Number |
1 |
Realm |
Cold |
Subrealm |
Really Really Cold |
Question |
At the end of each year, Lake Superior State University releases a list of @Banished Words@ that should be discontinued in the upcoming year. One of the phrases on the list for 2015 is near and dear to our hearts and quite necessary to the running of this contest. Sorry, LSSU, what is this banished phrase? |
Answer |
Polar Vortex |
Song |
Cold as Ice |
Artist |
Foreigner |
Hint |
The first question of each trivia contest is always the name of the host team. |
Number |
2 |
Realm |
Famous People |
Subrealm |
That no one's Ever Heard of |
Question |
Some of you might know Maarten de Jonge as an amateur Dutch cyclist. However, on July 17th, 2014 he was dubbed the luckiest man alive. What happened that earned him this prestigious title? |
Answer |
He was scheduled to fly MH17 and MH370 but changed tickets last minute |
Song |
I Believe I can Fly |
Artist |
R. Kelly |
Hint |
We all want to avoid layovers |
Number |
3 |
Realm |
Canvassing |
Subrealm |
Not the Political Kind |
Question |
Which famous painter served as a military training instructor for the US Air Force? |
Answer |
Bob Ross |
Song |
Joy to the World |
Artist |
Three Dog Night |
Hint |
He was a real joy to serve under. |
Number |
4 |
Realm |
French radio |
Subrealm |
I know you all listen to it |
Question |
In France, between the hours of 8 am and 8 pm, what requirement is placed on French radio broadcast stations? |
Answer |
70% of the music on the radio must be by French composers. (accept "most songs must be in french") |
Song |
Turn your radio on |
Artist |
Andy Griffith |
Hint |
Fans of Ravel and Debussy would be very happy. |
Number |
5 |
Realm |
Galactic Smugglers |
Subrealm |
TOES! |
Question |
Many Star Wars fans remember several controversial changes added to the 1997 rerelease of the Star Wars original trilogy. One more obscure change regards the scene in which Han Solo is dangling by his toes on a skiff trying to rescue Lando. What new addition was added to this scene in the special edition and what was its purported purpose? (No we are not refering to the Sarlac Pit's beak) |
Answer |
Some chords were added around Han's ankles. Previously he was hanging solely by his toes which was considered impossible |
Song |
Hanging By a Moment |
Artist |
Lifehouse |
Hint |
Apparently Han's toes aren't very strong |
Number |
6 |
Realm |
We speak French |
Subrealm |
And we hope you do too |
Question |
We all know that French people are unfailingly polite. There's a cafe in France that made headlines when it jokingly advertised a discount for customers who uttered what two phrases? |
Answer |
Bonjour and Si vous plait (Hello and Please) |
Song |
Hello Goodbye |
Artist |
Beatles |
Hint |
If you ask nicely, you'll get a hint |
Number |
7 |
Realm |
Strange Laws |
Subrealm |
That we wish we were making up |
Question |
This is a three-point play. In 2000, in the French village of Le Lavandou, Mayor Gir Bernardi issued a strange decree, forbidding the residents of the village from engaging in a common activity. For the first point, what was that activity? For the second point, why did he issue this decree? |
Answer |
1: Dying; 2: There was no more room in the village's cemeteries ( but a law requires that there be burial space for anyone who dies in the village. ) |
Song |
C'est La Vie |
Artist |
B*Witched |
Hint |
I'm pretty sure the wrongdoers aren't going anywhere. In any event it would be difficult to punish them. |
Number |
8 |
Realm |
Arsonists |
Subrealm |
In Denial |
Question |
In his 1989 hit single "We Didn't Start the Fire," Billy Joel lists a number of people, places, and events that made headlines between his birth in 1949 and the song's release. A lot can happen in 40 years, but some people managed to persist. That is, Joel names certain individuals not once but twice in the song. There are two such people; who are they? |
Answer |
JFK and Richard Nixon |
Song |
We Didn't Start The Fire |
Artist |
Billy Joel |
Hint |
They're both Americans. |
Number |
9 |
Realm |
We still didn't start the fire |
Subrealm |
But we did build a roller coaster |
Question |
One of the events mentioned in "We Didn't Start the Fire" is the roller coaster wars. In the late 80s, various amusement parks raced to build the largest and fastest roller coasters. Important victories in these wars included the construction of the first coasters to exceed 200, 300, and then 400 ft. in height and/or vertical drop. Which amusement park can boast these accomplishments, and thus victory in the roller coaster wars? |
Answer |
Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio). It is the most popular seasonal amusement park in the US, with over 3 million visitors each year. |
Song |
Love Rollercoaster |
Artist |
The Ohio Players |
Hint |
The song's artist gives you the location of the amusement park. |
Number |
10 |
Realm |
Economic Trends |
Subrealm |
That really don't tell us anything |
Question |
According to a survey conducted by Visa Inc. in May, while a lucky 2% of children received $50 during each transaction involving this item, most had to settle for much less. On average, the payout per item was $3.40, down 8% from 2013 after three consecutive years of growth. What is this item? |
Answer |
A tooth |
Song |
Smile |
Artist |
Uncle Kracker |
Hint |
You've probably lost one more than once. |
Number |
11 |
Realm |
'MURICA |
Subrealm |
'nough said |
Question |
