Alan Rock's Trivia, Friday, December 22, 2006

Q: On December 22, 1958, the Chipmunks first hit the #1 slot with "The Chipmunk Christmas Song." Can you name all three Chipmunks?
A: Alvin, Simon, and Theodore.

Q: On December 22, 1882, Thomas Edison created something that has come to be very handy at this time of year. What?
A: The first string of Christmas tree lights. Unfortunately, it was New Year's Eve before he got 'em untangled.

Q: What show -- TV's first children's educational series -- debuted on December 22, 1952?
A: Ding Dong School. The host was Miss Frances -- Dr. Frances Horwich of Chicago's Roosevelt College.

Q: At night, what color does an alligator's eyes shine?
A: Red.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On this date in 1991, which country disappeared from the map?
A: The Soviet Union formally ceased to exist.

Q: On December 21, 1937, Walt Disney's first full-length animated movie debuted. What was the title?
A: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Can you name the Dwarfs? They are Doc, Grumpy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy, Dopey, and Happy. I'm not allowed to tell you why Happy had that name.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On December 20, 1860, which was the first state to secede from the Union?
A: South Carolina.

Q: Thomas Edison demonstrated his latest invention on December 20, 1879. What was it?
A: The light bulb. Then, able to see at night and work longer hours, he started on his next invention -- the Clapper. But he never quite got that one to work.

Q: The U.S. bought a million square miles of territory from France for $20 million on December 20, 1803. What did they buy?
A: The Louisiana Purchase. Oddly enough, after Christmas they tried to return it but they'd lost the sales slip.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On this date in 1973, Johnny Carson made a joke on his late night TV show that caused a nationwide shortage of what?
A: Johnny joked that there was a toilet paper shortage -- which caused panic buying -- which caused a nationwide shortage.

Q: How deep is the great Salt Lake: (a) 3 feet, (b) 13 feet, or (c) 23 feet?
A. Only 13 feet deep.

Q: On December 19, 1949, what was the #1 song in the U.S.?
A: "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Gene Autry. Gene was a singing cowboy who was at his best singing to a herd of cows, which made for some pretty messy sessions in the recording studio.

Q: Dolly Parton's first movie opened on December 19, 1980. What was it?
A: "9 to 5." She won two awards for the movie -- one for each wig, I suppose.

Alan Rock's Trivia, Friday, December 15th

Q: Which artist have more people seen perform live: (a) Michael Jackson, (b) David Copperfield, or (c) Garth Brooks?
A: David Copperfield.

Q: America's first law school was founded on December 15, 1791. They did a good job training lawyers. Too good, in fact. The first graduates sued the school and got their tuition back. Where was it?
A: The University of Pennsylvania.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Can you name the leader of the first expedition to reach the South Pole on December 14, 1911?
A: Roald Amundsen.

Q: What did comic W.C. Fields do in almost every city he visited?
A: He opened savings accounts in some 700 different banks, amounting to over a million dollars. He forgot where most of them were.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: In the early 1970s, what was actor Dick Van Dyke treated for?
A: Alcoholism. He was one of the first major TV stars to admit the disease publicly and seek treatment.

Q: You have a condition doctors call chirospasm. Might you have trouble (a) addressing Christmas cards, (b) baking Christmas cookies, or (c) untangling Christmas lights?
A: Christmas cards might be slow since you have writer's cramp.

Q: Who was the first rock artist invited to the White House to have lunch with President Ford?
A: Singer George Harrison, on December 13, 1974.

Alan Rock's Trivia

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

Q: On December 12, 1899, the U.S. Patent Office issued patent #638,920 to George F. Grant of Boston for his invention of something that all golfers use. What?
A: The golf tee. Before that, golfers placed the ball on a small mound of dirt called a "tee."

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Boxer Mohammad Ali lost his final professional fight to Trevor Berbick on this date in 1981. How many pro fights did Ali have?
A: 61

Q: On December 11, 1946, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund was established. We know it as?
A: UNICEF

Q: On December 11, 1951, Joe DiMaggio announced his retirement from baseball. Having played 13 years for only the New York Yankees, Joltin' Joe's lifetime batting average was .325. His 56-game hitting streak still stands as a record. Joe's two brothers were also major-league players. What were their names?
A: Vince and Dom.

Q: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers finally won an NFL game on December 11, 1977 by defeating New Orleans 33-14. How many games had the Bucs lost before this first win?
A: Twenty-six regular season games, 11 by shutout.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1980, John Lennon was shot and killed outside his appartment building in New York City. Do you remember the name of the apartment building?
A: The Dakota

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

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1941, Japanese planes attacked Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, bringing the U.S. into World War 2. In 1961, a performer staged an important benefit concert in Hawaii to start a fund for the construction of the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Can you name that performer?
A: Elvis Presley.

Q: Who said,"I have a new philosophy. I'm only going to dread one day at a time."?
A: Charles Schulz

Q: 56 years ago today December 7th, the #1 song "The Thing". Who sung it.
A: Phil Harris

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On December 6th, the first U.S. president to be heard on radio was who?
A: President Coolidge. The first president broadcast went OK. Everybody liked the part where the 15th caller won their choice of either a pot bellied stove or a wringer washing machine.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: America's first fraternity was founded at William & Mary College on December 5th, 1776. What was the name of that fraternity?
A: Phi Beta Kappa. Fraternity brothers are very close. In fact, two guys in my fraternity were so close they were never separated. Unfortunately, that was the last time we could use Super Glue during Hazing Week.

Q: On December 5th, 1908, which university became the first football team to wear numbers on their uniforms?
A: The University of Pittsburgh, which made it much easier to identify players being carried off the field. This also allowed players to receive full credit for a math course. What I always wanted was to see numbers on the cheerleaders- you know, telephone numbers, addresses, measurements.

Q: Who was the only president who dipped snuff and became famous for missing his spittoon? Today, December 5th, is his birthday.
A: Martin Van Buren. He was also the only president whose hobby was rooster fighting. Between the snuff and the roosters, you really had to watch your step around Van Buren.

Q: On December 5th, 1992, The Denver Post quoted a Department of Energy Memo showing that a vital safety system at the Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant required a number of workers to change a light bulb. How many workers to change a light bulb?
A: 43 workers.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to visit abroad?
A: Woodrow Wilson. He sailed for France on December 4th, 1918, becoming the first President to do so- except for the time George Washington sneaked into Dolly Madison's house.

Q: On December 4th, 1956 the U.S. Army announced it would no longer use what to deliver messages?
A: Carrier Pigeons. Instead, it would use Express Mail at the Post Office. Mailmen might not be quite as fast as pigeons, but they weren't quite as messy either.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The first telephone in the White House was installed on December 1, 1878 during the administration of which President?
A: Ruthford B. Hayes. President Hayes used the telephone to solicit campaign contributions. He was the first telephone caller to reach out and touch someone. The first call was from a storm window salesman.

Q: Where is the world's only roller skating museum?
A: Lincoln, Nebraska.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born on this date in 1874, was the first Englishman to be made an honorary citizen of the United States. Who was he?
A: Winston Churchill.

Q: On November 30th 1913, who made his big screen debut in Mack Sennett's short film 'Making a Living'?
A: Charlie Chaplin.

Q: What did Dick Clark donate in 1982 to the Smithsonian from "American Bandstand"?
A: His podium.

Alan Rock's Trivia Question

Q: History's oldest cat died on Novemeber 29th 1939. His name was Puss. How old was he?
A: 36 years old. He attributed his long life to his abstaining of smoking, drinking, and cattin' around.

Q: What is a twit?
A: A Goldfish.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1929, record company executive Berry Gordy was born. What famous record company did Berry start?
A: Motown Records.

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

Q: In what state is it illegal to ride a camel on a highway?
A: Nevada.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On November 27, 1917 Bob Smith was born in Buffalo, so the called him Buffalo Bob. He had a top childrens show in the early days of television, do you remember the name of the show?
A: Howdy Doody. Buffalo Bob, with his buddy Howdy Doody, had the top childrens show in the early days of television until they were replaced by Annette Funicello. While many children were grieved by the change, I didn't mind much. She had cuter ears.

Q: Levi Strauss was born on November 27th, 1809. What business was he in before he entered the pants industry?
A: He was a tent maker who couldn't sell enough tents, so he started making pants. And business eventually got better, since more people wore pants than tents.

Q: Born November 24th, 1888, he wrote the best selling self-help book of the 20th century; "How to Win Friends and Influence People". What's his name?
A: Dale Carnegie. Lo, how times have changed. If you wanted to sell a self-help book today, you would name it,"How to Play Mind Games and Con People."

Q: Born November 24th, 1941, was Pete Best. Who was he?
A: He was the original drummer for the Beatles. They replaced him with Ringo Starr. I'm not sure why, maybe because Ringo was SO good looking...
Pete Best still tours and plays music as "The Original Beatle". (Truth; there is also a Pete Best Tribute band.)

Q: Born on this date in 1859, an outlaw of the Old West whose name may have been Henry McCarty or William Bonney- better known as_____ ___ ___?
A: Billy the Kid.

Q: Comedian Steve Landesberg is 61 years old today. On the TV comedy "Barney Miller," which detective did actor Steve Landesberg play?
A: He was Dietrich. Abe Vigoda was Fish, Maxwell Gail played Wojo, ... and I think Harisson Ford played a Wookie.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1956, actress Jamie Lee Curtis was born. Her father is Tony Curtis. Can you name her mother?
A: Janet Leigh

Q: What does actor Robert Vaugn have a PhD in ?
A: "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.'s" Napoleon Solo and late-night infomercial star, Dr. Vaughn has a PhD in political science.

Q: On February 1631, when the Massachusetts Bay Colony in Salem proclaimed the first official Thanksgiving, what did the grateful Pilgrims eat?
A: Nothing. It was a day of fasting.

Alan Rock's Trivia Question's

Q: On November 21st, 1980, the biggest TV audience ever for a dramatic series (83 million) tuned into what show to find out who shot J.R.? I can't remember who the shooter was- but any day now he'll release a book titled-"If I shot J.R., Here's how I did it"
A: "Dallas" It was Sue Ellen's sister, the jilted mistress Kristin Shepard.

Q: On November 21st, 1993, Actor Bill Bixby died of Cancer at age 59. Can you name the three hit TV series he starred in?
A: My Favorite Martian, The Courtship of Eddie's Father, and The Incredible Hulk.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1984, the largest crowd to view the unvieling of a Hollywalk of fame star developed. Who was the celebrity?
A: Michael Jackson.

Q: On November 20th, 1789, which state became the first to ratify the Bill of Rights?
A: New Jersey.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On November 17, 1968 NBC pre-empted a footbal game for a children's movie, and millions of football fans threatened to overthrow the network. That's right, children come last. And if it doesn't work, blame the schools. What was the name of the film?
A: "Heidi".

