Merry Christmas to You All

I want to wish all of you out there a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a wonderful holiday season.

As I always do every Christmas here at the blog, here is the WPIX Yule Log (the original one will be broadcast tomorrow morning on WPIX Channel 11 here in New York).

Be well, be safe, and Merry Christmas!

Trivia Q&A: December 17

We closed out Trivia Night for 2019 last night, with another small crowd on a cold and rainy night. We had a good night of Trivia, with good scores for both Christmas rounds. The top three teams were divided by just three points going into IQ Trivia. The scores were unusually low for that round, and that enabled the team in third place, We're Better Than You, to jump over the the top two teams to pull out a one-point victory, with 35 points. Congratulations to Caroline and Kenton on their first Trivia Night victory.

Second place went to The Jingle Bell Hops with 34 points, and we had a tie for third place with 31 points between I Be Da Brains and I'm Here to Keep Trivia Going. We broke the tie with "How many surface square mile is Lake Erie?" The answer is 9,910 square miles, and I'm Here to Keep Trivia Going was closest and won third place.

I want to thank all of you for your support for my Trivia Night in 2019. We are taking the next two Tuesday nights off, as the holidays both fall on those nights. Trivia Night will return on January 7th at 8:30 PM. Enjoy the holidays, and look forward to seeing many of you then, as I start my third decade hosting Trivia!

Current Events
1. What country was banned from the 2020 Olympics and the 2022 soccer World Cup by the World Anti-Doping Agency due to doping non-compliance?
2. What film received five Golden Globe nominations last week including two of its stars nominated for Best Supporting Actor?
3. What TV network announced that their New York headquarters building will be sold off in the near future?
4. What Midwest city is becoming the first major US city to make public transit, namely their bus system, free?
5. What Asian country passed a new law last week excluding Muslims migrants from citizenship?
6. A volcano erupted off the coast of what island nation last week, killing eight people and injuring dozens more?
7. NY-born actor Danny Aiello died last Thursday at the age of 86. For what late 1980s movie was he nominated for a Best Supporting Actor?

Christmas Trivia
1. According to legend, candy canes originated in the 17th century in what European country?
2. Between the US, Canada and Germany, which nation exports the most Christmas trees?
3. What Christmas carol carries the nickname “The Counting Song?”
4. What 1990 film is the highest grossing Christmas movie of all-time, bringing in $476 million worldwide?
5. What Christmas movie was primarily set at West 11th Street in Cleveland, Ohio?
6. What horror film star was the narrator of the classic Christmas TV special “How the Grinch Stole Christmas?”
7. If you were born on Christmas Day, what zodiac sign were you born under?
8. BONUS: What are two of three main rituals of the holiday of Festivus?

The Q Train: Christmas Movie and TV Characters
1. Cindy Lou Who (1966)
2. George Bailey (1946)
3. Ralphie Parker (1983)
4. Bob Crachit (1951)
5. Kevin McAllister (1990)
6. Clark Griswold (1989)
7. Susan Walker (1947)
8. Yukon Cornelius (1964)
9. John McClane (1988)
10. Billy Mack (2003)

General Knowledge
1. What country has won the most Olympic titles in basketball? (1 pt)
2. “E” and “O” are each worth how many points in Scrabble? (1 pt)
3. How many candles does a Hanukkah menorah have? (1 pt)
4. Wikipedia began in what early 20th century year? (2 pt)
5. Between the Federalist Papers, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution, which is not one of the Charters of Freedom? (2 pt)
6. Which of the four British nations has the unicorn as its national animal? (2 pt)
7. At an average depth of 62 feet, which is the shallowest of the Great Lakes? (3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. Bluetooth technology gets its name from King Harald Bluetooth, who ruled what European country? (3 points)
2. In 1980, what NFL team became the first Wild Card team to win the Super Bowl? (4 points)
3. What board game was invented by a British musician named Anthony Platt during WWII when he was trapped indoors due to air raid blackouts? (5 points)
4. What is the highest grossing domestic adaptation of a Stephen King novel? (4 points)
5. “The Other Side of the Wind”, a film released in 2018, was the final film by what legendary filmmaker, 33 years after his death due to legal and financial complications? (4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Russia; 2. “The Irishman;” 3. CBS; 4. Kansas City; 5. India; 6. New Zealand; 7. “Do The Right Thing.”

Christmas Trivia
1. Germany; 2. Canada; 3. “12 Days of Christmas;” 4. “Home Alone;” 5. “A Christmas Story;” 6. Boris Karloff; 7. Capricorn. 8. Festivus Pole, Airing of Grievances and the Feats of Strength.

The Q Train: Christmas Movie and TV Characters
1. How the Grinch Stole Christmas; 2. It’s a Wonderful Life; 3. A Christmas Story; 4. A Christmas Carol; 5. Home Alone; 6. Christmas Vacation; 7. Miracle On 34th Street; 8. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer; 9. Die Hard; 10. Love Actually.

General Knowledge
1. USA; 2. One; 3. Nine; 4. 2001; 5. Federalist Papers; 6. Scotland; 7. Lake Erie.

IQ Trivia
1. Denmark; 2. Oakland Raiders; 3. Clue; 4. “It;” 5. Orson Welles.

Yuletide Trivia Closes Out 2019

 

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, December 17th at 8:30 PM, with “Christmas Trivia” as the Special Category. It will be seven questions (plus a special bonus question) about the Yuletide holiday in history and pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be “Christmas Movie and TV Characters Trivia.” I will give you the names of ten famous characters and you have to tell me what Christmas TV or movie special they appeared in. (I will also include the year the special originally aired.)

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
“How many candles does a Hanukkah menorah hold?”

This will be our final Trivia Night for 2019. We will be taking the next two weeks off for the holidays, and we will return with our first Trivia Night for 2020 on Tuesday, January 7th at 8:30 PM. I hope to see many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: December 10

We had a small crowd in for Trivia on a rainy night in New York City on Tuesday, and a close race between the top three teams. But the guys from DIMS pulled away late and won the night with 42 points. Congrats to Ken, Michael and Darek on their victory. We had a tie for second place between the teams of Quiz-Knows and Prestige Worldwide with 32 points, and we broke the tie with the following question: "How long is the center span of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in terms of overall feet?" The answer is 4,260 feet and Prestige Worldwide was closest to the answer and wound up winning second place.

A reminder that next week's Trivia on December 17th will be our final Trivia Night for 2019. We will take two weeks off for the holidays and return on January 7th at 8:30 PM for our first Trivia Night of 2020.   

Current Events
1. Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi, of what Middle Eastern country, resigned last week over corruption issues and massive unrest in the country but will stay on until a new PM is chosen?
2. The Wall Street Journal recently selected Sky Harbor International Airport as the best airport in the US for 2019, and it is found in what western city?
3. What rap star won the top spot in Spotify’s most streamed artist of the decade?
4. What NY-area bridge now has a toll cost of $19, which is now the most expensive bridge in the US  to cross?
5. Rolling Stone magazine selected “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” as their number 1 album of the 2010s by what artist?
6. What R&B singer, already with many legal troubles, was accused of attempting to bribe an Illinois government official in 1994 trying to get his girlfriend a fake ID?
7. The first indoor ski slope in North America opened last week in what eastern US state?

Trivia of the Decade: 2010-19
1. On December 13, 2013, what pop singer released an album with no advance notice, at midnight and initially only available digitally through the iTunes Store?
2. What actor picked up an Emmy nomination for “True Detective” and also won an Oscar, both in 2014?
3. What sitcom ended it’s nine year run in 2014, and in the finale we saw that Ted Mosby may have ended up with Robin Scherbatsky after all?
4. Who was the only team to win three World Series titles in the 2010s?
5. In 2011, the FBI’s Most Wanted Fugitive, “James “Whitey” Bulger, a Boston mobster on the run for 16 years, was captured in what US state?
6. What 2015 film was the top-grossing movie of the 2010s in the US?
7. What NBA team won the most titles in the 2010s?

The Q Train: Movies of the 2010s
1. The Black Panther
2. The Wolf of Wall Street
3. The Shape of Water
4. Moneyball
5. La La Land
6. The Social Network
7. Jurassic World
8. The Hunger Games
9. Guardians of the Galaxy
10. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

General Knowledge
1. “I see dead people” is a famous line from what 1999 film? (1pt)
2. The Rosetta Stone was discovered in 1799 in what country? (1pt)
3. Deimos and Phobos are moons of what planet? (1pt)
4. What kind of whale was Moby Dick? (2pt)
5. What is the world’s oldest known vegetable? (2pt)
6. Hannibal Lecter’s character debuted in what film? (2pt)
7. The languages Telugu and Marathi are spoken in what country? (3pt)

IQ Trivia
1. Who had the first, and so far only, cover of a Beatles song to hit number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100? ( 4 points)
2. What was the most recent movie that won the Oscar for Best Picture but was not nominated for Best Director? 4 points)
3. Heineken beer was founded in what major European city in 1864? ( 3 points)
4. The sclera is found where on the human body? (5 points)
5. What country has won 14 Best Foreign Language Film Oscars, the most of any country? ( 4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Iraq; 2. Phoenix; 3. Drake; 4. Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge; 5. Kanye West; 6. R. Kelly; 7. New Jersey.