"We built it, we paid for it, it's ours, and we're going to keep it." These words were uttered by former Governor of California Ronald Reagan as he campaigned for the Republican nomination for the 1976 presidential election. Of course, he would go on to lose the nomination to incumbent Gerald Ford, who would not win reelection. What was Reagan referring to? |
Answer |
Panama Canal |
Song |
Mine, Mine, Mine |
Artist |
Pochohantas; Danny Elfman (David Ogden Stiers) |
Hint |
Despite Reagan's insistence, we did not in fact keep this, nor do we have control over it today. |
Number |
12 |
Realm |
Worthless Lawsuits |
Subrealm |
Well, almost worthless |
Question |
Your right to a trial by jury is protected by the seventh amendment except when the outcome would not be deemed valuable enough. How much money must be at stake for your 7th amendment right to be protected? |
Answer |
$20 |
Song |
If I Had a Million Dollars |
Artist |
Barenaked Ladies |
Hint |
It may have been a lot of money back then, but it doesn't even qualify for free shipping on Amazon now. |
Number |
13 |
Realm |
Double Dipping |
Subrealm |
In Fame and Glory |
Question |
This author was the last to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction twice. |
Answer |
John Updike |
Song |
It Takes Two |
Artist |
Marvin Gaye & Kim Weston |
Hint |
He really liked rabbits and apparently so did the Pulitzer Board |
Number |
14 |
Realm |
PUPPIES!!!!! |
Subrealm |
Not Actually |
Question |
What do the authors George Orwell, Lemony Snicket, and E.L. James all have in common? |
Answer |
All wrote under psuedonyms. George Orwell is really Eric Arthur Blair, Lemony Snicket is really Daniel Handler, and E.L. James is really Erika Leonard (née Mitchell). |
Song |
Paperback Writer |
Artist |
The Beatles |
Hint |
You could add Lewis Carroll and Mark Twain to this list. |
Number |
15 |
Realm |
PUPPIES!!! |
Subrealm |
For real this time |
Question |
A 2013 study found that dogs are sensitive to small variations in magnetic fields. In particular the results showed that dogs predominantly align their bodies with the north south axis when doing what? |
Answer |
Poop |
Song |
The Scatman |
Artist |
Scatman John |
Hint |
There are only so many things that dogs do... This is one of them |
Number |
16 |
Realm |
PANDAS!!!! |
Subrealm |
Because who doesn't love pandas? |
Question |
Normally giant pandas at the Zoo Atlanta are given a traditional Chinese name after 100 days determined by public voting; however in 2011 the zoo's latest cub did not go through the usual voting process. What was this cub's name and who was she named after? |
Answer |
Po named after the character from Kung Fu Panda |
Song |
Kung Fu Fighting |
Artist |
Carl Douglas |
Hint |
Ask Jack Black |
Number |
17 |
Realm |
Unintended Side Effects |
Subrealm |
That do not involve paralysis, severe burns, or falling asleep |
Question |
In 1997 an episode of the Pokemon tv series was banned in Japan after a single day on air. What was the episode and what was the reason for its banning? |
Answer |
Electric Soldier Porygon, it caused seizures (Accept Electric Hero Porygon, or any variant thereof) |
Song |
Together In Electric Dreams |
Artist |
Philip Oakley and Georgio Moroder |
Hint |
There were lots of flashing lights and colors |
Number |
18 |
Realm |
Protect our Children |
Subrealm |
from Saturday Morning Cartoons |
Question |
There are lots of reasons people can think of to complain about a cartoon show, but this one seems uniquely odd. Why did Malaysia censor Might Morphin' Power Rangers, and what was the compromise reached so that the show could stay on the air? |
Answer |
Censors thought "Morphin'" sounded too much like "morphine" and would encourage kids to do drugs. The show was allowed back on the air with the offending word dropped from its title, as "Mighty Power Rangers." Which sounds kind of dumb. But not dumber than thinking the show's title promoted morphine use in the first place. |
Song |
Rehab |
Artist |
Amy Winehouse |
Hint |
Don't do drugs kids |
Number |
19 |
Realm |
Programming Languages |
Subrealm |
Named after reptiles |
Question |
Guido van Rossum is the creator of the programming language Python. What is the somewhat unusual honorific bestowed upon him by his followers? |
Answer |
Benevolent dictator for life |
Song |
Anaconda |
Artist |
Nicki Minaj |
Hint |
It's the sort of title Kim Jong-un would give himself |
Number |
20 |
Realm |
IT'S SO INTENSE |
Subrealm |
WHAT DOES IT MEAN??? |
Question |
While human eyes have 3 types of cones for distinguishing colors, this aquatic animal has 15 types of cones allowing them to distinguish many more types of colors. (Imagine this animal's reaction to a double rainbow!) What is this fearsome predator of the seas? |
Answer |
mantis shrimp |
Song |
The Rainbow Connection |
Artist |
Kermit the Frog (from the Muppet Movie) |
Hint |
It's two animals for the price of one |
Number |
21 |
Realm |
Dogs and Cats |
Subrealm |
But Mostly Cats |
Question |
Where might a feline-loving art aficionado go in Amsterdam to get their fix? |
Answer |
KattenKabinet, the cat museum |
Song |
Can't Hug Every Cat |
Artist |
eHarmony Cat Lover/Debbie the Online Dater) |
Hint |
You might find a collection of ancient hairballs there |
Number |
22 |
Realm |
Dogs and Cats |
Subrealm |
But Mostly Dogs |
Question |
On July 4th, 2014, Joey Chestnut won the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest for the eighth year in a row. However, his rival and fellow professional eater Takeru Kobayashi was not on hand to challenge him. In fact, Kobayashi, known for popularizing the Solomon Method of eating hot dogs and winner of six Nathan's contests, has not participated since 2009. Why has he not competed in a Nathan's contest since? |
