Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

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

Alan Rock's Trivia

Who was the first woman to be inducted into the National Comedy Hall of Fame? A: Minnie Pearl. The 50 year old veteran of the Grand Ole Opry died in 1996.

April 16, 1929, was a happy day for avid readers. Why? A: The “Book of the Month Club” was founded.

Alan Rock's Trivia

You nicked your wood coffee table. According to Tightwad Living Magazine, to coat the nick, what should you do? A: Use a small amount of granular instant coffee and warm water.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Actor Michael Moriarty has won a Tony and an Emmy in his vast career. Besides making over 30 films, he's also a playwright, a composer, and he does something else. Do you know what it is?
A: He's a jazz pianist.

Q: In a study by the Honolulu Heart Program, people reduced their risk of premature death by 50% by doing what?
A: Walking two miles a day.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On April 4, 1964, the Beatles had more than one song in the Top Ten of the Billboard record sales chart. How many? A: They had the top FIVE songs. Yes, all five of them. “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Twist and Shout,” “She Loves You,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” and “Please Please Me.”

April 4, 1915: McKinley Morganfield was born in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. He became one of the great blues rockers. We know him as? A: Muddy Waters, known for “Got My Mojo Working” and “Rolling Stone.” He discovered Chuck Berry.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On April 3rd, 1960, The Paul Winchell Show aired on ABC-TV. The ventriloquits's dummy was named Jerry Mahoney. Later, Winchell invented something very special, what was it?
A: History's first artificial heart.

Q: On April 3rd, 1776, George Washington recieved a law degree from what University?
A: Harvard University. To commemorate the occasion, plaques were placed in all of George's classrooms, reading "George Washington Slept Here".

Q: Assuming you are an average person and tonight is an average unromantic night, after going to bed tonight, how many minutes will it take you to fall asleep?
A: Seven minutes.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On April 2, 1792, the first U.S. mint was established to make coins and paper money. In which city did this happen? A: Philadelphia, PA.

One hundred years ago what would you guess were the five leading causes of death in the U.S. were? A: 1. Pneumonia and influenza; 2. Tuberculosis; 3. Diarrhea; 4. Heart Disease; 5. Stroke

One hundred years ago what would you guess was the average wage in the U.S.? A: 22 cents per hour. The average U.S. worker made between $200 and $400 per year. A competent accountant could expect to earn $2,000 per year, a dentist made $2,500 per year, a veterinarian made $1,500 per year, and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year.

One hundred years ago what would you guess were the number of reported murders in the ENITRE U.S.A.?! A: About 230

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On March 30, 1867, the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia. How much per acre was paid?
A: Two cents. Total price - $7.2 million. Today, you couldn't get a good baseball player for that. So basically you'd have to settle for anyone on the Florida Marlins.

Q: March 30, 1964, the TV game show "Jeopardy" debuted on NBC. Who was the first host?
A: Art Fleming hosted 2,500 consecutive daytime shows. The later syndicated version was hosted from 1984 by Alex Trebeck.

Q: March 30, 1993, in "Peanuts," something very special happened to Charlie Brown. What was it?
A: He hit his first home run- and managed somehow not to complain about it.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: What was the original color of Coca-Cola?
A: Green. The Jolly Green Giant denies any involvement.

Q: The word "tip," meaning a gratuity, was originally an acronym standing for what?
A: To Insure Promptness.

Q: Which U.S. President was born March 29th, 1790?
A: John Tyler, the 10th U.S. President. He allegedly died in 1862- however nobody knows where he is buried! So it is possible he's still alive, possibly writing a column for the National Enquirer.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On March 28, 1986, more than 6,000 radio stations around the world played the same song simultaneously. What song? A: We Are The World. (To create awareness of African famine relief)

On March 28, 1797, Nathaniel Briggs of New Hampshire patented something that most of us use today. What is it? A: The first washing machine. It wasn’t very effective. But it didn’t have to be – back then the dirt was cleaner.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On March 27th, 1952, "Singing in the Rain" premiered at New York's Radio City Music Hall. Can you name four movie stars who appeared in it?
A: Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O'Connor and Jean Hagen.

Q: On this date, 1986, I ate a bagel. The cream cheese had chives. How delicious was it?
A: Somewhat.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Providence, Rhode Island, was the hottest city in America on March 26, 1676. Why? A: The Indians burned it. Insurance premiums skyrocketed.

