// The Cast

// adventures night life Posts

Behind the Scenes – phillyin.com Promo Video Shoot

posted by kate

posted by Kate // 2.26.10

If you dropped in to visit us before the launch, you got a peak at our promo video. Shout out to our cameraman and film editor, the multitalented, Christian Crosby. (Isn’t it amazing how it can take two days to tape and hours to edit a piece that requires only one minute and seventeen seconds to view? Ah! The joys of video…)

The shooting started early at Strongbox with a cameo by our first “In Focus” All-Stars, the Cool Kids. Then we strolled over to Denim for the filming of the “better half” of the PhillyIn Cast, yours truly and the fabulous Miss Amber-Joi. Then, as fate would have it, we were off to our first major roadblock of the day. Our next location turned out to be a no-go, for reasons beyond everybody’s control. Ok, what next?

Amber-Joi, Christian and I wandered the streets like aimless orphans, cold and hungry, trying desperately to construct a new game plan. Where is that fairy godmother? She’s never around when you need her! Our brains followed our bodies into numbness on one of the coldest days of this frigid winter. Freezing our bootys off, lugging huge bags of wardrobe and equipment around the streets of Philadelphia, we could barely think. (Oh, the sacrifices we make for our readers…by the way, did I mention that the “lesser half” of the PhillyIn Cast, ie. the boys, were still cozy and warm, swilling coffee, and wrapped around their computers. ) What had we gotten ourselves into!

Whoop! Here comes our fairy godmother now! Dear, sweet, lovable, WARM, and understanding Public House came to our rescue taking pity on the plight of two of their favorite damsels! Of course, now that the coast was clear, the boys showed up. How like the boys to arrive just in time for a hardy meal at Public House, and some dandy conversation. Christian wins the award for “Best Food Order on a Film Set” AND extra points for letting everyone have a taste (sharing is caring my friends). He got the Cookie Dough Smash! O.M.G.! This half-baked ooey-gooey cookie dough, with ultra creamy vanilla ice cream, topped with decadent hot fudge sauce was like a dream I once had (I’m a self-proclaimed cookie monster). As Rachael Ray would say, YUM-O! Now, back to work, or in Justin and Chris’s case, TO work.  

I hear Christian shout, “Take 18. Annnnnd Action.”

“Did the girls have this much trouble?” Justin asked as he and Chris stumbled over their lines again, laughing hysterically at every attempt.  ”Not at all. You guys just suck.” Christian laughed back at him from behind the camera. Somehow they made it through their lines, and we made it to the end of day 1 of shooting.

 

Next day, a Tuesday, we’re back to Strongbox to get live footage. Now THIS was a total blast! No fairy godmother required!

CHECK OUT THE BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS FROM OUR VIDEO SHOOT BELOW!!!

 

AJ’s Adventures – PhillyIn … South Florida!

posted by amber

posted by Amber-Joi // 2.24.10

I love the city of Philadelphia! But I also love leaving the city of Philadelphia! Sometimes you have to get away to realize, “there’s no place like home!” On the top of 2010’s New Years Resolutions list: TRAVEL! So I packed my bags, hopped on a plane and was off to one of my favorite destinations, Sunny South Florida.  

I always have an agenda when I set off on a trip. This trip’s agenda? Pro Bowl, Super Bowl, and avoiding the blizzard Philly was about to get slammed with! Great agenda, right? My goals? Have fun, re-connect with old friends, network with new faces, book some gigs, work out, and hit up some of the most exclusive events (oh! And get some work done too).  

I can sum it up in word one, AMAZING! I accomplished ALL of my goals! I avoided the 72 inches of snow that hit Philly while I was gone (sorry about your luck friends). I booked 2 gigs (including a feature role in a music video with European singer Taio Cruz for his song “Break Your Heart” that features rapper Ludacris). I met really great new contacts and ran into a ton of familiar faces, including quite a few very special Philly friends (who shall remain nameless). Most importantly, I attended some fabulous events; The MAXIM party, a pool party hosted by the infamous Terrell Owens, the EA sports party, Cameo hosted by Ludacris, and so on … I was having so much fun I didn’t leave for 3 weeks!!!  