Q: How many desscendants can one couple of rats who really like each other produce in one year?
A: 15,000

Q: On November 17, 1953, in the American League, St. Louis Browns, not one of baseball's better teams, officially became what team?
A: The Baltimore Orioles.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What would you get if you asked for a "pottle" of ice cream the supermarket?
A: The term "pottle" is the legal measurement describing an amount equal to two quarts. Legally, there is no such term as "half-gallon." So if you asked for a pottle of ice cream at the supermarket, you'd probably get a dumb look from the stock clerk.

Q: What actor was born on this date, November 16th 1909. He played the trainer in the first "Rocky" movies. But he never could teach Rocky to remember to remove his mouthpiece before talking.
A: Burgess Meredith.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On November 15, 1991, the U.S. Congress endorsed a trade agreement that the politicians said for Americans, Canadians and Mexicans this agreement would make products cheap, everything would be better, everybody's lives would be improved. Can you name that agreement?
A: NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement. Hey, that was only 15 years ago. Give it time. Give it time.

Q: The first Elvis movie opened in New York City November 15, 1956. Elvis has a minor role and he was semi-terrible, but all the girls screamed anyway. And the next day all the boys started combing their with Crisco. Can you name the movie?
A: "Love Me Tender" In the opening scene Elvis was plowing, walking behind a mule. It was so bad even the mule was laughing.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: He was born on this date in 1948. The world knows him by his first name. His other names are Philip Arthur George. Who is he?
A: Prince Charles

Q: The average dog can make about 10 different vocal sounds. How many different vocal sounds can a cat make?
A: About 100.

Q: On Novemeber 14th, 1980, Martin Scorsese's film "Raging Bull" opened in the U.S. It starred Robert DeNiro as a boxer. Can you name the boxer?
A: Jake LaMotta.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What popular children's television show had it's debut on November 10th, 1969?
A: "Sesame Street" One small step for a big yellow bird-- one giant leap for a small green frog.

Q: Which branch of the United States Military was created on November 10th, 1775?
A: The U.S. Marine Corps. That explains a lot. The Marines were created before haircuts were invented.

Q: What product was the first TV commercial for?
A: A Bulova watch ticked onscreen for 60 seconds.

Q: In what film did Whoopi Goldberg win a Best Supporting Actress Oscar?
A: For her role as Oda Mae Brown in "Ghost", 1990.

Q: On November 13th, 1789, who wrote in a letter to a friend,"In this world nothing can be certain but death and taxes"?
A: Benjamin Franklin.

Q: Which comic strip by Al Capp appeared in newspapers for the last time on November 13th, 1977?
A: "Li'l Abner"

Q: Which Beatles cartoon movie premiered in the U.S. On November 13th, 1968?
A: "Yellow Submarine". Most people who've seen the movie agree-- Ringo totally out acts the other Beatles.

Q: What tunnel linking New York City to New Jersey was completed on November 13th, 1927?
A: The Holland Tunnel. New Yorkers say the traffic in the tunnel actually moves faster when you're leaving New York, because New Jersey sucks. We can't repeat what New Jerseyan's say about New Yorkers.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born November 9, 1951, what was actor Lou Ferrigno's most popular role on a TV series?

A: He was the Incredible Hulk. The green, "Oh-look-I've-split-my-pants-because-I'm-angry" Hulk. In real life the only time you'll see people turn green and split their pants is during rough weather on a cruise ship with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Q: In 1985 which state legislature voted down a resolution to make "Louie Louie" the state song?

A: Washington

Q: Remember the TV show "This is Your Life"? Who was the first person to walk off the show?

A: On November 9, 1993: Actress Angie Dickinson became the first person in 500 shows to walk off the TV set of "This is Your Life." Angie said, "Not on your life!"

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On November 8th, 1929, what world famous museum opened in New York?
A: The New York Museum of Modern Art opened. I like modern art. At home I have an anti-conceptualist, nouveau expressionistic, post-impressionism, neo-realist picture of dogs playing poker. In modern art an apple doesn't have to look like ann apple. It can look like a banana, if you know where to draw the line. And critics don't give ou the brush.

Q: Which one of our contiguous states became the 41st state to join the union on November 8th, 1889?
A: Montana. Famous for cows and Christmas trees. They sell all the trees, so on Christmas they decorate cows.

Q: It is believed that one-third of all fresh water on the earth is in what country?
A: Canada.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1973, New Jersey became the first U.S. state where girls were allowed to do something. What was it?
A: Play on Little League baseball teams.

Q: Who was the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress on this date in 1916?
A: Jeanette Rankin of Montana. They put in a special ladies room for her, but she never used it because there wasn't anyone else to go with her.

Q: Which U.S. President established the Corporation for Public Broadcasting on this date?
A: Lyndon Johnson. Thanks to LBJ, all Americans know how insects mate.

Q: What radio program debuted as a 15-minute daily adventure serial on CBS Radio on November 7th, 1932? It ran sucessfully for 14 years.
A: "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century".

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On November 3, 1957 a communist dog became the first dog launched into outer space. He didn't like it. There were no trees or fire hydrants. Do you remember his name?
A: Laika.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: She was the girl from the U.N.C.L.E.- and she was born on this date in 1942. What was her name?
A: Stephanie Powers

Q: He was born November 2, 1865 and was the first President to speak on the radio. I'm not sure what he said. Something about the 7th caller winning the job of Vice President. Who was he?
A: Warren G. Harding. He was the 29th U.S. President. He was the only U.S. President who chewed tobacco and played the trombone. At the same time. Which probably explains why he never got a job in the orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: She was the girl from the U.N.C.L.E.- and she was born on this date in 1942. What was her name?
A: Stephanie Powers

Q: He was born November 2, 1865 and was the first President to speak on the radio. I'm not sure what he said. Something about the 7th caller winning the job of Vice President. Who was he?
A: Warren G. Harding. He was the 29th U.S. President. He was the only U.S. President who chewed tobacco and played the trombone. At the same time. Which probably explains why he never got a job in the orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: She was the girl from the U.N.C.L.E.- and she was born on this date in 1942. What was her name?
A: Stephanie Powers

Q: He was born November 2, 1865 and was the first President to speak on the radio. I'm not sure what he said. Something about the 7th caller winning the job of Vice President. Who was he?
A: Warren G. Harding. He was the 29th U.S. President. He was the only U.S. President who chewed tobacco and played the trombone. At the same time. Which probably explains why he never got a job in the orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: She was the girl from the U.N.C.L.E.- and she was born on this date in 1942. What was her name?
A: Stephanie Powers

Q: He was born November 2, 1865 and was the first President to speak on the radio. I'm not sure what he said. Something about the 7th caller winning the job of Vice President. Who was he?
A: Warren G. Harding. He was the 29th U.S. President. He was the only U.S. President who chewed tobacco and played the trombone. At the same time. Which probably explains why he never got a job in the orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: She was the girl from the U.N.C.L.E.- and she was born on this date in 1942. What was her name?
A: Stephanie Powers

Q: He was born November 2, 1865 and was the first President to speak on the radio. I'm not sure what he said. Something about the 7th caller winning the job of Vice President. Who was he?
A: Warren G. Harding. He was the 29th U.S. President. He was the only U.S. President who chewed tobacco and played the trombone. At the same time. Which probably explains why he never got a job in the orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How many bathrooms does the White House have?
A: 34.

Q:Who sang "The Lady is a Tramp" in the movie "Babes in Arms"?
A: Judy Garland.

Q: On November 1, 1940, Bud Abbott and Lou Costello appeared on film for the first time. What was the name of the movie?
A: "A Night in the Tropics".

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: A famous magician died on October 31st, 1926. Every Halloween evening since, magicians and psychics have tried to contact him. Who is he?
A: Harry Houdini.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: During his first season as "The Fonz" on "Happy Days", how much did actor Henry Winkler recieve per episode?
A: $750. Eventually he recieved $80,000 per episode.

Q: On early television who was "America's Favorite Flying Cowboy"?
A: Texas Ranger Sky King. The character was played by actor Kirby Grant. He was later killed in a Montana auto accident at age 74 on October 30th, 1985

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On October 13, 1792, what famous cornerstone was laid for what very special building?

A: The White House in Washington D.C.

Q: What branch of our military was established on this date in 1775?

A: The U.S. Navy. And not a minute too soon; the Army was about to try and wade across the Atlantic.

Q: Who claimed England for the Normans on this date in 1066?

A: William the Conqueror. According to historians, he actually hated to fight and sometimes wished his parents had named him William the Gardener.

Q: On October 13, 1958, was the last "big band" hit song. It reached #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Name that tune.

A: Warren Covington and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra's "Tea for Two Cha-Cha."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: In Northern California: Scientists have located a Redwood, it's the world's tallest tree. How tall is it?

A: 379 feet. This tree is soooo tall - if it fell in the forest and nobody was there to hear it - it might just make a tiny noise.

Q: Who invented scissors?

A: Leonardo da Vinci

Q: Assuming your skin is average, how often do you shed a complete layer of it?

A: Every 28 days.

Q: On October 12, 1962, a Little Richard concert in Liverpool was opened by a local group. Can you name them?

A: The Beatles. Greatest band ever. :)

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1975, "Saturday Night Live" debuted. Who was the first host?
A: George Carlin. Can you name the original cast members?
A: Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Garrett Morris, Laraine Newman, and Gilda Radner.

Q: In Disney's Fantasia, what was the Sorcerer's name?
A: Yensid, which is Disney spelled backwards.

Q: Who was the first president to fly?
A: On October 11, 1910 Teddy Roosevelt became the first president to fly. He soared through the air and waved at people... and vowed never to get on that horse again.

Q: On October 11, 1984, who became the first American woman to walk in space?
A: Kathy Sullivan. Everyone called Kathy courageous, but she said she felt perfectly safe. After all, working in space you don't have to worry about muggers or loose dogs. She called it almost as exciting as shopping.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On October 10, 1951 something really big started in telephone communication, what was it?
A: The worlds first direct dial long distance telephone servie began in the U.S. For the first time, there was no need to call the operator. Have you called an operator lately? They all sound depressed and lonely. Whenever you have a little spare time, dial "0" and tell the operator you're just calling to say "Hello". You'll be making her feel wanted -and the phone company only charges $2.75 a minute.

Q: What did Columbus bring to the New World on his trip that he did not bring on his first or second trips?
A: Women. 30 to be precise.

Q: Remember the Platters'? What was the Platters' biggest selling single?
A: "The Great Pretender" in 1955. Filibuster was called "I'm Just a Dancing Partner."

