Feature Details
- Frequency: 1/wk
- Release date: Tuesdays
- Moves with art: No
- Moves with multimedia: No
- Available: International, U.S. & Canada
Humor Hotel
No fancy doorman, no mints on pillows or gold seals on the toilet paper … only guaranteed entertainment from three talented “Hotel” guests: actress Diane Farr; columnist Mark Bazer; and standup comedian Greg Schwem.
For something completely unique on the humor scene, TMS’ Humor Hotel each week plays host to one of these talked-about writers. Their 600-word columns rotate through the package on a monthly basis, covering pop culture, current events, relationships, the workplace, personal narratives and some out-of-the-blue takes on contemporary society. They’ll make a four-star connection with readers navigating the vagaries and absurdities of day-to-day life.
Diane Farr: Best known for her appearances on TV’s “Californication,” “Numb3rs” and “Rescue Me,” Farr is also the author of the best seller “The Girl Code” and writes for many national magazines, including Mademoiselle, Marie Claire and GQ.
Mark Bazer: A nationally syndicated columnist who examines cultural trends, politics and the eccentricities of family life with a dry wit and unexpected perspective, Bazer also hosts Chicago’s popular live “The Interview Show” and guest hosts on WGN radio.
Greg Schwem: Greg Schwem is a husband, father and veteran standup comedian who specializes in finding funniness in how we cope with technology and the stresses of modern life. He frequently performs his show, “Comedy With a Byte,” for Fortune 500 companies, and recently published a book, “Text Me if You’re Breathing: Observations, Frustrations and Life Lessons From a Low-Tech Dad.”
Humor Hotel Samples
Greg Schwem: When seeking knowledge, look no further than YouTube
An ominous gurgling emanated from the toilet, which meant I had only minutes to act before water and Lord-only-knows-what-else cascaded over the bowl and onto the floor. Call a plumber? Log on to YouTube?
Greg Schwem: Starbucks children: One shot chocolate, one shot annoying
The Starbucks was buzzing, which was to be expected considering it was just after 8:30 a.m. Still, the line moved swiftly, and within moments, the only customers ahead of me were a woman and her preschool-aged son.
Greg Schwem: Standup comedy is not welcome here
I am issuing a challenge to our nation's standup comedians. Make somebody laugh in Lamaze class. I'm a standup comedian by trade and, like others with the same vocation, I pride myself on the ability to get chuckles in the unlikeliest of venues.
Greg Schwem: The clothes iron: Our tech-savvy world's most neglected device
My room contained everything one would expect in a five-star property: terrycloth robes emblazoned with the hotel's logo, slippers precisely placed at the foot of the bed and enough fluffy towels to dry all exposed body parts individually, if that...
Greg Schwem: Rules of the road from the DOD (Department of Dad)
I have dreaded this day ever since she got her driver's permit.
Greg Schwem: Just because I'm wearing a suit doesn't mean I work here
I strode through the hotel lobby in a black, sharply tailored Hugo Boss suit. "Sir?" I turned to see a middle-aged woman quickly approaching. "Yes?" "Where are the restrooms?"
Licensing and Reprints
TMS Licensing: We license popular cartoon characters, puzzles and content from renowned creators for print, interactive, TV and film, mobile and board games. TMS also licenses unique commentary in politics, travel, health, business and other categories.
TMS reprints: We grant websites, newsletters, books and other publications permission to reprint any of the 150-plus columns, cartoons, magazine articles, photos and graphics found in our catalog. This content also can be used in corporate communications and training materials.