Answer |
Kobayashi refuses to sign a contract with Major League Eating, the sponsor of the contest, so he is not allowed to participate. |
Song |
Hound Dog |
Artist |
Elvis |
Hint |
It's not that he physically can't, but he's not allowed... why? |
Number |
23 |
Realm |
Small Businesses |
Subrealm |
Attack of the Hipsters |
Question |
There are all sorts of strange and trendy establishments popping up in hip neighborhoods these days, and one of the most baffling among them is Molecule, located in New York City. What kind of business is it? |
Answer |
A water cafe |
Song |
Have you ever seen the Rain? |
Artist |
Creedence Clearwater Revival |
Hint |
It's a great place to quench your thirst |
Number |
24 |
Realm |
Fun with Acronyms |
Subrealm |
That you can pronounce |
Question |
According to the New York Times, the initialism LGBTQIA has been increasingly used as a more inclusive term to reference the non-heterosexual population. However, there is still some disagreement over this term, as it leaves out those that are unidentified. What is a "blanket" term that is being used to remedy this omission? |
Answer |
QUILTBAG: Q - Queer and Questioning U - Unidentified I - Intersex L - Lesbian T - Transgender, Transexual B - Bisexual A - Asexual G - Gay, Genderqueer (MODERATORS: ACCEPT JUST THE ACRONYM) |
Song |
Same Love |
Artist |
Macklemore |
Hint |
Add in one letter and re-arrange them |
Number |
25 |
Realm |
Famous Cartel Leaders |
Subrealm |
and Their Doped Swag |
Question |
Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar devised a plethora of ways to sneak cocaine into the United States. His chemists mixed the cocaine into a chemical solution and soaked a particular type of clothing, which was then exported. Those on the receiving end would wring out the clothing and treat the solution to reclaim the cocaine. What type of clothing was this? |
Answer |
Designer jeans (MODERATORS: Accept jeans) |
Song |
Low |
Artist |
Flo Rida |
Hint |
Someone on your team is probably wearing this |
Number |
26 |
Realm |
WORDS |
Subrealm |
that people love to argue about |
Question |
The octopus, or as internet guru Ze Frank calls it "the floppy, floppy spider of the sea," is a pretty weird animal. However, when there are more than one, many people can't decide what to call them. Given the etemology of the word, what is the most correct pluralization of the word "octopus"? |
Answer |
Octopuses (The plural of octopus is octopuses. The world "octopus" comes from the Greek, októpus, meaning "eight foot." The word's Greek roots means it's pluralized as a Greek word, too, which depends on both a noun's gender and the last letter it ends with. In this case, an -es is simply tacked on. So no octopi, octopodes or octopussies, Harmon Courage points out.) |
Song |
Octopus's Garden by the Beatles |
Artist |
The Beatles |
Hint |
It's simpler than you'd think. |
Number |
27 |
Realm |
Nerd feuds |
Subrealm |
Like emacs v. vim, but even more trivial |
Question |
The internet is rife with images of the file type .GIF, but many people disagree on the correct way to pronounce this type. What is the correct pronunciation of this file extension, and why did the developers specify it that way? |
Answer |
Jiff. "Choosy [developers] choose jiff" |
Song |
Let's Call the Whole Thing Off |
Artist |
Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong |
Hint |
They loved their PB&J |
Number |
28 |
Realm |
This realm is so meta |
Subrealm |
Even this sub-realm. Don't you think? |
Question |
When characters in a book, stage production, or film "break the fourth wall," they are not necessarily destroying a physical structure. Instead, they are acknowledging that their experiences are being presented to an external audience. However, that doesn't mean a wall won't be destroyed in the process. In a popular 1970s children's book, the protagonist not only addresses the reader, he pleads with them not to continue reading the book. At one point, he builds a brick wall to prevent the reader from advancing, which is destroyed when the page is turned. What is this classic of children's literature? |
Answer |
The Monster at the End of This Book |
Song |
The Monster Mash |
Artist |
Bobby "Boris" Pickett and the Crypt Kickers |
Hint |
The main character is afraid of something at the end of this book. |
Number |
29 |
Realm |
In Soviet Russia, |
Subrealm |
Cartoons Watch You |
Question |
During the Cold War, the US and Soviet Union competed in a variety of endeavors: nuclear armament, space technology, and children's cartoons. Yes, that's right. In 1969, the USSR adapted a beloved British children's book into a short film, just a few years after a similar film was released in American theaters. In addition to artistic differences, the Russian version of the protagonist was much more of a philosopher than his American counterpart, with musings such as "Why does honey exist? For me to eat it - I think so." Who is this character? |
Answer |
Winnie the Pooh (Vinnie Pooh) |
Song |
Back in the USSR |
Artist |
The Beatles |
Hint |
What well-known character likes to eat honey? |
Number |
30 |
Realm |
The Neverending Story |
Subrealm |
of Road Construction |
Question |
