Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Faunal Fury Forges Feud for House of TNT

"An Englishman's home is his castle." Though no Englishman resides in the house of Ted, Nick, and TR, (the dynamite triumvirate henceforth known as TNT) we regard our domicile as a king would his castle. Due to recent events, our apartment seems to have become a breeding ground of unwanted animal activity. No, not literally animals breeding, but strange occurrences and uncharacteristic boldness of local creatures.

The first event went down a few weeks ago. During the heat of late July and a solitary fit of ennui from our then house guest Laura, a batch of brownies found themselves freshly made and placed on the counter to await dreaded consumption. I was away that afternoon, but returned to a pan of shredded brownies in the sink and a chewed screen in the kitchen window. To my understanding, a big-ass squirrel had the nerve to chew a hole through our screen and romp around in our brownie pan! It was a huge corralling effort on behalf of our roommates but it ran out through the door in the end.

Eventually other creatures like ants started appearing around our kitchen sink, stealing crumbs. We noticed a hive of wasps above one of our windows. These little friends of ours like to hang out with us on our porch and fly into our packets of hot dogs yet to be grilled, and then into the grill itself.

A couple weeks later, Ted and TR returned from a clam bake in Rhode Island bringing with them all the leftovers, bags of cookies (chocolate chip and Heath) that TR's mother baked for us. The morning after theei return, I found a shredded plastic bag of the chocolate chip cookies in the sink and a trail of crumbs leading to the window where the hole that was there before now was double in size. TWO BATCHES OF FRESH BAKED GOODS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED. That squirrel dared to do it again. I saw him, the fat little tard on the fence looking into the kitchen, wondering when I would leave so it can chew its way in again and leave me a pellet of gratitude.

Damn squirrels.

The next day was another strange occurrence. I was leaving the apartment to go back to work when I saw, on our porch, two creatures parting ways. The larger one flew away across the street and the smaller one fell straight to the floor.





A hawk had killed and beheaded a pigeon on our front porch. The feathers from the incident were all over the floor, on our furniture and stuck to little niblets of bird offal hear and there. I, of course, had to go to work but I made sure I got proof of the carnage that happened on our porch. Ted was the first to return home to all of the mess.

Yes...our windows in the kitchen are now kept closed with now air passing through. Yes...we now have 3 ant hotels around our sink, our porch is equipped with wasp killer, and yes...we're hoping that the next hawk victim on our porch is a cute, fat, innocent little squirrel. But we will not live in fear of animals taking over our home.

We are ready for the next crazy occurrence, in fact we invite you animals, but just remember, if you mess with TNT, you get...exploded!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Things I'm Diggin

TV....GCI's own John Zaffino has been praising the tv show BURN NOTICE for quite some time now and recently I was able to see why. This is a kick-ass show, with an engaging plot, enough action, sex, and comedy, and very watchable actors. My wife and I got our hands on the first season and watched it all in one week. With all the crap tv that happens during the summer, I highly recommend you get your meat hooks on BURN NOTICE.

BOOKS....I'm sure many people have read "Angela's Ashes" by Frank McCourt, but let me tell you his younger brother Malachy also scribbled out a memoir called "A Monk Swimming" which is a fantastic read. Frank's book was great, but younger bro has more humor, funnier/wilder stories, and writes like no one else you have ever read. Plus he is Irish...enough said.

HANG-OUTS....I am one of those people who loves sittin back on a front porch and doin whatevs, so I've been basking in the funky glow on the front porch of GCI cast memebers Ted, Nick, and TR's apartment. It's the place to be for PBR, cigars, and grilled meats.

-LIAM

WORLD OF BOOM


This week's installment of World of Boom features the most deadly of all forms of combustion - the verbal explosion. Watch as this biker gets NAILED by a passing car and recovers with freakish, Wolverine-like swiftness to launch his linguistic counter-attack. Really? Not even a brief pause to check you still have all your fleshy bits? Nope, this dude is a-oh-kay, and is awarded the World of Boom Iron Pentacle of Fortitude.

Sunday, August 23, 2009



Big GCI News! John got married this weekend!!

We all attended the grand gala and it was just as great as I thought it would be!
At dinner, our lovely friend Alyssa noticed that we all wore a different color of the rainbow!What group mind. No one wore the same color and together we represented something rare and beautiful. *tear* I love you guys.

Congratulations John!!!!