Q: On October 10, 1970, singer Neil Diamond scored his first #1 song. Can you name that tune?
A: "Cracklin' Rosie."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born October 9, 1940: John Lennon. (Killed Dec. 8, 1980) Interestin trivia about the former Beatle: When John Lennon was born--the doctor slapped the baby's bottom--and little John made a noise that sounded exactly like Yodo Ono singing. On October 9, 1985, a 2.5 acre memorial garden in New York's Central Park was dedicated to the late John Lennon. What is the name of the garden?
A: Strawberry Fields.

Q: Colin Emm was born November 20, 1932, Gosport, Hampshire England. His nicknames are Dickie, The Kissing Bandit and Kissyface. We knoow, or remember him as?
A: Richard Dawson.

Q: What is the longest recorded flight of a chicken in seconds?
A: 13 seconds.

Q: On October 9, 1967, Doc Severinson replaced who as director of the NBC Tonight Show Orchestra. The Doc was already a member of the band.
A: Skitch Henderson.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1996, the first movie directed by Tom Hanks was released. (He also starred) Do you know the title?
A: That Thing You Do

Q: On October 4, 1957 The first satellite to orbit the Earth was launched by the Soviet Union. What was it's name?
A: Sputnik One. One small step towards satellite TV. One giant leep towards 300 channels and nothing on.

Q: Where is the world's only roller skating museum?
A: Lincoln, Nebraska.

Q: Which is more likely to help you lose weight: (a) drinking hot water; (b) drinking ice-cold water; or (c) drinking tap water?
A: Ice-cold water, because the body burns calories expending energy to heat the water to body temperature. But, as always, check with you doctor (Men's Fitness magazine).

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On September 27, 1954, after 15 months on late-night local New York City TV, "Tonight" with Steve Allen debuted on NBC. After Steve Allen, whe were the hosts of the Tonight Show?
A: Ernie Kovacs, Jack Paar, Johnny Carson, and Jay Leno.

Q: Singer Marvin Aday was born in Dallas on this day in 1947. In the 7th grade, Marvin was 5"2 and weighed 240 pounds. What did his friends name him?
A: Meat Loaf. At first, Meat Loaf wanted to be a rodio star. He still holds the high school record for bulldogging and eating a steer. Yuck! Sorry, there's just something repulsive about 59 year old meatloaf.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On September 27, 1954, after 15 months on late-night local New York City TV, "Tonight" with Steve Allen debuted on NBC. After Steve Allen, whe were the hosts of the Tonight Show?
A: Ernie Kovacs, Jack Paar, Johnny Carson, and Jay Leno.

Q: Singer Marvin Aday was born in Dallas on this day in 1947. In the 7th grade, Marvin was 5"2 and weighed 240 pounds. What did his friends name him?
A: Meat Loaf. At first, Meat Loaf wanted to be a rodio star. He still holds the high school record for bulldogging and eating a steer. Yuck! Sorry, there's just something repulsive about 59 year old meatloaf.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1991, a group of scientists began a two-year stay inside a sealed structure in Arizona. It was a survival experiment that didn't go too well. What was the name of the structure?
A: Biosphere 2.

Q: According to research, termites eat wood twice as fast as normal when listening to what kind of music?
A: Heavy metal.

Q: If you suffer from blennophobia, of what do you have an unnatural fear?
A: Slime!

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1991, a group of scientists began a two-year stay inside a sealed structure in Arizona. It was a survival experiment that didn't go too well. What was the name of the structure?
A: Biosphere 2.

Q: According to research, termites eat wood twice as fast as normal when listening to what kind of music?
A: Heavy metal.

Q: If you suffer from blennophobia, what do you have an unnatural fear of?
A: You're terrified of slime.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Anson Williams, born September 25, 1949, played on what famous TV show as what character?
A: He played Potsie on "Happy Days." The Fonz was cool. But compared to Potsie, the Fonz was super-mega-hyper-ultra-awesome-deluxe-infallible-outstanding-prime-world-class-classic cool!

Q: To pursue his show business career, Will Smith turned down a scholarship to what university?
A: MIT.

Q: Who was the oldest major league player to hit 50 home runs in a season? Ten years earlier, he was the youngest player to accomplish the same feat.
A: Willie Mays.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1964: "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." debuted on NBC. Can you name Robert Vaughan's character in the series?
A: Napolean Solo

Q: Actor Scott Baio debut in show business at age 17 in the title role of what film?
A: "Bugsy Malone," a 1976 musical comedy gangster spoof with an all child cast, including Jodie Foster and Michael Jackson. The film did not get rave reviews.

Q: On September 22, 1976: "Charlie's Angels" debuted on ABC-TV. The crime drama starred Kate Jackson as Sabrina Duncan, Farrah Fawcett-Majors as Jill Munroe, and Jaclyn Smith as Kelly Garrett. David Doyle was Bosley, who was the voice of Charlie Townsend?
A: John Forsyth. Cheryl Ladd, Shelly Hack, and Tanya Roberts replaced departing angels during the show's five-year run.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The first female justice on the Supreme Court was confirmed on September 21, 1981. What was her name?
A: Sandra Day O'Connor

Q: Before his comedy career began in Chicago, what was Bill Murry, the student, majoring in?
A: A Pre-med.

Q: What are camel hair brushes made from?
A: Squirrel tails.

Q: Yusuf Islam, was taken off a London-to-Washington United Airlines flight on September 21, 2004, because his name had appeared on the government "no-fly" list. We knew him as?
A: Singer Cat Stevens.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1984: The Cosby Show debuted on NBC. Cosby played Doctor Huxtable. What was his first name and that of his wife's?
A: Heathcliff & Claire

Q: Who was the first president to hold a garage sale at the White House?
A: Chester A. Arthur. He became president of the U.S. September 20 1881. Chester sold 25 wagon-loads of furniture and made $8,000. Unfortunately, thats the only exciting think chester ever did.

Q: On September 20, 1903, the first western movie opened thoughout the U.S. It was only 21 minutes long. What was it's name?
A: "Kit Carson"

Q: Singer Gogi Grant was born on September 20th, 82 years ago. What was her biggest hit?
A: In 1956 Gogi topped the charts with "The Wayward Wind." The year before, "Suddenly There's a Valley" reached #14.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: September 19, 1981, which famous singing duo reunited for a concert in New York's Central Park?
A: Simon & Garfunkel. Some 400-thousand watched Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel reunite in concert, after they split in 1970.

Q: What is the highest ever Military rank and who holds it?
A: On September 19. 1976; President Gerald Ford signed a bill posthumously making George Washington a 6 star general.

Q: Who said "When they call the roll in the Senate, the Senators don't know whether to answer 'Present' or 'Not guilty'?
A: Teddy Roosevelt.

Q: Assuming your elephant is normal, what is his favorite candy?
A: Licorice.

Q: On September 19, 1928; Mickey Mouse made his show business debut when he appeared in cartoon. What was the cartoons name?
A: "Steamboat Willie". Back then Mickey was much skinnier. Mickey's put on weight- and some of it has gone to his ears.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: On this day in 1931, RCA Victor demonstrated the first 33-and-a-third long-play record. Do you remember the RCA logo with the Dog pictured on the label? What was the dogs name?
A: Nipper. And isn't it amazing the Nipper has spun around jillion of times since then and never once got sick.

Q: What was Frankie Avalon's first Top Ten hit song?
A: "Dede Dinah" reached #7 (Billboard) in early 1958. "Ginger Bread" peaked at #9 a few months later. "Venus" hit #1 in 1959.

Q: As a child star, who did actor Robert Blake play a western movie sidekick to?
A: He was Red Ryder's Indian buddy, Little Beaver. He also made 50 "Our Gang" comedies under the name Bobby Blake and his real name, Mickey Gubitosi.

Q: Did you know at one time Donald Duck comics were once banned from Finland. Do you know why?
A: Because he doesn't wear pants.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born September 15, 1857 the 27th and largest U.S. president, who was he?
A: William Howard Taft. Taft weighed over 300 pounds. His pet cow, Pauline had a crush on him. They wanted to put Taft on Mount Rushmore, but they wouldn't have had room for anybody else.

Q: Already on radio and in comin books, what TV debuted on ABC Television on September 15, 1949?
A: The Lone Ranger. With Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels as Tonto.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1986, a 17 minute, three dimensional science fiction movie starring Michael Jackson debuted as an attraction at Disneyland. What was the title? A: Captain EO.

Q: On September 13, 1922, the hottest teperature ever recorded on earth was in El Azizia, Libya. How hot was it?
A: 136 degrees Fahrenheit (57 C) Hey if my Grandma had been there, she would have said-"Call this hot? Brrr! I'm chilly. Where's my sweater?

Q: On September 13, 1788, what city became the capital of the United States?
A: New York City

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Which popular American group started their TV series on September 12. 1966?
A: The Monkees.

Q: You suffer from Lachanophobia. What do you have an abnormal fear of?
A: You're afraid of veggies.

Q: Two states have official beverages. Florida's is orange juice. What's the other state and its beverage?
A: Ohio, Tomato Juice

Q: Who was the first person to play Ronald McDonald in a TV commercial?
A: Weatherman Willard Scott.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Who was the first African American TV host? His show debuted on November 5, 1956, as a 15-minute variety series following summer, but was cancelled in December 1957.
A: Nat 'King' Cole.

Q: On September 11, 1954 Miss. California was crowned Miss America in the first televised pageant. John Daly hosted the show on ABC. Miss America became a regular on "The Clear Horizon," "The Time Tunnel," "The New Andy Griffith Show," "Barnaby Jones," "The New Masquerade Party," "The New Munsters," and "All My Children." What was her name?
A: 19-year-old-Lee Ann Meriwether.

Q: On September 11, 1997, who received the first state funeral according a private citizen of India since the death of Mohandas K. Gandi in 1948. It was attend by foreign heads of state and other dignitaries, including U.S. first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton.
A: Mother Teresa.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Which newspaper comic strip made its first appearance on this date in 1930?
A: Dagwood and Blondie

Q: What is actor Sylvester Stallone's first name?
A: Michael Sylvester Stallone.

Q: On September 7, 1979 ESPN debuted on cable. What does ESPN stand for?
A: The Entertainment and Sports Programming Network.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Which newspaper comic strip made its first appearance on this date in 1930?
A: Dagwood & Blondie.

Q: What is actor Sylvester Stallone's first name?
A: Michael Sylvester.

Q: On September 7, 1979, ESPN debuted on cable. What does ESPN stand for?
A: The Entertainment and Sports Programming Network.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What film was actress Rosie Perez nominated for the Best Supporting Actress Oscar?
A: "Fearless" in 1993.

