Friday, December 19, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) How deep is Utah's Salt Lake?

2) On this date in 1973, Johnny Carson told a joke which accidentally created a panic. Fearing a certain item would be scarce (thanks to the joke), people started buying up this item in great amounts. What was it?

Answers:

1) Only 13 feet deep

2) Toilet paper

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q:On Dec, 18, 1865 the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified. What did it do?
A: It abolished slavery

Q: What was was Stephen Speilberg's first directing job?
A: The TV pilot: "Night Gallery" in 1969

Q: According to USA Today, what do more American moms say they need most of?
A: 32% say more time in the day; 27% say more patience; 15% say more money; 15% say more respect

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1936, he was hailed as England's answer to Elvis. Who was he?

2) What was the first song to reach #1 on Pop, Country and Western, and Rhythm and Blues charts?

3) On this date in 1969, an estimated 50 million viewers watched Herbert Buchingham Khaury marry Victoria Budinger on the Tonight Show. We know the couple better as:

Answers:

1) Tommy Steele

2) "Blue Suede Shoes"

3) Tiny Tim and Miss Vicky

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What were Dorothy's slippers made of in the original Wizard of Oz book?
A: Silver

Q: Beethoven was born in Bonn, Germany, on this date in 1770. When composing, to excite his brain, what did Beethoven always do?
A: Poured ice water over his head

Q: Who was the first NFL back to rush 2,000 yards in a season?
Q: O.J. Simpson Dec 16, 1973

Monday, December 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Walt Disney died this date in 1966. He holds the record for having won the most Academy Awards. How many altogether, including the one awarded posthumously, did he win?

2) According to recent world travel statistics, which country attracts the most visitors?

Answers:

1) 26

2) France

Friday, December 12, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who has the distinction of being the most portrayed fictional character in film?
A: Sherlock Holmes

Q: According to the Mayo Health Clinic Letter, which Christmas tree has the strongest smell and might trigger allergy-like reactions inside a home?
A: Spruce

Q: Who was the first artist to record for Capitol Records?
A: Tex Ritter

Q: What country has made Space Tourism available to the upper classes?
A: Russia

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1926, Willie Mae - "Big Mama" - Thornton recorded a song that would later be a big hit for Elvis. What was it ?

2) In 1982, Teri Garr was nominated for Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for what movie?

3) The Bahamas is made up of how many islands?

4) What is the most popular activity for vacationers?


Answers:


1) "Hound Dog"

2) Tootsie

3) 700!

4) Shopping

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On Dec 9, 1992, a famous couple announced their separation. Who -- and who?
A: Prince Charles and Lady Diana

Q: Who lost $8,000 in It's a Wonderful Life?
A: Uncle Billy

Q: What is the biggest selling Christmas single of all time?
A: "White Christmas"

Monday, December 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Triva

Q: How did American Airlines cut their costs by nearly $40,000 in 1987?
A: Eliminating an olive from each salad served in-flight

Q: Architect James Hoban died on December 8, 1831. What famous national treasure did Hoban design?
A: He designed the White House. His wife wanted it to be a trendy color, but he was afraid people might get tired of the Puce House.

Q: According to Vitality magazine, what percent of Americans always order vegetarian foods when dining out?
A: Only 6%

Friday, December 05, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the first Vice-President?

2) On this date in 1658, Virginia outlawed this profession. What was it?

Answers:

1) John Adams

2) It was illegal in Virginia to be a lawyer.

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) According to Health magazine, Americans rely on television to provide them with ___ percent of information about nutrition?

2) Who was the first American president to visit abroad?

Answers:


1) 48% rely on television (11% rely on doctors)

2) Woodrow Wilson. He sailed for France on this date in 1918.

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Dr. Christian Barnard performed this groundbreaking procedure on this date in 1967. What was it?

2) From 1941 - 1950 M&M candies had violet as one of its coating colors. In 1950, violet was replaced by what color?

3) Arthur Conan Doyle was employed in this profession prior to his success as the author of the Sherlock Holmes stories. What was it?

4) Who played Hans Christian Andersen in the 1952 movie musical?

Answers:

1) He famously performed the first successful heart transplant.

2) Tan

3) He was an optometrist

4) Danny Kaye

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Henry Ford unveiled the Model A this date in 1927. It was the first Ford to come in a variety of colors. Vanity was expensive - how much did the Model A sell for?

2) Which professional sport has a sin bin?

3) Born this date in 1981, this pop star was raised in Louisiana and once competed at the state level as an accomplished athlete. Who is she and in which sport did she participate?

Answers:

1) $385

2) A "sin bin" is a nickname for hockey's penalty box.

3) Britney Spears competed at the age of 9 in gymnastics.

Holiday Bonus Trivia!

The Christmas classic, "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" has quite a history! The story of Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer was written in 1939 by Robert L. May, a copywriter for the Chicago-based Montgomery Ward department stores, as a promotional gift for the store's customers. The stores had bought and distributed coloring books every Christmas and saw writing their own story as a way to save money. Montgomery Ward distributed 2.4 million copies of the Rudolph booklet in 1939. A total of 6 million copies had been given out by the end of 1946, even though wartime paper shortages restricted printing.

The story reflects May's own childhood difficulties as the smallest boy in his class. He was taunted for being a frail, scrawny misfit.

The reindeer was almost named Rollo or Reginald. May considered both these named before settling on Rudolph.

Rudolph's story was made into a song when May's brother-in-law, songwriter Johnny Marks, developed the lyrics and melody for it. Marks' musical version was first recorded by Gene Autry in 1949, selling 2 million copies that year.
(from Songfacts.com)

Monday, December 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Bette Midler was born this date in 1945. She won an Emmy for her appearance on a TV show - which show?

2) The first telephone was installed in the White House this date in 1878. The first incoming call was from a storm window salesman. Who was president?

Answers:

1) The Divine Miss M won for her tender appearance on Johnny Carson's final appearance on The Tonight Show.. She sang "One for My Baby and One More for the Road."

2) Rutherford B. Hayes was in office. He used the telephone to solicit campaign contributions.

Alan Rock's Trivia, Nov 28

Q: On November 29, 1963, which famous place in Florida was re-named?
A: President Johnson renamed both the Launch Operations Center and the Cape Canaveral Auxiliary Air Force Station (involved in NASA's space flight activities) to the John F. Kennedy Space Center seven days after the president was assassinated. NASA Administrator James Webb officially issued a similar order changing the name of NASA's facility on Dec. 20, 1963. The U.S. Department of the Interior's Board of Geographical Names changed the name of the geographical cape from Cape Canaveral to Cape Kennedy the following year.

Q: How wide is the Statue of Liberty's mouth?
A: Three feet!

Alan Rock's Trivia, Nov 27

Q: Which former "First Daughter" was born on November 27, 1957?
A: Caroline Kennedy.

Q: A film was released on November 27, 1952 based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters. This historically important film was written, directed, and produced by Arch Oboler What were the film's title, stars, and importance?
A: "Bwana Devil," starring Robert Stack, Barbara Britton, and Nigel Bruce, started the 3-D boom in the United States film industry.

FYI, The Tsavo maneaters were a pair of notorious maneless man-eating male lions responsible for the deaths of a number of construction workers on the Kenya-Uganda Railway, from March through December 1898 (est. 135 killed).

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which president was the first to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday, decreeing the fourth Thursday of November as the designated day?

2) Butterball says once the turkey is done, you should allow it ti stand for 15 minutes before serving. Why?

Answers:

1) Franklin D. Roosevelt

2) So the stuffing cools a bit before removing.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) True or False?: Thanksgiving is celebrated only in the United States.

2) According to the Butterball corporation, a frozen turkey should be thawed in the refrigerator for how long?

3) The first department store to hold a Thanksgiving parade was __________________.

4) How long did the first Thanksgiving feast last?

Answers:


1) Canada also celebrates Thanksgiving.

2) For every 4 pounds of turkey, you should allow one day of thawing in the refrigerator.

3) The first department store was Gimbel's.

4) The first Thanksgiving meal lasted almost six hours.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which food doesn't spoil?

2) What percent of Americans have played in a band at some point?

3) Which Arnold Schwarzenegger movie came out this date in 1999 (it was poorly reviewed).


Answers:

1) Honey. Unless you count honey neglected so long it is transformed into crystalline shards.

2) 20%

3) It was called "End of Days"

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On November 21, 1980, millions watched while someone was shot. Who was it?

2) Which was the first U.S. president to travel in a submarine (while it was submerged)?

Answers:

1) Millions tuned in to the much-hyped Dallas season finale wherein JR got shot. Fans could barely contain themselves until the next season when the assailant was revealed.

2) Harry Truman

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia Teasers

Q: On Nov 20, 1992 was a hot day for Britain's Queen Elizabeth. What happened?
A: Fire broke out at one of her homes, Windsor Castle, while she was in residence.

Q: Nov 20, 1789, which state became the first state to ratify the Bill of Rights?
A: New Jersey

Q: Which U.S. President was arrested while in office for running over an elderly woman with his horse?
A: Franklin Pierce. The charge was dropped in 1853 due to insufficient evidence.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1969, Apollo 12 astronauts made man's second landing on the moon. Who were the astronauts?

2) Larry King's first job in radio was not so glamorous. What was it?

Answers:

1) Charles Conrad and Alan Bean

2) Larry King was a janitor at a radio station in Florida.

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia! (for Nov. 14

Questions:

1) The average dog is capable of about 10 different vocal sounds. How many sounds can cats make?

2) The world's first streetcar came to be in what city?


Answers:

1) A cat can make about 100 different sounds!

2) The first streetcar became operational November 14, 1832 in New York City.

Extra credit tidbit: 48 years ago today, the #1 song was "Georgia On My Mind" by Ray Charles.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was Whoopi Goldberg's given name at birth?

2) Whoopi won a best supporting actress Oscar for what part in what film?

3) The first television commercial was for which product?


Answers:

1) Caryn Johnson

2) Miss Oda Mae Brown in Ghost - 1990.