Trivia of the Decade: 2010-19
1. Beyoncé; 2. Matthew McConaughey; 3. “How I Met Your Mother;” 4. San Francisco Giants; 5. California; 6. “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens;” 7. Golden State Warriors.

The Q Train: Movies of the 2010s
1. 2018; 2. 2013; 3. 2017; 4. 2011; 5. 2016; 6. 2010; 7. 2015; 8. 2012; 9. 2014; 10. 2019.

General Knowledge
1. “The Sixth Sense;” 2. Egypt; 3. Mars; 4. Sperm whale; 5. Pea; 6. “Manhunter;” 7. India.

IQ Trivia
1. Elton John; 2. “Green Book” (2019); 3. Amsterdam; 4. Eyes (white part); 5. Italy.

Let’s Review The Decade This Week

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, December 10th, at 8:30 PM, with “Trivia of the Decade: 2010-19” as the Special Category. It will be seven questions about events that happened in the last ten years in pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be “Movies of the Decade Trivia.” I will give you the names of ten popular films from 2010-19, and you have to tell me what year it was originally released. And every answer will be a different year.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
“‘I see dead people’ is a famous line from what 1999 film?”

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night. And a heads up to everyone: Next Tuesday night, December 17th, will be our final Trivia Night for 2019, as we will be taking two weeks off for the holidays. Our next Trivia Night after that will be our first for 2020, on January 7th at 8:30 PM.

Trivia Q&A: December 3

We had 10 teams in for Trivia on Tuesday night, and we had a Michigan basketball game that brought a few fans that played, and that's always a good thing. We had to go with a makeshift mic until the game ended and that was a bit of a pain. But by the fourth round we were back to normal. And in that fourth round, we had some of the lowest scores ever for the General Knowledge round, but that happens sometimes. The top six teams were only separated by five points going into IQ Trivia, so it was tight going in. The scores in that round were on the stronger side, and we ended up with a tie for first, between DIMS and Hey Hermano with 45 points. We broke the tie with "What is the current population for the nation of Iran?" DIMS was the closest (it's 82,900,000), and garnered the victory. Congrats to Ken, Michael and Darek on their win.

Third place went to A Name to Remember with 44 points.

Best Team Name: John Quinn 4 President-The Change We Need

Current Events
1. Uber will not be granted a new license in what European capital city after repeated safety failures?
2. Unranked basketball team Stephen F. Austin defeated what number 1 ranked team last week to knock them out of the top ten rankings?
3. What legendary baseball immortal's bat he used to hit his 500th home run went up for auction last week and it is believed it will break the record for the most expensive bat ever sold (over $1 million)?
4. What rock singer was recently escorted off stage of his own bar in Nashville after letting out a slew of lewd comments about Oprah Winfrey?
5. Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro blamed what Oscar-winning actor for fanning Brazil's devastating Amazon forest fires by donating to local groups accused of purposefully setting the fires?
6. According to the wealth intelligence firm New World Wealth, what city is now the world's wealthiest city, worth more that $3 trillion?
7. A new poll from the Hollywood Reporter revealed what classic 1964 TV claymation special is America's favorite Christmas-themed TV special?

December Trivia
1. On December 1, 1955, Rose Parks refused to move to the back of a bus in what southern US city, a key moment in the civil rights movement?
2. In December 1954, what fast-food restaurant opened for the first time in Miami, Florida?
3. In December 1980, what classic rock band disbanded after their drummer's shocking death three months earlier?
4. What US president was the first statesman awarded the Nobel Peace Price in December 1906?
5. In December 2009, what science fiction film was released, and went on to become the highest grossing movie ever at that time?
6. On December 18, 1997, what beloved comedian died of a drug overdose in Chicago at the age of 33?
7. Also on December 18, 1997, NBC aired an episode of "Seinfeld" called "The Strike" which featured the holiday of Festivus. What day in December is it celebrated?

The Q Train: 1-10 Trivia
1. An octagon has this number of sides.
2. In the Book of Revelation, there were this many "Horsemen of the Apolcalypse."
3. This is the number LeBron James wore with the Miami Heat.
4. Pearl Jam and LL Cool J both had this number for an album title.
5. This is the number of justices that sit on the Supreme Court.
6. On the TV series "Seinfeld", George Costanza wanted to give his first-born son this number for a first name.
7. This is the atomic number of helium.
8. The only players in soccer and hockey who can wear this number are goalkeepers.
9. In baseball, this many innings have to played at minimum for a game to be official.
10. Gemini is this number sign of the Zodiac.

General Knowledge
1. The game of mah jongg originated in what country? ( 1 pt)
2. What is the name of the song played to wake up US soldiers? ( 1 pt)
3. How many "Hunger Games" movies were there? ( 1 pt)
4. Mariner 2 was the first spacecraft to travel to another planet in 1962. Which planet was it? ( 2 pt)
5. Between gold, copper and silver, which metal is the best conductor of electricity? ( 2 pt)
6. What MLB player holds the record for the most MVP awards won in a career? ( 2 pt)
7. Who played the Pinball Wizard in the 1975 film adaptation of the musical "Tommy?" ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What Middle Eastern country's currency is the rial, and is one of the least valuable currencies in the world? ( 4 points)
2. In the 1930s and 1940s, Louis Buchalter and Albert Anastasia headed what American organized crime group responsible for as many as 1,000 contract killings? ( 4 points)
3. What character has been played in the movies by Harrison Ford, Alec Baldwin and Ben Affleck? ( 3 points)
4. The Liberty Bell March is the theme song to what classic comedy TV series? ( 4 points)
5. Mary Bojaxhiu was born in 1910 in North Macedonia but was better known to the world by what name? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. London; 2. Duke; 3. Babe Ruth; 4. Kid Rock; 5. Leonardo DiCaprio; 6. New York City; 7. "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer."

December Trivia
1. Montgomery, AL; 2. Burger King; 3. Led Zeppelin; 4. Theodore Roosevelt; 5. "Avatar;" 6. Chris Farley; 7. December 23rd.

The Q Train: 1-10 Trivia
1. 8; 2. 4; 3. 6; 4. 10; 5. 9; 6. 7; 7. 2; 8. 1; 9. 5; 10. 3.

General Knowledge
1. China; 2. Reveille; 3. four; 4. Venus; 5. Silver; 6. Barry Bonds; 7. Elton John.

IQ Trivia
1. Iran; 2. Murder Incorporated; 3. Jack Ryan; 4. "Monty Python's Flying Circus;" 5. Mother Teresa.

Lots of Cool Stuff Happened In December

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, December 3rd at 8:30 PM, with "December Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be things that happened in the final month throughout history and pop culture. (Nothing associated with the holiday season will be part of this category, as we will do that on a future Trivia Night.) The Q Train lightning round will be "1-10 Trivia." I will ask you ten questions where the answer will be a number from 1 to 10, and every answer will be a different number.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"The game of mah jongg originated in what country?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for another splendid night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: November 26

 We had a smaller crowd for Trivia this week, as the Thanksgiving holiday kept some folks away. But eight teams took part, and we had a close contest though the evening. The top three teams were separated by five points heading into IQ Trivia. But the team in second place and four points behind, The Coastal Camel Toes, got 4 of 5 correct in the final round to pull out the victory with 39 points. Congratulations to Anthony, Victor and Vinny on their win, on their first time in Professor Thom's and playing trivia.

Second place went to Team 7 with 35 points, and third place went to Who Is Bowen Taylor? with 30 points.

Current Events
1. What R&B/rap star was nominated for eight 2020 Grammy Awards last week, the most of any artist, including Record and Song of the Year?
2. What NBA and sports commentator issued an apology last week after saying to a female reporter "I don't hit women but if I did it would be you?"
3. What small European country is set to become the world's first nation to make all of its public transportation free next summer?
4. An asteroid was named after what late classic rock star last week, on the occasion of what would have been his 70th birthday?
5. On a recent "Tonight Show", Will Ferrell said that what Oscar-winning actor told him that the infamous Saturday Night Live sketch "More Cowbell" "ruined his life", as overzealous fans once brought cowbells to his theater performances?
6. What tuna maker filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last week and the company is also facing civil lawsuits related to price-fixing?
7. What pop singer was named Artist of the Decade at the American Music Awards last Sunday night?

Thanksgiving Trivia
1. Which 20th century US president proclaimed that the fourth Tuesday in November to be Thanksgiving Day?
2. In what current US state was the first Thanksgiving held?
3. What West African country also celebrates a Thanksgiving Day every November?
4. Which giant balloon character has flown in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade more times than any other?
5. Which midwestern US state has the most number of live turkeys in production in America?
6. Name 1 of the 2 NFL teams that traditionally host a football game on Thanksgiving.
7. WPIX Channel 11 in NYC traditionally shows what classic 1934 film every Thanksgiving Day?