In 1956, President Dwight Eisenhower signed the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956 into law, authorizing the construction of the Interstate highway system. In 1992, the system was declared complete. But this is not the case, as there remains one piece of interstate left to be built under the original Act. The completion of which primary interstate highway, needing just an interchange, will finish the original interstate system? |
Answer |
I-95 (Pennsylvania) |
Song |
Bless the Broken Road |
Artist |
Rascall Flats |
Hint |
It's east of the Mississippi |
Number |
31 |
Realm |
Ancient history |
Subrealm |
VHS tapes |
Question |
This is a three-point play. In the early days of home video casettes, movies released on VHS did not include commercials. This all changed in 1987. For one point, which movie, released by Paramount Pictures, became the first to break the so-called "commercial on home video" barrier? For the second point, what company or product did this commercial advertise? |
Answer |
1: Top Gun 2: Diet Pepsi |
Song |
Video Killed the Radio Star |
Artist |
The Buggles |
Hint |
It's not Bottom Sword |
Number |
32 |
Realm |
Always Factcheck Your Sources |
Subrealm |
Advice from Abraham Lincoln in 1992 |
Question |
[Horrible Song Quartet] Polish newspaper Gazeta Olsztynskacheck mistook a fan-created image of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics mascots for the real one, running the fan art in a front page story. In addition to the real mascots, there was an additional character in the picture who was not sanctioned by the IOC. Who was this character? |
Answer |
Pedobear (4chan) |
Song |
Bed Intruder (Hide your Kids, Hide your Wife) |
Artist |
Antoine Dodson or The Gregory Brothers |
Hint |
Don't let your children near this mascot. Just don't. Trust us. |
Number |
33 |
Realm |
Things you wouldn't want to do on national television |
Subrealm |
Or at all for that matter |
Question |
[Horrible Song Quartet] NBC's reality television show Fear Factor was known for designing intense stunts to challenge contestants both physically and mentally. Among them, contestants were tasked with jumping off buildings, drinking blood, eating animal intestines, shaving their heads, and even getting a permanent tattoo. Although Fear Factor has since been cancelled, there is another Emmy-winning show still on the air that has subjected contestants to all of the above tasks. Which show is this? |
Answer |
The Amazing Race |
Song |
Run Joey Run |
Artist |
Cast of Glee |
Hint |
You'll be traveling the world as you do those activities |
Number |
34 |
Realm |
Christmas |
Subrealm |
The scary kind |
Question |
[Horrible Song Quartet] He is Father Christmas' wingman, punishing naughty children with threats of physical violence and kidnapping, if not uncomfortable situations. He is covered in fur and usually depicted with one human foot and one hoof. Immortalized on Christmas greeting cards from the Germanic nations around the Alps, who is this demonic creature? |
Answer |
Krampus! |
Song |
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer |
Artist |
Miranda Sings |
Hint |
More recently he has appeared on adult cartoons The Venture Bros. and American Dad. |
Number |
35 |
Realm |
This is Trivia!!! |
Subrealm |
But you don't need to answer in the form of a question. |
Question |
[Horrible Song Quartet] In February of 2005, Ellen DeGeneres invited Alex Trebek as a guest to her self-titled talk show, then in its second season. However, this wasn't her first time teaming up with the long-time Jeopardy host. What was Ellen's first collaboration with Alex Trebek? |
Answer |
Ellen's Energy Adventure, a show at Epcot created in 1996 that also includes Bill Nye "The Science Guy" and Jamie Lee Curtis |
Song |
Ellen Degeneres |
Artist |
Lil' B |
Hint |
These weren't the only stars involved in this production... Bill Nye "the Science Guy" also plays a prominent role |
Number |
36 |
Realm |
Common Threads |
Subrealm |
Don't forget about the Ultra-Bonus |
Question |
[And one more bonus horrible song just for you] What do Henry Kissinger (1976), Whoopi Goldberg (1990), Nelson Mandela (1996), and Pope John Paul II (2000) all have in common? |
Answer |
They are all honorary Harlem Globetrotters |
Song |
Basketball |
Artist |
Bow Wow |
Hint |
They all play a certain sport...sort-of... |
Number |
37 |
Realm |
Exxxtreeeme Sportzz |
Subrealm |
Not yet recognized by the olympics committee |
Question |
Three professional paintballers, looking to create their own sport, devised a game using an oversized soccer ball, two goals, and one additional piece of equipment, holding their first official tournament in January 2012. What is the name of this sport, and what piece of equipment has made this sport so shocking for its spectators? |
Answer |
Ultimate Tazer Ball, tazer |
Song |
Wicked Game |
Artist |
Chris Isaak |
Hint |
It would be shocking for the players as well |
Number |
38 |
Realm |
They Say It's Your Birthday |
Subrealm |
We're gonna party like its your birthday |
Question |
For the past 50 years, Austin, Texas has hosted a day-long birthday party in honor of a depressed fictional character that at one pointed feared that nobody remembered his birthday. With drum lines, music, and plenty of food and drink, this may seem like "a Grand Thing" to do for the character. Whose birthday is being celebrated, and why might the character be offended to attend the April celebration? |
Answer |
Eeyore, who's official birthday isn't until eight months later (December 25). |
Song |
It's My Party |
Artist |
Leslie Gore |
Hint |
What are they celebrating? |
Number |
39 |
Realm |
Really good Scrabble words |