3) The Bulova watch. It ticked on the screen for 60 seconds. What ad wizard came up with that imaginative bit of promotion?

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) A baby cat is a kitten, a baby dog is a puppy. What is a baby eel called?

2) Who said, "For every minute you are angry, you lose sixty seconds of happiness."?

3) Who was the first NFL coach to win 100 regular season games in only 10 seasons?

Answers:

1) an "elver"

2) Ralph Waldo Emerson

3) Don Shula

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: "Lucky" Luciano was born on November 11, 1896. What was his first name?
A: Charles.

Q: On November 11, 1987, when Demi Moore and Bruce Willis got married, who performed the ceremony? Was it (a) Wolfman Jack, (b) Little Richard, or (c) Judge Wapner?
A: Little Richard.

Q: What cigarette brand once sponsored the primetime TV cartoon series "The Flintstones"?
A: Winston.

Friday, November 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Which U.S. President established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting?

2) Who was the first U.S. President to broadcast in a foreign language?

3) Jeanette Rankin made her own cracks in the glass ceiling. What was her achievement?


Answers:


1) Lyndon Johnson established the CPB on this date in 1967.

2) FDR addressed the nation this date in 1942 in French.

3) Ms. Rankin was elected to the U.S. Congress this date in 1916. Her campaign slogan was "A Woman's Place is in the HOUSE."

Thursday, November 06, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What is the oldest weekly program on television?

2) According to Impulse Research, what do Americans tend to regret most?


Answers:

1) Meet the Press. Meet the Press debuted November 6th, 1947.

2) 67% regret wasting time worrying, second is television-watching at 35%

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: The King of Cowboys, Roy Rogers, was born on November 5, 1911. His famous horse was named Trigger. What was the name of his dog?
A: Bullet!

Q: We all know who Microsoft zillionaire Bill Gates is and what he does for a living; but, do you know what his father's profession was?
A: Lawyer.

Q: Before he became an actor, what did Sam Shepard do for a living?
A: He wrote more than 40 plays, winning 10 Obies and a Pulitzer Prize.

Q: What percent of households in Detroit have no access to an automobile?
A: 33%

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Who was the first Vice President of the United States?

2) Which president purchased Alaska from Russia?

3) What year did women gain the right to vote?

Answers:

1) John Adams

2) Andrew Johnson

3) 1920

Monday, November 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1868, John W. Menard of Louisiana was elected to Congress. What should we remember about him?

2) Henry Winkler played "The Fonz," but what was The Fonz's first and middle names?

3) Which was the first state after the 13 original colonies to be recognized?

4) What is a vexillologist's area of expertise?


Answers:

1) He was the first African-American elected to Congress.

2) Arthur Herbert

3) Vermont

4) Flags

Friday, October 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) What early American tobacco port later became part of Washington, D.C.?

2) On this date in 1967, a famous Broadway musical opened. It would run for 1,742 performances. What was it?

Answers:

1) Georgetown

2) "Here, baby, there, mama, everywhere daddy, daddy"Hair

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What former movie star served as a member of the U.N. delegation and as ambassador to Ghana and Czechoslovakia?
A: Shirley Temple Black, the famed little dancing girl in movies.

Q: Which U.S. President used to swim against the current in the Potomac River for exercise?
A: John Quincy Adams

Q: You suffer from hypnophobia. What do you have an abnormal fear of?
A: You're afraid to fall asleep

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1990, a Russian leader was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize, who was he?

2) According to research published in Science journal, how much longer did rats who were fed a low calorie diet live?

3) On this date in 1903, Gordon Nance was born. We remember him as ________

Answers:

1) Mikhail Gorbachev

2) 50% Longer

3) "Wild Bill" Elliot. He was the first movie cowboy to wear his guns backwards. He also played "Red Ryder" in the Saturday serial "The Great Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok."

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1926, the first Winnie the Pooh book was published. Who was the author?

2) James Garner played "Maverick" in the TV series, who played his cousin, Beauregard?

3) Who was the first African-American to be awarded a patent?

Answers:

1) A.A. Milne

2) Roger Moore

3) Thomas Jennings in 1821, for a dry-cleaning process.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1792, the cornerstone to the White House was laid. Who was the first president to take up residence there?

2) On this date in 1958 the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra had a song that reached #7 on the Billboard chart. It was the last big band hit song. What was it?

3) On this date in 1957, two mega stars co-hosted an hour long TV special introducing the 1958 Edsel. Who were these two stars?

Answers:

1) John Adams

2) "Tea for Two Cha-Cha"

3) Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra

Friday, October 10, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) What was the Platters' biggest seller?

2) According to Men's Health, 69% of men consider themselves physically fit. What percent of men actually are?

3) On this date in 1933, things got cleaner. What happened?

Answers:

1) 1955's "The Great Pretender"

2) Only 13%

3) The first synthetic detergent, "Dreft" went on sale.

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1919, the U.S. Congress passed the Volstead Act. What was it?

2) In what novel did Susan Weaver find her stage name, "Sigourney"?

3) The average woman uses her height in lipstick within _____ years.

Answers:

1) Prohibiting the sale or consumption of alcohol.

2) "The Great Gatsby"

3) Five years

Friday, October 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Ernest Evans was born this date in 1941. He changed his name and started a dance craze that caught on even with Jackie Kennedy. Who do we know him as?

2) In Psycho's famous shower scene, what did Alfred Hitchcock use for blood?

Answers:

1) Chubby Checker

2) Chocolate syrup

Alan Rock's Trivia! (for 10/2)

Questions:

1) "The Twilight Zone" debuted October 2nd, 1959. Who was its creator and host?

2) What percent of Americans don't make their beds on a daily basis?

Answers:

1) Rod Serling

2) 21%

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) "Cheers" debuted on NBC September 30th, 1982. What was the name of the character Rhea Perlman played?

2) Actor Randy Quaid was born this date in 1950. He once voiced an animated character in TV commercials for a fast food company. Can you name the character?

3) Quaid was once a regular on what weekly television show?


Answers:

1) Carla Tortelli

2) Colonel Sanders

3) Saturday Night Live

Monday, September 29, 2008

Alan Rock's Tivia

Questions:

1) In the 1989 biographical film, "Great Balls of Fire," who played Jerry Lee Lewis?

2) How many times a year does the average human blink?

Answers:

1) Dennis Quaid

2) 10 million blinks!

Friday, September 26, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1986, a famous TV character returned from the dead. Who was he?

2) According to research, termites eat wood twice as fast when they are listening to what kind of music?

Answers:

1) Dallas's Bobby Ewing

2) Heavy metal

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Today's Trivia Teasers

Q: On this date in 1992, 12 year old Gregory Kingsley of Florida made legal history. What did he do?
A: He legally "divorced" himself from his biological parents.

Q: Who was the oldest man to appear in a major-league baseball game?
A: On Sep, 25, 1965 Kansas City pitcher Satchel Paige threw three shutout innings against the Boston Red Sox. Satchel was 60 years instead of tobacco, he was chewing prunes.

Q: On Sep 25, 1981 the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court, the 102nd justice to take the oath. What is her name?
A: Sandra Day O'Connor

Q: When a gorilla sticks his tongue out, what does it mean?
A: They are angry when they do so

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) According to Rich Hall's book Sniglets, what are "rubuncles"?

2) On this date in 1513, the Pacific Ocean was discovered -- by whom?


Answers:

1) "Rubuncles" refer to the flesh bumps on an uncooked chicken.

2) Balboa

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Many people are under the misconception that "God helps those who helps themselves" is a passage in the Bible. Who actually said this?

2) Who was the youngest man to serve as president of the United States?

3) Though discovered as recently as 1930, this planet was recently demoted to sub-planet status. Which planet/not planet is it?

Answers:

1) Benjamin Franklin

2) Theodore Roosevelt was the youngest man to serve as president when he was sworn in at 42 (following the assassination of William F. McKinley). John F. Kennedy was the youngest, at 43, to have been elected president.

3) Pluto

Monday, September 22, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Which WWII general designed his own uniform jacket?

2) Name the only person to have been named to the College Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach?

3) If your lipstick contains "cochineal," what can you be reasonably sure of?


Answers:

1) Dwight D. Eisenhower

2) John Wooten

3) That it's safe -- it contains a red dye extracted from dried female insects (ewww).

Friday, September 19, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1928, He played TV's Batman. Who was he?

2) Who famously said, "When they call the roll in the Senate, the Senators do not know whether to answer "present" or "not guilty."

3) What candy is the favorite of most elephants?

Answers:

1) Adam West

2) Teddy Roosevelt

3) Licorice

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions

1) On this date in 1931, RCA Victor demonstrated the first 33 1/3 long-play record.
What was RCA's mascot's name?

2) As a child, actor Robert Blake played sidekick in a western. Who was he?

3) What was Frankie Avalon's first Top Ten hit song?

Answers

1) "Nipper." Nipper was depicted as tilting his head toward the victrola to listen to "his master's voice."

2) Blake played Red Ryder's Indian buddy, Little Beaver. He also made 50 "Our Gang" comedies.

3) "Dede Dinah" reached Billboard's #7 in early 1958. "Ginger Bread" peaked at #9 a few months later. "Venus" hit #1 in 1959.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions

1) On this date in 1911, the first transcontinental flight across the U.S. was completed. It took pilot C.P. Rogers 82 hours to fly from New York city to what destination?

2) Prior to his breakout role on "Three's Company", John Ritter had a recurring role on what series?


Answers:

1) Pasadena, CA

2) Ritter played the Rev. Matthew Fordwick on "The Waltons." (He also had a cameo as a tennis playing minister on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" when he clumsily presided over Ted and Georgette's wedding.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) On this date in 1620, The Mayflower left Plymouth, England on its way to America. How many pilgrims were on that voyage?

2) On this date in 1630, the village of Shawmut, Massachusetts changed its name to what we presently call it, which is _____________.

Answers

1) There were 102 pilgrims on board.

2) Boston

Monday, September 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1971 was abig day in the history of environmental groups?

2) Actor Tommy Lee Jones was once a champion athlete. In which sport did he excel?