The Q Train: Saturday Night Live Characters Trivia
1. Wayne Campbell
2. Alex Trebek
3. Mary Catherine Gallagher
4. Mr. Robinson
5. Debbie Downer
6. Hanukkah Harry
7. Matt Foley
8. The Church Lady
9. Emily Litella
10. Bill Clinton

General Knowledge
1. Who was the Greek god of the sea? ( 1 pt)
2. What was the name of Jack Sparrow's ship in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films? ( 1 pt)
3. Badminton originated in what country? ( 1 pt)
4. The first hospital in the US was founded in 1751 in what eastern city? ( 2 pt)
5. In 1971, who was the first actor to ever refuse an Oscar for Best Actor? ( 2 pt)
6. In the film franchise "Transformers", what planet are the Transformers from? ( 2 pt)
7. In 1960, what was the first animated sitcom to air on prime time TV? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. Cabo San Lucas sits at the tip of what peninsula? ( 4 points)
2. The movie "Jurassic Park" is based on a novel written by what acclaimed American author? ( 3 points)
3. What US government agency owns and operates the GPS (Global Positioning System)? ( 4 points)
4. In what Asian country is Labor Thanksgiving Day celebrated every November 23? ( 4 points)
5. Tommy Bolt, winner of the 1958 US Open, is the only golfer to be fined by the PGA for committing what bodily infraction on the course, and is probably the only athlete to be fined doing this in any sport? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Lizzo; 2. Charles Barkley; 3. Luxembourg; 4. Freddie Mercury; 5. Christopher Walken; 6. Bumble Bee; 7. Taylor Swift.

Thanksgiving Trivia
1. FDR; 2. Massachusetts; 3. Liberia; 4. Snoopy ( 40 times); 5. Minnesota; 6. Lions and Cowboys; 7. "March of the Wooden Soldiers."

The Q Train: Saturday Night Live Characters
1. Mike Myers; 2. Will Ferrell; 3. Molly Shannon; 4. Eddie Murphy; 5. Rachel Dratch; 6. Jon Lovitz; 7. Chris Farley; 8. Dana Carvey; 9. Gilda Radner; 10. Phil Hartman and Darrell Hammond.

General Knowledge
1. Poseidon; 2. The Black Pearl; 3. England; 4. Philadelphia; 5. George C. Scott; 6. Cybertron; 7. "The Flintstones."

IQ Trivia
1. Baja, California; 2. Michael Crichton; 3. US Air Force; 4. Japan; 5. Farting.

We Give Thanks On Tuesday

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, November 26th at 8:30 PM, with "Thanksgiving Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be seven questions connected to that grand American holiday coming up this Thursday in history and pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be "Saturday Night Live Characters Trivia." I will give you the names of ten characters that were portrayed on the NBC late night show, and you have to tell me the actor or actress who played that character.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"Who was the Greek god of the sea?"

We've been seeing more and more folks coming to Trivia Night, and that's great to see. I look forward to seeing many of this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: November 19

We had a nice turnout last night, with 11 teams participating, and a lot of folks in the bar, as most teams had a large number of players, and it was a great atmosphere as well. We had the top four teams separated by just four points, but one of the teams tied for third, Impossible Club, got 4 of 5 correct in IQ Trivia to pull out the win with 42 points. Congratulations to Bob and Cato on a nice come from behind win.

We had a tie for second place, with both Deez Nutz+ and Impeaches & Cream at 41 points. We broke the tie with this question: “As of 2019, what is the current population of the nation of Lebanon?” Deez Nutz+ was closest to the answer (6.68 million) and took second.

Best Team Name: Trader Hoes

Current Events
1. A fan is suing what female pop singer after the star changed the start time of an upcoming Miami concert 2 hours later and other fans of hers are angry over her lateness at shows of her current tour?
2. Evo Morales, former president of what South American country, resigned last week and fled the country, getting asylum in Mexico?
3. What longtime daytime soap opera went on an indefinite hiatus this month, and might be ending its 55-year run on TV?
4. What singer was chosen People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2019?
5. What rock singer revealed last week he built an epic model railway city in his home for 23 years, even building skyscrapers and other scenery while on tour?
6. What Italian city has been experiencing its second worst flooding on record, with 85% of the city flooded?
7. What female pop singer says that owners of her song catalog won’t allow her to perform her songs at the upcoming AMAs and won’t allow the songs to be used in a Netflix documentary about her career?

Disney Movie Trivia
1. What Disney Movie was the first full-length animated feature to be produced in the US? a. Snow White; b. Bambi; c. Pinocchio; d. Steamboat Willie.
2. What popular Disney character makes a cameo appearance as a stuffed animal in Frozen? a. Dumbo; b. Donald Duck; c. Mickey Mouse; d. Stitch.
3. What Disney movie was the first full-length animated feature to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture? a. Lion King; b. Beauty and the Beast; c. Little Mermaid; d. Jungle Book.
4. The soundtrack of which Disney animated feature includes 7 Elvis Presley songs? a. Lilo and Stitch; b. Treasure Planet; c. Jungle Book; d. Hercules.
5. In the movie Finding Nemo, which country has Nemo been taken to? a. Japan; b. New Zealand; c. USA; d. Australia.
6. What is the name of The Lion King? a. Scar; b. Simba; c. Mufasa; d. Shenzi.
7. In The Jungle Book, what kind of animal is Shere Khan? a. Tiger; b. Lion; c. Bear; d. Panther.

The Q Train: Classic TV Trivia
1. The Sopranos
2. Hill Street Blues
3. Law and Order
4. Star Trek
5. M*A*S*H
6. Arrested Development
7. Blue Bloods
8. Seinfeld
9. The Honeymooners
10. Lost

General Knowledge
1. How many squares are there on a standard chess board? (1 pt)
2. The musical “The King and I” takes place in what modern day country? (1 pt)
3. What color is liquid oxygen? (1 pt)
4. Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win an Oscar for Best Director for what film in 2009? (2 pt)
5. Between zombies, werewolves and vampires, which monster dies the Center for Disease Control have a preparedness page devoted for? (2 pt)
6. What is the name for a second full moon appearing in a calendar month? (2 pt)
7. What is the Scottish drink made from whiskey and heather honey called? (3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What TV show, the number 1 American comedy of 1979-80, was based on the British sitcom “Man   About the House?” (4 points)
2. In 1920, KDKA became the first commercial radio station in the US, airing from what eastern city? ( 5 points)
3. What 1986 comedy/horror film featured cameos by Bill Murray, Steve Martin, John Candy And Jim Belushi? (3 points)
4. What is the only Middle Eastern country with French as an official language? ( 4 points)
5. What fictional character was also known as Lord Greystoke? (4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Madonna; 2. Bolivia; 3. “Days of Our Lives;” 4. John Legend; 5. Rod Stewart; 6. Venice; 7. Taylor Swift.

Disney Movie Trivia
1. a; 2. c; 3. b; 4. a; 5. d; 6. b (I also accepted c); 7. a.

The Q Train: Classic TV Trivia
1. 1990s (1999); 2. 1980s (1981); 3. 1990s (1990); 4. 1960s (1966); 5. 1970s (1972); 6. 2000s (2003); 7. 2010s (2010); 8. 1980s (1989); 9. 1950s (1955); 10. 2000s (2004).

General Knowledge
1. 64; 2. Thailand; 3. Blue; 4. “The Hurt Locker;” 5. Zombies; 6. Blue moon; 7. Drambuie.

IQ Trivia
1. “Three’s Company;” 2. Pittsburgh; 3. “Little Shop of Horrors;” 4. Lebanon; 5. Tarzan.

Test Your Disney Knowledge

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, November 19th at 8:30 PM with “Disney Movie Trivia” as the Special Category. It will be seven questions connected to films made by the Disney company down through the years, and the questions will be multiple choice. The Q Train lightning round will be “Classic TV Trivia.” I will give you the names of ten classic TV shows from down through the years, and you have to tell me what decade the show made its original debut.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
“How many squares are there on a standard chess board?”

Our friends from DIMS will be taking the week off, so I look forward to seeing many of you on Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: November 12

It was a rather cold night in New York City on Tuesday night, but we had a good crowd turn out for Trivia, as 11 teams played. Our friends from DIMS got off to a great start, and were leading with what appeared to be a comfortable lead of six points thought the first three rounds. But the team of Walt Quizney pulled off a great comeback, coming from fourth place and nine points down after the Q Train lightning round and had the best score in the last two rounds to pull out a victory, with 42 points. My congratulations to Roxanne, Patti, Nancy and Trevor on winning on their first night ever at Trivia Night. And it was a double victory, as they also had the Best Team Name as well.

DIMS finished in second place with 40 points, and third place went to The Clinton Murder Mystery Dinner with 36 points.

Current Events
1. What iconic actor, who died in 1955, will be "cast" in an upcoming Vietnam era action-drama film, and his performance will be constructed using full body CGI and using actual footage and photos?
2. What European airline's cabin crew and other workers walked out on strike last week over pay and other issues?
3. What retail chain, which has been in major financial trouble over many years, announced last week they will close more than a third of their stores, leaving it with 182 stores nationwide?
4. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced he would be running for his old Senate seat next year in what US state?
5. What longtime game show host was hospitalized last week to correct a blocked intestine, thus canceling tapings of his show?
6. Two Republican NYC councilmen plan to introduce legislation this month to create a task force to examine the feasibility of which borough to secede from New York City?
7. According to Forbes, what film is now the most profitable comic book movie ever?

November Trivia
1. In November 1967, what Paul Newman film was released, which featured the classic line, "What we have here is failure to communicate?"
2. In November 2012, Google's Gmail became the world's most popular email service. Who was the leader before that?
3. On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, how many years after it was originally constructed?
4. In November 1984, what billionaire bought Leonardo daVinci's book "Codex Leicester" for $30.8 million, a record for a book or manuscript?
5. Mariner 9 became the first spacecraft to orbit what planet in November 1971?
6. In November 1981, the wedding of Luke and Laura on what TV soap opera was one of the most watched TV weddings in history?
7. The controversial episode called "The Contest" from what sitcom aired on November 18, 1992, and was later named the number one episode of all-time by TV Guide?