Q: There is a house in Rockport, Massachusetts, that is built entirely of what material?
A: The Paper House at Pigeon Cove in Rockport is made of 215 thicknesses of newspaper.

Q: You are suffering from sodukosis. What were you bitten by?
A: A rat. Sodokosis is also called rat-bite fever.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: When was the observance of Labor Day held in the United States?
A: September of 1882 when a Labor Day parade was held. It grew out of a celebration and parade in honor of the working class by the Knights of Labor in 1882 in New York. In 1884, the Knights held a large parade in New York City celebrating the working class. The parade was held on the first Monday in September. The Knights passed a resolution to hold all future parades on the same day, designated by them as Labor Day.

Q: Which was the first state to make Labor Day a legal holiday?
A: Oregon In 1887.

Q: You really need fiber. What food has the highest dietary fiber content of any common fruit, nut or vegetable?
A: Figs.

Q: Born on this date in 1932, a legendary rocker whose name was Penniman. We know him as ...?
A: Little Richard (Richard Wayne Penniman).

Q: Assuming you're average, what percent of your brain is water?
A: 80%.

Q: On September 5, 1935, A new start emerged with release of the Hollywood western "Tumbling Tumbleweeds," the first of 93 feature films. He also made 91 TV episodes and wrote hundreds of songs. What was his name?
A: Gene Autry.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The creator of Tarzan, was born September 1, 1875. What is his name?
A: Edgar Rice Burroughs. I always thought Kevin Costner should make a Tarzan movie--and call it "Dances With Apes."

Q: Why did Dr, Seuss write "Green Eggs and Ham"?
A: His editor dared him to write a book using fewer than 50 different words.

Q: Since this is September first I wonder if you know September's birthstone and flower?
A: Birthstone: sapphire, flower: aster or morning glory.

Q: On Septmember 1, 1945, RKO sold rights to the movie script "The Greatest Gift" to Frank Capra for $10,000. Capra turned it into a film. What was the name of the film?
A: "It's A Wonderful Life."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Richard Gere's first three major film roles were "Days of Heaven", "American Gigolo", and "An Officer and a Gentleman". They were all turned down by what actor?
A: John Travolta turned down the lead roles before they were offered to Gere.

Q: Remember the radio show "Fibber McGee and Molly"? In August 1941, a spinoff of "Fibber McGee and Molly" debuted on NBC Radio. Do you remember what it was called?
A: The Great Gildersleeve. In those days, the nuts on talk radio were actually funny.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions, Wed August 30th

Q: On August 30, 30 BC, Queen Cleopatra of Egypt committed suicide. How?
A: By letting a snake bite her. I guess security at the pyramids was about as good as security at the airport where they let all those snakes on the plane in that stupid movie. The snake later died of a fang infection.

Q: What are the only animals born with horns?
A: Both male and female giraffes are born with bony knobs on their foreheads.

Q: You are half introvert and half extravert. What are you called?
A: An ambivert.

Q: What movie star debuted in a newspaper comic strip on August 30, 1936?
A: Donald Duck. Donald was already a movie star, so a comic strip was easy. Heck, he could do the comics with his head under his wing.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions, Tuesday August 29th

Q: On this date in 1997, what movie -- starring Sean Penn, Robin Wright Penn, and John Travolta -- premiered in the United States?
A: She's So Lovely.

Q: In the 1978 movie "The Wiz," what part did Michael Jackson play?
A: The Scarecrow.

Q: What does the Italian name "Pinocchio" mean?
A: Pine eyes.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1997, what movie -- starring Sean Penn, Robin Wright Penn, and John Travolta -- premiered in the United States?
A: She's So Lovely.

Q: In the 1978 movie "The Wiz," what part did Michael Jackson play?
A: The Scarecrow.

Q: What does the Italian name "Pinocchio" mean?
A: Pine eyes.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1997, what movie -- starring Sean Penn, Robin Wright Penn, and John Travolta -- premiered in the United States?
A: She's So Lovely.

Q: In the 1978 movie "The Wiz," what part did Michael Jackson play?
A: The Scarecrow.

Q: What does the Italian name "Pinocchio" mean?
A: Pine eyes.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1963, In which city did civil rights leader Martin Luther King deliver his famous "I have a dream" speech?
A: Washington DC

Q: On August 28, 1837 pharmacists John Lea and William Perrins of Worcester, England, begin manufacurting what?
A: Thier Worcester Sauce.

Q: Which First Lady was called "Lemonade Lucy" because she wouldn't serve alcohol in the White House?
A: Lucy Hayes was born on August 28, 1831. She was the wife of U.S President Ruthford B. Hayes. Lemonade Lucy's White House rule against alcohol made it reallly tough on visiting diplomats and Congressional leaders who are never at their best sober.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On August 24, 1995, Microsoft launched Windows 95. What song was featured in the TV commercials?
A: "Start Me Up" by the Rolling Stones (Microsoft paid $12 million to use the song).

Q: Italy's Mount Vesuvius erupted on August 24, 79 A.D. and buried what two cities?
A: Pompeii and Herculaneum. It happened so fast, the town merchants didn't even have time for a going-out-of-business sale.

Q: Who was the first woman to fly non-stop across the U.S., traveling from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey in just over 19 hours?
A: Amelia Earhart, on this day in 1932.

Q: What popular song came from the movie "Deliverance"?
A: "Dueling Banjos."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What percentage of drivers sing in the car?
A: 80%

Q: On radio in the 1940s, who was Captain Midnight's mechanic?
A: Ichabod "Icky" Mudd. Aristotle Jones was the Captain's scientific adviser.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On August 22, 1984, which car rolled off the assembly line in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania for the last time?
A: The VW Rabbit. More than 11 million of the cars were produced.

Q: Actress Cindy Williams, born on August 22, 1947, starred in what TV show?
A: Laverne and Shirley. I can't remember -- was she the loud one, or the earsplitting one?

Q: Who was the first U.S. chief executive to ride in an automobile?
A: President Theodore Roosevelt, on August 22, 1902 in Hartford, Connecticut.

Q: What famous painting was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris on this date in 1911, and returned two years later?
A: The Mona Lisa. No one knows what happened to Mona during those two years, but she was smiling when she returned.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1959, Hawaii became the 50th U.S. state. Hawaii consists of more than 120 islands. How many are permanently inhabitated?
A: 7

Q: What might drinking coffee with ice cream after dinner cause?
A: Hairline cracks in teeth because they contract and expand with the cold and hot (Academy of General Dentistry, Chicago).

Q: How many bees does it take working their entire lifetime to make a tablespoon of honey?
A: 12

Q: In "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," what city did Mathew Broderick and his friends go for a fun-filled day downtown?
A: Chicago.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Who was the first English child born in America?
A: Virginia Dare. She arrived on Roanoke Island on this day in 1587. The Indians thought she was cute, but they didn't want her going to school with their kids.

Q: What was the name of the gentleman, born on this date in 1834, who founded the modern department store?
A: Marshall Field. I suppose it was his idea to hide the restrooms.

Q: In a deck of playing cards, which king does not have a moustache?
A: The King of Hearts.

Q: On August 18, 1959, what territory became our 50th state?
A: Hawaii.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The movie "The Wizard of Oz" premiered on this date in 1939. Judy Garland played Dorothy. What was Dorothy's last name?
A: Gale

Q: On AUG 17, 1790, the U.S. Government moved from New York to
what city?
A: Philadelphia. The government later moved to York, Lancaster, Trenton, Princeton, Baltimore, and then Washington DC. (TRUE)
And every time it moved -- it lost its damage deposit. Apparently, it was cheaper to move than to pay rent.

Q: How many different animal shapes are in the Animal Crackers cookie zoo?
A: 18.

Q: Actress Amanda Blake died August 17, 1988. We knew her as?
A: Miss Kitty on TV's "Gunsmoke" for 22 years. So they framed her body and hung it above the bar at the Long Branch.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Recycling one glass jar saves enough energy to watch TV for how long?
A: Three hours!

Q: Approximately how much would you say Americans spend on beer each year?
A: $25 billion.

Q: What is the most popular crossword subject?
A: The Bible.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Thomas Lawrence, a British soldier was born August 15, 1888. We know him as? A: "Lawrence of Arabia, "Lawrence led the Arabs during World War I. I saw the movie about him and I have to admit, he did look good in a sheet.

Q: On August 15, 1939, what film premiered at Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood?
A: The Wizard of Oz

Q: On August 15,1970, right here in Orlando, Patricia Palinkas became the first woman to be paid for doing what?
A: Playing football during a semi-pro game. The Team: The Orlando Panthers.

Q: How much does the biggest tomato on record weigh?
A: 7 1/2 pounds.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: According to an old law, in which U.S. state is it illegal to kiss on a train?
A: Wisconsin

Q: The first known encyclopedias date back to what country?
A: Ancient Greece

Q: This is National Scuba Diving Week. The highlight is usually a big underwater film festival. I suppose fish are admitted free. The worst thing about underwater movies is the popcorn. Here's today's exciting scuba trivia question. What does the word "scuba" mean since there is no such word as "scuba?"
A: The letters s-c-u-b-a stand for self-contained underwater breathing apparatus--as of course, do the letters g-i-l-l.

Q: On this date in 1935, which president signed the Social Security Act into law?
A: Franklin Roosevelt. Thus guaranteeing that every elderly American could retire with enough income to buy lottery tickets.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: August 11, 1992 was an important day in the history of American shopping. Why? A: America's biggest shopping mall, the Mall of America, opened in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Q: In 1934, how much did Babe Ruth pay a fan for the baseball he hit for his 700th career home run?
A: $20.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born on this date in 1940, Bobby Hatfield. He went on to fame as a singer with which duo?
A: The Righteous Brothers. (Hatfield died in 2003)

Q: Who was the first U.S. President to have a telephone on his desk?
A: Born AUG 10, 1874: Herbert Hoover. And he was easy to call. All you had to do was look up his number in Yellow Pages -- under "Presidents".

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On August 9, 1944, the U.S. Forest Service and the Wartime Advertising Council created what character to plead for Americans to prevent forest fires?
A: Smokey the Bear

Q: Who became the first non-elected President of the U.S?
A: Gerald Ford on Aug. 9, 1974 after Richard Nixon resigned.

Q: How much fresh water can a quart of used motor oil ruin?
A: One quart of oil can pollute 250,000 gallons of fresh water. Please dispose of used oil properly. (EPA)

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On August 8, 1876 who patented the Mimeograph machine?
A: Thomas Edison. The Mimeograph was a very messy--and I do mean MESSY--hand-cranked copy machine. They were widely used in schools. If you used one in school back in the 1960s--you're probably still trying to get the ink off your hands.