Answers:

1) Greenpeace was founded.

2) Jones was a champion polo player

Friday, September 12, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1983 it was a big day for Arnold Schwarzenegger. Why?

2) Lachanophobia is an abnormal fear of ___________________


Answers:

1) He became a U.S. citizen.

2) vegetables

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Who was the first African-American to host a network television show?

2) In ancient Rome, eating the meat of a particular fowl was taboo. Which feathered creature was it?

Answers:

1) Nat King Cole. The Nat King Cole Show debuted November 5, 1956.

2) Eating woodpecker flesh was a big no-no.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1955, the television staple "Gunsmoke" premiered. How long of a run did it have?

2) If you suffer from androphobia, just what is it that gives you the heebie jeebies?

Answers:

1) 20 years

2) Men

Tuesday, September 09, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Sept. 9, 1890 was a sad day for chickens... why?
A: Col Harland Sanders was born

Friday, September 05, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) What percent of the average human brain is comprised of water?

2) One of the most revered women in the world died this date in 1997. She's so beloved, she's even a candidate for sainthood. Who was she?

Answers:

1) 80%

2) Mother Teresa

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) How many food ads air every hour during children's television programs?

2) What food contains the greatest amount of fiber?

3) Which major North American city was founded this date in 1769?

4) To meet the demand from vending machine operators, many Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted. How many?

Answers:

1) 10

2) Figs. They have the highest dietary fiber content of any fruit, nut or vegetable.

3) Los Angeles

4) 37,000,000

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1923 was the creator of the Beetle Bailey and Hi and Lois comic strips. Who was it?

2) Who was the first president to be born in the twentieth century?

3) Which river basin has evidence of the earliest human cultures in Europe?

4) What musical group proclaimed "Rock and Roll Is Here to Stay"?


Answers:

1) Mort Walker

2) John F. Kennedy

3) The Danube

4) Danny and the Juniors in February 1958

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On this date in 1666, things got hot in London. What happened?

2) The Renaissance began in which country?

3) In what year was Germany formally organized as a modern nation?

Answers:

1) September 2, 1666 was the first day of the Great Fire of London, which destroyed some 13,000 homes in three days.

2) Italy

3) 1871

Alan Rock's Trivia (for 9/1/08)

Questions:

1) September 1, 1985 marks the date of a momentous discovery at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean. What was it?

2) Why did Dr. Seuss write "Green Eggs and Ham"?

Answers:

1) That was the day the wreck of the Titanic was located.

2) His editor dared him to write a book using fewer than fifty different words.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Pinocchio is Italian for _______________.

2) Michael Jackson's birthday is today. In the 1978 movie, "The Wiz," which part did he play?


Answers:

1) "Pine eyes"

2) The Scarecrow

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On AUG 27, 1859, the first oil well in the United States struck oil. In which state?
A: Pennsylvania

Q: Before leaving on a long trip which coin does the American Automobile Association recommend you use to check the tread on your tires?
A: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of his head, you need new tires

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Born this date in 1935, she was the first woman nominated for Vice President by a major U.S. political party. Who was she?

2) What color is the most popular in hospital recovery rooms?

3) Dr. Lee DeForest was born today in 1873.You may not recognize his name, but his invention made possible technology that remains in everyday household use today. What did he invent?

Answers:

1) Geraldine Ferraro

2) Mint green, supposedly for its effect of causing minimal eye strain.

3) The three element vacuum tube. Though transistors are much smaller and everything is digital now, neither the television nor radio would have been possible without the vacuum tube.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Sean Connery's birthday is today. How many James Bond films did he star in?

2) On this date in 1972, computerized axial tomography was introduced in Great Britain. We're more familiar with it as what?

3) In which month are most babies born?

4) In 1939 Lina Medina became the youngest mother on record. How old was she?

Answers:

1) 7

2) CAT scan

3) August

4) Lina was five years old!

Friday, August 22, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia!

Questions:

1) Under what circumstances is it acceptable to fly the American flag upside down?

2) Which section of the flag is referred to as the "canton"?

3) Seasonal allergies affect 36% of U.S. males. What percent of women are affected?


Answers:

1) In times of distress

2) The blue square

3) 47%, according to Yankelovich Partners of Norwalk, CT

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Hawaii became a state on this date in 1959. Explorer Capt. James Cook gave the islands a different name. What did he call them?

2) According to the Roman Catholic Church, who is the patron saint of aircraft?

3) In which publication was the Pledge of Allegiance first published?


Answers:


1) The Sandwich Islands

2) None other than the Virgin Mary

3) The Youth's Companion

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What was Francis Scott Key's profession?
A: Lawyer!

Q: German brothers Adolf and Rudolf Dassler each formed their own leading company for what kind of product?
A: Shoes - Adidas and Puma, respectively.

Q: Born on August 20, 1918 in Philadelphia, she wrote "Valley of the Dolls" and "The Love Machine." What's her name?
A: Jacqueline Susann.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Actor John Stamos, born August 19, 1963, has occasionally appeared as drummer and backup vocalist for what band?
A: The Beach Boys!

Q: What is the name of the victim in the board game "Clue"?
A: Mr. Boddy.

Q: In all, how many husbands did Calamity Jane have?
A: Twelve!

Q: Who was the first world leader to send an e-mail?
A: Queen Elizabeth II.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) In the famous Abbott and Costello "Who's on First" skit, what was the name of the right fielder?

2) What was Little Red Riding Hood's given name?

3) Actor Patrick Swayze was born on this date in 1952. Who was his "Dirty Dancing" co-star?


Answers:

1) Sorry, trick question. There was no right fielder.
2) Blanchette
3) Jennifer Grey

Friday, August 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Which cooking/baking ingredient first appeared in stores August 15, 1911.

2) If you are increasing in latitude in the Northern Hemisphere, in what direction are you traveling?

3) She began painting at the age of 76. At 101, her paintings were in demand all over the world. Her name was Anna MAry Robertson, but we know her as ________________


Answers:

1) Crisco

2) North

3) Grandma Moses

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Which president initiated government growth programs later referred to as the "Great Society"?

2) If the time between the sighting of a lightning bolt and hearing the thunder is 10 seconds, how far away is the storm?

3) How many justices are there on the U.S. Supreme Court?

Answers:

1) Lyndon Baines Johnson, 36th president
2) The storm is about 2 miles away. Divide the number of seconds by 5.
3) The answer is nine. There are eight associate judges and one chief justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: This movie director, born August 13, 1899, once said, "I never said actors are like cattle. What I said was, they should be treated like cattle." Can you name this man who died in 1980?
A: Alfred Hitchcock!

Q: Who was the first African-American to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court?
A: In 1967, Thurgood Marshall took the bench.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Can you name this actor, born August 12, 1939, who appeared in "Evel Kneivel," "Doc Hollywood," and "Zorro"?
A: George Hamilton.

Q: What percent of the world's tornadoes are manifested in the United States?
A: 75%

Q: What musical classic is the official U.S. march?
A: "The Stars and Stripes Forever."

Monday, August 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Today is the birthday of Terry Gene Bollea, whom we know better as?
A: Hulk Hogan!

Q: What is the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form except fresh?
A: Lettuce!!

Q: How many punctuation marks are there in English grammar?
A: Fourteen.

Period
Comma
Colon
Semicolon
Dash
Hyphen
Apostrophe
Question Mark
Exclamation Point
Quotation Marks
Brackets
Parenthesis
Braces
Ellipses

Friday, August 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
A: The strawberry.

Q: Only three words in standard English begin with the letters 'dw', and they are all common words. Can you name them?
A: Dwarf, dwell, and dwindle.

Q: What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
A: The Niagara Falls - the rim is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.

Thursday, August 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Name the one sport in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
A: Boxing!

Q: Most vegetables must be replanted every year. Can you name the only two that can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons?
A: Asparagus and rhubarb.

Wednesday, August 06, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On August 6, 1986, Timothy Dalton became the fourth actor to take over what famous movie role?
A: Bond... James Bond.

Q: What shape are raindrops?
A: Perfectly round.

Q: By water content, how much snow is equal to one inch of rain?
A: Ten inches.

Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Which famous movie actress died, under mysterious circumstances, on August 5, 1962?
A: Marilyn Monroe.

Q: Which hurricane reached land in 1969 as a level 5 storm?
A: Camille.

Q: What strange things fell from the sky in New Jersey in the winter of 1958: (a) large frozen birds, (b) 50-pound blocks of ice, (c) frozen pieces of weather balloons, or (d) items swept up in a hurricane a year before?
A: Fifty-pound blocks of ice.

Monday, August 04, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: This actor, born on August 3, 1951, will forever be remembered for giving life to what comic strip hellion on TV in 1959?
A: Jay North as Dennis the Menace.

Q: What country experienced the highest temperature ever recorded on earth?
A: The biggest scorcher ever noted was on September 13, 1922 in El Azizia (also known as Al 'Aziziyah), Libya, when the mercury hit 136 degrees Fahrenheit. El Azizia is near the Sahara desert, so it's no wonder the place gets so hot. Temperatures have likely gotten even hotter in the actual desert, but weather stations aren't there to record it.

Q: Born August 4, 1901; deceased 1971. This musician/singer's hits included "Mack the Knife" and "It's a Wonderful World." What's his name?
A: Louis Armstrong!

Q: The lowest temperature in the U.S. was recorded in what state?
A: As you would expect, the coldest temperature ever officially recorded in the USA was in Alaska. It was -79.8 degrees Fahrenheit, rounded off to -80, observed at Prospect Creek Camp in the Endicott Mountains of northern Alaska on January 23, 1971. The Prospect Creek Camp is along the Alaska pipeline about 20 miles north of the Arctic Circle. This is not the North American record low. The North American low of -81.4 degrees Fahrenheit was recorded at Snag in Canada's Yukon Territory on February 3, 1947.

Friday, August 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: August 1, 1873 was a historic day in San Francisco. What happened?
A: The first cable car began operation.