The Q Train: DeNiro, Pacino and Pesci Trivia
1. Easy Money
2. Ronin
3. The Insider
4. Mean Streets
5. The Super
6. Phil Spector
7. Silver Linings Playbook
8. JFK
9. Cop Land
10. Glengarry Glen Ross

General Knowledge
1. What is the minimu temperature that is considered a high-grade fever in an adult? ( 1 pt)
2. South by Southwest Festival takes place each year in what city? ( 1 pt)
3. What fairytale is the Disney film "Tangled" based on? ( 1 pt)
4. What male film star had the starring role in two films based on video game: "Doom" and "Rampage?" ( 2 pt)
5. Who was the ancient Greek god of dreams? ( 2 pt)
6. What future Oscar-winning director was a co-writer of the screenplay for the 1983 film "Scarface?" ( 2 pt)
7. Name 1 of the 3 Monopoly pieces that were removed from the game in 2017. ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1.Since 2001, what snack food from Pepperidge Farms has gone by the catchphrase "The snack that smiles back"? ( 4 points)
2. Since 2015, what famous American businessman and entrepreneur has been portrayed in commercials by such stars as Rob Lowe, Jason Alexander and George Hamilton? ( 3 points)
3. What rock group did Neil Young found with Stephen Stills in the mid-1960s before the band split and Young went on to a successful solo career? ( 4 points)
4. The third oldest MLB ballpark currently after Fenway Park and Wrigley Field is located in what US city? ( 4 points)
5. What US state has the most cattle per person in the United States, more than four times as many cattle as they do people? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. James Dean; 2. Lufthansa; 3. Sears; 4. Alabama; 5. Pat Sajak; 6. Staten Island; 7. "The Joker."

November Trivia
1. "Cool Hand Luke;" 2. Microsoft Hotmail; 3. 28 years; 4. Bill Gates; 5. Mars; 6. "General Hospital;" 7. "Seinfeld."

The Q Train: DeNiro, Pacino and Pesci Trivia
1. Pesci; 2. DeNiro; 3. Pacino; 4. DeNiro; 5. Pesci; 6. Pacino; 7. DeNiro; 8. Pesci; 9. DeNiro; 10. Pacino.

General Knowledge
1. 103 degrees; 2. Austin, TX; 3. Rapunzel; 4. Dwayne Johnson; 5. Morpheus; 6. Oliver Stone; 7. Boot, wheelbarrow and thimble.

IQ Trivia
1. Goldfish; 2. Col. Harlan Sanders; 3. Buffalo Springfield; 4. Los Angeles (Dodger Stadium); 5. South Dakota.

Gangster Legends This Week

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, November 12th at 8:30 PM< with "November Trivia" as the Special category. It will be seven questions connected to the month of November in history and pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be "DeNiro, Pacino and Pesci Trivia." In honor of the new film "The Irishman" that just opened earlier this month that stars Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci, I will give you the names of ten films that starred one of these iconic stars, and you have to tell me which one. (Each film will include just one star, none contain two or more.)

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"The South by Southwest Festival takes place each year in what city?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia Q&A!

Trivia Q&A: November 5

We had a nice turnout on Tuesday night, as the bar had Celtics, Bruins and a Michigan basketball game on, and 12 teams played Trivia. We had a nice little celebration for our beloved bartender Gigi, who was celebrating her birthday last night, and the bar gave her a nice round of "Happy Birthday." We also had a close race to the finish, but the team of Whose Dick Hertz? emerged as the winner, rolling up 46 points and the victory. Congrats to Ken of DIMS who was playing solo last night, and entered the winners circle alone (we get very few solo winners on Trivia Night). Second place went to We're Here For The Basketball with 41 points, and third place went to Happy Birthday Gigi, Epstein Didn't Kill Himself with 38 points (and they also won for Best Team Name). 

Current Events
1. Alberto Fernandez was elected president of what South American country last week?
2. Katie Hill, a Democratic Congresswoman from what US state, resigned from the House amid an ethics investigation into a sexual relationship she had with a staffer?
3. Saad Hariri, the prime minister of what Middle Eastern country, announced he would resign after two weeks of anti-government protests over the country's economic crisis?
4. What social media outlet said last week thqat they are banning political ads from its platform?
5. What Democratic presidential candidate ended his campaign last Friday, dropping the field to 17 candidates?
6. What fast-food chain apologized last week for offering a "Sundae Bloody Sundae" Halloween promotion in Portugal, the term referring to the murder of 14 people in Northern Ireland by British soldiers in 1972?
7. The corner or Ryerson Street and DeKalb Avenue was renamed last week in honor of what immortal 19th century poet who lived on that Brooklyn street?

Election Trivia
1. What US president was elected with most lopsided vote in history in terms of electoral votes?
2. What state did Richard Nixon unsuccessfully run for governor in 1962, and memorably said, "You won't have Nixon to kick around any more?"
3. What is the earliest possible day that Election Day can be held in November?
4. In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro was the first female vice-presidential candidate. What state did she represent in Congress?
5. How many times has New York senator Chuck Schumer been elected to the US Senate?
6. What number amendment to the Constitution lowered the minimum age to 18?
7. Who was the last man elected mayor of New York City three times?

The Q Train: 1-25 Trivia
1. This is the number of wives King Henry VIII had.
2. Ancient Rome had this many days in a week.
3. This is the number of frames per second at which motion picture film is usually produced.
4. Abraham Lincoln was this number US president.
5. This is the number needed to win a game of badminton or table tennis.
6. The right fielder in baseball is this number player.
7. Jim Carrey starred in a 2007 film about an obsession with this number.
8. A heptagon had this number of sides.
9. In Harry Potter's universe, this is the number for the coming of age of wizards.
10. Aquarius is this number sign of the Zodiac.

General Knowledge
1. Who played God in the 2003 film "Bruce Almighty?" ( 1 pt)
2. The images described in "The Star Spangled Banner" are from what war? ( 1 pt)
3. What famous American said "I regret that I have only one life to give to my country?" ( 1 pt)
4. Which of the four main characters in "Sex and the City" was the oldest? ( 2 pt)
5. How many colors are in a standard bag of M&Ms? ( 2 pt)
6. Feta cheese originated in what European country? ( 2 pt)
7. On what day of the year does the Meteorological Winter begin? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. Montana-born Jeannette Rankin was the first American woman to do what in 1917? ( 5 points)
2. In which 2017 film does Helen Mirren play Jason Statham's mother? ( 4 points)
3. What 20th century US president was the last one who never attended college? ( 4 points)
4. In 1980, the New Jersey legislature proposed a resolution to make what 1975 classic rock song "the unofficial theme song of our state's youth?" ( 3 points)
5. What European artist was known as "The Divine?" ( 4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Argentina; 2. California; 3. Lebanon; 4. Twitter; 5. Beto O'Rourke; 6. McDonald's; 7. Walt Whitman.

Election Trivia
1. Ronald Reagan; 2. California; 3. November 2; 4. New York; 5. four; 6. 26; 7. Michael Bloomberg.

The Q Train: 1-25 Trivia
1. 6; 2. 8; 3. 24; 4. 16; 5. 21; 6. 9; 7. 23; 8. 7; 9. 17; 10. 11.

General Knowledge
1. Morgan Freeman; 2. War of 1812; 3. Nathan Hale; 4. Samantha Jones; 5. six; 6. Greece; 7. December 1st.

IQ Trivia
1. Serve in Congress; 2. "Fate of the Furious;" 3. Harry S. Truman; 4. "Born to Run;" 5. Michelangelo.

Cast Your Vote With Trivia On Tuesday

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, November 5th at 8:30 PM, with "Election Trivia" as the Special category. It will be seven questions connected to American elections throughout the years, in honor of this Tuesday being Election Day. (And don't forget to vote!) The Q Train lightning round will be "1-25 Trivia." I will give you ten general knowledge statements, and each answer will be a number from 1 to 25. (And every answer will be a different number.)

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"The images described in 'The Star Spangled Banner' are from what war?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for a great night of Trivia Q&A!

Trivia Q&A: October 29

We had a small turnout on Tuesday night for Trivia, with six teams taking part. The boys from DIMS won the night, rolling up 50 points and the victory. It was still close going into IQ Trivia, with the guys from Effervescence right behind them going into the round, but Ken and Michael got 4 of 5 correct to seal up the victory. The team of Boston Lemon Party sneaked up in the IQ round and wound up in second place with 39 points, with Effervescence right behind them with 38 points.

Current Events
1. A subway fare hike in what South American country recently set off protestors and led to violent protests and the government to declare a state of emergency?
2. Four drug companies reached a settlement with what midwestern state in what was to be the first federal trial over the opioid crisis, a deal worth $260 million?
3. Congressman Tim Ryan of Ohio dropped out of the 2020 Democratic presidential race last week. How many Democrats are still in the race?
4. 39 Chinese nationals were found dead in a truck in what European country last week, and four men were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to traffic people and manslaughter?
5. What Oscar-winning actress was arrested for the third straight week last Friday at a climate change protest in Washington, DC?
6. What actress, known for her political tweets, tweeted and later deleted one last week attacking Sen. Rand Paul for his stance on the Kurds and to be "grateful for the neighbor who beat the shit out of him"?
7. What controversial musician gave an interview last week and called himself "unquestionably, undoubtedly the greatest human artist of all time"?