March 26, 1886: Asa Yoelson was born in Srednick, Russia. We know him better by the name of? A: Al Jolson. His hits included “Raggin’ the Baby to Sleep,” “The Spaniard That Blighted My Life,” “Swanee,” “Sonny Boy,” “My Mammy,” and “April Showers.”

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

Alan Rock's Trivia

If you got sick in ancient Babylon, what did you have to do? A: You would go to the city square, where you waited until someone who had suffered the same illness could share his or her cure. It was illegal to pass a sick person without asking about his illness and offering advice if you could.

Who made his famous call for American independence from Britain on March 23, 1775, telling the Virginia Provincial Convention, "Give me liberty, or give me death!"? A: Patrick Henry

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Actress Reese Witherspoonwas born on March 22nd, 1976. In six seasons of friends, whose sister did she play?
A: Rachel Green's sister, Jill

Q: What is actress Reese Witherspoons real name?
A: Laura Jean Reese Witherspoon. February is Black History Month.

Q: Which is more poisonous:
a.) a wasp b.) a bee c.) a fireant
A: A fireant. Frequently, reactions to it's venom can be severe. Each year, approximately 250,000 American husbands are physically attacked and beaten by their wives.

Alan Rock's Trivia

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

On March 21, 1935 Persia changed its name. What do we call Persia today? A: Iran. It's hard to trust a country that changes its name. Somebody should check -- I'll bet there's a used camel dealer somewhere who's still looking for Persia so he can collect the money he's owed.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Originally a writer, what did director Spike Lee first write?
a.) greeting cards b.) advertising copy c.) fortune cookies

b: Advertizing copy


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

Alan Rock's Trivia

March 19, 1977 was a sad day at WJM Television. Why? A: The final episode of the "Mary Tyler Moore Show" was aired. It was set in the newsroom at fictional WJM-TV in Minneapolis.

Today, March 19th, is Honey West Day. Who was Honey West? A: Was she TV's first female private eye? The ABC-TV series, starring Anne Francis, lasted one season in 1965-66.

Alan Rock's Trivia 3/14/2007

Billy Crystal was born on March 14, 1948. Name the 1995 movie Billy Crystal wrote, directed and starred in.

Answer: FORGET PARIS

On what scholarship did Billy Crystal attend college?

Answer: Baseball

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Born March 9, 1934, the first man to travel in space. Do you remember his name?

A: Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. Which was an amazing amazing achievement because Russian spacesuits are uncomfortable -- and Russian astronaut diapers are itchy. To be totally correct, in Russia, a man who goes around in circles is called a "cosmonaut." In the U.S, he's called a "congressman."

Q: You are an eriff. How old are you?

A: You are a 2-year-old canary.

Alan Rock's Trivia

What animal can go without water longer than a camel? A: A rat.

On March 8, 1894 what state became the first state to require that dogs be licensed? A: New York. And to this day, the license tags are made by inmates at the dog pound. My dog once had his license suspended. He couldn't bark for 30 days.

Alan Rock's Trivia

The board game Monopoly first went on sale on March 7, 1933. On the original Monopoly board, what are the four corner squares? A: Go, Free Parking, Jail, and "Go to Jail".

The BBC did a worldwide image survey about countries. They asked thousands of people in hundreds of countries, "Which nation has the most positive influence in the world?" The nation rated #1 for best image and the most positive contribution in the world? A: Canada. Experts say this is remarkable -- especially if you consider what they call -- "The Celine Dion factor."

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Actor/director Rob Reiner was born today, March 6th, in 1947. In the hit TV show "All in the Family", what was his characters nickname?
A: Meathead.

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

Alan Rock's Trivia

Actor Jay Silverheels died on March 5, 1980. Under what name did we know him? A: He played Tonto in "The Lone Ranger" series. I always felt sorry for Tonto. Every week the Lone Ranger sent him into town to get hit on the head. Tonto held the Old West record for taking aspirin. Tonto always called the Lone Ranger "Kemosabe," which means "friend". And because Tonto always willingly went into town to get clobbered, the Lone Ranger had a pet name for Tonto, too -- "Kemosucker."

In 15th century England, what color was believed to be a fever reducer? A: Red. The sick wore red underwear and pajamas and surrounded themselves with red objects.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On February 28, 1983: The final original episode of “MASH” aired. What character did Gary Burghoff play in the series? A: Radar O’Reilly.

