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

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.