Halloween Trivia
1. What midwestern US state produces 95% of all the pumpkins in the US?
2. In "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown", who did Linus mistake for the Great Pumpkin?
3. In which European country did jack o'lanterns originate?
4. Which Halloween tradition originated from a Roman harvest festival that honors the goddess Pamona?
5. According to Candystore.com, what is the most popular Halloween candy for 2019?
6. According to Candtstore.com, what is the most hated Halloween candy for 2019?
7. Wiccaphobia is an abnormal and persistent fear of what?

The Q Train: Horror Films Trivia
1. The Shining
2. The Exorcist
3. Saw
4. The Blair Witch Project
5. The Cabin In The Woods
6. Rosemary's Baby
7. An American Werewolf In London
8. The Others
9. The Sixth Sense
10. Halloween

General Knowledge
1. What comic actor was the voice of "Shrek"? ( 1 pt)
2. What film studio has the lion as a mascot? ( 1 pt)
3. A polar bear's skin is what color? ( 1 pt)
4. Who were the Spartans fighting against in the film "300?" ( 2 pt)
5. Between New York, London and Rome, which city is not a “Big Four” Fashion Week city?( 2 pt)
6. How many years go by between Halley's Comet visits to Earth? ( 2 pt)
7. What is the only US state that borders both Texas and Tennessee? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What legendary Oscar-winning actor "died" in just eight of his more than 140 films, such as "The sands of Iwo Jima" and "The Alamo?" ( 3 points)
2. Santana and Jefferson Airplane were among the opening acts in a free concert on December 6, 1969 that was billed "Woodstock West." What band was the headliner? ( 4 points)
3. Italian physicist Alessandro Volta is credited with inventing what modern-day item in 1800? ( 4 points)
4. In the quirky 2013 film "This Is The End", what performs in the afterlife to conclude the movie? ( 4 points)
5. What red object has been the symbol of Britain's Labour Party since the 1980s? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Chile; 2. Ohio; 3. 18; 4. England; 5. Jane Fonda; 6. Bette Midler; 7. Kanye West.

Halloween Trivia
1. Illinois; 2. Snoopy; 3. Ireland; 4. bobbing for apples; 5. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups; 6. Candy Corn; 7. witches.

The Q Train: Horror Films Trivia
1. 1980s (1980); 2. 1970s (1973); 3. 2000s (2004); 4. 1990s (1999); 5. 2010s (2011); 6. 1960s (1968); 7. 1980s (1981); 8. 2000s (2001); 9. 1990s (1999); 10. 1970s (1978).

General Knowledge
1. Mike Myers; 2. MGM; 3. black; 4. The Persians; 5. Rome; 6. 75-76 years; 7. Arkansas.

IQ Trivia
1. John Wayne; 2.The Rolling Stones; 3. battery; 4. The Backstreet Boys; 5. rose.

Let's Get Scared On Tuesday

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, October 29th at 8:30 PM at Professor Thom's, with "Halloween Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be seve questions connected with the Halloween holiday happening this Thursday. The Q Train lightning round will be "Horror Films Trivia." I will give you the names of ten classic horror films, mostly from the most recent years, and you have to tell me which decade it had its original release. And it will be the original films only, and no remakes.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"What comic actor was the voice of Shrek?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: October 22

We had 11 teams in for Trivia on a rainy night in New York on Tuesday night. We had a close race between five teams going into IQ Trivia, and top two of the teams were separated by just one point. And it remained that way as both teams got 4 of 5 correct in that last round,  the team of Effervescence emerged victorious, with 44 points. DIMS finished second with 43 points. (Last week it was the exact reverse, as DIMS got the win and Effervescence finished second.) Congratulations to Bob and Cato on their victory.

Third place went to Bill Taylor Can F**k with 33 points.

Best Team Name: Premature Speculation

Current Events
1. A Hard Rock hotel under construction collapsed in what southern city last week, killing three people and injuring a dozen others?
2. What actor pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual misconduct last week and prosecutors say 12 women will be called to testify against him?
3. What 1993 Robin Williams film is being adapted into a musical, and will debut on Broadway next April?
4. What city's public school teachers walked out on strike last Thursday?
5. A contestant on what game show won $263,000 in prizes last week, setting a new record for a long time TV staple?
6. The UN General Assembly voted to let what country onto the Human Rights Council last week, despite its history of human rights abuses over the years?
7. What Pop singer invited a fan on stage during a concert in Las Vegas last week and she jumped into his arms but the pair lost their balance and fell off the stage unhurt?

World Series Trivia
1. With the Nationals in their first World Series in 2019, what team is now the only one never to have appeared in a World Series? a. Mariners; b. Rays; c. Rockies; d. Diamondbacks.
2. What MLB Hall of Famer holds the record for the most World Series home runs in a career with 18? a. Joe DiMaggio; b. Reggie Jackson; c. Babe Ruth; d. Mickey Mantle.
3. What AL team did the Chicago Cubs defeat to win their first World Series in 108 years in 2016? a. Royals; b. Indians; c. Tigers; d. Red Sox.
4. How many times have the Red Sox won the World Series in the 21st century? a. 2; b. 3; c. 4; d. 5.
5. What AL team did the Mets defeat to win the 1969 World Series? a. Orioles; b. Red Sox; c. A's; d. Royals.
6. What Yankees Hall of Famer holds the record for playing in the most World Series, with 10? a. Babe Ruth; b. Joe DiMaggio; c. Yogi Berra; d. Lou Gehrig.
7. What NL team has won the most World Series? a. Giants; b. Cardinals; c. Dodgers; d. Pirates.

The Q Train: Yes or No Trivia
1. Did Led Zeppelin ever win a Grammy Award?
2. Is the Great Wall of China the longest wall in the world?
3. Has Coca-Cola always been a brown a color?
4. Was America the first country to use postcards?
5. Do goldfish suffer from motion sickness?
6. Do any words in the English language rhyme with the word "month"?
7. Is horseradish sauce of German origin?
8. Does tea have more caffeine than soda or coffee?
9. Does a mouse have more bones than a human?
10. Has Steve Martin, who hosted the Oscars, ever been nominated for an Academy Award?

General Knowledge
1. How many colors does a Rubik's Cube have? ( 1 pt)
2. What TV show featured Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and Ryan Gosling as kids? ( 1 pt)
3. "All right ramblers, let's get ramblin'" is a famous line from what Quentin Tarantino film? ( 1 pt)
4. "Key and "Kaffir" are what types of fruit? ( 2 pt)
5. How many times did Edward Norton portray the Incredible Hulk on screen? ( 2 pt)
6. What civilization invented the wheel? ( 2 pt)
7. What gift are you supposed to get your spouse for your 35th wedding anniversary? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What two actor friends, best known for co-starring in a hit 2001 musical and then a revival of "The Odd Couple", returned to Broadway together in 2014's "It's Only a Play?" ( 4 points)
2. What early 19th century US president was the first president born a citizen of the US? ( 4 points)
3. What pop music duo had a minor hit at the start of their careers under the names "Tom and Jerry?" ( 4 points)
4. Michael Jackson once allegedly offered $50,000 for the bones of what person? ( 3 points)
5. The first Blockbuster Video store opened in 1985 in what southern US city? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. New Orleans; 2. Cuba Gooding Jr; 3. "Mrs. Doubtfire"; 4. Chicago; 5. "The Price Is Right;" 6. Venezuela; 7. Lady Gaga.

World Series Trivia
1. a; 2. d; 3. b; 4. c; 5. a; 6. c; 7. b.

The Q Train: Yes or No Trivia
1. No; 2. Yes; 3. Yes; 4. No, Austria; 5. Yes; 6. No; 7. Yes; 8. No; 9. Yes; 10. No.

General Knowledge
1. Six; 2. "All-New Mickey Mouse Club;" 3. "Reservoir Dogs;" 4. lime; 5. once; 6. Sumerians; 7. Coral.

IQ Trivia
1. Matthew Broderick and Nathan Lane;  2. Martin Van Buren; 3. Simon and Garfunkel; 4. The Elephant Man; 5. Dallas, TX.

It's Fall Classic Time Again

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, October 22nd at 8:30 PM, with "World Series Trivia" as the Special Category, in honor of the opening night of the 2019 World Series between the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals. It will be seven questions about the Fall Classic through the years, and for those of you who may not be big baseball fans, all the questions will be multiple choice. The Q Train lightning round will be "Yes or No Trivia." I will ask you ten questions, mostly from history and pop culture, and you have to tell me if the correct answer to each question is yes or no.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"How many colors does a Rubik's Cube have?"

Looking forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia Q&A!

Trivia Q&A: October 15

We had in seven teams on Tuesday night, and a two-team horse race through the night between the teams of DIMS and Effervescence. The latter team led throughout the evening, and was ahead by three points after the The Q Train lightning round. But the boys from DIMS pulled it out in IQ Trivia, getting 4 of 5 correct and 48 points and the night's victory. Congrats to Ken and Michael on their fourth consecutive win.

Second place went to Effervescence with 42 points and thirs place went to Sandy Sucks Big Dick with 39 points.