February 28, 1977, comedian Eddie Anderson died at age 71. He had appeared almost 20 years on the radio and 15 years on television. Who did we know him as? A: Jack Benny’s personal valet, Rochester.

Alan Rock's Trivia

February 26, 1951: The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified; what did it do? A: It limited a president to two terms of office.

A co-worker says he just blew his buffer. What does that mean? A: He lost his train of thought.

Alan Rock's Trivia

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

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

Alan Rock's Trivia (02-22-2007)

Which state once made it illegal to give liquor to a fish? A: Oklahoma

What actors were offered the title role of “Dirty Harry” before it was given to Clint Eastwood? A: It was originally intended for Frank Sinatra. After he refused, it was offered to John Wayne, and then Paul Newman, and finally accepted by Clint Eastwood.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On February 21, 1878, the first U.S. telephone directories were issued in New Haven, CT. What is your best guess as to how many subscribers were listed in that first phone book? A: 50

When Bugs Bunny first appeared in 1935, what was he called? A: Happy Rabbit

What percent of American babies are named after close relatives? A: About 60%

Animal Truths: Camels can close their noses. Alligators can close their ears.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Robert Adler, who won an Emmy Award along with fellow engineer Eugene Polley for a device that made the couch potato possible. What did he invent?
A: Space Command remote control.

Q: Model Cindy Crawford recieved a full university scholarship to study what subject?
A: Chemical engineering. She would later drop out, after her experimental cure for creepy college guys, body oil, terribly backfired.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Which U.S. President never referred to the national capital by name? He always called it Federal City. A: George Washington

Before leaving Illinois for the White House, Abraham Lincoln sold two possessions – what were they? A: His horse and his cow

Which U.S. President, while President, was arrested and fined $20 for speeding – on his horse? A: Ulysses Grant

Who was the tallest president and who was the shortest? A: Abe Lincoln (6’4”) and James Madison (5’4”)

Who was the only grandchild of a president who became President? A: Benjamin Harrison

Which U.S. President started the tradition of the Presidential “first pitch” of baseball season? A: William Howard Taft

Which U.S. President once said, “We have but one police force – the American woman”? A: Herbert Hoover

Which U.S. President was the first Boy Scout to become President? A: John F. Kennedy

Other than President Nixon, President Ford pardoned Iva Toguri D’Aquino. Who did we know her as? A: “Tokyo Rose.”

George W. Bush is the 43rd U.S. President. There have been only 42 presidents. How is that possible? A: Grover Cleveland was elected to two nonconsecutive terms and is counted twice as the 22nd and 24th president

Who are the only two presidents buried at Arlington National Cemetery? A: John Kennedy and William Taft

Alan Rock's Trivia

Born on February 16, 1935 – Sonny Bono. He was half of Sonny and Cher. He was killed in a 1998 skiing accident. He was once mayor of which city? A: Palm Springs, CA.

According to an old state law, how often is every resident of Kentucky required to take a bath? A: At least once a year.

On February 16, 1968, the first 911 emergency telephone system in the U.S. was operational in what city? A: Haleyville, Alabama.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: This was a big day in 1842 for the post office, why?
A: Adhesive stamps were used for the first time. (Before then, glue had to be spread on the back of a postage stamp.)

Q: Melissa Manchester studied songwriting at New York University. Who was her teacher?
A: Paul Simon.

Alan Rock's Trivia

The St. Valentine’s Day massacre was when Al Capone’s gang shot seven members of the Bugs Moran gang in Chicago. In which year did that happen? A: 1929

According to ancient folklore, which creatures chose their mates on this date February 14? A: Birds

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: TV talkshow host Jerry Springer was born on February 13th, 1944. He once served as a mayor for which U.S. city?
A: Cincinnati.

Q: Who was TV personality Jerry Springer once a presidential campaign worker for?
A: Robert Kennedy.

Q: What is the fastest flying bug on earth?
A: The Austrailian dragonfly can hit up to 36 miles an hour.

Alan Rock's Trivia

What’s the germiest thing the average person touches all week? Researchers say it’s the handle of a supermarket shopping cart. They suggest using an anti-bacterial spray on the handle. You might also want to spray the kid who bags your groceries.