My favorite event, for sure, was the EA Sports party. I went with my buddy Zo and his brother Kelenna of the Golden State Warriors (pictured) who introduced me to the lovely Tara Moore and her brother Tyler (also pictured) the daughter and son of Peter Moore, president of EA Sports.  

Now, I’m going to be honest with you. After a few days, Pro Bowl and Super Bowl parties start to seem like reruns. Each place has the same people, same music, same scene…I guess it’s hard to keep a girl-on-the-go like me entertained, even at the Super Bowl. But the EA Sports party was different! Part exclusive soiree; part arcade, now this is cool! I can appreciate a classy event with a twist! 

The party was outside at the Clevelander with lavish lighting, a great DJ, a warm breeze and did I mention NFL players challenging each other to video games? Plus there was some fabulous food and, JACKPOT, an open Bar!  

One of the coolest parts of the night was the Madden Bowl, played by the NFL’s top athletes. I wish I could tell you who won, but I stopped paying attention. Sorry folks, I got d.i.s.t.r.a.c.t.e.d. … O.M.G. …  Its Him … HE’S HERE!!??!!

Basically, this trip to South Florida was poppin’! Looking forward to hearing more about my next trip? Stay tuned for more of AJ’s Adventures…  and if your interested in connecting with my buddies Zo, Kelenna, and Tara follow them on Twitter.

www.twitter.com/crossover524

www.twitter.com/KAzubuike7

www.twitter.com/mstmoore

And me too! www.twitter.com/missamberjoi ;-)

P.S. Shout out the 2010 Pro Bowl Players from the Philadelphia Eagles!  

2010 Pro Bowl Players

David Akers (Fourth pro bowl) – Kicker

Trent Cole (Second pro bowl) – Defensive End

DeSean Jackson (First pro bowl) – Wide Receiver & Kick Returner

Jason Peters (Third pro bowl) – Offensive Tackle

Asante Samuel (Third pro bowl) – Cornerback

Leonard Weaver (First pro bowl) – Fullback

Oh! And lastly… Here’s that video I was telling you about . Check out my cameo with Taio and Ludacris in the nightclub scene.

 

Questions to the Editor:

posted by kate

posted by Kate // 2.24.10

What is phillyin.com?

Phillyin.com is an interactive website providing stories, interviews, advice, photos and reviews through the eyes and ears of The Cast. It’s a fresh, young, energetic and innovative resource for Philadelphians, average age 18-40, who want to be “in-the-know” and experience all that Philadelphia has to offer.

Phillyin.com will also introduce you to Philly’s VIPs. We want you to get to know the people who “Run This Town.”

Are you an online reality show?

I can see where you might think so. In the “Talk of Philly” you’ll hear four very different voices. (We have no single point of view on anything.) Meet The Cast, interact, read their thoughts and learn about what’s “hot” in Philly. Justin – Frat-boy turned Entrepreneur, Amber-Joi – Bold, Bright, “Female Version of a Hustler,” Kate-Girl-Next-Door with a Little Bit More, and Chris – The Strong Silent Skillful type (it’s always the quiet one’s you have to look out for). The “reality” aspect is what sets PhillyIn apart. Though, unlike reality TV, you won’t be seeing the end of any of Justin’s dates, thank god. The “Talk” is part info; part opinion; but ALL FUN!!! 

So, what’s all this other stuff going on?

Ok, here’s the scoop on our special features:

In Focus:Our once-a-month interview with Philadelphians you NEED to know to be IN.

In Your Neighborhood: Another monthly feature on the IN’s and outs of a special part of town. Learn about the businesses, boutiques, restaurants, bars, culture and lifestyle that make this neighborhood unique.

In Style: Rep’ Philly in these soon-to-come Philly Fashions! Show your neighborhood pride IN very special “In Your Neighborhood” tees. Coming soon: Northern Liberties.

In Events: PhillyIn will post photos, and video from PhillyIn events. Also, get invites to parties we host and make sure to GETIN.

Amber-Joi’s really cute, is she single?

She is (that’s right fella’s). But MUCH more important, ladies, she’s giving out dating advice for singles in her on-going column, “All The Single Ladies,” Email her your questions at askaj@phillyin.com !