Q: A.T. Marshall patented his invention on August 8, 1899. It's something I'll bet we all have in our homes. What was it?
A: The Household Refrigerating Machine. He invented the refrigerator to give people a handy place to keep their magnets.

Q: On August 8, 1923 what famous bandleader got his first professional job as a band leader on a Chicago excursion boat?
A: Clarinetist Benny Goodman, he was 14 years old.

Q: Who can give me an example of a tautonym?
A: A tautonym is a word containing two identical parts, like "tutu."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Who created the Order of the Purple Heart, a decoration to recognize merit in millitary enlisted men and noncommissioned offiers?
A: George Washington, on August 7, 1782.

Q: Which U.S. President never voted in a presidential election before taking office in 1849?
A: Zachary Taylor

Q: On August 7, 1963, the first beach movie opened nationwide. The name of the film was "Beach Party". Who were the leading actors?
A: Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. It also starred Morey Amsterdam, Bob Cummings, and Dick Dale and the Del Tones. Ten other films in the beach series followed in the next three years.

Q: What is the comic strip hero, Popeye's hometown?
A: The seaport town of Sweetwater.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On Aug. 4, 1693 Dom Perignon invented what?
A: Champagne. What would champagne be like without bubbles? It would be like prunes without the wrinkles. Thank goodness. Otherwise, Lawrence Welk would have had to play beer music.

Q: Congress enacted something special for corporations on this day in 1909. What was it?
A: The Corporate Income Tax. That wasn't half as exciting as the next day--when they enacted the corporate loophole.

Q: What branch of our armed forces was founded on Aug. 4, 1790?
A: The U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guard is the only branch of the armed forces with a perfect record. In over 200 years we haven't lost a coast.

Q: Every night, how many beds did Benjamin Franklin sleep in?
A: Four beds. Ben believed a warm bed would sap his strength, so when a bed became too warm, he'd switch to a cold one.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On August 3, 1958 the first nuclear submarine passed under the North Pole. Do you remember the name of that sub?
A: The U.S.S. Nautilus. For a couple weeks afterward Rudolph had a green nose. Having a nuclear submarine capable of passing under the North Pole was important; if Santa Claus ever snapped, he could be contained.

Q: Actor Ramon Estevez was born August 3, 1946. We know him as?
A: Martin Sheen, since no one named Estevez could possibly make it in show business.

Q: The man who made Akron, Ohio, the rubber capital of the world died August 3, 1888. But B.F. Goodrich may be even more natable for another reason, he went into the rubber business because he couldn't make a living doing what?
A: As a surgeon. Those were the good old days when even doctors went broke.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What does the Native American word "Kalamazoo" mean?
A: "Place where the water boils."

Q: According to Vitality Magazine what is the quickest way to relax?
A: A yawn. It sends a blast of oxygen into your system and stimulates blood flow to the brain.

Q: On August 2, 1984 what comic strip was added to the Portsmouth Daily Times, making it the first comic strip to appear in 2,000 newspapers?
A: Charles Schultz' comic strip "Peanuts".

Alan Rock's Trivia questions

Q: What's the difference between a nook and a cranny?
A: A nook is a corner and a cranny is a crack.

Q: On Aug. 1, 1790, The first U.S. census was completed. What was our population then?
A: Just under 4 million people.

Q: On Aug. 1, 1964, Hasbro Toys introduced GI Joe, an 11 1/2-inch "action figure" that sold for $4.00. What was the inspiration for this doll?
A: The 1945 Robert Mitchum movie, "The Story of GI Joe."

Alan Rock's Trivia questions

Q: This date in 1981 was a happy day for baseball fans. Why?
A: The seven week players strike ended.

Q: In which state is it illegal to wake up a bear to take its picture?
A: Alaska.

Q: On July 31, 1930. what famous actor starred as "The Shadow" in the show's radio debut?
A: Orson Welle. At first, the Shadow was the narrator for changing stories, but later became a character in his own adventures. He knew what evil lurked in the hearts of men.

Q: On July 31, 1845 what musical insrument was introduced into the military bands of the French Army?
A: The saxophone. It allowed the French to toot sweet. The saxophone was easy for the French to learn, it came with an illustrated manual--The Joy of Sax.
Q: Just who invented the saxophone anyway?
A: The saxophone was invented by a Belgian named Adolphe Sax. It was such a success, Mr. Sax moved to New York and opened his own store--Sax 5th Avenue.

Alan Rock's Trivia questions

Q: On this date in 1940, which cartoon character made his first appearance on movie screens.
A: Bugs Bunny (In the cartoon "Wild Hare")


Q: Who was the first movie comic to be hit in the face with a pie?
A: Fatty Arbuckle. Mabel Nomand flung it in "A Noise from the Deep," a 1913 silent film.

Alan Rock's Trivia questions

Q: On July 26, 1775, something special happened to the U.S. Postal Service. What was it?
A: It was established. They're celebrating with a party at the Post Office -- yesterday I received an invitation in the mail. (Pause) Hey, my mistake-- this is an invitation to LAST year's party.

Q: On July 26, 1984, what TV show became the first network program to be telecast in stereo?
A: The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.

Alan Rock's Trivia questions

Q: Born July 25, in England 1978 Louise Brown. Why is that of interest?
A: She was the world's first "test tube baby". She's planning a quiet birthday celebration. Just family and friends -- plus a representative from the Pyrex Glass Company.


Q: You are suffering from taresthesia. What is your problem?
A: Your foot is asleep.


Q: On July 25, 1979 President Jimmy Carter absolved Dr. Samuel Mudd, of any responsibility in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Mudd's name was no longer mud. What did he do?
A: He was the physician who had treated John Wilkes Booth's broken leg.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this day in 1929, at the Pact of Paris, better known as the Kellogg-Briand Treaty, 43 governments solemnly swore off "what" forever as an instrument of national policy?
A: War. Since that day, all 43 nations have been involved in at least three wars. Next time, maybe they should swear off lying. President Herbert Hoover declared the Kellogg-Briand Treaty in force on this day in 1929. Under that treaty, no one is allowed to eat Chateaubriand and Rice Krispies at the same meal.

Q: Alexandre Dumas was born on July 24, 1802. What did he create?
A: The Three Musketeers. Personally, I prefer Snickers.

Q: Actress Lynda Carter was born on July 24, 1951. What was her biggest role?
A: Wonder Woman on television. Did you ever wonder: if Wonder Woman went out to dinner with Superman, who would win the fight for the check?

Q: Name two things William Moulton Marston was credited with creating.
A: Both of them are very well known -- Wonder Woman and the lie detector.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1987, TV personality Mary Hart of "Entertainment Tonight" insured something with Lloyds of London for $2 million. What?
A: Her legs.

Q: Born July 21, 1952, Robin Williams became famous as Mork. Do you remember the planet Mork came from?
A: Ork. There really is a planet called Ork. And to give you an idea of what kind of place it is -- Mork is considered shy and boring.

Q: If you are hired to be part of a claque, what should you practice doing?
A: Applauding! A claque is a group hired to applaud an act or a performer.

Q: What was inventor Thomas Edison afraid of?
A: The dark.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first men to land on the Moon. What did they name their base?
A: Tranquility Base.

Q: If you are a hedenophobic, of what do you have an abnormal fear?
A: Pleasure.

Q: What invention did humorist Mark Twain patent in 1871?
A: Suspenders.

Q: On July 20, 1949, the Hollywood Reporter said that American teenagers were calling their local drive-in movie theater what?
A: The passion pit.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1984, we saw the first nomination of a female presidential running mate by a major U.S. political party. Do you know her name?
A: Geraldine Ferraro.

Q: On July 19, 2003, an Austrian man became the first recipient of what kind of transplant?
A: A tongue. His new tongue works just fine, although he has to take it in for re-alignment every 30-thousand licks.

Q: On July 19, 1948, "Our Miss Brooks" debuted on CBS Radio. Who played Miss Brooks?
A: Eve Arden.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What is the thickness of an ordinary potato chip?
A: 55/1000 of an inch. Ridged chips are about 4 times thicker, 210/1000 of an inch.

Q: In Montreal in 1976, a 14-year-old Romanian gymnast collected the first perfect "10" ever recorded at the Olympic Games. At the '76 games, she would get six more perfect scores, one bronze, a silver, and three gold medals. What is her name?
A: Nadia Comaneci.

Q: On July 18, 1998, 80-year-old South African President Nelson Mandela married Graca Machel in Johannesburg. He paid her family for the honor. What did he pay?
A: Reportedly 60 cows.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Born on July 17, 1935, this actor's movies include The Dirty Dozen, MASH, and Klute. Can you name him?
A: Donald Sutherland.

Q: On July 17, 1821, Spain gave what (now) state to the U.S.?
A: Florida, which was especially nice of Spain since Florida belonged to the Seminoles. In 1970 the U.S. finally paid the Seminoles $12 million for Florida. And rumor has it that today seven Seminole divisions are training in the Everglades after using the 12-mil to develop a nuclear tomahawk.

Q: Today is Wrong Way Day, honoring Douglas "Wrong Way" Corrigan, who left Brooklyn for Los Angeles in a single-engine plane on this day in 1938. Where did he land 28 hours later?
A: In Ireland. He said he read the wrong end of the compass needle. So, he became an American hero and got a job loading airline luggage.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1985, Live Aid, a televised rock concert to raise money for starving Africans, was simulcast from four cities. Can you name them?
A: London, Sydney, Moscow, and Philadelphia.

Q: In an editorial printed in the New York Tribune on this day in 1865, who wrote "Go west, young man, go west"?
A: Horace Greeley. So, all the young men went west and Greeley stayed east and made a fortune. He also had more dates than ever.

Q: On July 13, 1939, Frank Sinatra recorded "From the Bottom of My Heart" and "Melancholy Mood." It was Sinatra's first record. Who was the band?
A: Harry James Orchestra.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Bill Cosby was born on this date in 1937. Can you name the 1960s TV show he co-starred in with Robert Culp?
A: "I Spy."

Q: The Father of Modern Medicine was born in Ontario July 12, 1849. What was his name?
A: Sir William Osler, who gave us two things modern medicine couldn't do without: "The Principles and Practice of Medicine" and the window envelope.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, July 11th

Q: On July 11, 1804, which U.S. vice president shot a guy to death in a duel?
A: Aaron Burr. Is it any wonder Dick Cheney calls 1804 "the good old days"?

Q: The U.S. has more tornadoes than any other nation. Which nation comes in second?
A: Australia, which has some 200-300 tornadoes a year. The U.S. can have a thousand.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Monday, July 10th

Q: What territory became the 44th state on July 10, 1890?
A: Wyoming, which has plenty of nothing. In fact, Wyoming has more nothing than any other state except Texas. Texas has more nothing, but Wyoming's nothing is prettier. To mark the occasion, Miss Wyoming, wearing a bikini, will shear a sheep at high noon in Cheyenne.