This date in 2000 was a sad day for Charlie Brown and Snoopy. Why? A: Peanuts creator Charles Schulz died at age 77.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Born on February 9, 1773 – Who was the man who served the shortest term of any U.S. president – only 30 days? A: William Henry Harrison. In 1841, he caught a cold at his inauguration and died 30 days later.

You are suffering a chirospasm. What should you stop doing? A: Stop writing. You’re got writer’s cramp.

Who was Alexander H. Stephens? A: On February 9, 1861, the Provisional Congress of the Confederate States of America elected Jefferson Davis president and Alexander H. Stephens vice president.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On this date in 1998, the Winter Olympics opened in what city? A: Nagano, Japan

Your assignment, should you choose to accept it, is to find a snood. Where should you look for it? A: A turkey. The snood is the fleshy projection just above the bird's bill.

For fast, temporary relief of an itchy omphalos (AHM'-fah-luhs), where would you start scratching? A: Your middle. In fact, omphalos means "center." It's your belly button.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Actress Jennifer Jason Leigh's father was killed in a helicopter crash. Who was he? A: Actor Vic Morrow died in a helicopter accident while filming Twilight Zone: The Movie.

Who is the only former United States president buried in Washington, DC? He is buried in the National Cathedral. A: Woodrow Wilson. Why was Woodrow Wilson the first U.S. president to be buried in Washington DC on February 5, 1924? Details are very sketchy, but probably because he was dead.

Who was the first couple to be shown in bed together on prime time TV? A: Fred and Wilma Flinstone.

Alan Rock's Trivia (02/02/2007)

On February 2, 1653, New Amsterdam was incorporated. What is it called today? A: New York City

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: Your vet says your pet deer needs gall bladder surgery. What should you do?
A: Get a new vet. Deer don't have gall bladders.

Q: The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was sent to the states for ratification on Feb. 1, 1865. What did it do?
A: Abolish Slavery. Although slavery has been abolished, the practice of buying and selling human beings continues, but under another name; Politics.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: American actor, Gene Hackman was born this day, 1930. Can you name the 1971 movie for which he won his first "Best Actor" Oscar?
A: A French Connection.

Q: On January 30th, 1933, "The Lone Ranger" debuted live on WXYZ Radio in what city?
A: Detroit. That was back before disc jockeys- so I guess they had to hire somebody else to clean up after the horses. On that first program, Tonto's horse was named White Feller. The program ran for 2,956 episodes, and ended in 1955.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Born on January 29, 1945 - Tom Selleck. Tom attended the University of Southern California on a sports scholarship. Which sport? A: Basketball

Which American President was born in Niles, Ohio, on January 29, 1843? A: President William McKinley (the 25th President of the U.S.). He was the last of the U.S. conquerors. He grabbed Guam, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico in the Spanish-American War, and took over Hawaii just for the fun of it. McKinley was assassinated in 1901.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Movie actor Paul Newman, born on January 26, 1925, shuns Hollywood, preferring to live in another state. Where?
A: Westport, Connecticut.

Q: Why was Paul Newman disqualified from Navy pilot school during World War II?
A: He was color blind.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Which entertainment industry awards were first presented on this date in 1949?

A: The Emmy's (for television)

Q: On January 25, 1940, the government mailed out something for the first time; what was it?

A: The first Social Security checks. And with luck, most of those checks should arrive any day now. Boy, I bet Denny's was packed that night.

Alan Rock's Trivia

On this date in 1965, the man considered by many to be the greatest Englishman who ever lived died at age 90. Who was he? A: Winston Churchill

What was discovered at Sutter's Mill on January 24, 1848? A: Gold. The only time more people rushed to California was when an employee at General Nutrition Center discovered granola.

Alan Rocks Trivia Questions

Q: Jan 23rd, 1971 was the coldest day ever recorded in the United States. In Prospect Creek, Alaska, the mercury dropped to what?
A: Minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The kind of day an Alaskan woman picks up the phone and orders something feminine from Fredericks of Fairbanks.

Q: Born Jan 23rd, 1737, this man was the first to sign the declaration of Independence. Who was he?
A: John Hancock. Contrary to popular belief, John did not sell insurance. I'm not sure what he did, but from his large, legible signature, I do know he wasn't a doctor.

Q: On Jan. 23rd, 1977, the most watched program in history began on ABC-TV. It was a mini series. Can you name it?
A: Roots, based on the Alex Haley novel.

