish actions into her own madness, aided by her handsome, masculine brother-in-law, Stanley Kowalski.

VISITOR INFORMATION

“Scrumptious” - is what comes to mind when you think of Center City District Restaurant Week!

 Through Friday, January 30
Various Locations
Presented by Center City District
$35
buy it now!
> official website

Participating Center City restaurants offer a minimum of 3 courses for only $35† per person, and participating parking facilities offer diners discounted rates. Restaurants book up fast, so make your reservations today!

Come and dine at Center City’s fabulous restaurants throughout the year. Expect a wide variety of delicious foods from steak to sushi, Italian to Brazilian. Use the restaurant list and links to online reservation services at the official website. 

VISITOR INFORMATION

† Tax, alcohol and gratuity not included. Dinner only.