Subrealm |
That you will never get to use |
Question |
Apart from being 15 letters long, the words "Parasitological" and "Overimaginative" have a property in common. Furthermore, they are the longest two words in the English language that have this property. What property do they share? |
Answer |
They alternate vowel/consonant |
Song |
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious |
Artist |
Mary Poppins |
Hint |
Lololololololol also has this property. Unfortunately it is not a word. |
Number |
40 |
Realm |
Great Places To Live |
Subrealm |
This is not one of them |
Question |
"You'll get that promotion when hell freezes over." These are usually not the words you want to hear coming from your boss. But perhaps you should ask which hell he is referring to. There are a few locations around the world named "Hell," including one in the United States. In which state does this Hell reside? |
Answer |
Michigan |
Song |
Gives You Hell |
Artist |
All-American Rejects |
Hint |
Good news, you're getting that promotion today. |
Number |
41 |
Realm |
I Can Has Cats??? |
Subrealm |
Even Moar Cats!!! |
Question |
We at Polar Vortex all love cats. We love their purring, their fluffy coats, and their cute little noses. We also especially love the patterns we can find in their fur coats, especially the contrasting colors in the coats of Calico Cats. But there's something else special about calico cats. What is it? |
Answer |
All (diploid)Calico cats are female |
Song |
If I Were a Boy |
Artist |
Beyoncé |
Hint |
The gene for the calico fur is sex-linked |
Number |
42 |
Realm |
Controversial Books |
Subrealm |
For Kids! |
Question |
Some Americans can get pretty uptight about their reading material, leading to a baffling and hilarious list of books that have been banned over the years. One of the most surprising is a kids book from the 90s which was banned for showing a topless sunbather, gay lovers, rockers holding up the "hail satin" sign, and even a woman flashing a nipple. Which popular children's book was this? |
Answer |
Where's Waldo? |
Song |
Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego |
Artist |
Rockapella |
Hint |
You might have to look a little harder to find the answer |
Number |
43 |
Realm |
Terrorist Attacks |
Subrealm |
That Receive Less Attention than 9-11 |
Question |
In 1977, a band of about a dozen armed terrorists stormed several buildings in Washington, D.C. with three demands. First, all American theaters should cease showing the film "Mohammed, Messenger of God." Second, the government should turn over a number of criminals that were accused of killing the head terrorist's family. Third, the terrorists should be repaid $750. Why did the gunmen request this amount? |
Answer |
The $750 were old court fees for contempt of court (interrupting the trial of the people convicted of killing the leader's family). |
Song |
Court is in Session |
Artist |
Queen Latifah |
Hint |
Apparantly they had upset at least one judge. |
Number |
44 |
Realm |
Pointless Lawsuits |
Subrealm |
That almost happened |
Question |
In 2008, a city in Turkey threatened to sue Warner Bros over a controversial movie title. Why did they find this title controversial? |
Answer |
The name of the city is Batman (Prounounced "Botmahn") and they sued because they believed the name Batman was stolen from them |
Song |
I'll Sue Ya |
Artist |
Weird Al Yankovic |
Hint |
It doesn't take "the World's Greatest Detective" to figure this one out. |
Number |
45 |
Realm |
Flight cancellations |
Subrealm |
Not caused by the polar vortex |
Question |
This event, occuring within the past month, turned the seas blood red and in its aftermath caused many planes in the Eastern hemisphere to remain grounded. And no, it's not about Indonesia AirAsia Flight 8501. What incident caused this disruption? |
Answer |
A volcano eruption off the coast of Tonga |
Song |
Volcano |
Artist |
Damien Rice |
Hint |
A similar incident occurred in Europe a few years ago |
Number |
46 |
Realm |
Twist, Lick, Dunk |
Subrealm |
Milk's Favorite Question |
Question |
Ah, Oreos, one of America's favorite cookies. They elicit an age-old debate: which is better, the creme filling or the cookie foundation? Whichever side of the debate you fall on, we can all agree on the number of flowers incorporated into the design of the cookie. How many flowers are there? |
Answer |
12 (and the design is trademarked so every cookie agrees) |
Song |
Black or White |
Artist |
Michael Jackson |
Hint |
You guys don't have Oreos as snacks? You must be doing this contest wrong |
Number |
47 |
Realm |
Williams Trivia! |
Subrealm |
Famous Alums |
Question |
Williams added an Oscar to its family last March, as alum Kristen Anderson-Lopez '94 and her husband Robert Lopez won an Oscar for their work on the soundtrack of Disney's Frozen. When Kristen was a student in the early 90s, with which Williams a cappella group did she sing? |
Answer |
Ephlats |
Song |
Let It Go |
Artist |
Idinia Menzel |
Hint |
Despite her work for Disney, it was not the Disney a cappella group, as that did not exist yet. There are only eight other groups, so you have a 1/8 chance. |
Number |
48 |
Realm |
Extreme Concerts (Exxxtreeeme Concertzz) |
Subrealm |
Those Darned Kids and Their Loud Music... |
Question |
Rock concerts are normally loud, but one impromptu concert in Germany featured what is arguably the loudest cover of a White Stripes song. Other than the deafening decibel levels reached, what was notable about the performance? |
Answer |