Current Events
1. The TV show "South Park" just began its 23rd season and was just banned by what country?
2. Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya became the first athlete to run a marathon in under two hours last Saturday in what European capital city?
3. Lenin Moreno, the president of what South American country, moved his government from the capital city to a port city due to massive protests over an end to government fuel subsidies?
4. Astronomers announced last week that they have discovered 20 new moons around what planet?
5. What country allowed women into sports stadiums with men for the first time in 40 years last week, in a segregated section for a World Cup soccer qualifying match?
6. Abiy Ahmed, prime minister of what African country, won the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize for his work at ending a 20-year border dispute with a neighboring country?
7. Russian Alexei Leonov died last Friday at the age of 85. In 1965, he became the first person to accomplish what feat?

October Trivia
1. In October 2006, the TV series "Dexter" premiered on what cable network?
2. In October 1967, who became the first African-American justice of the US Supreme Court?
3. What country successfully tested a nuclear weapon in October 1952, becoming the world's third nuclear power after the US and USSR?
4. In October 1992, pop singer Sinead O'Connor famously tore up a photo of who on "Saturday Night Live", leading her to be banned from the show?
5. Jennifer Lopez joined the cast of what Fox TV show in October 1991?
6. In October 1977, Ronnie Van Zant and Stece Gaines, members of what rock band, were among those killed in a plane crash in Louisiana?
7. In October 1881, the famous "Gunfight at the OK Corral" took place in the town of Tombstone, in what is now what US state?

The Q Train: US and World Athletes Trivia
1. Russell Westbrook
2. Connor McDavid
3. Karolina Pliskova
4. Pete Alonso
5. Jin-Young Ko
6. Simone Biles
7. Mohammed Salah
8. Kyler Murray
9. Zach Apple
10. Usian Bolt

General Knowledge
1. "Walk the Line" was the biopic of what musical legend? ( 1 pt)
2. What woodwind instrument does an orchestra traditionally tune to? ( 1 pt)
3. What type of poem always has five lines? ( 1 pt)
4. What is the brightest planet in the solar system? (2 pt)
5. In a standard deck of cards, what is the only king without a mustache? ( 2 pt)
6. In 2014, an original copy of what superhero's first appearance in comics sold for $3.2 million on eBay? ( 2 pt)
7. The book "Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family" was the basis for what film? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. The Nostromo was the name of the spaceship in what classic 1979 science film? ( 3 points)
2. What retail company trademarked the color "1837 Blue?" ( 4 points)
3. The first baseball game is believed to be played in 1846 in what New Jersey city? ( 4 points)
4. What famous 19th century scientist invented the rolling office chair? ( 4 points)
5. What two pins are left standing in a "Woolworth split" in bowling? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. China; 2. Vienna; 3. Ecuador; 4. Saturn; 5. Iran; 6. Ethiopia; 7. Walk in space.

October Trivia
1. Showtime; 2. Thurgood Marshall; 3. UK; 4. Pope John Paul II; 5. "In Living Color;" 6. Lynyrd Skynyrd; 7. Arizona.

The Q Train: US and World Athletes Trivia
1. Basketball; 2. hockey; 3. tennis; 4. baseball; 5. golf; 6. gymnastics; 7. soccer; 8. football; 9. swimming; 10. track and field.

General Knowledge
1. Johnny Cash; 2. oboe; 3. limerick; 4. Venus; 5. King of Hearts; 6. Superman; 7. "Goodfellas."

IQ Trivia
1. "Alien;" 2. Tiffany's; 3. Hoboken; 4. Charles Darwin; 5. 5 and 10.

Know Your Athletes This Week

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, October 15th at 8:30 PM, with "October Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be seven questions connected to the month of October in history and pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be "US and World Athletes Trivia." I will give you the names of ten famous athletes, who are currently at the top of their sports in the US or around the world, and you have to tell me which sport they play. And every answer will be a different sport.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"'Walk the Line' was the biopic of what musical legend?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night!

Trivia Q&A: October 8

We had 10 teams in for Trivia on Tuesday night, and it was a good turnout despite the Yom Kippur holiday beginning last night. It was good to see an old Trivia regular, Brad Cook, in last night. Brad was one of my first regulars when I returned to Professor Thom's in 2017. He was back in NYC from London for a short vacation. We had a tight four-team race for the first three rounds, but the guys from DIMS had a great General Knowledge round, and pulled away with 46 points and the win. Congrats to Ken and Michael on another great victory.

Second place went to Impeach This with 31 points, and we had a tie for third place between the teams of Office Hours and Spicy Meatballs with 29 points. The tie-breaker question was "What is the current population of the nation of Brazil?" Spicy Meatballs was closest to the answer (211,457,000) and won third place, but graciously gave the pitcher of beer to Office Hours.

Best Team Name: Goddammit, I'm Whistleblower 2: What the Hell Do I Have to Do to Get Myself Impeached and End This Nightmare?

Current Events
1. What American rock band's lead singer entered rehab last week, and the group was forced to cancel the remainder of its 2019 tour?
2. What state's governor signed a law last week allowing college athletes to make money from endorsements and hire agents?
3. Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid all pulled what medication from their shelves last week over fears of a possible link to cancer?
4. Chris Collins, a representative from what eastern US state, resigned his House seat ahead of a guilty plea for insider trading last week?
5. Two women are suing what actor for sexual exploitation after alleging the actor used a now-defunct acting to school to prey on the young women?
6. What rock singer, who has been suffering from many health problems and is currently performing mostly in a chair in his "Not Dead Yet" tour, took a nasty fall on stage last week but managed to complete the show?
7. What Oscar-winning actor is being sued by his former assistant for $12 million for "years of gender discrimination and harassment?

Italy Trivia
1. In 1890, Italian Giuseppe Airoldi is credited for inventing what, something you see in newspapers every day?
2. Venice's international airport is named for what Italian traveler and explorer?
3. What has the nation of Italy done more: won soccer's World Cup or hosted the Olympic Games?
4. What two independent states are located within the nation of Italy?
5. What is Italy's second largest city in population after Rome?
6. Christopher Columbus was born in what Italian city?
7. Who was the last Italian-born actor or actress to win an acting Academy Award?

The Q Train: True or False Trivia
1. The US once had a Native American Vice-President.
2. The restaurant chain Subway was co-founded by a nuclear physicist.
3. The term "WiFi" stands for "Wireless Fidelity."
4. Alaska is the least populous US state.
5. The harmonica is the world's best-selling musical instrument.
6. Cher was the first person to have a number one film and album in the same week.
7. Warren Buffet once referred to himself as the "Osama bin Laden of capitalism."
8. The Beatsie Boys won the first Rap Grammy Award in 1989.
9. You can say the "F word" a maximum of 3 times in a PG-13 rated film before it becomes an R rated one.
10. South Sudan is the world's newest country, established in 2011.

General Knowledge
1. What is a half-man, half-horse called in Greek mythology? ( 1 pt)
2. At 15% of total usage, what country watches the most YouTube? ( 1 pt)
3. The PBS series "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood" was filmed in what eastern US city? ( 1 pt)
4. What country produces the most tomatoes? ( 2 pt)
5. What science fiction author wrote the novel "Fahrenheit 451?" ( 2 pt)
6. What actress voiced the character "Tigress" in the "Kung Fu Panda" films? ( 2 pt)
7. Of the five senses, which one responds the fastest? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What 20th century US president is the only one buried in Washington, DC? ( 5 points)
2. What is the most popular breakfast cereal in America, generating $436 million in revenue in 2018? ( 4 points)
3. Which "Indiana Jones" film was a prequel? ( 3 points)
4. What is the most common American street name that comes from the name of a tree, with nearly 7,000 streets with that name? (4 points)
5. What was the only South American country to send troops to Europe to fight in WWII? ( 4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Metallica; 2. California; 3. Zantac; 4. New York; 5. James Franco; 6. Phil Collins; 7. Robert DeNiro.

Italy Trivia
1. Crossword puzzle; 2. Marco Polo; 3. Won World Cup (4-3); 4. Vatican City and San Marino; 5. Milan; 6. Genoa; 7. Robert Benigni.

The Q Train: True or False Trivia
1. True (Charles Curtis); 2. true; 3. false, it stands for nothing; 4. false, Wyoming; 5. true; 6. false, Jennifer Lopez; 7. true; 8. false, The Fresh Prince & DJ Jazzy Jeff; 9. false, once maximum; 10. true.

General Knowledge
1. Centaur; 2. USA; 3. Pittsburgh; 4. China; 5. Ray Bradbury; 6. Angelina Jolie; 7. hearing.

IQ Trivia
1. Woodrow Wilson; 2. Cheerios; 3. "Indiana Jones and Temple of Doom;" 4. Oak; 5. Brazil.

Italy & Italian Culture Up This Week

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, October 8th at 8:30 PM, with "Italy Trivia" as the Special Category, in honor of the upcoming Columbus Day holiday and the celebration of Italian culture. I will ask you seven questions connected to the great nation of Italy in history and pop culture. The Q Train lightning round will be "True or False Trivia." I will give you ten statements and you have to tell me if they are real or just made up.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"At 15% of total usage, what country watches the most YouTube?"