Q: This famous Life Magazine photographer was in Russia when the Germans invaded, taking great risks to shoot pictures and send them back to America. Who is she?
A: Margaret Bourke-White.

Q: In 1928 she published "Coming of Age in Samoa." She is best known as an author-anthropologist. Who is she?
A: Margaret Mead.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On July 31, 1971, David R. Scott and James B. Irwin did something nobody had ever done before. What?
A: They became the first astronauts to ride a vehicle on the moon. They traveled five miles on the lunar surface in a moon buggy.

Q: Best known as the founder of the American Red Cross, she had a number of other careers in her life. She taught school for eighteen years, then became the first full-time clerk in the U.S. Patent Office. During the Civil War, she became a legend as the "Angel of the Battlefield." Who was she?
A: Clara Harlowe Barton.

Q: What major battle took place 18 days after a treaty had been signed ending the War of 1812?
A: It was the famed Battle of New Orleans.

Q: Who was the first actress to win a second Best Actress Oscar?
A: Luise Rainer won her first award in 1936 for her appearance in "The Great Ziegfeld." The following year she won her second Oscar for her role in "The Good Earth."

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Arnold Schwarzenegger was born on JULY 30, 1947. Can you name the SECOND movie in when he appeared (in 1994) with Danny De Vito?
A: Junior (First was Twins)

Q: Can you name the only predominately Christian Asian country?
A: The Philippines are 81 percent Roman Catholic and 9 percent Protestant.

Q: Who is the only WWII veteran to walk on the moon?
A: Alan Shepard

Monday, July 28, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was the NFL's all-time winningest coach?
A: It was Don Shula of the Miami Dolphins, with 347 games racked up.

Q: Who was the first film star to win a second Best Actor Oscar?
A: Spencer Tracy won his first award in 1937 for "Captains Courageous," then took home a second Oscar in 1938 for "Boys Town."

Q: The first major international TV broadcast took place in 1953. What event was it?
A: It was the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia Teasers

Q: On July 25, 1978, Louise Brown was born. Why was her birth historic?
A: She was the world's first test-tube baby.

Q: She is one of the great originators of modern dance. In her book, My Life, She talks of the conflict between art and life for the woman artist (1877-1927), Who is she?
A: Isadora Duncan

Q: How many of our Presidents never attended college?
A: Nine. Washington, Jacksons, Van Buren, Taylor, Fillmore, Lincoln, A. Johnson, Cleveland, and Truman. The college that has the most presidents as alumni (six in total) is Harvard: J. Adams, J.Q. Adams, T. Roosevelt, F. Roosevelt, Kennedy, and G.W. Bush (business school). Yale is a close second, with five presidents as alumni: Taft, Ford (law school), G.H.W. Bush, Clinton (law school), and G.W. Bush

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: She was born on July 24, 1898. She was the first female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic. She disappeared in the Pacific during an attempted round the world flight. Who was she?
A: Amelia Earhart

Q: Why wouldn't the U.S. Table Tennis Association call its sport Ping-Pong?
A: Parker Brothers already owned the rights to the name.

Q: What freshwater fish is capable of killing cattle and humans, notably in the Amazon?
A: the vicious fish is called the piranha, or caribe.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On July 23, 1961, actor Woody Harrelson was born. Can you name the 1996 movie for which he received a Best Actor Oscar nomination?
A: The People vs Larry Flynt

Q: She was born in 1894 and died in 1927. She called herself the Empress of the Blues- others called her the greatest female blues singer. Who is she?
A: Bessie Smith

Q: She wrote about contemporary problems such as women's suffrage, temperance, prison reform and child labor. She was best known for her book, Little Women. Who is she?
A: Lousia May Alcott

Q: In 1939 she was to sing at Constitution Hall in Washington. The hall was owned by Daughters of the American Revolution and they said no black singers could appear there. She then asked to sing at the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday. Over fifteen thousand people gathered on the steps to hear her sing. The incident marked a turning point for black artist. Who is she?
A: Marian Anderson

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On July 22, 1934, which famous gangster was gunned down by FBI agents in Chicago?
A: John Dillinger.

Q: Fluffy or lumpy clouds are called what?
A: Cumulus clouds.

Q: What university was founded in 1746 as the College of New Jersey?
A: Princeton University.

Monday, July 21, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: In 1955 she swam the Channel from England to France in 13 hours 55 minutes, a record for both women and men. Who is she?
A: Florence May Chadwick.

Q: On July 21, 1955, the last episode of a popular radio program aired. The show had been one of radio's most popular programs since its debut in 1944. The star of the show was Leonard Slye, whom we knew as??
A: Roy Rogers. He was born in Cincinnati in 1911. He first came to Hollywood in the 1920s as a migrant fruit picker. In the early 1930s, he joined a singing group called Uncle Tom Murray's Hollywood Hillbillies, which first playd on the radio in 1931. Rogers went on to sing with other similar groups, including the Sons of the Pioneers, which recorded hits like "Tumbling Tumbleweeds." The Sons of the Pioneers group was recruited for low-budget western films, and Rogers was soon playing bit parts for Republic Pictures, the same studio where cowboy star Gene Autry worked. When Autry quit over a dispute with the studio in 1937, Rogers gained more exposure. Starring with his trick horse Trigger and his frequent co-star Dale Evans, Rogers soon became one of the top ten moneymakers in Hollywood.

Q: On July 21, 1987, which TV personality insured her legs for $2 million?
A: Mary Hart of "Entertainment Tonight."

Q: On July 21, 1925, the "Trial of the Century" drew national attention. What was the trial about?
A: School teacher John T. Scopes was convicted of violating Tennessee's law against teaching evolution in public schools. The case, debated in the so-called "Trial of the Century," was never really in doubt; the jury conferred for only a few moments in the hallway before returning to the courtroom with a guilty verdict. Nevertheless, the supporters of evolution won the public relations battle that was at stake.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: According to tradition, which city burned to the ground on July 18, 64BC
A: Rome (While Emperor Nero fiddled)

Q: What is the style that is closely identified with musicians like Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Max Roach?
A: Bebop. Most jazz historians credit the musicians recording strike of the early 1940s with the birth of bebop. Without the industry's pressure to create commercial music, elite jazz players in the seeing bands began to explore more advance musical possibilities, including extended harmonies and increase improvisations away from a compositions original melody while staying (mostly) are melodies built on arpeggios, smaller ensembles (usually piano, bass and drums, with 1-3 horn players), and the real abandonment of "dancibility" in most cases. Bebop was almost self-consciously "art" music, as opposed to "dance" or "pop" music.

Q: What is a autodidact?
A: Someone who is self taught.

Q: According to Congressional Quarterly's recently published reference, Politics in America 2008: The 110th Congress, how many former members of the Peace Corps are currently serving in Congress?
A: 6, evenly split into the two parties.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Which famous music festival opened for the first time on JULY 17, 1954
A: The Newport Jazz Festival (In Newport, RI)

Q: How hot is lighting?
A: A return streak of lighting can reach temperatures of 70,000 degrees F.

Q: The commercial heyday of jazz came in the 1930s and '40s, when jazz forms were the dominant music for dances and social events. What was the term most commonly applied to the mainstream jazz of his era?
A: Swing

Q: When is the lowest temperature of the day usually observed?
A: The lowest temperature is usually observed at sunrise

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was our tallest President, and who was our shortest President?
A: President Lincoln at 6'4 was the tallest; at 5'4", Madison was the shortest

Q:On July 16, 1945, the first atomic bomb was tested. Do you remember in what state?
A: In Trinity Site, Alamogordo, New Mexico. The blast kicked up so much dirt -- half of New Mexico blew into Old Mexico

Q: How many of our President served as Vice-Presidents: J.Adams, Jefferson, Van Buren, Tyler, Fillmore, A. Johnson, Arthur, T. Roosevelt, Coolidge, Truman, Nixon, L. Johnson, Ford, and George H.W. Bush.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) The movie, "The King and I" was set in the country of Siam.
Siam is now called ____________.

2) Which of the Virgin Islands are the three largest?

3) What famous artist was born this date in 1606?

Answers:

1) Thailand

2) St. Croix, St. Johns and St. Thomas

3) Rembrandt

Monday, July 14, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: July 14, 1789 was a big day in Paris, France. Why?
A: The French Revolution began.

Q: Terminus was once the name of which state capital?
A: Atlanta, Georgia.

Q: Which city, formerly named Lakes Crossing, Nevada, is now named in honor of a Union Civil War general?
A: Reno bears the name of General Marcus Reno.

Q: Portuguese visitors named this land Formosa. What is its current name?
A: Taiwan or the Republic of China.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Movie actor Yul Brynner was borne July 11, 1915 (died 1985)(. During the Second World War, Brynner worked for the U.S. government -- doing what?
A: He was French speaking radio announcer, broadcasting propaganda to occupied France.

Q: What is the motto of the United States?
A: The United States' motto is "In God We Trust"

Q: Which country originated the driver' test?
A: The driver's test was invented in France. In 1893, drivers of all self-propelled vehicles had to undergo an exam that included driving ability and vehicle repair.

Q: Whose commemorative U.S. Postage Stamp was the bestselling of all time?
A: The bestselling stamp ever was the Elvis Presley stamp issued in 1003. There were 122.3 million of the King's imaged stamps sold.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: July 10, 1962 was a big day in Earth orbit. What happened?
A: The Earth's first telecommunications satellite, Telstar, was launched by the United States.

Q: What was the First Radio Sound Effect?
A: The first recorded sound effect was of Big Ben striking 10:30, 10:45, and 11:00. It was recorded on a brown wax cylinder by technicians at Edison House in London. It was recorded July, 16 1890. This is also one of the very few recordings currently in public domain.

Q: Who was the first sitting US President to visit South American?
A: On July 10, 1934 FDR went to Colombia

Q: Name the famed editor of the New York Tribune, who was often quoted as saying: "Go west, young man. Go west," even though he wasn't the first to say it.
A: Horace Greeley was that editor

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Which country has the most post offices?
A: The country with the most post offices is India with over 152,792, compared with just 38,000 in the United States

Q: What was the significance of the Shakespeare stamp?
A: The first person other than royalty to be portrayed on a British stamp was William Shakespeare in 1964.