Q: On this date in 1975, Cher filed for divorce from rocker Greg Allman. How long had they been married?
A: Ten days.

Q: The highest temperature ever recorded in the U.S. occurred in Death Valley, California on this date in 1913. How hot was it?
A: 134 degrees. Now, that's hot! For a cowboy to make it through Death Valley in those days, he needed an air conditioned horse.

Q: Emily Dickinson wrote more than 900 poems. How many were published during her lifetime?
A: Four.

ALAN ROCK'S TRIVIA QUESTIONS

Q: On this date in 1985 a 17 year old became the youngest to win the men's Wimbledon single tennis title. Can you name him?

A: Boris Becker


Q: On July 7, 1754, Kings College opened in New York City with eight students and one faculty member, Dr. Samuel Johnson, who also served as college president. We now know the school as?

A: Columbia University


Q: On July 7, 1949, a new type radio show premiered on NBC dramatic cases form actual police files. Each show began "The story you are about to hear is true. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent." Dum-de-dum-dum! Name that show and who was the star?

A: Dragnet, starring Jack Webb. The shows first sponsor was Fatima cigarettes.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How long did it take for Sylvester Stallone to write the script for the film "Rocky"?
A: Three days.

Q: On July 6, 1957, who was the first black tennis player to win a Wimbledon singles title?
A: Althea Gibson, defeating Darlene Hard 6-3, 6-2.

Q: On July 6, 1964, the Beatles' first film had its royal premier at the London Pavilion. What was the title of this film?
A: "A Hard Day's Night."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Wednesday, July 5th

Q: Born on July 5, 1810, he created the first circus and was the guy who said "There's a sucker born every minute." Who was he?
A: P.T. Barnum. In 2006, having evolved from being suckers, we're now called chumps and dweebs. Yes, it was P.T. Barnum who said, "There's a sucker born every minute." If he were alive today, I'm not sure what he'd be doing -- but it would be somehow connected to the internet. Today he's regarded as the Father of Late-Night TV.

Q: We all know that Jackie Robinson was the first black baseball player in the major league and he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers. The question is, on July 5, 1947, who signed a contract with baseball's Cleveland Indians, becoming the first black player in the American League?
A: Larry Doby.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, July 4th

Q: On this date in 1828, construction began on the Tremont House in Boston. What was so special about that hotel?
A: It was the first hotel to have indoor bathrooms. Before indoor plumbing, hotel guests had to call room service, and a bellhop would come up to your room carrying an outhouse.

Q: In the late 1980s, after promising a high school junior class that he would pay for their college education, how much did Geraldo Rivera's promise cost him?
A: $180,000 for nine students.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On July 3, 1922, "Fruit Garden and Home" magazine published its first issue. Two years later, the publication became known as what?
A: Better Homes and Gardens.

Q: What legendary comedy team replaced Fred Allen for the summer on July 3, 1940?
A: Bud Abbott and Lou Costello.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 2000, "The Perfect Storm" premiered in U.S. theaters. George Clooney played Billy Tyne, captain of -- can you name his fishing boat?
A: The Andrea Gail.

Q: A photo of which actress became history's hottest pin-up picture on this day in 1946?
A: Rita Hayworth. The pin-up was glued to the side of an atomic bomb exploded over Bikini Lagoon. Ironically, Rita was wearing a bikini in the photo -- but it was probably blown off in the explosion.

Today's trivia questions

Q: He was born on this date in 1944. His movies include Breaking Point, the Texas Wheelers and The Firm. Who is he?

A: Gary Busey


Q: On June 29, 1951 Bill Hailey and the Comets reached #1 on the U.S. charts with the first rock and roll single. Can you name that tune?

A: "Rock Around the Clock". If it hadn't been for Bill Hailey, the Rolling Stones wouldn't be around to do their latest hard-rockin', hard kicking, take-no-prisoners tune about turning sixty.

Today's trivia questions

Q: On June 28, 1914 what war started?

A: World War one started. It was billed as "The War To End All Wars". Somebody should be sued for false advertising.

Q: Who said, on June 28, 1931 "I would never run for President--no matter how bad the country needed a comedian."?

A: Will Rogers, after many urged him to run for President.

Q: In 1974's top money-making film "Blazing Saddles," What did director Mel Brooks appear as?

A: Sioux Indian; Harvey Korman was Hedley Lamar; Dom DeLuise played Buddy Bizzare.

Allen Rock's trivia questions

Q: On this date in 1988, Michael Tyson regained his world heavyweight title with a knockout in 91 seconds of the first round. Can you name the boxer he beat?

A: Michael Spinks

Q: Mildred Hill composed the music to what song which we all have sung?

A: "Happy Birthday" on this date in 1859. I'd suggest that we all sing "Happy Birthday" to "Happy Birthday," But the last time I tried to sing, I hit a high note and shattered the shower door.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Monday, June 26th

Q: On this date in 1987, a movie starring Dan Aykroyd and Tom Hanks opened in the U.S. What was the title? Just give me the facts.
A: Dragnet.

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

Q: The genius Albert Einstein slept how many hours every night?
A: Ten.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Friday, June 23rd

Q: Fifty years ago today the #1 U.S. song was "The Wayward Wind." Who sang it?
A: Gogi Grant (#1 for 8 weeks!).

Q: In 1867 a Milwaukee, Wisconsin printer named Christopher Latham Sholes patented what was to be the first useful what?
A: Most of you over 40 have used one -- the typewriter. In 1874 the Remington Model 1, the first commercial typewriter, was placed on the market. The electronic typewriters -- with "memory" capable of storing text -- first appeared in 1978.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Friday, June 23rd

Q: Fifty years ago today the #1 U.S. song was "The Wayward Wind." Who sang it?
A: Gogi Grant (#1 for 8 weeks!).

Q: In 1867 a Milwaukee, Wisconsin printer named Christopher Latham Sholes patented what was to be the first useful what?
A: Most of you who are over 40 have used them -- the typewriter. In 1874 the Remington Model 1, the first commercial typewriter, was placed on the market. The electronic typewriters -- with "memory" capable of storing text -- first appeared in 1978.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On June 22, 1959, Ed Lubanski made bowling history by doing what?
A: At Miami's Bowling Palace, Ed bowled two consecutive perfect games. Big deal! I once bowled five straight perfect games. Of course, for me, a perfect game is one where I don't drop the ball on my foot.

Q: Who was the president who signed a law giving 18-year-olds the right to vote? (And, reportedly, several of them have.)
A: On June 22, 1970, President Richard Nixon signed the law.

Q: The Bionic Woman was born on this day in 1949. What is her real name?
A: Lindsey Wagner. And she wasn't even bionic then. In 1949 bionics hadn't been invented. In fact, every morning for several years they had to wind her up. The Bionic Woman had more reconstructive work done that the entire cast of Baywatch. She had "girl power" decades before the Spice Girls!

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On June 21, 1958, Bobby Darin had his first million selling single. What was it?
A: "Splish Splash." His follow-up "Spurt Squirt" was not a big hit.

Q: According to a study by the Department of Health & Human Services, what percent of today's popular movies have characters that use drugs, alcohol, or tobacco?
A: 98 percent.

Q: On June 21, 2003, "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," fifth book in J.K. Rowling's blockbuster series about a young wizard, hit the book stores. How many copies were sold the first day?
A: 5 million.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1991, the capital of reunified Germany was re-established in Berlin. Before reunification, what was the capital of West Germany?
A: Bonn.

Q: What is the official animal of Canada?
A: The beaver.

Q: Who was America's most decorated hero in World War II?
A: Audie Murphy. His book about the war, "To Hell and Back," was a best seller in the 1950s (and made into a movie with an all-star cast). Yet, he's probably best known as the short, baby-faced hero in class-B western movies on late night television. Little Audie was the only guy in Hollywood history who was tougher in real life than he could ever fake in the movies.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: This was a big day for cats in 1978. Why?
A: The "Garfield" comic strip first appeared in newspapers.

Q: Which U.S. president played ping-pong almost every day?
A: Warren G. Harding.

Q: What national monument arrived in New York Harbor on this date in 1855?
A: The Statue of Liberty. Unfortunately, the shop lost her luggage and she's had to wear the same dress ever since. The Statue of Liberty was made in France. Isn't that something? Even ours are imported.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1995, the movie "Batman Forever" premiered in the USA. Who played Batman's sidekick Robin?
A: Chris O'Donnell.

Q: On this date in 1903, Henry Ford did something for the first time. What was it?
A: He sold his first car. And late word indicates it'll be out of the shop by next Tuesday at the latest.

Q: On June 16, 1891, George A. Hormel & Company was founded in Austin, Minnesota. In 1937 they introduced the world's biggest-selling canned meat product. What was it called?
A: Spam.

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

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What country made its final war debt payment to the United States on this date in 1934?
A: Finland. It was the only nation that honored its debt -- which also made Finland the only nation eligible for a gold American Express card.

Q: What is the modern-day 35th wedding anniversary gift?
A: Jade.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1982, the Falklands War effectively ended -- with British troops victorious. Which country's forces were they fighting?
A: Argentina.

Q: "The Gong Show" debuted on June 14, 1976 on NBC. Who was the host?
A: Chuck Barris. He introduced amateur acts, the worst of which were "gonged" by a panel of celebrity judges.

Q: How many of the top ten best-selling hardcover children's books of all time were written by Dr. Seuss?
A: Four: The Cat in the Hat; Green Eggs and Ham; Hop on Pop; and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. He wrote 48 books, selling more than 100 million copies in 20 languages.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, June 13th

Q: In 1927 on this day, 750-thousand pounds of shredded paper were thrown from New York City windows. What was the reason?
A: Charles Lindbergh's ticker tape parade, which promptly turned Manhattan into the world's largest kitty litter.

Q: Who introduced ice cream to America on this day in 1789?
A: Mrs. Alexander Hamilton, at a dinner party for George Washington. After a double-dip of vanilla tapioca, President Washington said, "You know, this stuff reminds me of Valley Forge yogurt."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Monday, June 12th

Q: Do you remember the cartoon "Mighty Mouse"? If yes, what was his girlfriend's name?
A: Pearl Pureheart.

Q: On June 12, 1980, actor Milburn Stone died at age 75. What TV show was he on?
A: He was on "Gunsmoke" for 21 years, playing the character "Doc" Galen Adams.

Q: Who was the first American author to publish a novel that was composed on a typewriter?
A: Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" were his first novels cranked out on a typewriter. Most authors of his time wrote in longhand.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Do you remember the cartoon "Mighty Mouse"? If yes, what was his girlfriend's name?
A: Pearl Pureheart.