I hope to see many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

"Homegrown"

Well, the 2019 Red Sox did not repeat as World Series Champions, and the season overall was one huge dumpster fire. But that takes away nothing from the greatness that was the 2018 championship team, so far the greatest team of the 21st century. And now, Alex Speier, the fine writer from the Boston Globe, has put together the definitive story on how that club was constructed, in a new book called "Homegrown: How the Red Sox Built a Champion From the Ground Up."

Speier is a well-respected writer who brings his insights about the Sox during home games on NESN. He had also followed their farm system closely over the years, so he is well-versed to bring the story of the Sox' young talent to the book. It all begins with the 2011 MLB draft, with the signings of several key players who would be at the heart of the 2018 champions: Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley Jr, and Matt Barnes.

The Sox were also reaching a crossroads. The 2011 season was a colossal flop (no need to rehash it here), with Terry Francona's "dismissal", and the very forgettable Bobby Valentine Era about to start. 2012 would be a total disaster, and the team needed new blood, and from the ground up. A five-year plan to rebuild was underway, and it would garner not one but two titles.

Speier does a great job putting it together. He goes into some of the conversations he had with scouts, minor league officials and interviews with MLB officials. He gives former GM Ben Cherington and former manager John Farrell their due as well. They were, of course, a huge part of the 2013 championship club, but neither was around for the 2018 one. Speier goes into some interesting detail about Farrell's 2017 dismissal. (That's what I liked most about "Homegrown", lots of inside stuff that the average fan wasn't made aware of.)

I found the section about Mookie Betts' first go-around in Boston in 2014 the most interesting. Seems like he rubbed a few veterans the wrond way with breaking some "unwritten clubhouse rules" as was told in no uncertain terms to cut it out. (Mookie was later relived to be back in AAA when the Sox sent him down after he struggled in July.)

There's plenty to like in "Homegrown". Of course, it ends with the Red Sox winning the 2018 World Series, the "Next Great Red Sox Team" had arrived. But with the great uncertainty facing the club going into this winter, 2018 will almost seem like years ago. But it is certainly worth reading Alex Speier's tome, as it will bring back fond memories of one baseball's all-time great teams, and how they reached the Promised Land.

Trivia Q&A: October 1

We had 11 teams in for Trivia on Tuesday night, and it's good to see the crowds begin to increase again. It started off an unusual night, as all the teams were logjammed after two rounds, with the difference of only three points from the top to bottom teams. And history was made at the end, as we had a three-way tie for first for the first time in about 10 years. So we broke the tie with the following question: "How much money did Jeopardy champion Ken Jennings win on his 74 wins on the show?" The answer was $2,520,700, and the guys from DIMS were closest with their answer, so they finished first. Congrats to Ken, Michael and Darek on their win. (It was a come from behind win for them, as they never led after any round going into IQ Trivia.)

Second place went to Shut Up and Danc(er) and third place went to A.I.D.S., both with 44 points.

Best Team Name: Whistle Blow-Jobbers

Current Events
1. What country is facing the prospect of being banned from the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo after the World Anti-Doping Agency gave it three weeks to explain inconsistencies in data from its laboratories?
2. What actor's voice will be the first celebrity to be available on Amazon's Alexa and his voice will come in two versions: explicit and non-explicit?
3. What TV show made history last week becoming the longest running prime-time live action series in US TV history?
4. What two female pop singers were named the halftime performers at next February's Super Bowl in Miami?
5. What Middle Eastern city was struck by two earthquakes last week, the second a 5.8 magnitude quake?
6. For the third straight season, what AL home run hitter was the most popular player jersey among fans in 2019?
7. The co-creators of what 1990s TV show will make over $100 million each after the show will be streaming on Netflix starting in 2021?

American Pop Music Trivia
1. What was Madonna’s first number 1 US Billboard hit single?
2. What pop duo reunited in 1981 for “The Concert in Central Park”, attracting over 500,000 fans?
3. What Prince single was his first Billboard pop number 1 single?
4. What pop singer’s 2013 world tour was called “The Mrs. Carter Show?”
5. As of 2019, who is the only artist in music history to have released 7 albums to have achieved diamond status (10 million plus in sales) in the US?
6. Gwen Stefani was co-founder and lead singer of what pop group?
7. What American musician won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016?

The Q Train: US Cities & States Above or Below 1 Million Trivia
1. San Antonio, TX
2. Rhode Island
3. Detroit, MI
4. Idaho
5. Dallas, TX
6. Delaware
7. Washington, DC
8. South Dakota
9. San Jose, CA
10. Maine

General Knowledge
1. What two countries fought the Hundred Years War? ( 1 pt)
2. What is the term for a Jedi apprentice? ( 1 pt)
3. Who played Captain Hook in the 1991 film "Hook?" ( 1 pt)
4. Who was the first woman to host an American late night talk show? ( 2 pt)
5. What is the name of the killer in the "Saw" films? ( 2 pt)
6. Between Big Mac, Quarter Pounder and Double Cheeseburger, which is the most popular item ordered through McDonald's delivery service? ( 2 pt)
7. What is the most abundant metal in the Earth's crust? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What was the name of the computer that competed won on "Jeopardy" in 2011? ( 3 points)
2. What Oscar-winning actor/writer/director has directed both a Frankenstein and a Dracula movie, the latter his last film as a director? ( 4 points)
3. What African nation did Emmerson Mnangagwa become just the third president of, via a 2017 coup? ( 4 points)
4. In 1902, what New York City building was the first escalator installed in, a building still in use today? ( 5 points)
5. What embarrassing fate befalls Bill Paxton in "True Lies", Adam Sandler in "Billy Madison" and Bradley Cooper in "A Star Is Born?" ( 4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. Russia; 2. Samuel L. Jackson; 3. "Law and Order: SVU;" 4. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira; 5. Istanbul; 6. Aaron Judge; 7. “Seinfeld.”

American Pop Music Trivia
1. “Like a Virgin;” 2. Simon & Garfunkel; 3. “When Doves Cry;” 4. Beyoncé; 5. Garth Brooks; 6. No Doubt; 7. Bob Dylan.

The Q Train: US Cities & States Above or Below 1 Million
1. Above (1.56 million); 2. Above (1.08 million); 3. Below (662,000); 4. Above (1.79 million); 5. Above (1.3 million); 6. Below (975,000); 7. Below (713,000); 8. Below (892,000); 9. Above (1.03 million); 10. Above (1.32 million).

General Knowledge
1. England and France; 2. Padawan; 3. Dustin Hoffman; 4. Joan Rivers; 5. Jigsaw; 6. Double Cheeseburger; 7. Aluminum.

IQ Trivia
1. Watson; 2. Mel Brooks; 3. Zimbabwe; 4. Macy's; 5. Wet their pants.

We Salute Great Americans of Music

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, October 1st at 8:30 PM, with "American Pop Music Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be seven questions about some of the great Americans who have left their mark on pop music, mostly from recent years. The Q Train lightning round will be "US Cities & States Above or Below 1 Million Trivia.” I will give you the names of 10 US cities and states and you will tell me if they have a population above or below 1 million as of 2019.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"What two countries fought the Hundred Years War?"

I look forward to seeing many of you on Tuesday for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: September 24

We had seven teams in for Trivia on Tuesday night. The number of teams was still on the light side, but many folks were on each team, so the crowd overall was a bit bigger. It was another winning night for our friends from DIMS, who rolled up 50 points and another victory, after falling out of first last week. Congrats to Ken, Michael and Darek on another fine win.

Second place went to Delaware's My Pants with 35 points, and third place went to In Town For the General Assembly, But Really For the Nachos with 32 points (and there also won for Best Team Name).

Current Events
1. 49,000 workers went on strike at what auto manufacturer last week after negotiations over pay, health care and job security broke down?
2. What eastern US state became the second state to ban the sale of flavored e-cigarettes last week?
3. What rock legend recently revealed at the age of 75, he has been battling prostate cancer the last three years but recently received a clean bill of health?
4. What actor, who has played an astronaut on film, conducted a 20-minute interview with astronaut Nick Hague on the ISS last week?
5. Michelle Grisham, the governor of what western US state, unveiled a plan last week to make tuition at the state's public colleges and universities free for all state residents?
6. Kodi Lee, a blind man with autism, was announced the winner on what reality TV show last week?
7. What southeast Asian country's parliament is considering passing new laws that will disallow unmarried people to have sex in the country?

Emmy Awards Trivia
1. Which show has won more Emmy Awards in their histories: "Saturday Night Live" or "The Simpsons"?
2. What 1990s comedy series has the most Emmy wins among comedy shows, with 37?
3. Name 1 of the 2 actresses who hold the record for the most Emmy wins ever (8).
4. What HBO drama series holds the record for most wins by a fictional series (38)?
5. In 2013, Netflix became the first streaming platform to win a Primetime Emmy Award and by what drama series?
6. What comedy actor is the only actor to be nominated for portraying the same character on three different shows?
7. What comic legend hosted the Emmys four times in the 1970s, the most times anyone has ever hosted the awards?