Q: How much is it estimated that will sea levels rise if the ice caps melt?
A: If today's ice caps melted completely, sea level would rise across the world by between 200 and 230 feet. This means the Statue of Liberty would be immersed up to her armpits, and the clock face on the houses of Parliament in London would be under water.

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions

1) Which is the world's largest mountain?

2) Dr. John Gorrie of Appalachicola, Florida invented something back in 1851 which we still use today. He patented his device on May 6th, 1851, and there is a statue honoring him in the Statuary Hall of the Capitol building in Washington, DC. What did he invent?

3) Which bird did Benjamin Franklin want to be the national bird?

4) On July 8th, 1874, the first public zoo in the US opened. In which city was this first American zoo?

Answers

1) The Hawaiian islands are the protruding tops of the biggest mountain range in the world. Mauna Kea, on the island of Hawaii is the largest mountain on the earth as measured from the ocean floor. It is 4,000 feet taller than Mt. Everest.

2) Mechanical refrigeration. Gorrie is considered the Father of Modern Air Conditioning

3) Ben Franklin wanted the turkey to be the U.S. feathered symbol. He considered the eagle to be a "bird of bad moral character" because it lives by "sharping and robbing."

4) Philadelphia

Monday, July 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions

1) In film industry lingo, what's a "walla-walla" scene?

2) What is the deadliest animal in Africa?

3) What do Americans prefer to drink?


Answers:

1) A "walla-walla" scene is one in which the extras in the background pretend to be talking. When they say "walla-walla" it gives the appearance of real conversation.

2) The seemingly docile-looking hippotamus. Hippos have killed more than 400 people in Africa - more than any other wild animal.

3) #1 favorite is the soft drink followed by water. Third is milk. The average American drinks about 52 gallons of soft drinks a year.

Thursday, July 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to use a telephone?
A: James Garfield

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to be born in a hospital?
A: Jimmy Carter

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to be heard on radio?
A: In June of 1922, Warren G. Harding became the first president to be heard using radio.

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to be send an e-mail?
A: Bill Clinton, he sent it in March of 1993.

Wednesday, July 02, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: How man justices are there on the U.S. Supreme Court?
A: There are eight associate justices and one chief justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, a total of nine.

Q: Who was the first chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court?
A: John Jay was the first, serving from 1789 to 1795.

Q: Who was the first African American to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court?
A: In 1967, Thurgood Marshall became the first African-American to serve as a Supreme Court Justice

Q: History should have labeled this famed battle by its proper name as the Battle of Breed's Hill at Charlestown, Mass. What name is improperly applied to the battle site?
A: History referred to is as The Battle of Bunker Hill.

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) On July 1st, 1941, NBC aired the first FCC-sanctioned TV commercial. Which company and product did it promote?

2) Duke Ellington called him the "Picasso of Jazz." Who was it?

3) Born Ruth Lee Jones, this singer performed jazz and soul without distinguishing between the two. She started with Lionel Hampton, then recorded a string of R&B hits. She continued to record with Clifford Brown, Cannonball Adderly and Wynton Kelly. Her most famous hit was "What a Difference a Day Makes." Who was she?

4) Born this date in 1952, this comic actor and SNL alum starred in Ghostbusters, Driving Miss Daisy and Trading Places. Who is he?

Answers

1) Bulova watches paid $9.00 to air their ad during a Dodgers-Phillies game.

2) Miles Davis

3) Dinah Washington

4) Dan Aykroyd

Monday, June 30, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Questions:

1) Which President was nicknamed "Ol' Three stars"?

2) Which President was known as "The Father of the Constitution"?

3) Which President died on the Fourth of July?

4) When did the term "First Lady" come into usage and who was first called the "First Lady"?

Answers:

1) Ulysses S. Grant. He had other nicknames as well, including "Unconditional Surrender" Grant.

2) James Madison was given that nickname to acknowledge his work on the constitution. He was also called "The Sage of Montpelier"by his fellow Virginians.

3) Adams, Jefferson and Monroe all passed on the Fourth of July; Coolidge was born on that day.

4) The first reference to "First Lady" was in 1877, and applied to Lucy Ware Webb Hayes (most First Ladies, including Jacqueline Kennedy, are said to have hated the label).

Friday, June 27, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to use a telephone?
A: James Garfield

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to visit all 50 states while in office?
A: Richard Nixon

Q: Who was the only former U.S. president buried in Washington D.C.?
A: Woodrow Wilson. He is buried in the National Cathedral

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was the only person to serve as both Cheif Justice and President of the United States?
A: William Howard Taft

Q: Who was the only U.S. president who never went to school?
A: Andrew Johnson

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to travel outside of the country while in office?
A: Woodrow Wilson in 1918, he went to the Versailles Peace Conference in France.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: With the slogan "Works Better, Plays Better" what was released on JUNE 25th 1998?
A: The Microsoft operating system, Window '98

Q: At his heaviest, what did U.S. President James Madison weigh?
A: 98 pounds!

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: NBC gave network television its first western on June 24, 1949 with the debut of what show?
A: Hopalong Cassidy. Hoppy wore black clothes and a white hat, had white hair, and rode a white horse. He wasn't that colorful, but in those days you only had two choices. All the women wore black lipstick, which may explain why Hoppy didn't date much. "Hopalong Cassidy" starred William Boyd and Edgar Buchanan. Edited theater films had been shown earlier on local New York City television.

Q: Which U.S. presidents are portrayed on U.S. coins and which on paper currency?
A: Lincoln, Jefferson, Franklin Roosevelt, Washington, Kennedy, and Eisenhower are portrayed on U.S. coins. Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Jackson, Grant, McKinley, Cleveland, Madison, and Wilson are portrayed on U.S. paper currency.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

1) 52 years ago today the #1 song in the U.S. was "The Wayward Wind." Who recorded this hit which remained at the #1 spot for 8 weeks?

2) For two years the nation was run by a president and a vice president who were not elected by the people (prior to 2000). Who were they?

3) Who are the only two presidents buried in Arlington National Cemetery?

4) Who was the first African-American nominated for vice-president?

ANSWERS:

1) Gogi Grant

2) After VP Spiro Agnew resigned in '73, Nixon appointed Gerald Ford as Vice President. The following year Nixon resigned, leaving Ford as President. Ford appointed Nelson Rockefeller as his VP.

3) Kennedy and Taft

4) In 1872 Frederick Douglass was nominated as the Vice-Presidential candidate for the Equal Rights Party ticket with Victoria Woodhull, the first woman to run for President of the United States.

Friday, June 20, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who was the only president never to marry?
A: James Buchanan. Five presidents remarried after the death of their first wives- two of whom, Tyler and Wilson, remarried while in the White House. Reagan was the only divorced president. Six presidents had no children. Tyler - father of fifteen- had the most.

Q: How many Presidents won the popular vote but lost the presidency?
A: Four Presidents Andrew Jackson won the popular vote but lost the election to John Quincy Adams (1824); Samuel J. Tilden won the popular vote but lost the election to Rutherford B. Hayes (1876); Grover Cleveland won the popular vote but lost the election to Benjamin Harrison (1888); Al Gore won the popular vote but lost the election to George W. Bush (2000)

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: JUNE 19, 1946 was a historic day for the sport of boxing. Why?
A: The first prizefight to be televised. (Joe Louis vs Billy Conn)

Q: In what film did Kathleen Turner receive a Best Actress Oscar nomination for her role in?
A: Peggy Sue Got Married, in 1986

Q: What game did U.S. President Warren G. Harding play almost every day?
A: Ping pong

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Martin Van Buren was the first vice president elected president, but was also the first vice president to lose re-election. Who was the only vice president to repeat both feats?
A: George H.W. Bush, 41st President (1989-1993)

Q: George W. Bush is our 43rd President, but there actually have only been 42 presidents: what happened?
A: Cleveland was elected for two nonconsecutive terms and is counted twice, as our 22nd and 24th president.

Q: Isabella Rossellini was born on JUNE 18, 1952. Can you name the 1997 TV series for which she was nominated as Outstanding Guest Actress?
A: Chicago Hope

Q: Who was the first American woman in space?
A: On JUNE 18, 1983, Dr. Sally Ride became the first American woman in space.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: At one time, Barry Manilow was the pianist for which singer?
A: Bette Midler.

Q: How many presidents served as vice-presidents?
A: Fourteen: John Adams, Jefferson, Van Buren, Tyler, Fillmore, Andrew Johnson, Chester Arthur, Teddy Roosevelt, Coolidge, Truman, Nixon, Lyndon Johnson, Ford, and George H.W. Bush.

Q: How many of our presidents never attended college?
A: Nine: Washington, Jackson, Van Buren, Taylor, Fillmore, Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Cleveland, and Truman.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What do most U.S. adults consider the most important product introduced during the last century to be?
A: Eighty-three percent say the computer; 9 percent the telephone; and 5 percent the television (Roper Starch Worldwide, New York).

Q: On June 16, 1995, "Batman Forever" opened in the U.S. Who played the Riddler in this film?
A: Jim Carrey.

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to be inaugurated in Washington, D.C.?
A: Thomas Jefferson.

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to be a Rhodes Scholar?
A: Bill Clinton.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: The author who created James Bond was born on May 28, 1908. Do you know his name?
A: Fleming, Ian Fleming

Q: You can never find all your stuff when it's time to leave for work. What does The Ladies Home Journal recommend you do?
A: Keep a basket by the door for keys and other stuff you always take when you leave the house.

Q: We know that the tomato is a vegetable and not a fruit because?
A: The Supremem Court said so, in 1893.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Franz Mesmer was born MAY 23, 1734. What was it that he pioneered?
A: Hypnotism: He believed there should be more people walking and clucking like chickens.