<3 Corinne

Friday, August 21, 2009

Working out pays off.

Did you know in the early morning MTV actually shows videos??? During an unusually motivated morning work out this came on my TV and I fell in love. It was like the Gods were rewarding me for getting my booty out of bed and to the gym. I love the imagery and the fly beats. Hope you do too. <3 Corinne

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

The BBC on Zombies...

Posted on the Science section of the BBC website is the following article entitled: "Science Ponders 'zombie attack'"

In the article, Canadian researchers contemplated the possibility of a world-wide zombie attack, and asked the question: could humankind survive? The conclusion was a resounding "eh, maybe?"

As one reads further into the article it is possible to become even less confident in the potential survival of humankind. Apparently, Canadian researchers only considered "classic" zombies in their study... So, if our chances are slim for quelling a force of sloth-like, brain-less goons, it would seem that if the zombies moved any quicker then a slow walk we're screwed.

However, do not fear as there are several parts of this study that should just not be trusted. (1) First, the lead mathematician is a man named Robert Smith?. Don't trust this man, he has a question mark at the end of his name. (2) Second, the outcomes were created numerically... numerically?! People are NOT numbers! Come on, Robert Smith?. (3) Thirdly, Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the leaders in controlling swine flu in London, isn't worried. If he's not worried, I'm not worried. For all we know, swine flu might be the beginnings of a zombie pandemic.

The real question is where does human compassion come into play. According to the mathematical exercise in Canada; if Zombies attack, then you must kill them... IMMEDIATELY! But logic and numbers mean nothing when you're face to face with this...

Could you kill such a beautiful angel?! I sure couldn't. I wouldn't harm a hair on his perfectly sculpted physique, even if he was ripping my arm off. So, after doing my own study on the human condition, I conclude that the only way humans have any chance of surviving a zombie attack... is if only ugly people become zombies. Here's to hoping.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Weather Report From Ted

It's really hot out. The sun hurts my overtly Irish, mildly Mediterranean skin. It's difficult to stay positive in such conditions. It's hard to type with no air-conditioning. Damn you August. You and your no holidays...

Monday, August 10, 2009

JZ presents two things that are inherently good:

Water-slides and Huey Lewis and the News.... just puttin' that out there.

Monday, August 03, 2009

Enter the World of Boom



Hey, 'splosion fans, Chris here. My previous post, 'Chris Likes Stupid Guns' got me thinking. And by thinking I mean, trolling Youtube for footage of explosions. With that in mind, I'm proud to present World of Boom, a hopefully regular article, featuring some form of ridiculous gun, jet, explosion or other example of sharp bits of metal moving really fast. Why does the world need such an article, you ask? I think it was Swedish crooners Roxette who first instructed us to 'Listen to Your Heart'. And wouldn't you know it, your heart goes boom!

Today's video: three Panavier Tornado jets perform an ultra-low flyby at an air show. Pilot #3 wins the coveted World of Boom Award For Crazy.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

T.R. misplaces napkin; totally misses "Awesome Party"



I was recently cleaning out my desk and came across this crumpled up cocktail napkin jammed way back in the left-hand desk drawer. Ordinarily, finding trash stockpiled under/in/around various areas that I occupy is nothing to warrant any cause for concern or alarm UNLESS said trash contains secret information and/or important reminders for extravagant social goings-on!!

Much to my horror, this particular cocktail napkin had been inscribed (by my own unmistakable scrawl) with all the necessary logistics required for attendance...FILING SYSTEM FAIL. Friends, I have discovered something else in my left-hand desk drawer today - shame. And remorse. And broken dreams. And a fancy belt and cuff links (just in case).

You may have been at that Awesome Party Michele with one "L", but sadly, I wasn't, and all I have left is a crumpled up reminder of a good time that I never had, but might still be able to if I can just work out some kinks in that infernal time machine.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Chris likes Stupid Guns

While I consider myself both an artist and an enlightened 21st Century man, I can't deny that when I see a big explosion, a jet breaking the sound barrier, or a big gun going 'bang!' I get very excited. With that in mind, allow me to present this complication of various people attempting to fire the preposterous ".577 T-Rex" rifle, a firearm seemingly designed expressly for separating the men from the boys. Just looking at the damn thing makes me weep with effete inadequacy. Think you could do better? Well, good for you, Chuck Norris.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Desensitized to violence.