The Q Train: 21st Century TV Networks Trivia
1. Buffy, the Vampire Slayer
2. Person of Interest
3. The West Wing
4. The Walking Dead
5. The Wire
6. South Park
7. The Shield
8. Homeland
9. Prison Break
10. Battlestar Galactica

General Knowledge
1. The first "Real Housewives" show was set in what California county? ( 1 pt)
2. What gas accounts for 91% of the sun's mass? ( 1 pt)
3. "There's a jungle cat in the bathroom" is a famous line from what what 2009 film? ( 1 pt)
4. What is the most common blood type among humans? (2 pt)
5. Who was the heaviest US president, at just over 350 pounds? ( 2 pt)
6. What was the most recent year there were three different popes? ( 2 pt)
7. Which day of the week is the most productive in the US? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What 1987 film was Timothy Dalton's first role as James Bond? ( 3 points)
2. What Disney Channel heroine fought crime with her sidekick Ron Stoppable? ( 4 points)
3. In what US state would you find the Sandia, Capitan and Sangre de Cristo mountains? ( 5 points)
4. What rock 'n' roll legend won a 1991 Best Male Vocalist Grammy despite having died three years earlier? ( 4 points)
5. "Shock Treatment" was the sequel film to what 1975 cult classic movie? ( 4 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. General Motors; 2. New York; 3. Rod Stewart; 4. Brad Pitt; 5. New Mexico; 6. "America's Got Talent;" 7. Indonesia.

Emmy Awards Trivia
1. "Saturday Night Live" (54-32); 2. "Frasier"; 3. Cloris Leachman and Julia Louis-Dreyfus; 4. "Game of Thrones;" 5. "House of Cards;" 6. Kelsey Grammer; 7. Johnny Carson.

The Q Train: 21st Century TV Networks Trivia
1. WB; 2. CBS; 3. NBC; 4. AMC; 5. HBO; 6. Comedy Central; 7. F/X; 8. Showtime; 9. Fox; 10. SyFy.

General Knowledge
1. Orange; 2. Hydrogen; 3. "The Hangover;" 4. O positive; 5. William Howard Taft; 6. 1978; 7. Tuesday.

IQ Trivia
1. "The Living Daylights;" 2. Kim Possible; 3. New Mexico; 4. Roy Orbison; 5. "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."

TV's Biggest Night Takes Center Stage

Trivia will be happening this Tuesday night, September 24th at 8:30 PM, with "Emmy Awards Trivia" as the Special Category, in honor of the Emmys happening last night. It will be seven questions connected to television's biggest night down through the years.The Q Train lightning round will be "21st Century TV Show Networks Trivia." I will test your knowledge on what TV network many of your favorite shows were broadcast on over the past 20 years. Every answer will be a different TV network.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"The first 'Real Housewives' show was set in what California county?"

I look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

Trivia Q&A: September 17

We had 8 teams in for Trivia on Tuesday night, and a close race between three teams into the final rounds. BTW, the Q Train lightning round of "Member of Congress or Porn Star?" was a success, as the scores were pretty good. (I guess people know their politicians and adult film stars!) The team of 9/17-Happy Constitution Day! Happy Birthday Julie Goldberg! (which also won for Best Team Name) pulled out a close victory, with 45 points. They got 4 of 5 correct in the IQ Trivia round, to jump from second place to victory. Congratulations to Julie on the win, and on her birthday!

Second place ended in a tie between two of the best regular teams, DIMS and B Team, both with 43 points. We broke the tie with "What is the population of the nation of Spain as of 2019?" DIMS was closest to the answer (just over 47 million) and got second place, with B Team taking third.

Current Events
1. Mark Sanford, a former governor and congressman from what southern state, announced he will challenge President Trump for the 2020 Republican presidential nomination?
2. What Hall of Fame pitcher was awarded The Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Trump earlier this week?
3. The US Patent and Trademark Office denied what sports superstar's attempt to trademark the phrase "Taco Tuesday" last week?
4. Actress Felicity Huffman was given how long in prison last week for her role in the college admission scandal, sparking outrage over light it is?
5. Thieves stole a solid gold toilet worth about $1.25 million from the birthplace of what British leader last Saturday, causing significant damage and flooding to the building?
6. A multiple drone attack by members of the Houthi Movement on two major oil facilities forced what Middle Eastern country to cut more than half its oil production?
7. What legendary producer became the oldest person ever to win an Emmy award at the age of 97 last Saturday, producing the live "All In The Family" and "The Jeffersons" special for ABC?

September Trivia
1. In September 2002, Kelly Clarkson became the first winner on what TV reality show?
2. In September 1991, the name of the Russian city St. Petersburg was restored after it was known by what name since 1924?
3. A lockout began in September 2004 which led to what professional sports league being canceled for one full season?
4. On September 19, 2005, the sitcom "How I Met Your Mother" premiered on what TV network?
5. On September 25, 1980, John Bonham, what rock band's drummer, died of alcohol asphyxiation?
6. What is the birthstone for the month of September?
7. Name 1 of the 2 US presidents who originally became president in the month of September.

The Q Train: Members of Congress or Porn Star Trivia
1. Aleska Diamond
2. Josh Harder
3. Andy Biggs
4. Madison Young
5. Jessie Andrews
6. Mike Rounds
7. Gianna Michaels
8. Virginia Foxx
9. Brendon Miller
10. Harley Rouda

General Knowledge
1. Samuel Clemens was the real name of what famous 19th century American? ( 1 pt)
2. What is the generation name given to those born from 1977-1995? ( 1 pt)
3. Who played the President of the US in the 2002 film "Love Actually?" ( 1 pt)
4. A 20-year study in 2013 concluded that what color car is most likely to be in an auto accident? ( 2 pt)
5. Queen Letizia is the current monarch of what European country? ( 2 pt)
6. Between Kim, Lee and Park, which is the most common surname in South Korea? ( 2 pt)
7. How many states does the Mississippi River flow through or border? ( 3 pt)

IQ Trivia
1. What ancient wonder was the tallest structure in the world for 3800 years? ( 3 points)
2. What 19th century woman was the first female depicted on an American coin in 1979? ( 4 points)
3. Who is the only person to succeed in winning the presidency after having lost an election as a vice-presidential candidate? ( 4 points)
4. First nominated in 1977, and then again in 2016, who holds the record for the longest time between Oscar nominations for portraying the same character? ( 4 points)
5. In 1974, what was the first magazine to sell 1 billion copies in a single year? ( 5 points)

Answers
Current Events
1. South Carolina; 2. Mariano Rivera; 3. LeBron James; 4. 14 days; 5. Winston Churchill; 6. Saudi Arabia; 7. Norman Lear.

September Trivia
1. "American Idol;" 2. Leningrad; 3. NHL; 4. CBS; 5. Led Zeppelin; 6. Sapphire; 7. Chester Arthur and Theodore Roosevelt.

The Q Train: Member of Congress or Porn Star Trivia
1. Porn star; 2. Congress (Rep, CA); 3. Congress (Rep, AZ); 4. Porn star; 5. Porn star; 6. Congress (Sen, SD); 7. Porn star; 8. Congress (Rep, NC); 9. Porn star; 10. Congress (Rep, CA).

General Knowledge
1. Mark Twain; 2. Millennials (Generation Y); 3. Billy Bob Thornton; 4. black; 5. Spain; 6. Kim; 7. ten.

IQ Trivia
1. The Great Pyramid of Giza; 2. Susan B. Anthony; 3. Franklin D.Roosevelt: 4. Sylvester Stallone; 5. TV Guide.

A Fun Lightning Round This Week

Trivia will be happening on Tuesday night, September 17th at 8:30 PM, with "September Trivia" as the Special Category. It will be seven questions connected to the month of September in history, pop culture and other areas. The Q Train lightning round is: "Member of Congress or Porn Star Trivia." I will give you the names of ten people, and you have to tell me whether they are currently a member of Congress or a currently star of adult films. BTW, 5 of them will be Congressional members (House or Senate) and 5 will be porn stars. You decide.

The Sneak Peek question for this week is:
"Samuel Clemens was the real name of what famous 19th century American?"

Looking forward to seeing many of you on Tuesday night for another great night of Trivia!

18

It has been incredibly 18 years since the attacks on the World Trade Center occurred on September 11, 2001. In many ways it feels like it was nearly a lifetime ago, and in some ways it feels like it was only yesterday.

Children who were born on that day can now drive, vote, serve in the military and legally drink. That sentence makes me feel really old.

A day doesn't go by that I don't think of that terrible day, and the wonderful friend I lost that day, Joyce Carpeneto. As readers here know, I remember her and all the 9/11 victims every September 11th on this blog with a post connected to Joyce. I have done it every year since I started the blog in 2006. And I always put up links to the previous remembrances if you'd like to go back and check them out.

For the 18th consecutive year, I will be at the ceremonies to remember Joyce and all the 9/11 victims. It is a sacred day for me, and I will there every year that I am alive and able to be there. It is also comforting to meet up with friends who have the same shared experience I do. I will also be at the "Calling the Names" ceremony at St. Paul's Chapel on Wednesday afternoon, and I will be once again honored to read some names of the 9/11 First Responders who have died in the last 18 years.

Please do say a prayer today for all those lost 18 years ago today, as well as all victims of terrorism.

Here are the previous years posts I put up here:
2006: Forever Missed. And Forever Loved.
2007: Never Forget. Ever.
2008: We Can Be The Ones Who Remember
2009: The Most Sacred Of All Days
2010: 3000
2011: Ten Years After
2012: 11 Years
2013: No Other Place In The World I Could Be Today
2014: Always And Forever Family
2015: I'm The Lucky One
2016: Joyce and Alice
2017: Tower Records Forever
2018: A Great Honor For Me This Year