Q: What is the only bird that can fly backwards?
A: Hummingbirds

Q: Bifocal eyeglasses were invented on MAY 23, 1785, making it possible for older people to keep their heads held high. Who invented them?
A: Benjamin Franklin

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Arthur Conan Doyle was born on May 22, 1859. He created which famous fictional character?
A: Sherlock Holmes

Q: On May 22, 1961, the worlds first revolving resteraunt opened. Do you remember in which city?
A: Atop Seattle's Space Needle.

Q: To improve her memory, what did Eleanor Roosevelt do?
A: She ate three chocolate-covered garlic balls ever day of her adult life.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: The Singing cowboy's horse was born on May 21, 1927. They called him "the Wonder Horse" because he never whinnied while the cowboy was singing. Can you name the cowboy and the horse?
A: Gene Autry and Champion

Q: Clara Barton organized what organization on May 21, 1881?
A: The American Red Cross and since that day, Americans have not had to suffer through a single major disaster without coffee and doughnuts.

Q: Today, May 21, is the birthday of Lawrence Tero. We know him better as?
A: Mr. T

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Today's Trivia!

Q. Cher was born this day in 1946. What is the name of the daughter she had with Sonny Bono?
A. Chastity

Q. The legal nigthtimme noise level set by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is 55 decibels. According to research at St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul, what percent of men snore louder than 55 decibels?
a) 2%
b) 12%, or
c) 22%


A. b, or 12% snore loud enough to be illegal. And the average snoring male snores 3 decibels louder than female snorers.

Q. Do termites prefer
a) Country and western music
b) Classical music
c) doesn't matter


A. c: Doesn't matter -- termites can't hear!

Monday, May 19, 2008

Today's Trivia!

Q. In 1886 France gave the US the Statue of Liberty. What is the real name of the statue?
A. Liberty Enlightening the World.

Q. A normal scorpion has eight legs. How many eyes does it have?
A. As many as 12

Q. Was the original Cinderella British, Polish or Egyptian?
A. Egyptian, and she wore fur slippers.

Q. Which food cannot be served in Wisconsin state prisons?
A. Butter substitutes

Friday, May 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: In his teens, Peirce Brosnan ran away with the circus to do what?
A: A fire eater

Q: Who was the first democrat running for U.S. president to use a donkey on his campaign posters?
A: Andrew Jackson

Q: Who was the first United States president born in the United States, rather than in the Colonies ruled by Britain?
A: Martin Van Buren, in 1782

Q: Who was the first American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize?
A: President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On MAY 15, 1971, Donald Duncan died. What was he the inventor of?
A: The Yo-yo. Here's a little known fact: Donald Duncan's Yo-yo was not successful -- until he came up with the idea of adding string. Today's kids don't seem to play much with yo-yos. Probably the cant figure out where to put the batteries.

Q: He won the American League battling title in 1976, 1980, and 1990. He was the only man in baseball to accomplish this. What is his name?
A: George Brett

Q: At which university do art school graduates get their diplomas then leap into a fountain?
A: New York University

Q: At his ranch, did President Lyndon Johnson serve huge hamburgers shaped like what?
A: The state of Texas

Friday, May 09, 2008

Alan Rock's Tricia

Q: Actress Candice Bergen was born on May 9, 1946. Her father Edgar Bergen was in show business. He was a famous -- what?
A: Ventriloquist

Q: In 28 Blondie movies in the 1930a, '40s, and '50s, what actor played hubby Dagwood Bumstead?
A: Arthur Lake. Will Hutchins played Dagwood in a brief TV series in 1968. Danny Mummert played Alvin Fuddle in 23 Blondie films. Lake died a very wealthy man in 1987 at age 82.

Q: Mike Wallace once appeared in a TV commercial as a circus barker with a straw hat and crane. Do you remember what the product was?
A: Peter Pan

Q: On May 9, 1907 Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia proposed a new holiday; can you name that holiday?
A: Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May be set aside each year to honor mothers. Of course, mothers had been around as long as anyone could remember, but until 1907 nobody ever thought of honoring them.

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On May 8, 1988, two characters on a top-rated TV comedy were married. Can you name them? (Clue: The show was in its final season). A: Joanie and Chachi were married on "Happy Days."

Something historical happened on May 8, 1945, what was it? A: V.E. Day in Europe, WWII ended. Germany agreed to surrender on one condition: they would be allowed to enter the high-powered sports car business. I think the Germans might have won that war -- if only they'd sent Colonel Klink to the Russian front.

On May 8, 1886, at Jacob's Pharmacy in Atlanta, John Pemberton made the first batch of a new health tonic flavored with coca leaves. The mixture flopped as a tonic. What do we know it as? A: a soft drink called Coca-Cola.

Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On May 7, 1987, Shelley Long made her final appearance on the TV sitcom, "Cheers". Chan you name the character she played?
A: Waitress Diane Chambers.

Q: Which major-league pitcher once struck out five batters in one inning?
A: Joe Niekro in a 1977 Houston Astros exhibition game. Hard-to-catch knuckle ball third strikes got by this catcher twice, allowing two runners to reach base and five strike outs.

Q: You suffer from ergasiophobia, what do you have an abnormal fear of?
A: You are afraid of any kind of work.

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On May 6, 1954, an Englishman named Roger Bannister did something no one had ever done before. What did he do? A: He ran a mile in under 4 minutes (3:59:4).

On May 6, 1889, what world renowned landmark was officially opened to the public? A: The Eiffel Tower.

England's famous "One Penny Black" was issued on May 6, 1840. What was it? A: The world's first postage stamp. That's really amazing. In 1840 it cost only one penny to have the Post Office lose your letter. Adhesive postage stamps were used for the first time on May 6, 1840 in England. Without a stamp, your letter has no chance of getting to it's destination. But with a stamp, your letter has a good chance of not getting to it's destination.

Friday, May 02, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On May 2, 1974, what scary movie -- that became a blockbuster hit -- began filming in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts?
A: Jaws!

Q: According to research at the University of California at Davis, what may be as good for your heart as red wine without the bad alcohol side-effects: (a) cranberry juice, (b) apple juice, or (c) grapefruit juice?
A: Apple juice, because of its antioxidants. Unsweetened, 100 percent apple juice is best.

Q: According to research at Georgia State University, are you likely to eat less when: (a) dining alone, (b) dining with one other person, or (c) dining with two other people?
A: Dining alone. In fact, the larger the group, the more you're likely to eat.

Thursday, May 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On the "Batman" television show of the 1960s, who played the part of the villain Egghead?
A: Vincent Price. And Burgess Meredith was the Penguin; Victor Buono was King Tut.

Q: What are the birthstone and flower for the month of May?
A: The emerald and lily of the valley (or hawthorn).

Q: Who was the first female jockey to ride in the Kentucky Derby?
A: Diane Crump rode in the Kentucky Derby on May 1, 1970. She was as good as the men, except at parallel parking.

Q: The only American ever to have his own personal zip code was a famous celebrity who retired on May 1, 1975. Who?
A: Smokey the Bear, Washington DC 20252. Of course, after Smokey retired he didn't get as much mail as he did during the 25 years he served as spokesbear for the U.S. Forest Service. In fact, in his golden years, about the only mail Smokey received was a letter now and then from other old celebrities offering him a valuable Medicare supplement that would pay directly to Smokey when he was in the hospital.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What was history's only #1 instrumental featuring a zither?
A: On APR 29, 1950: "The Third Man Theme" by Anton Karas hit #1 in the U.S. and stayed there for 11 weeks.

Q: Gideon Sundback patented the "slide fastener" on APR 29, 1913. We know it better as what?
A: The Zipper. The fasteners were first used on galoshes, which could be pulled on and off in a zip and were called "zippers". Zipper is still a legally registered trademark for galoshes. So, legally your fly is a galosh.

Q: What was Jerry Seinfeld's original occupation?
A: He was a telephone/light bulb salesman.

Q: House dust is made up by 70% of what?
A: Skin cells, dead skin cells from humans, animals and insects

Monday, April 28, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On April 28, 2001, a millionaire named Dennis Tito did something nobody else had done before. What?
A: He became the first private space tourist by paying a bundle to the Russians to visit the International Space Station.

Q: Jay Leno went ten years without having a guest host his "Tonight" show. Who was the first guest host?
A: Katie Couric.

Q: The war between Britain and Zanzibar in 1896 was the shortest war on record. How long did it last?
A: Thirty eight minutes.

Friday, April 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What Daniel Defoe novel was published on April 25, 1719?
A: Robinson Crusoe

Q: What is the fastest speed at which a dog has been timed?
A: 41.72 miles an hour, a record set by Australian greyhound on APR 25, 1968. The dog used a special training method to increase his speed. He was able to run at 41 miles an hour by chasing a fie hydrant moving at 42 miles per hour.

Q: The first automobile license plates were inscribed with the owners initials and cost $1.00. Which U.S. state was the first to require drivers to have license plates?
A: New York, on APR 25, 1901

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

April 24, 1990, was a big day for astronomers. Why? A: The Hubble Space Telescope was launched.

When was Barbara Streisand presented with a special Tony Award as "Actress of the Decade"? A: In 1970, after her '60s performances in "I Can Get It For You Wholesale" and "Funny Girl".

When the Barbie doll got her first car in 1962, what make was it? (a) Baby blue Ford Falcon; (b) Purple Corvette; or (c) Coral Austin Healy? A: A coral Austin Healy made by the Irwin Corporation for Mattel.

Who was the only U.S. president to have a PHd in political science? A: Woodrow Wilson.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On APR 23, 1985, a large company announced a product change. The product change became one of the biggest flops in business history. What was the product?

A: Coca Cola announced the release of New Coke. (Response was overwhelmingly negative. Classic Coke was on the market within 3 months)

Q: Yesterday was Jack Nicholson's birthday, do you remember the name of his first film?
A: "Cry Baby Killers" in 1958.

Q: James Buchanan, the 15th U.S. president, was born on APR 23, 1791. What was his hobby?
A: Buchanan's hobby was crocheting, but he tried to keep it a secret. He figured if word got out that the President crocheted, everybody'd want an afghan.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Born on April 22, 1937. Actor Jack Nicholson. Can you name the 1975 movie for which he won the Best Actor Oscar? A: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

Actor Jack Nicholson was reared believing his grandmother was his mother. How did he learn the truth? A: Time magazine uncovered the truth while researching a story on Jack. The woman he believed to be his older sister was actually his mother.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia Teasers

Q: Before landing a role on TV's Taxi in 1978, what was Tony Danza's profession?