I read CEO and Founder Justin’s bio, he seems to think he’s the “ish”?

I’ll let Justin answer that one, “I am.”

Does Chris actually exist or is he a figment of PhillyIn’s imagination? Has anyone seen him?

Chris is the guts of the phillyin.com website. Actually, none of us are sure he ever sleeps. He may seem mysterious at the moment, but you can look forward to hearing more from him once the site is completely set and running smoothly.

Where did Kate get her LOVE ring? I want one too!

Shhh! It’s a secret. They’re trying to get it out of me. If they succeed, you’ll be the first to know.

What’s Students Run Philly Style?

Students Run Philly Style is an energetic and worthy charity that phillyin.com loves! They are the ONLY program in Philadelphia that offers marathon training and mentoring to help students imagine and accomplish goals beyond their dreams, like the completion of a marathon (or completion of a website). Oh! And to get an “I run this city” tee-shirt, contact them. For more info check out: www.studentsrunphilly.org

Steve Boyle’s pictures are AMAZING! How do I hire him?

We agree! Check him out at www.steveboylephoto.com or click his link on our page. Tell him PhillyIn sent you, and pay him lots of money, he’s worth every penny!

Who’s this Christian Crosby fellow?

We call him our “Swiss Army Knife.” This kid does it all! He’s an entertainer, a musician, a producer, a writer, a dancer, an emcee, as well as our videographer/film editor. Basically, he’s the man! (Unfortunately, he knows it.) He’s part of the PhillyIn family and will be featured in many of The Cast’s various adventures. Interested in hiring Christian as a producer, a writer, a dancer, an emcee, videographer or film editor? Contact Us.  And pay him lots of money too! Stay tuned for more from Christian.

Will you post my party?

Phillyin.com is not a party promotion site. BUT if you have something going on that we think our readers genuinely need to hear about, we’ll consider mentioning it.

However, for party promotions, go check out our friends at www.philly2night.com Philly’s nightlife and events resource.

Will you cover or attend my event?

The Cast is constantly looking for material for “Talk of Philly” articles, so please let us know if you have a special event that we should cover.

If you’re crazy enough to be interested in hiring The Cast to host your upcoming party (and we’re not talking bar mitzvah or baby showers) feel free to Contact Us.

How do I GETIN?

Follow the “JOIN” link at the bottom of our page to be in with the “In Crowd.” Stay tuned for more opportunities to interact and GETIN.

How does my business GETIN?

ADVERTISEMENTS: Our love can’t be bought, but advertising real estate can be! Just click “Advertise on phillyin.com” to reach Philly’s “In Crowd.”

 REVIEWS: There is also a monthly opportunity for businesses to be reviewed for our “In Your Neighborhood” section. If we’re impressed, you’re sure to get a mention. Shout out to Manayunk businesses! We’re coming there next! To be reviewed Contact Us.

WARDROBE: We heart Philly Fashion and we have needs! If you can provide us wardrobe for events, we will in turn wear and promote, provide pics if you choose, list them in “The Talk” and link to your store. DRESS US PLEASE! Contact Us.

When’s my In Focus interview?

Keep in mind this is a once-a-month feature. Spots are extremely limited, soooo it may take awhile to get to you. Be patient and continue reading phillyin.com daily! If you’re not so patient, we may still have room for you in “The Talk.”

I’m a musician/photographer/videographer, how can I help?

We are looking for original music by Philly musicians for video content, and pictures and videos from Philly shutterbugs to capture our adventures for the site. You help us, we’ll try to help you. Please Contact Us if you’re interested.

Can I Tweet you? Can I friend you?

Of course! www.twitter.com/phillyin

Become a fan of PhillyIn™ @www.facebook.com/phillyin

Follow us @ www.myspace.com/phillyin

 I still don’t get it?

That’s ok. Keep checking back get to know The Cast better. Keep up-to-date with new content. Don’t worry, you’ll GETIN.

 

Chestnut Takes You In, Walnut Takes You Out

posted by kate

posted by Kate // 2.22.10

“But, I don’t know how to drive in the city!” I exclaimed.  I’m on the phone with my friend Rachel S.; former suburban neighbor; transformed into stylish, hip, and “total-in-the-know” Philadelphian.  “Omg Katie, it’s so easy!  It’s just a straight shot all the way.”  With cell tucked between shoulder and ear, I’m trying to put on my eyeliner; playing the careful balancing act of holding the phone and drawing a straight line.