Q: On June 12, 1980, actor Milburn Stone died at age 75. What TV show was he on?
A: He was on "Gunsmoke" for 21 years, playing the character "Doc" Galen Adams.

Q: Who was the first American author to publish a novel that was composed on a typewriter?
A: Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" were his first novels cranked out on a typewriter. Most authors of his time wrote in longhand.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Friday, June 9th

Q: Who invented the electric guitar?
A: Les Paul, who was born on June 9, 1917. Without Les Paul, rock 'n' roll wouldn't even wake you up. You'd never be able to drown out the singers. You could probably even understand Bob Dylan. Well, maybe not.

Q: On June 9, 1934, Walt Disney introduced a bit player in a cartoon called, "The Little Wise Hen." He is now a star. Who is he?
A: Donald Duck.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Thursday, June 8th

Q: Pepperoni is the most popular U.S. pizza topping. What is the least favorite?
A: Anchovy.

Q: The first regular schedule of TV programs began on this day in 1928 when WGY-TV in Schenectady, New York began telecasting three hours a week. That may not sound like much; but remember, in 1928 they didn't have reruns. Which brings us to a trivia question -- the Texaco Star Theater was first telecast on June 8, 1949. That was the golden age of television, when the only commercials that discussed absorbency were for paper towels. Who was the star of the show?
A: Milton Berle.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What were early models of vacuum cleaners powered by?
A: Gasoline.

Q: On June 7, 1955, quiz master Hal March introduced the "isolation booth" to what TV quiz show?
A: The $64,000 Question. Contestants were locked inside the sound-proof glass both for the final series of questions that led to the grand prize.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Which TV news magazine debuted on this date in 1978?
A: ABC's "20/20".

Q: When America's first drive-in movie theater opened on June 6, 1933, it was a complete failure. Then somebody suggested trying it at night. Where was it?
A: Camden, New Jersey. My dad proposed to Mom at a drive-in movie theater. Dad still has a souvenir of that romantic night -- the speaker he drove away with when he forgot to remove it from his side window.

Q: June 6, 1944 was a big day during World War Two. What do we call it?
A: D-Day, when thousands of Allied forces occupied the beaches of Normandy -- sort of like Spring Break with artillery. Older Americans remember it as the big war, primarily because it was the last one we won.

Q: You want your frog to be happy. What color should you paint its box?
A: Blue -- frogs love blue (L.M. Boyd's Book of Odd Facts).

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Cowboy movie star Hopalong Cassidy was born on June 5, 1895. Hopalong wasn't his real name; it was actually Prancealong. No, seriously, what was the actor's real name?
A: William Boyd. He played Hopalong Cassidy in 66 movies and a hundred TV shows. The original Hopalong Cassidy did, indeed, hop along. In the novels by Clarence E. Mulford, Cassidy had a gimp leg. He also was a profane slob who never took a bath. But in those days, Hollywood cleaned up everything. They still clean up, but only at the box office.

Q: Which has more neck bones -- giraffes or mice?
A: They both have the same number of neck bones: seven.

Q: How much cash is needed to open a Swiss bank account?
A: 100,000 Swiss francs, or approximately $80,000.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: If your surgeon said your otoplasty was successful, can you be confident that (a) your nose is now shorter, (b) your ears no longer stick out, or (c)you have only one chin?
A: Your ears no longer stick out.

Q: With all the talk about the road to becoming a U.S. citizen, who did Congress grant citizenship to on June 2, 1924?
A: All American Indians.

Q: Who said, "Accept the challenges, so you may feel the exhilaration of victory"?
A: George S. Patton.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: A baby named Kal-El was born on this date in 1938. He grew up to become -- who?
A: Superman! (Born on the planet Krypton.) Superman first appeared in Action Comics. His creator, Toronto artist Joe Shuster, sold his rights to the character for $130. Superman's origin was inspired by the biblical story of Moses, whose parents abandoned him as a baby to save his life.

Q: According to the National Climatic Data Center, what city is the windiest in the United States?
A: Dodge City, Kansas. Chicago, the Windy City, is 53rd.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Actor Clint Eastwood was born on May 31, 1930. What was his first film?
A: "Revenge of the Creature," followed by "Francis Joins the Navy." Then Universal Studios fired Clint because his Adam's apple stuck out too far. That makes about as much sense as firing Superman because he had a run in his leotards.

Q: The first taxicabs arrived in New York City on this day in 1907 from where?
A: France, at a cost of $12,000 each. It would have been cheaper, but they were imported with the meters running. I don't take taxis anymore. Maybe you've noticed -- nowadays, the meter runs faster than the cab.
(New York City's gasoline-powered taxis began operating in 1907 when businessman Harry N. Allen imported 65 shiny, red taxicabs that were 16-horsepower, 4-cylinder Darracq cars of the landaulet type. Allen had the vehicles painted yellow after learning that yellow is the color most easily seen from a distance. Providing faster service and using mechanical meters to more accurately compute the fare, the new service quickly replaced horse-drawn hansom cabs.)

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, May 30

Q: On this date in 1987, a young German named Mathias Rust (Roost) made headlines with a daring feat. What did he do?
A: He flew a small plane from Germany through Soviet air defenses and landed in Red Square.

Q: May 30, 1981 was a big day in the record industry. Why?
A: The first compact discs appeared in stores. The following day, hundreds of people showed up at hospital emergency rooms with injuries they suffered while trying to open CDs.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Monday, May 29th

Q: In Bob Hope's movie and television contracts, in addition to money, what did he arrange to receive free for life?
A: Bubble gum.

Q: The average American keeps old magazines for how long before tossing them?
A: Twenty-nine weeks.

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

Q: What First Lady's maiden name was Elizabeth Anne Bloomer?
A: Betty Ford.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Who was America's first woman in space?
A: Astronaut Sally Ride. She was born on this day in 1951. Sally and her astronaut husband Steve Hawley were America's first spaced-out couple.

Q: Actor James Arness got the role of Matt Dillon on TV's Gunsmoke after the part was turned down by what actor?
A: John Wayne turned down the part and recommended Arness.

Q: What do Wolfgang Mozart, Chico Marx, Mr. T, Bill Gates, and Bill Clinton have in common?
A: Photographic memories.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1965, boxer Cassius Clay (as Muhammed Ali was then known) knocked out a heavyweight challenger in one minute and 56 seconds of the first round. Can you name the challenger?
A: Sonny Liston.

Q: On May 25, 1935, Babe Ruth hit his final home runs (numbers 713 and 714) at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh. Pitcher Guy Bush served up both homers, but won the game 11-7. What team was the Babe playing for?
A: The Boston Braves.

Q: Igor Sikorsky, born May 25, 1889, invented what?
A: He invented the first successful helicopter. His next invention was not so successful: an ejection seat for helicopter pilots.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: This date in 1941 was a happy day for the Zimmerman family of Minnesota. Why?
A: Their son Robert was born. He later changed his name to -- Bob Dylan.

Q: On this day in 1982, Mrs. Christina Samane of South Africa gave birth to the heaviest baby ever born -- a boy. How much did he weigh?
A: 22 pounds, 8 ounces. I'm not sure a bouncing baby boy that heavy would even bounce. According to Guinness, the child weighed 77 pounds at 16 months, and 112 pounds at age 5.

Q: If you're a baseball fan, something special happened on May 24, 1935. What?
A: The first major-league night baseball game was played in Cincinnati. At first, fans didn't care for night baseball. But, gradually they got used to having bugs in their beer.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What is the only bird that can fly backwards?
A: The hummingbird.

Q: Who invented bifocal eyeglasses on this day in 1785, making it possible for older people to keep their heads held high -- so they can see through the bottom half of their glasses?
A: Benjamin Franklin.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: "The Great Train Robbery" at Marshfield, Indiana occurred on May 22, 1868. What was the name of the gang that pulled it off, and how much did they get?
A: The infamous Reno Gang pulled it off, and escaped with $98,000 in cash. They made their getaway in the locomotive. They were lucky. Even in thos days, a locomotive was pretty easy to track.

Q: On May 22, 1891, Thomas Edison showed a film of a man bowing, smiling, and waving to 147 women in West Orange, New Jersey. What was the occasion?
A: The first poublic showing of a motion picture. It was what is called a "chick flick." Women loved it and all agreed they could hardly wait to read the book.

Q: To improve her memory, Eleanor Roosevelt ate something very unusual. What was it?
A: Three chocolate-covered garlic balls every day of her adult life.

Q: On May 22, 1972, the first U.S. president visited Moscow. Who was he?
A: President Richard Nixon. He met with Soviet President Brezhnev. The two leaders agreed to stop producing new threats, warnings, and insults; but existing threats, warnings, and insults could be stockpiled as a deterrent -- in case future use should be required.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1964, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow was in the news. Why?
A: Forty hidden microphones were discovered inside the building.

Q: If your scorpion is normal, he not only will have eight legs, but also eight (a) stingers, (b) eyes, or (c) ears?
A: One eye for each leg.

Q: Was the original Cinderella (a) British, (b) Polish, or (c) Egyptian?
A: Egyptian. She wore fur slippers.

Q: On May 19, 1995, Balamurali Ambati was graduated from Mount Sinai Medical School to become the world's youngest doctor. How old was he?
A: Seventeen.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How many muscles does a cat have in each ear?
A: 32

Q: If you are an average American (how does one know?), how much time will you spend during your life waiting at red lights?
A: Six months.

Q: In the last 4000 years, how many new animals have been domesticated?
A: None.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: This actor was born on May 17, 1936. His many movies include Hoosiers, Blue Velvet, and Super Mario Brothers. He is...?
A: Dennis Hopper.

Q: On May 17, 1939, WXBS-TV in New York, using only one camera, became the first station to televise a sporting event. What was it?
A: A baseball game between Columbia and Princeton, with the camera set up near the third-base line. Bill Stern was the announcer. There were only 400 television sets in America.

Q: On May 17, 1975, the first record album to sell a million copies the day it was released was what?
A: Elton John's "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy."

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Jim Henson died on this date in 1990. What was he famous for?
A: His famous puppet creations; such as Kermit, Miss Piggy, Bert and Ernie, Cookie Monster, and Big Bird.

Q: What is 1/100th of a second called?
A: A jiffy.

Q: You just met Al Capone and he gave you his business card. What did it say he did?
A: Used furniture dealer.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions and Tidbits

Did you know?
When astronauts first shaved in space, their weightless whiskers floated up to the ceiling. A special razor was developed to draw the whiskers in like a vacuum cleaner.

Q: The inventor Donald Duncan died on this day in 1971. What did he invent?
A: The Yo-Yo. Today's kids don't seem to play much with Yo-Yo's. Probably because they can't figure out where to put the batteries.