It came from the horn of the cruise ship MSC Magnifica |
Song |
Turn Down For What |
Artist |
DJ Snake and Lil John |
Hint |
The source of the sound actually came from the water. |
Number |
49 |
Realm |
Spring Ahead |
Subrealm |
Now Fall Back Again |
Question |
This is a three-point play! Most of us do not expect to have to change clocks while driving across a state. However, in this Western state you might have to as many as seven times as you cross it. What state is this and why? |
Answer |
1:Arizona.; 2:It doesn't observe daylight savings, but the Navajo Nation within Arizona does, while the Hopi Reservation within the Navajo Nation does not. |
Song |
Time is On My Side |
Artist |
Rolling Stones |
Hint |
Western States are big, How many are there really? |
Number |
50 |
Realm |
Judaism |
Subrealm |
Symbols |
Question |
The seder plate is the centerpiece of the Passover seder, which commemorates the flight of the Jews from Egypt. Each object on the plate is symbolic and traditional--except for the most recent addition to some (not all) seder plates, which became popular in the early 1980s. What is it, and what does it symbolize? |
Answer |
An orange -- to protest the exclusion of women and gays from Judaism; as a symbol of the fruitfulness of all Jews, including women and gay people. |
Song |
Orange Crush |
Artist |
REM |
Hint |
It's a piece of fruit that some would say does not belong on a seder plate |
Number |
51 |
Realm |
I Have a Dream |
Subrealm |
Or rather, I HAD a dream |
Question |
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,'s most famous speech is "I Have a Dream," given during the March on Washington in late August, 1963. This was not the first time he incorporated the "I Have a Dream" refrain; he had given a similar speech in June of that year, and after the March on Washington that speech was released on record. In what American city did Dr. King give this, the first "I Have a Dream" speech? |
Answer |
Detroit, MI |
Song |
(You're My) Dream Come True |
Artist |
The Temptations |
Hint |
This city is closely associated with the record company that produced the record, though the company moved to Los Angeles some time ago. |
Number |
52 |
Realm |
Weird Laws |
Subrealm |
You never wanted to know about |
Question |
Technically, what are the conditions under which anal sex is LEGAL (you heard us right) in Canada? |
Answer |
Involving any two persons of 18 or older, WITH NO THIRD PARTY PRESENT. (This law is still technically on the books, but many local courts have nullified it within their jurisdictions.) |
Song |
Business Time |
Artist |
Flight of the Conchords |
Hint |
Let's say that they're against voyeurism |
Number |
53 |
Realm |
This question |
Subrealm |
Is Brought to You by the Letter 'K' |
Question |
In the 1993 song "If I Had a Million Dollars," by the Barenaked Ladies, the singer lists various items he would buy for his love if he possessed $1 million. One such purchase would be a K-Car, a member of the mid-size yet compact car line popular in the 1980s. What were the first two car models released in this line? |
Answer |
Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries |
Song |
Who I Am Hates Who I've Been |
Artist |
Relient K |
Hint |
There is no "K" in Ford or GM, but there is one in Amerika, if you spell it that way. |
Number |
54 |
Realm |
Extreme Work Environments |
Subrealm |
Penguins make good coworkers |
Question |
What two bodily requirements must you meet in order to work in Antarctica in the winter that are generally not required of potential employees anywhere else? |
Answer |
You must have your wisdom teeth and appendix removed. |
Song |
Dentist |
Artist |
Little Shop of Horrors |
Hint |
Even the most routine surgery can be risky in Antarctica and should be avoided |
Number |
55 |
Realm |
Films with Insulting Political Caracticures |
Subrealm |
That are not starring James Franco and Seth Rogen |
Question |
Political figures can get a bit touchy about their representation in the media, to say the least. Why was Russia poised to sue Warner Brothers around the release of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets? |
Answer |
Dobby looked too much like Putin. |
Song |
Moskau |
Artist |
Dschinghis Khan |
Hint |
"Harry Potter must not go back to Russia." |
Number |
56 |
Realm |
Insults |
Subrealm |
That we're all too familiar with. |
Question |
What was the first recorded use of the word "nerd"? |
Answer |
In Dr. Seuss's "If I Ran the Zoo" |
Song |
Dateless Losers |
Artist |
Reel Big Fish |
Hint |
It's in a children's book |
Number |
57 |
Realm |
Former Disney Stars |
Subrealm |
Who aren't twerking, getting arrested, or stuck in rehab |
Question |
This actor's first big break came in the late 1980s on an episode of America's Funniest Home Videos. This was followed by a string of appearances on the sitcom Full House and eventually a starring role in a Disney comedy. However, this actor lost his battle with cancer less than a year after the release of that film, cutting short a nine year career that was just taking off. Who is this actor? |
Answer |
Air Buddy (canine star of Air Bud) |
Song |
Dog Eat Dog |
Artist |
AC/DC |
Hint |
He was also known for his athleticism. |
Number |
58 |
Realm |
No Soap |
Subrealm |
Radio! |
Question |
Each year since 2007, DJ Earworm has released a new version of the United State of Pop, a mashup of 25 of the songs featured on the end of the year Billboard Hot 100 chart. Name the only artist to have a song included in both DJ Earworm's first mashup in 2007 and his latest mashup in 2014. |