“Katie, seriously, stop being a baby.  It couldn’t be simpler.”  “Which tree is it again?” I ask.  “Chestnut!  Just always remember – Chestnut takes you in; Walnut takes you out.”  “Well what if . . . dangit!,” black liner on my cheek, phone on the ground, followed by my purse tumbling to the ground, spilling the contents of my life all over the floor.  Resigned to doing one thing well, I pick up the phone, “Sorry.  Well, what if I have to :::gasp::: parallel park?”  “Katie, you’re gonna have to learn sometime!”

“Ok, ok. Chestnut in, Walnut out; Chestnut in, Walnut out” – I mutter, look at my newly minted license – “Gotta learn sometime.” – I’m off and running.

Of course, Rachel was right.  H-town to Center City is basically one straight shot into the heart of Philly.  I can’t remember if I actually had to parallel park that day; or, frankly, where we went.  But, I remember that I drove victoriously into and out of the city that day for the very first time – by myself – without getting lost – and was damn proud of it.

That summer was a summer of exploration, during which I proceeded to get lost countless times.  (Even with fearless leader, Rachel, riding shotgun.)  “We’re not lost.  We’re just turned around.  Go the other way.  Uh Oh.  That wasn’t right either.  Let’s do it again.”  I came to understand, that you’re never really lost for long in Philly.  It’s all part of the adventure. 

Of course, I’ll admit, the one-ways can be a nuisance.  And, despite Billy Penn’s inventive grid of Trees and Numbers, there are always a few exceptions to test your mettle – like the Parkway, or the dead end at Spruce.  Why, if you’re lucky, you might even, as I did, get lost under the Post Office and 30th Street Station.  (which I still think was a parallel dimension)  But, whenever I got rattled, out came my mantra – “Chestnut takes you in; Walnut takes you out.” – And, my perspective got set again.

I’ll admit that it wasn’t until after securing my job, that I realized just how valuable an asset my new perspective would be.  Now, however, after years of personal appearances and special events all over the city, I feel like a true Philly girl. And, I can pin-point the exact time the whole city-adventure-directional-karma came together for me.  I was a “freshman” dancer headed for an appearance somewhere on North Broad.  I came to City Hall – Had to choose a direction – Chose one like someone might choose the next step of a “create-your-own-adventure” book – And, before long, saw cars parked in the middle of the street, double parked, and pointing in all manner of direction.  “Wait a minute. . . No one parks like this . . . This has to be South Philly!  I’m on South Broad.”  I spun on a dime – after all, it was South Philly – and made it to my appearance with time to spare, despite my original error.   Ecstasy – Triumph – Invincibility – I was actually beginning to know my way around this town.  I wasn’t merely in the city now; I was PhillyIn!

Here we are 5 years later, and few can claim to know the highways, byways and neighborhoods of Philly better than this former confessed “scare-dy cat” and “country mouse.”  Yes, Yes, I know that driving Chestnut can be like playing a video game – dodging potholes and turning cars, doing the double-parked tango, all the while trying to “Be One” with its carefully-timed traffic-lights.  And, I know that 76 is always a crap-shoot, with traffic that can jam at 3:00 in the AM.  And, Market and Broad are no synch either.  But, look at it this way.  You usually have to “pay-to-play” for the video game fun, and this fun is free – or rather “free-for-all.” 

And, here I am, a parallel-parking PRO!  (Ok.  Maybe not so much a pro – but, — like the Beatles say – “I’m getting better all the time!” – And I’m not afraid to try.)  My directional mantra has set me for life.  If I can do it, you can too.  Be brave.  Discover!  Repeat after me – “Chestnut takes you in; Walnut takes you out.”

The city is where everything happens.  I work, eat and play in Philadelphia, and sleep at home (when I’m not “crashing” at one of my “oh-so-lovely-city-friends’” digs).  But, my real life is here, and Chestnut takes me to it.  Maybe, some day soon, I’ll dispense with Walnut altogether.  It’s my life – and now that I’m PhillyIn, I don’t need directions for it.  I’m Kate – Nice to meet you Philly!