Hello! It's me, Corinne,here with yet another way Geva Comedy Improv has changed my life. I grew up as an only child and now its as if I have 7 older brothers to educate me on everything I missed growing up.

"You don't know every line in Star Wars? You wouldn't Corinne..."

"Uh, Corinne, Zombies want to eat your brains, the fact that they tear the rest of you apart is only a side effect of trying to get to your brain...duh. Why wouldn't you know that? You're such a girl..."

"And then she said...Oh Corinne, stop covering your ears, the rest of the joke isn't that bad!"

Since joining the troupe I have a new found likeness for: violence in films, zombies, George Lucas, bacon, politically incorrect jokes, and offering "the female perspective" whenever I can. So, all in all, this experience has enhanced my life in many ways, and as a way to give back (and also try and one up the boys on addictive internet games) I give you this: I ninja rampage game where you kill giant like zombies with a sword. There's no way you can resist this game folks. Seeing the blood shed makes me smile. I hope you feel the love too.
http://www.ninjakiwi.com/Games/Action/Play/Shadow_Brute.html

A money saving, liver ruining tip from your freinds at GCI.

Hey, John here. I just got back from a trip to Las Vegas Nevada last weekend, and have a piece of wisdom to impart to anybody planning a trip there. Now, as you know, Vegas is for people who like to party. And by party I mean engage in any type of vice yet imagined by man. From slot-machines to gun-play to anything remotely involving boobs, Vegas has you covered. No doubt when you get to LV you'll be eager to do some partying whatever your particular brand is. It is because of this partying that planning is necessary.

The gist or thesis of what I'm driving at here is don't schedule a 3 day trip to Vegas. Let me explain why: you're gonna get there Friday night juiced to get off that plane and start partying, and party you will. Friday night you will take it out and chop it up. You will wake up Saturday and start recovering, spending most of the day nursing your wounds. Then, on Saturday night, just as the horse tranquilizers are wearing off and the penicillin is kicking in, it's time to party again. Saturday partying will be a whole 'nother level of defiling yourself. Like whoa, you'll discover sins that creep the devil out, and that's OK....that's part of the process. Sunday, however, will then be a wash. between the two hours sleep you got before, the time spent ditching the Federales, and figuring out what kind of meat you have 90 pounds of in the trunk of your rented car; there are just some thing pepto-bizmol can't fix. This means that you will pay for a hotel room on Sunday that you only use to sit in as you eat burritos and gently weep to yourself about what you've done. Best bet is get a room for two or four nights, as night three is gonna be a wash.

Friday, July 17, 2009

GCI in Insider Magazine

Rochester Insider Magazine picks up the TV On Stage shows. Click to read the article. Huzzah!

Thursday, July 16, 2009

GCI Proclaimed "Idiot Box Laureate"

In recognition of their forthcoming season-ending, face-meltingly hilarious TV On Stage shows, Geva Comedy Improv has been awarded the prestigious title of "Idiot Box Laureate" by the Federal Communications Commission.

A press release issued by the FCC marks the occasion:
"The Federal Communications Commission is keenly aware of the pathologically-obsessive television viewing by the GCI cast. These guys watch way, way more television than can possibly be healthy. In fact, we estimate that their brains have been irreversibly irradiated from years and years of boob-tubing. One cast member watched the first season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer over 200 times! These guys are heroes of voyeurism, and we are awed and terrified by them. Bravo!"

Geva Comedy Improv spokesperson Chris Holden commented on the award, saying "Blurgh.....TV Good. ...me likem watch......HAHAH HA HAH.....funny TV .....ha...er...AH... AHHHHHH... EEEEEEEEEEE ....BAD TV!..... Buffy scare me lot..."

Join Geva Comedy Improv for TV On Stage Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 16-18.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

More Bars in More Places

Hello Everyone,

Nick here. If your wondering why you haven't seen or heard from me much lately, the answer is im in England! Its true, but as you know, its virtually impossible to find an internet connection in England, let alone a cell phone signal. So to bypass the anguish that I would have inevitably gone through just to get a signal in London, I declined from getting a phone for my time here.

However, I am currently traveling in a small and quite quaint town called Bakewell, famed for their tarts and I found one. I found a signal and thought I should let everyone know that up-to-date technology exists in the "Dead Zone" of England. What is funny and not widely known is that the signal that I picked up has been broadcasting for nearly 600 to 700 years. I was lucky enough to have found these very old bars in this very place!