Answer |
Maroon 5 (Makes Me Wonder in 2007 and Animals in 2014) |
Song |
Welcome Back |
Artist |
John Sebastian |
Hint |
The title of the 2014 mashup comes from a lyric by this artist |
Number |
59 |
Realm |
Widespread Diseases |
Subrealm |
There are dozens of us... DOZENS!!! |
Question |
First discussed in a French psychiatry journal, this condition can cause dizzyness, sweating, hallucinations and anxiety. To combat the concerning condition, a Japanese embassy has started a 24-hour hotline to help the dozen travellers that suffer from this disorder in an average year. What is this affliction? |
Answer |
Paris syndrome. It is believed to be a severe form of culture shock that is particularly prominent in Japanese tourists, who cannot reconcile the difference between the city of Paris and their idealized version of Paris. |
Song |
Crazy |
Artist |
Gnarls Barkley |
Hint |
It turns out that The City of Light is not as shiny as they thought |
Number |
60 |
Realm |
Two Wrongs Don't Make a Right |
Subrealm |
But Three Lefts Do |
Question |
Many iPhone users complained when Apple no longer included Google Maps as a default app, replacing it with their own Maps app. However, users quickly noticed one quick flaw with the design of the app, a problem that should have been especially visible for the designers working at Apple's headquarters. What was this glaring flaw that was fixed in iOS 7? |
Answer |
The icon showed a left turn onto Interstate 280 that, if attempted, would direct drivers off a bridge onto the highway below |
Song |
Crazy Train |
Artist |
Ozzy Osbourne |
Hint |
Find a friend that hasn't updated their phone.../ You wouldn't even need to open the app to spot the error |
Number |
61 |
Realm |
Tri-cornered Hats |
Subrealm |
And the Mascots who wear them. |
Question |
On October 10th, 2014, Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, unveiled their new mascot, Alex, a caricature based off the college's namesake Alexander Hamilton. Alex replaced Hamilton's unofficial mascot, which had been in use for most of the previous decade. What was this unofficial mascot? |
Answer |
Al Ham the Pig |
Song |
Safety Dance |
Artist |
Men Without Hats |
Hint |
Despite being a top liberal arts school, they weren't very creative with this mascot's name. |
Number |
62 |
Realm |
Memorable Teachers |
Subrealm |
Like Mr. What's-his-face |
Question |
While only Harry's most illustrious professors from the books got starring roles in the feature films, many of his other Hogwarts professors were given minor roles often without any spoken lines. In fact only one professor who taught Harry at Hogwarts did not appear in any of the 8 feature films. Who is this professor? |
Answer |
Professor Binns |
Song |
Ghostbusters |
Artist |
Ray Parker Jr. |
Hint |
His lectures weren't that memorable either. |
Number |
63 |
Realm |
Pokemon |
Subrealm |
Gotta catch 'em all |
Question |
Occasionally during their journey Ash and friends needed to take a break from Pokemon hunting and enjoy a traditional Japanese snack. In order to make the series more approachable, the English dub referred to them as sandwiches, cookies, onions, jelly donuts and even popcorn balls. What was this apparently obscure snack? |
Answer |
Onigiri/Rice balls. Either is fine |
Song |
Eat it |
Artist |
Weird Al Yankovic |
Hint |
The show is Japanese |
Number |
64 |
Realm |
Divest, Divest |
Subrealm |
Divest them of the Ball |
Question |
The New England Patriots hold the record for the fastest time to score three touchdowns, doing so in under a minute. They even scored one on offense, one on defense, and one on special teams. However, this accomplishment is greatly overshadowed by another peculiar feat that occured during the Patriot's run. What is it? |
Answer |
Butt Fumble (Jets player Mark Sanchez fumbles the ball after running into his own teammate) |
Song |
Baby Got Back |
Artist |
Sir Mix-A-Lot |
Hint |
ESPN had a field day with this lowlight |
Number |
65 |
Realm |
Things that shouldn't matter |
Subrealm |
But you're still wrong |
Question |
What has columnist Ann Landers reported to be her most controversial column, causing thousands of heated letters to be sent in to Landers' mailbox? |
Answer |
Which way toilet paper should hang/ Toilet Paper Orientation |
Song |
Roll To Me |
Artist |
Del Amitri |
Hint |
Most of us struggle with this daily |
Number |
66 |
Realm |
Stand back!!! |
Subrealm |
I'm going to try SCIENCE! |
Question |
Not all scientific journals consist of just dry facts. What distinguished journal has accepted articles with title such as "The Effects of Peanut Butter on the Rotation of the Earth," "Technology Update: The Brain Tachometer," and "Pickles and Humbug"? |
Answer |
The Journal of Irrepreducible Results |
Song |
The Scientist |
Artist |
Coldplay |
Hint |
You'd have a hard time replicating results published here |
Number |
67 |
Realm |
Brilliant Ideas |
Subrealm |
It's only crazy if it doesn't work |
Question |
Football players often rely on external motivation to succeed, such as thinking about their kids or family while playing. However, one St. Louis Rams player came up with a very unconventional method to ensure that he wouldn't go back to working a regular job. What was this undrafted rookie's brilliant solution? |
Answer |
Get a tattoo on his face so that nobody would hire him |
Song |
Irreplaceable |
Artist |
Beyoncé |
Hint |
It was a permanent solution |
Number |
68 |
Realm |
Historic Pet Owners |
Subrealm |