Q: Why should you know the name Elizabeth Blackwell?
A: Because she became the first American woman to receive a medical degree on Jan 23rd, 1849. Before that, all doctors were men. They had to be men, because in those days women were not allowed on the golf course.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On January 22, 1987, who was the host of the first U.S. TV talkshow to tape a segment inside the Soviet Union?

A: Phil Donahue

Q: On January 22, 1968, a fast-paced satirical review debuted on NBC-TV. It featured Dan Rowan, Dick Martin, Goldie Hawn, Judy Carne, Alan Sues, Lily Tomlin, Arte Johnson, Ruth Buzzi, JoAnne Worley, Henry Gibson, and Gary Owens. Can you name that show?

A: Laugh-In

Alan Rock's Trivia

Which U.S. President gave the first televised White House news conference? A: On January 19, 1955: President Eisenhower. To give you an idea of how long ago that was – Eisenhower actually gave several straight answers to straight questions. But it was pretty boring because those were the days before Sam Donaldson.

How many children did U.S. President John Tyler have? A: 15

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Peter Roget was born on this date, 1779. What was he known for?
A: Roget's Thesaurus. He died in 1869. Expired. Passed away. Checked out. Gave up the ghost. Bought the farm. Kicked the bucket per se. Roget's thesaurus: a pretty good book, but a bit wordy.

Q: In the 1983 film, "The Big Chill", what part did actor Kevin Costner play?
A: A corpse, the suicide victim. But all anyone was his suit and tie during the opening credits. Where do you get experience for a role like that? In your spare time lay around at the funeral home? Go to cadaver school?

Alan Rock's Trivia

Actor James Earl Jones won two Tonys for what plays? A: "The Great White Hope" in the late '60s and "Fences" in 1987.

Alan Rock's Trivia Questions

Q: On January 16th, 1935, a notorious outlaw was shot by police after a 4 hour gun battle in Lake Weir, Florida. What was her name?
A: 'Ma' Baker. Baker had been uncaught in murders, robberies and kidnappings spanning 20 years. Ma said she would have done more- but like all mothers- she only had one pair of hands.

Q: On January 16th, 1920, the Volstead Act went into effect. What did it start?
A: Prohibition. Congressmen nation-wide drank to it's sucess.

Q: What is the worlds favorite ice cream flavor?
A: Vanilla accounts for 29 percent of all ice cream sales.

Alan Rock's Trivia, Monday, January 15, 2007

Q: On this date in 1987, Paramount Pictures announced that, for the first time, a commercial would appear at the start of a pre-recorded VHS movie tape. Can you name the movie or the product advertised in the commercial?
A: "Top Gun" starring Tom Cruise, advertised Pepsi.

Q: The world's largest office building was completed on January 15, 1943. Can you name the building?
A: The Pentagon, which covers 34 acres and has 17 miles of corridors. More generals have been lost in the Pentagon than in all the wars put together.

Q: According to Vitality magazine, how can you cure hiccups?
A: Rub an ice cube on both sides of your Adam's apple.

Q: On January 15, 1983, Thom Syles of Van Nuys, California set a world record for keeping the same candy Life Saver in his mouth -- how long?
A: Seven hours and ten minutes.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: This date in 1966 was a big day for Zap! Pow! Zonk! Crunch! Why?
A: The "Batman" TV series premiered on ABC.

Q: Where did Bullwinkle the Moose and Rocky the Flying Squirrel live?
A: Frostbite Falls, Minnesota.

Q: On January 12, 1932, who became the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate?
A: Hattie Caraway, from Arkansas.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On January 11, 1964, the U.S. Surgeon-General released his first report stating what?
A: That smoking is a health hazard. So is Paris Hilton, but you don't see them warning you about VD.

Q: On January 11, 1984, the best-selling album of all time was released. What was the name of the album and who was the artist?
A: Michael Jackson's "Thriller". But success didn't change Michael. Sunblock changed Michael.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On January 11, 1964, the U.S. Surgeon-General released his first report stating what?
A: That smoking is a health hazard. So is Paris Hilton, but you don't see them warning you about VD.