Unfortunately I have not been able to find many more bars in this barren of communication technology wasteland that is Great Britain!

Wednesday, July 08, 2009

IMPROV WORKSHOPS

SUMMER IMPROV BOOTCAMP!

TUESDAY EVENINGS 6:30 – 8:30 PM
July 14th – August 25th

Geva Comedy Improv announces 7 week instructional courses on improvisation for ages 16 and up. There is no prior experience necessary and classes will be taught according to experience and skill level.

Course tuition is $175.00 for the full 7 weeks. The classes will be taught by current Geva Comedy Improv cast members and will be held at Geva Theatre Center on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM starting July 14 and running through August 25 with a special showcase performance to be held on Thursday August 27th.

For more information or to register, contact Tim Ryan at tryan@gevatheatre.org or by calling (585) 232-1366 ext 3049.

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Jason Statham: Money well spent

This weekend my wife and I were finishing up our Sunday grocery trip to Wegmans and she informed me she was going to check out the make-up aisle, thus leaving me to peruse the bargain bins. Right infront of the check out aisle at the Pittsford Weggies are bins of good deals. Toothbrushes for $1.00, Speed stick for $1.00, and DVD's for $5.00...I think to myself "I don't need these items, but I at these low-low prices, I can't afford NOT to buy them."

The bargain bins of DVD's were slim pickens. I was on the fence with two titles, weighing the pros and cons of purchase, when I saw a sure thing. I didn't hesitate. In fact as I snagged the DVD of the shelf I said "Sold." out load. What was this sure bet DVD? Why, it was "War" starring Jet Li and Jason Statham. According to the tag line one of them wants justice and the other wants revenge. I don't know who wants what, and frankly I don't care. What care is that it's a Jason Statham movie for $5.00.

Statham is one bad motha. For the most part his movies are solid and highly entertaining, and you always get your moneys worth. When you rented "Death Race" you knew EXACTLY what you were going to see: a bunch of stuff exploding, a** kicking, and a couple of funny lines, and he is going to do it rather well.

I'm not saying he is a better actor than Sean Penn, or that the "Transporter" trilogy is on par with "The Godfather." However you know he is going to beat up more guys than there are in The Streets of Rage. What I am saying is, if I have $5.00 to buy a movie, and my choices are "War" or "Sideways?" Leave the wine, give me a six pack and I'm going to war.

My Top Five Jason Statham Movies (starring roles only, sorry "Lock Stock" and "Italian Job")

5.) Transporter 2
4.) Death Race
3.) Transporter
2.) The Bank Job
1.) Snatch

Ask a Guy who took a Workshop.

When Tony signed up for our Improv Summer Boot Camp for the second consecutive year, we knew something had to be up. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Tony and ask him the hard questions.

GCI: Thanks for meeting us Tony. So why did you sign up for a Geva Comedy Improv workshop in the first place?
Tony: I thought it would be an interesting experience. I had never been on stage before outside of a brief appearance during a Tom Sawyer play during grade school. I didn't really like that experience, and figured it would be more fun to be an a**.
GCI: What was the best thing about the workshop last summer?
Tony: I really enjoyed the variety of activities. They tried to teach us so many things to do, and we couldn't even do them all. So many fun games I never would have thought of.
GCI: What was the worst thing about the workshop last summer?
Tony: The day that Ted was there.
GCI: Why on Earth would you sign up for it a second time?
Tony: Why not? It's cheaper than a vacation. It also gives you something to look forward to in a bleak and otherwise pointless existence.
GCI: What do you want to do differently this summer?
Tony: I want to get more people to the final show. It was a blast last year and I hope more people can see it. Also, I want to play some more Samurai Energy Throw.
GCI: What advice would you give to someone who taking the workshop for the first time?
Tony: I would say swallow your pride and avoid creepy eye contact with Liam. Also try not to have "delirium tremors" like Tom Hanks did in Saving Private Ryan. He was an alcoholic in that movie.
GCI: Tom Hanks? Really? In real life?
Tony: No, in the movie.
GCI: No he wasn't, not in Forrest Gump.
Tony: He was just dumb in Forrest Gump, his mother was the drunk in that one.
GCI: Oh okay, thanks Tony (sips from Giant Coffee)

Come ride and the Babemobile this summer.