 

The First Date … Do’s & Don’ts!

posted by amber

posted by Amber-Joi // 2.21.10

Hey Ladies, have a hot date coming up? Check out these Great First Date Spots… and let me know how it goes.

  1. Dinner – Always a classic. Dinner is the simple way to get to know someone while enjoying a great (and hopefully free) meal. Bonus, you get to check out his manners. Does he chew with his mouth open? Is he a good tipper? Is he checking out the hot waitress right in front of you? Some of my favorite Philly dinner places are Continental Midtown, The Waterworks and Solaris Grille (hint, hint…).
  2. Gameworks (The Plymouth Meeting Location is nice!) – What better way to break the ice than spanking your date in a game of air hockey? And brownie points for him if he can win you the biggest souvenir from the prize shop to remember the night forever.
  3. The Philadelphia Zoo – If you can get past the stench it’s surprisingly fun and educational too! How about a romantic ride on the Zoo balloon? Don’t be surprised if the tigers inspire your animalistic desires. Grrr…….. Note: If he asks to get his face painted, leave him in the cage with the monkeys.
  4.  Eagles/ Flyers/ Phillies/ or Sixers Games … as long as you don’t have a history with any of the players.
  5. Lucky Strike/ North Bowl - Ladies, I know the shoes are hideous…but this is a great way to get a sneak peek at what he’s working with from behind ;-)

Oh! And please avoid these Worst First Date Spots…

  1. His house/ Your house – Don’t let him fool you, this is a rookie mistake. Trust me.
  2. The movies – How are you going to get to know each other in a dark crowded theater where you can’t even talk? Save this for date 5, if you get that far, I usually don’t. (which explains why I haven’t been to the movies since the summer of 2009)
  3. Nightclub – Way too many distractions and if he dances anything like the last guy I went out with, this nightclub date will turn into a comedy show. Guys, don’t drink and dance on a first date.
  4. Chili’s, Friday’s, Applebee’s, or Red Lobster –Franchise restaurants are fine for grubbing with boyfriends, but please, show some respect by putting at least a little thought into your restaurant selection. At least on the first date.
  5. The Mall- Unless he’s a baller who’s going to treat you to a shopping spree, the mall is pretty much the lamest spot for a date- EVER! (Actually…if you are, indeed, a baller this could be the BEST date ever!!! Call me.

Shout out to Ankit for the bowling suggestion.

 

All My Single Ladies!!!

posted by amber

posted by Amber-Joi // 2.21.10

Hey ladies.  I’m always trying to grow as a person by identifying my strengths and weaknesses and defining my goals and passions. In this process, I came to the realization that one thing I’m great at, I mean REALLY great at, is being SINGLE. Now, I can’t take all the credit for this wonderful talent. I owe some of my expertise to the single men of Philly. Special thanks fellas, for doing what you do … which is all wrong.

But I digress, the focus of this ongoing column is being a single lady in the “City of Brotherly Love”. As an “Expert Single” I’m going to share my experiences with you all and listen to YOUR experiences too. Need advice on fun activities for single ladies, dating, or taking the next step (and I’m referring to leaving him, not getting married!)? I’m here for you, let’s go ladies!

Oh and just to clarify, I have the utmost respect for genuine love and meaningful relationships with the opposite sex and I think there is nothing that compares in this world. However, this forum is for those of us who don’t have that blessing… at the moment.

Hey Ladies, I received my first question.  Here it goes…

Q: Dear Amber-Joi, ive been dating this guy off and on for a year and half.  he has a girlfriend. and while i always said i would never be the other woman, things happened.  I really like him now.

Sincerely,

confused and in need of direction

A:  This is a simple one. Everything about this situation is dead wrong. I don’t know anything about you and I still KNOW you can do better.  Forget this man ever existed. Period. Next question please!

Single ladies, have questions? Please send them to: Contact Us

Message Line “ All My Single Ladies”.

Can’t wait to hear from you… ASK AJ!!!

Image courtesy of Dancer/ Model/ Good Friend @KimmeGeeDotCom