Q: On January 11, 1984, the best-selling album of all time was released. What was the name of the album and who was the artist?
A: Michael Jackson's "Thriller". But success didn't change Michael, sunblock changed Michael.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Born January 10, 1949, Boxer George Forman was the oldest heavyweight champion yet. How old was he? A: 45 (In 1994)

Q; On January 10, 1946, the fist General Assembly of the UnitedNations convened in what city? A: In London

Alan Rock's Trivia for Tuesday, January 9, 2007

Q: What comic strip first appeared on January 9, 1929? Here's a clue: Incredibly, the hero fell asleep in 1929 and woke up in the 25th century, undoubtedly with history's worst case of "morning mouth."
A: Buck Rogers. It was terrible. He owed the Book-of-the-Month Club $17 million --plus postage and handling.

Q: On January 9, 1959, the TV series "Rawhide" premiered on CBS. What newcomer starred as Rowdy Yates?
A: Clint Eastwood. Other cast members included Eric Fleming as Gil Favor, Sheb Wooley as Pete Nolan, and Paul Bringar as Wishbone. The western lasted 7-1/2 seasons.

Q: Actor Arthur Lake died at age 81 on January 9, 1987. He starred in 27 movies. Although Penny Singleton played his wife in the films, Lake's wife Patricia Van Cleve was one of three women who played his wife on radio. Lake also played the same part in a 1957 TV series. What was the character's name?
A: Dagwood Bumstead.

Alan Rock's Trivia for Tuesday, January 9, 2007

Q: What comic strip first appeared on January 9, 1929? Here's a clue: Incredibly, the hero fell asleep in 1929 and woke up in the 25th century, undoubtedly with history's worst case of "morning mouth."
A: Buck Rogers. It was terrible. He owed the Book-of-the-Month Club $17 million --plus postage and handling.

Q: On January 9, 1959, the TV series "Rawhide" premiered on CBS. What newcomer starred as Rowdy Yates?
A: Clint Eastwood. Other cast members included Eric Fleming as Gil Favor, Sheb Wooley as Pete Nolan, and Paul Bringar as Wishbone. The western lasted 7-1/2 seasons.

Q: Actor Arthur Lake died at age 81 on January 9, 1987. He starred in 27 movies. Although Penny Singleton played his wife in the films, Lake's wife Patricia Van Cleve was one of three women who played his wife on radio. Lake also played the same part in a 1957 TV series. What was the character's name?
A: Dagwood Bumstead.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On January 8, 1964, President Lyndon Johnson declared a war. What was the war about?
A: It was the "War on Poverty."

Q: Actor-sidekick Pat Buttram, who died in 1994 at age 78, played Mr. Haney on TV's "Green Acres." What was Mr. Haney's first name?
A: Bilco.
Q: Also as Gene Autry's sidekick, who did he replace?
A: Smiley Burnette.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: Actress Diane Keaton was born on January 5, 1946. Can you name her husband?
A: She has never married (trick question).

Q: Who said, "We have nothing to fear but sanity itself"?
A: Mork on "Mork and Mindy."

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: What territory became the 45th U.S. state on January 4, 1896?
A: Utah. The Great Salt Lake is a great place to fish because the fish suffer from hardening of the arteries and get really senile. They'll bite at anything that looks easy to chew. Their favorite bait is worms marinated in Geritol.

Q: Who is Thomas Stevens, and why should we know his name?
A; He was the first U.S. bicyclist to circle the globe -- completed on January 4, 1887. He was smarter than other cyclists who tried. Whenever Stevens came to an ocean, he took a boat.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On January 3, 1972, Don McLean received a gold record for "American Pie." The song is one of the longest singles ever. How long is it?
A: 8 minutes 32 seconds.

Q: Remember the movie "Lassie, Come Home"? Where did Lassie come home to?
A: Yorkshire, England.

Q: On January 3, 1987, the first woman was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. What is her name?
A: Aretha Franklin.

Alan Rock's Trivia

Q: On January 2, 1980, he was fired as host for the Miss America Pageant. For 25 years he had held a steady job working only one night a year. Forced retirement required quite an adjustment. What was his name?
A: Burt Parks.

Q: Which sport results in more ankle injuries?
A: According to Fitness Plus magazine, basketball produces at least three times more ankle injuries than any other sport.

Q: What is the loose skin dangling below the turkey's chin called?
A: A wattle. A snood is the flap of skin hanging over the turkey's beak. Caruncles are growths on the throat region. All three can turn bright red when the turkey becomes upset or during courtship.

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".