Q: This date in 1940 was an important day for legs. Why?
A: Nylon hose first went on sale in stores across the USA.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How many Best Actress Oscars did Katharine Hepburn win?
A: Four: "Morning Glory" in 1933, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" in 1967, "The Lion in Winter" in 1968, and "On Golden Pond" in 1981. She was nominated for Best Actress in eight other films. She also won an Emmy for Best Actress in the special TV drama "Love Among the Ruins" in 1975.

Q: According to research at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, how many U.S. adults admit they sometimes run red lights?
A: 56%. The percentage decreases with age.

Q: Henry Ford sued the Chicago Tribune on this day in 1919 to the tune of $1 million for calling him an anarchist. Ford won the suit. What was his award?
A: Six cents (true!), which he wisely ploughed right back into the company.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The automobile was invented and first became a reality in what country?
A: France. The United States only created the "assembly line" method of producing cars.

Q: Can you give an example of a "palindrome"?
A: The words "racecar," "kayak," and "level" are the same whether they are read left to right or right to left.

Q: There are only four words in the English language which end in "dous." Can you name them?
A: Tremendous, horrendous, stupendous, and hazardous. (You're not doubting this, are you?)

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Per capita, the U.S. spends the second greatest amount of money on breakfast cereals each year. Which country is first?
A: Britain.

Q: A box of chocolates was first sold in 1861. How was it packaged?
A: In a heart-shaped box.

Q: America's first Mother's Day observance was held on this date in which year?
A: 1908.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for May 9th

Q: A real newsman turns 88 today; a fake newswoman turns 60 today. Can you name them both?
A: Mike Wallace (of "60 Minutes") is 88; Candice Bergman ("Murphy Brown") is 60.

Q: Mike Wallace once appeared in a TV commercial as a circus barker with a straw hat and cane. What was the product?
A: Peter Pan peanut butter.

Q: In 28 Blondie movies in the 1930s, '40s and '50s, who was hubby Dagwood Bumstead played by?
A: Arthur Lake. Will Hutchins played Dagwood in a brief TV series in 1968. Lake died a very wealthy man in 1987 at age 82.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for May 8th

Q: Who said, "Too bad the only people who know how to run the country are busy driving cabs and cutting hair"?
A: George Burns.

Q: There is a state in the United States where it's against the law to gargle in public. Can you name it?
A: Louisiana.

Q: How many words are used by Dr. Suess in "Green Eggs and Ham"?
A: Fifty. His friend, editor Bennett Cerf, bet him $50 that he couldn't write a book using only 50 words. The result was "Green Eggs and Ham," published in 1960.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for May 5th

Q: The first major league baseball's perfect game was pitched on May 5, 1904. Who was the pitcher?
A: Cy Young, leading the Boston Americans to a 3-0 win over Philadelphia. Back then, a perfect game was when no opposing runner reached first base. Today it's when nobody spits on camera. I played little league baseball -- for me, a perfect game was not falling off the bench.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for May 4th

Q: This date in 1968 was a BIG day in the history of fast food. Why?
A: McDonald's introduced the Big Mac.

Q: The "father of public education in America" was born on this date in 1796. What was his name?
A: Horace Mann. At one time, he was the most influential person in public schools; but that title now belongs to the inventor of the odor-free gym locker.

Q: Moe Howard, the last of the original Three Stooges, died of cancer on May 4, 1975 at the age of 78. Moe, with his brothers Curly and Shemp, created the Three Stooges as a vaudeville act. How many short movies did they make?
A: 190.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What is the longest word typed with only the left hand?
A: Stewardesses

Q: What is the only state whose name is just one syllable?
A: Maine. (I'll bet you're going to check this out.)

Q: What is the only English word that ends in the letters "mt"?
A: Dreamt.

Q: In the U.S. on May 3, 1957, the cost of first-class postage for a letter increased from what to what?
A: From three cents to four cents.

Q: On May 3, 1991, the final episode of Dallas aired on CBS (#356). Lasting 13 seasons in prime-time, it was second in longevity only to what show?
A: Gunsmoke.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date 121 years ago, the first edition of a magazine that still exists was published. Can you name it?
A: Good Housekeeping.

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: Apple juice, because of its antioxidants. Unsweetened, 100% 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.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Some people say that this film -- which opened on May 1, 1941 -- is the best movie ever made. Can you name the title and star?
A: Citizen Kane, starring Orson Welles.

Q: According to the Recording Industry Association of America, what percentage of major U.S. recording companies today use the parental warning stickers advocated 20 years ago by Tipper Gore?
A: 100 percent.

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

Q: On May 1, 1884, construction began on America's first skyscraper. In what city?
A: It was a ten-story building in Chicago. Hey, the sky was there -- it needed scraping!

Q: On May 1, 1931, the Empire State Building was completed. How long did the original elevators take to ride to the top?
A: Three minutes. Gee, King Kong climbed to the top faster than that!

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: For the first time, on this date in 1987, a CD was released ahead of its vinyl LP version. Who was the artist?
A: Tony Bennett (The Art of Excellence).

Q: James Monroe, the fifth U.S. president, was born on this date in 1758. Other than being president, what did Monroe have in common with John Adams?
A: They both died on July 4th.

Q: On this day in 1983, British barber Gerry Harley set a world record by shaving how many men in one hour with a safety razor?
A: 987! Incredibly, all of them survived. Just in case they were needed, an ambulance and Dracula were standing by.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On this date in 1994, Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Sr. and Clinton all gathered in the same place at the same time. Why?
A: It was the funeral of former President Richard Nixon.

Q: U.S. troops invaded what country on this day in 1813?
A: Canada. Trying to control Lake Ontario, the U.S. Army attacked Toronto and burned the provincial parliament. Just a little something we dug up for Canada-United States Goodwill Week.

Q: On April 27, 1956, Rocky Marciano retired at age 32 as the only undefeated heavyweight champ with a perfect record. He was unbeaten in how many pro fights?
A: 49

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Eighty-five years ago today, something happened for the first time on the radio. What?
A: Radio station WEW in St. Louis broadcast the first official U.S. government weather forecast on this day in 1921. And every day since, the U.S. Weather Service has been issuing weather forecasts -- and they're gonna keep doing it until they get one right.

Q: On April 26, 1937, the afternoon comedy soap "Lorenzo Jones" premiered on NBC Radio. And we must not forget his devoted wife. What was her name?
A: Belle. The daily show lasted until 1955.

Q: Apart from elephants, what are the world's strongest animals?
A: Draught Horses. It is estimated that there are about 750 million horses in the world.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, April 25th

Q: America's first unemployment office opened on this day in 1868 in what state?
A: California. In those days, people who sat around doing nothing while others worked were called idlers. Today they're called executives.

Q: Which state has the most expensive gas in America?
A: California. Carpooling is one way to save gas, but it's never been popular in L.A. You could wind up sitting in a car with someone whose aura clashes with your aura.

Q: On this day in 1964, a cow in Russia gave birth to the most calves ever born at one time. How many were there?
A: Seven calves. The cow's owner was a poor farmer who dreamed of having a large herd; and with this multiple birth, he was finally in the chips -- the cow chips.

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

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Monday, April 24th

Q: (1) How many pennies has the government minted since 1787? (2) In what year was the Lincoln penny introduced? (3) What is the lifespan of the average penny? (4) How many different penny designs have been used throughout U.S. history?
A: (1) More than 300 billion. (2) 1909 (3) 25 years (4) 11

Q: Name the only U.S. president to have a PhD in political science.
A: Woodrow Wilson.

Q: The Barbie doll got her first car in 1962. What kind was it?
A: A coral Austin Healy made by the Irwin Corporation or Mattel.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How many pennies has the government minted since 1787?
A: More than 300 billion.

Q: In what year was the Lincoln penny introduced?
A: 1909

Q: What is the average lifespan of the penny?
A: 25 years

Q: How many different penny designs have been used throughout U.S. history?
A: 11

Q: Name the only U.S. president to have a PhD in political science.
A: Woodrow Wilson

Q: The Barbie doll got her first car in 1962. What kind was it?
A: A coral Austin Healy made by the Irwin Corporation for Mattel.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: How many pennies has the government minted since 1787?
A: More than 300 billion.

Q: In what year was the Lincoln penny introduced?
A: 1909

Q: What is the average lifespan of the penny?
A: 25 years

Q: How many different penny designs have been used throughout U.S. history?
A: 11

Q: Name the only U.S. president to have a PhD in political science.
A: Woodrow Wilson

Q: The Barbie doll got her first car in 1962. What kind was it?
A: A coral Austin Healy made by the Irwin Corporation for Mattel.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: The world's first firehouse pole was installed on April 21, 1878 in what city?
A: New York City. At first, the fire-pole created lots of headaches, but soon those headaches were eliminated when firemen stopped sliding down the pole head first.

Q: On April 21, 1940, the quiz show "Take It or Leave It" premiered on CBS Radio. How much could you win with the BIG question?
A: It asked the "$64 question."

Q: On this date in 1789, the first vice president of the U.S. was sworn in. What was his name?
A: John Adams.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On April 20, 1961, FM radio stations in the U.S. were granted permission to do what?
A: To broadcast in stereo. When I started in radio, I was in mono. It was okay, I guess, but I prefer annoying people in stereo.

Q: What famous actress made her film debut on this day in 1934 in a movie called "Stand Up and Cheer"?
A: Shirley Temple. Some of today's movies are so bad, the only time an audience will stand up and cheer is when the projector breaks down.

Q: On this day in 1947, what comedian was cut off the air because he told a joke about a mythical network vice-president?
A: Fred Allen. A national controversy erupted when NBC threatened to cancel the weekly show. But Allen hired midgets to picket NBC with signs that read, "This network is unfair to the little man." Allen stayed on the air.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What was the first city to reach a population of one million?
A: Rome in 133BC.

Q: April is National Bubble Gum Month, endorsed by the American Lung Association. It may sound a little silly until you try blowing a bubble while smoking a cigarette. On this day in 1985, Susan Williams of Fresno blew history's biggest bubble gum bubble. How large in diameter was it?
A: 22 inches in diameter. At last report she was still trying to get the gum out of her hair.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions for Tuesday, April 18th

Q: Actress Barbara Hale built an entire career playing what part?
A: Perry Mason's secretary, Della Street.


Q: But another actress played Della with a completely new Perry Mason cast in 1973 and 1974. Who was she?
A: Canada's Sharon Acker.


Q: Which was baseball's first three-tiered stadium?
A: 1923, Yankee Stadium opened in the Bronx, New York. The Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox 4-1.


Q: Who was the first African-American coach in the NBA?
A: In 1966, Bill Russell was named played-coach of the Boston Celtics.