A: Boxer.

Q: Of all US welfare recipients, 66% have one thin in common. What would you guess it is?

A: They're too young to vote.

Q: You suffer from rupophobia. What d you have an unnatural fear of?

A: Dirt.

Q: Who was the first vice president of the US?

A: On April 21, 1789: John Adams was sworn in as the first VP.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: APR 18, 1934 was a clean day in Fort Worth, Texas, why?
A: America's first laundromat was opened!

Q: On APR 18, 1956, what was worn by major league umpire for the first time during a game?
A: Eyeglasses.

Q: Actress Barbara Hale built an entire career playing Perry Mason's secretary, Della Street. But another actress played Della with a complete new Perry Mason cast in 1973 and 1974. Who was it?
A: Canada's Sharon Acker

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

In Texas, it's still illegal to: (a) own an Encyclopedia Britannica, (b) milk another person's cow; or (c) operate a saloon without spittoons? A: Milk another person's cow. It was once illegal to own an Encyclopedia Britannica because it contained a recipe for making beer.

What is the only cat that cannot retract it's claws? A: The cheetah

On April 17, 1967, "The Joey Bishop Show" debuted on ABC-TV late night, opposite Johnny Carson. Who was Joey's announcer? A: Regis Philbin and Johnny Mann's music lasted just over 2 1/2 years, but couldn't beat Carson.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: APR 16, 1926 was a big day for avid readers. Why?
A: The "Book of the Month Club" started. Instead of joining the club, i saved my money by buying a dictionary. I have all the same words, thought not necessarily in the same order.

Q: Who was the second man in history to fly in an airplane?
A: Wilbur Wright. He would have been the first, but he volunteered to stay on the ground and frisk his brother Orville for concealed weapons and over-sized bottles of shampoo.

Q: Which has more caffeine: (a) a glass of iced tea; (b) two Excedrin tablets; or (c) 12 ounces of Coca-Cola?
A: Two Exedrin tablets, 130 milligrams; iced tea 70mg, Coke 47mg. A cup of truck stop coffee has 200mg.

Q: According to an 8-year study published in 1994 by the National Institute for Highway Safety in Canada, side and front two-car accidents were reduced by what simple act?
A: Driving with headlights on during the daytime.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Actor George C Scott did something very unusual on April 15,1971. What did he do? A: He refused to accept the Oscare for his Best Actor performance in "Patton".

Do babies look like their father or their mother? A: Babies look more like their father until age one, but that often changes over time (Research from the University of California at San Diego).

You're so angry your ears are read. What should you do? A: According to Helene Lerner's book "Stress Breakers", suck in your gut for five seconds, then release, and repeat it three or four times.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: According to emergency room records, what time of day are you most likely to crash into a glass door?
A: Late afternoon.

Q: What country drinks more coffee per capita?
A: Sweden.

Q: On April 14, 1910, William Howard Taft started the custom of a President doing what?
A: Throwing out the first ball of the baseball season.

Q: On April 14, 1775, the first society for the abolishment of slavery was organized. By whom?
A: Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin Rush.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On APR 11, 1988, a surprise win in the Best Actress catergory at the Oscars. Who won?
A: Cher (for Moonstruck).


Q: Which fruit whitens teeth when you eat them?
A: Apples. Also oranges, celery, and carrots increase saliva production, which minimizes stain-producing bacteria on teeth (Vitality magazine)

Q: You are a 123lb person. In 20minutes will you burn more calories while: (a) cooking; (b) dusting, or (c) grocery shopping?
A: Twenty minutes of grocery shopping burns 84 calories; dusting 70 calories, cooking 48 calories

APRIL 9THS TRIVIA

Q: The Academy Awards were on APR 9, 1984. Which movie won the Oscar for Best Picture?
A: Terms of Endearment

Q: In the film "The Right Stuff", who was test- pilot Chuck Yeager played by?
A: Sam Shephard.

Q: In what country are more redheads born?
A: In Scotland, 11 percent of the population has red hair.

Q: According to "The Book of Useless Information." statistically, what is the safest age of life?
A: 10 years old.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia Teasers

Q: Which vitally important piece of equipment, something every home cannot be without, was patented on April 10, 1849?

A: Safety pin, patented by Walter Hunt of New York.

Q: Your glue is dead, hardened in the bottle. What could you do?

A: According to Skinflint News, add a teaspoon of vinegar and shake the container. This will bring your glue back to LIFE.

Q: According to the Humane Society, you have decided not to spay your female cat or any of her offspring. In 7 years how many cats will you probably have?

A: 420,000 cats.

Tuesday, April 08, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Actor John Schneider was born on April 8, 1960. Which brother did he play in "The Dukes of Hazard?" A: Bo Duke

You are suffering from peladophobia. What do you have an unnatural fear of? A: You're afraid of bald people. (No, the fear of becoming bald is called phalacrophobia).

Were five teenage conterfeiters arrested in Oswego, New York, because (a) their funny money was printed in black-and-white; (b) their $5 bills were chartreuse; or (c) their $10 bills were $20 bills on the flipside. A: Their bills had $10 faces and $20 backs.

Monday, April 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On April 7, 2000 what movie opened in US theaters starring Tommy Lee Jones,Samuel L. Jackson, and Blair Underwood?
A: Rules of Engagement.

Q: What Swedish statesman was elected secretary-general of the United Nations on April 7, 1953? He served until his death in a 1961 plane crash.
A: Dag Hammarskjold.

Q: James Garner was born on April 7, 1928. He starred in "The Rockford Files." That show had great stories, interesting characters, first-rate entertainment. So, of course, it eventually got canceled. What was his first film?
A: "Joan of Arc," a 1948 film starring Ingrid Bergman. He played a peasant. It was six years before his next film role.

Q: You tripped over your Chihuahua and knocked out a tooth. To keep the tooth alive until you can get to a dentist or emergency room, should you put it in (a) a can of beer, (b) a glass of milk, or (c) a cup of ketchup?
A: A glass of milk, preferably skim or low-fat (Vitality Magazine).

Q: How do butterflies taste?
A: With their feet.

Q: On April 7, 1927 an audience in New York saw an image of Herbert Hoover in the first successful long-distance demonstration of television. What political position did he hold?
A: U.S. Commerce Secretary.

Today is "No Housework Day," no bed-making, no dishes, no trash, no guilt -- sponsored by the Wellness Permission League of Lebanon, Pennsylvania (717-279-0184). Some call today "Let-Someone-Else-Clean Day."

Today is "National Coffee Cake and Caramel Popcorn Day."

Today is "Women's Day" in Mozambique.

Today is "World Health Day," marking creation of the UN's World Health Organization on this date in 1948.

This is "Families Laughing Through Stories Week," time to tell funny family stories.

"National Networking Week" and "National Public Health Week" begin today.

Friday, April 04, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: He was born on APR 4, 1946. He appeared in Turner and Hooch, Stir Crazy, Call to Glory, Troop Beverly Hills, Washington D.C.'s police chief on the District and was head coach Hayden Fox on TV's "Coach", who is he?
A: Craig T. Nelson

Q: Who was the first U.S. president to die in office?
A: William Henry Harrison died (APR 4, 1841) of pneumonia after serving one month. He was the 9th president and the first to die in office. He was succeeded by Vice President John Tyler, first person to occupy the office without being elected to it.

Thursday, April 03, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On April 3, 1860, the famous "Pony Express" mail service started between two U.S. cities. Can you name either or both of the cities? A: St. Joseph, Missouri and Sacramento, California. Back then it took brave men riding through rough terrain and hostile territory over a week to deliver the mail. Today, with all the high-tech postal equipment, they can do it in about ten days.

On April 3, 1960, The Paul Winchell Show last aired on ABC-TV. The ventriloquist's dummy partner's name was Jerry Mahoney. Later, Winchell invented something, do you know what it is? A: History's first artificial heart.

Wednesday, April 02, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On APR 2, 1792 Congress authorized the use of the words "E Pluribus Unum" on U.S. dollars. What does E Pluribus Unum mean?
A: "One out of many" and is espcially applicable to the income tax. Of all the dollars we make, we keep one out of many.

Q: On APR 2, 1513, who was the first known European to ser foot on Florida?
A: Ponce de Leon

Q: French sculptor Frederic Bartholdi, born APR 2, 1834 is famous for?
A: creator of the Stature of Liberty

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

April 1, 1891, was a historic day for gum chewers. Why? (Clue: Chicago). A: The Wrigley Chewing Gum Company was founded.

Which computer company first reached $1 billion in annual sales? (a) IBM; (b) Apple; or (c) Radio Shack? A: Apple, 1982.

According to Newsweek, the CIA spent $20 million on (a) Girl Scout cookies; (b) psychics; or (c) 1-900 telephone calls? A: On psychics, before deciding it was a waste of money.

Monday, March 31, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia Teasers

Q: This date, March 31, 1889, was a big day in Paris, France. Why?

A: The Eiffel Tower opened. It was named for its engineer-architect Alexandre Eiffel who attended France A&M and majored in advanced Tinker Toys.

Q: What would you think is Al Gore's favorite comic strip?
a) Peanuts
b) Doonesbury
c) Family Circus

A: Doonesbury

Q: What is the shortest complete sentence in the English language?

A: "I am."

Q: Forty albums ago in 1962 Herb Alpert took a $200 demo, dubbed bullfight crowd noises over it, renamed it "The Lonely Bull," and released his first gold record. What was the song's original title?

A: "Twinkle Star."

Friday, March 28, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On MAR 28, 1979 a pump failure at a U.S. nuclear power generating station almost caused a disastrous meltdown. Where in Pennsylvania did this occur?
A: A Three Mile Island

Q: On MAR 28 1797, Nathanial Briggs was awarded a patent for something i would guess that everyone listening has or uses, what is it?
A: the washing machine.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On March 27, 1995, which movie won the Academy Award for Best Picture? A: Forrest Gump.

