Local Humor

Chestnut Hill Local columnists Mike Todd, Janet Gilmore, Hugh Gilmore, and Jim Harris, (L-R), have not only survived in the troubled and struggling newspaper business, they have amassed a devoted following of fans who shower them with lavish presents like scrapple, bowling balls, and money from Nigerian bank accounts.

Until recently, their columns were available only to the readers of the Local, but now you, too, can "LOL" as:

• Hugh warns of the "Enemies of Reading"


• Janet remembers old friends, old flames and ex-coworkers


• Mike deals with wrens, ferrets, and a pregnant wife in his house


• Jim dispenses dubious advice and rails against the system

They each have their own style and shtick, but they share a love of language and an innate ability to find the humor in everyday life. Not since Ben Franklin dined alone at the Mermaid Inn has Chestnut Hill seen such a concentration of comedic talent.

Here, from among their hundreds of articles, hand-picked by a rigorous process of "One potato, two potato," is a rollicking roundup of mirthful monologues for your gracious consideration.