If you have a pet that is 150 years old, what is it? A: If it's that old, it's a turtle.

On March 27, 1958, Nikita Khrushchev became the premier of the Soviet Union. Who did he replace? A: Nikolai Bulganin.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Born on MAR 26, 1944: Diana Ross. Can you name the other two original members of the Supremes?
A: Florence Ballard. Mary Wilson. (Ballard was later replaced by Cindy Birdsong)

Q: Today in 1886: Asa Yoelson was born in Srednick, Russia. We know him better by what name?
A: Al Jolson. His hits included "Raggin' the Baby to Sleep," "The Spaniard That Blighted My Life," "Sonny Boy" and "April Showers"

Q: MAR 26, 1937: Spinach growers in Crystal City, Texas, unveiled a statue of their hero, can you name him?
A: Popeye the Sailor. It was erected on the town square. Its still there.

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On March 25, 1943, Jimmy Durante along with a partner debuted on network radio, replacing the popular Abbott and Costello following Lou Costello's heart attack. Who was Jimmy Durante's partner? A: Garry Moore. Durante and Moore lasted four years, and later had their own individual television shows.

Which one of the U.S. presidents wrote the most books? A: Theodore Roosevelt. He wrote over three dozen.

Who was the first West Pointe graduate to become a U.S. president? A: Ulysses S. Grant.

Monday, March 24, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Who said, "A boy's best friend is his mother"? Was it(a) Little Beaver, (b) Norman Bates, or (c) O.J. Simpson?
A: Anthony Perkins spoke the line as Norman Bates in the film "Psycho."

Q: Who was the first black actress to win an Oscar in a leading role?
A: Halle Berry won at the Oscar presentations on March 24, 2002 for her work in "Monster's Ball."

Q: This man was the only US president with a PhD, the first President officially to throw out the first ball at a World Series game, and also has his picture on the $100,000 bill. Who?
A: Woodrow Wilson.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: This date, Mar 21, 1980, was a sad day for U.S. Olympic athletes. Why?
A: A President Jimmy Carter announced a U.S. boycott of the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, as a reaction to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan

Q: What does Rosie O'Donnell have a large collection of?
A: McDonald's Happy Meal figures

Q: It was on Mar 21 that the state of Mississippi ratify the Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolishing slavery. What year was it?
A: 1995

Q: Persia changed its name on Mar 21, 1935. What do we call it?
A: Iran. But remember, Persian cats did not change their names.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Originally a writer, what did director Spike Lee write? A: Advertising copy.

If you're healthy, where on your body will your temperature average 92 degrees? A: Inside your nose.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: She was born on Mar 19, 1936. She appeared in Dr.No, Casino Royale, and Whats New Pussycat. Who is she?
A: Ursula Andress

Q:Bruce Willis once quite an acting job without getting paid. What was he paying?
A: Oscar the Grouch at a New York department store. He just walked away.

Q: What is Bruce Willis' blues band called?
A: BRUNO

Q: In 1953, legendary filmmaker Cecil B. DeMille won the only Academy Award of his career. Can you name the film?
A: "The Greatest Show on Earth", a big budget extravaganza about circus life, was acclaimed best picture of the year. It was also the first televised Academy Awards.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

March 18, 1931 was a historic day for personal grooming for men. Why? A: Schick introduced the first electric shaver.

According to old English tradition, which part of a chicken is called the "parson's nose"? A: The rump. No one seems to know why.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Alan's Trivia for St. Patty's Day!!

Today's Trivia Teaser

(Answers below)

1) Can you name Ireland's national airline?

2) How did St. Patrick get to Ireland in the first place?

3) Who starred in the first western? A) Buffalo Bill Cody, B) Annie Oakley, or C) Rudolph Valentino

4) The first St. Patrick's Day parade in New York city was designed to honor the Roman Catholic feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. In what year did New York stage the first St. Patrick's Day parade?

Today is:

St. Patrick's Day, a national holiday in Ireland. The "World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade" is held in Maryville, Missouri. The parade route gets shorter every year, now down to about 86 feet.

National Green Beer Day in Ireland

Green River Day in Chicago

Campfire USA Day, marking the founding of the Campfire Girls. The young girls organization began on this date in 1910.

Freedom of Information Day. The nation's libraries celebrate citizens' right to know (marking James Madison's birthday, March 16).

Save the Panther Day (Florida)

Evacuation Day - celebrated in Suffolk County, Massachusetts, this day celebrates the evacuation of British troops from Boston on this date in 1776.

"Wellderly" Week begins today, celebrating seniors who never act their age.

"Act Happy Week" and "Spring Fever Week" both begin today.

Answers to Trivia Questions:


1) Aer Lingus

2) At age 16, St. Patrick was kidnapped by pirates and taken to Ireland. Six years later he escaped to France. When he was 47, the church sent Bishop Patrick back to Ireland.

3) The answer is A, Buffalo Bill Cody.

4) 1762

Friday, March 14, 2008

Today's Trivia Teaser for Mar. 14, 2008

(answers below)

1) On March 14, 1958, the first gold record was awarded for sales over 1 million copies. Can you name the singer and the song?

2) On what kind of scholarship did Billy Crystal attend college?

3) Billy Crystal didn't make it in his first network TV job. What was his first failure on?

4) What is the only bird that can fly backward?

5) "You betchum, Red Ryder!"was a trendy quote in the '40s. Who started the craze?

Trivia tidbits:

Today is "Burt Bare Day," marking publication on this date in 1972 of the April issue of Cosmopolitan, revealing Burt Reynolds as the magazine's first nude centerfold.

Today is "International Ask-a-Question Day," promoting critical thinking and collaborative conversation.

Today is Today is "Pi Day," a day to celebrate pi: the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.

Today is "National Children's Craft Day," a day devoted to encouraging children's creativity.

Today is "National Potato Chip Day"

Today is "Ten Most Wanted Day." On this day in 1950 the FBI began its "Ten Most Wanted" fugitives list as a way to get the public's help in finding the nation's most dangerous criminals.

Today is "Mother Day, a day to honor moth collectors, sponsored by Bob Birch of Falls Church, Virginia.

ANSWERS

1) Perry Como for "Catch a Falling Star"

2) Baseball

3) Crystal was part of the original Saturday Night Live cast in 1976, but his skit was cut from the first show. He became a regular on SNL eight years later.

4) The hummingbird

5) The character's name was "Little Beaver," played by Robert Blake.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Scientist Joseph Priestley was born on March 13, 1733. He's the guy who discovered something really important -- do you know what?
A: Oxygen. Before that, people just breathed whatever happened to be in the neighborhood. Aaaaaah, oxygen! I tell ya, it's quite a gas! Once you start breathing that stuff, it's hard to quit. Priestley also discovered carbon monoxide, ammonia, hydrogen, chloride, sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxide, and chlorine. If Priestley had never been born, I might have passed chemistry.

Q: What corporation owns Kool-Aid?
A: Phillip Morris. They also own Cheez Whiz, Jell-O, Miller Beer, Marlboro, Oscar Mayer, Post Cereals, Velveeta, Tombstone Pizza, and Maxwell House.

Q: How does a giraffe clean its ears?
A: With its 21-inch tongue.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On March 12, 1912, Juliette Gordon of Savannah, Georgia organized the first troop of Girl Guides. We know them better as what?
A: Girl Scouts! And so began one of the most interesting debates of modern times: chocolate mint vs. peanut butter-filled cookies. Unfortunately, she had to change the name to Girl Scouts to prevent the Boy Scouts from scouting out the Girl Guides to guide the Boy Scouts.

Q: On March 12, 1974, "Wonder Woman" premiered on television. Who played the title character?
A: Lynda Carter.
Q: Who was Wonder Woman's alter ego?
A: Diana Prince.
Q: The original comic book character was created by Charles Moulton, who also invented something that is used today. What?
A: The lie detector.

Q: On March 12, 1933, Franklin Delano Roosevelt delivered something for the first time. What?
A: The first of his Fireside Chats.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Why was March 11, 1997 a big day for former Beatle Paul McCartney?
A: He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth, and became SIR Paul.

Q: Who invented the wrist watch?
A: Louis Cartier, in 1904.

Q: How many seconds are there in a year?
A: 31,557,600

Q: A jiffy is an actual measurement of time. What is its value?
A: 1/100th of a second

Monday, March 10, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Actress Sharon Stone, who was born on March 10, 1958, starred with Arnold Schwarzenegger in a 1990 film. Title?
A: Total Recall.

Q: Some 45 percent of wives say their husbands snore. What percent of husbands will admit it?
A: Only 5 percent.

Q: Which US president had more pets at the White House than any other, including cats, dogs, ponies, guinea pigs, lizards, and kangaroos?
A: Theodore Roosevelt.

Q: On March 10, 1862, the US Treasury did what for the first time?
A: Issued the first American paper money, in denominations from $5 to $1000.

Friday, March 07, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On MAR 7, 1999, movie director Stanley Kubrick died. Can you name the 1964 movie he directed in which Peter Sellers played three roles?
A: Dr. Strangelove

Q: Federal Express founder Fred Smith first proposed his idea for overnight package delivery in a 1965 paper he wrote for an economics course. What grade did the paper get?
A: The paper got a C.

Thursday, March 06, 2008

Alan Rock's Trivia

On March 6, 1981, what newscaster left CBS news? He was known as "the most trusted man in America". So the network had no choice. They had to get rid of him. A: Walter Cronkite.

In studies reported in the Johns Hopkins Health Insider, what percentage of the ground beef sold at supermarkets was contaminated with salmonella or other bacteria? A: 66%. Cooking until the juices run clear destroys the bacteria.

On March 6, 1925, the first packaged frozen food appeared in Springfield, Massachusetts. Who invented the "deep freeze" process? A: It was Clarence Birdseye. In 1929, Birdseye sold out to the Postum Company for $22 million in, you should excuse the expression, cold cash.