that PETA would not approve |
Question |
This is a three-point play. Tycho Brahe was a rather eccentric Danish astronomer. He supposedly wore a silver nose, as he lost his in a duel, and according to Keppler, Brahe died from a ruptured bladder after refusing to leave a dinner banquet to use the restroom. Brahe also owned a rather atypical pet which like it's owner, died in a rather unglorified way. For one point, what animal was this? For another point, how did it die? |
Answer |
1: Pet elk; 2:which fell down the stairs after getting drunk |
Song |
Blame it |
Artist |
Jamie Foxx |
Hint |
It's an even-toed ungulate. |
Number |
69 |
Realm |
Modern Army Knights |
Subrealm |
Armies still have knights? |
Question |
The shortest knight in the Norwegian army has never been to Norway. Who is he? |
Answer |
Sir Nils Olav, a penguin in the Edinburgh Zoo |
Song |
Knights of the Round Table |
Artist |
Monty Python |
Hint |
This knight always wears his tuxedo |
Number |
70 |
Realm |
Germophobes |
Subrealm |
Who went to jail. |
Question |
"What is this thing anyway? Nothing but a piece of cotton with a little paint on it and some other marks in the corner there. I will not kiss that thing. It might be covered with microbes." In 1918, E.V. Starr was convicted to 10-20 years of hard labor in Montana for his refusal to kiss that thing. What was it? |
Answer |
American Flag (the 1918 Sedition Act made it illegal to utter "contemptuous and slurring language" about the flag) |
Song |
This Kiss |
Artist |
Faith Hill |
Hint |
Those were patriotic microbes. |
Number |
71 |
Realm |
Bad Luck Brian |
Subrealm |
19th Century Edition |
Question |
There have only been four of these events in U.S History, but Robert Todd Lincoln (son of the president) was present for two of them. What is this event? |
Answer |
Assassination of a US president. |
Song |
I Shot the Sheriff |
Artist |
Bob Marley and the Drifters |
Hint |
He was not present for the one pertaining to his father. |
Number |
72 |
Realm |
The Flying Spaghetti Monster |
Subrealm |
His supreme noodly goodness |
Question |
From pistachios to pringles, people often say that certain foods are too good and too addictive to simply stop eating. This was especially true last year for the noodles of a restaurant in the Shaanxi province of China, though not for the reasons you might think. Why were this shop's noodles so addictive? |
Answer |
The owner laced the noodle mix with opium. (The owner, only called "Zhang" in reports, conceded he bought 4.4 pounds of poppy buds for a little less than $100. He then mashed it into a fine powder, which he poured into his noodle mix.) |
Song |
Don't Stop till you get Enough |
Artist |
Michael Jackson |
Hint |
It wasn't just in their heads? |
Number |
73 |
Realm |
Medical Marvels |
Subrealm |
that you don't want your parents knowing about |
Question |
If there are children around, you might want to send them to bed about now, or at least cover their ears. What is the medical term for when vaginal muscles spontaneously and forcefully contract during intercourse, trapping the penis inside? |
Answer |
Penis captivus |
Song |
Love Never Felt So Good |
Artist |
Michael Jackson |
Hint |
It's exactly what you think it should be called. Just latin-y. |
Number |
74 |
Realm |
Controversial Mascots |
Subrealm |
Still better than Al Ham the Pig |
Question |
After Stanford's original mascot the "Indians" was abolished, in 1975 a student referendum recommended a change of mascot representative of Stanford's founder, infamous railroad tycoon Leeland Stanford Jr. Unfortunately the administration refused to implement the decision. What was this suggested name for the Stanford sports teams? |
Answer |
The Robber Barons |
Song |
Snoopy vs the Red Baron |
Artist |
The Royal Guardsman |
Hint |
They wanted to pick something representative of Leeland Stanford's background |
Number |
75 |
Realm |
Exxxtreeeme Concertzz: Part II |
Subrealm |
This is the Song that Never Ends... |
Question |
There is a performance in Europe that began near the start of the 21st century and will not be completed until the 27th century. What song is being played at this performance? |
Answer |
John Cage's As SLow aS Possible (ASLSP), which has been adapted to last 639 years. The next pitch change will occur in 2020. |
Song |
In the Year 2525 |
Artist |
Zager and Evans |
Hint |
Just imagine if 4' 33 lasted that long |
Number |
76 |
Realm |
Cotton-Headed Ninnymuggins |
Subrealm |
And other insults |
Question |
Though used infrequently today, the word "nimrod" is still recognized to be synonymous with the word "idiot." However, Nimrod was in fact originally the name of a Biblical hunter with great skill, and the word came to refer to any experienced hunter. Who first popularized the modern use of "nimrod" and who was he or she referring to? |
Answer |
Bugs Bunny, who referred to Elmer Fudd as a "poor little nimrod." (In an early Looney Toons cartoon featuring Bugs Bunny quips that Elmer Fudd is a "poor little Nimrod". The joke was intended to allude to the fact that Fudd was an obsessive hunter who wouldn't give up on the hunt, but the biblical/cultural reference was lost on the millions of children watching the cartoon short and they interpreted the statement as Fudd being a "poor little idiot" because he couldn't actually catch Bugs Bunny.) |
Song |
American Idiot |
Artist |
Green Day |
Hint |
"What's up, nimrod?" |
Number |
77 |
Realm |
That's no moon! |
Subrealm |
It's a planet. |
Question |
When William Herschel discovered the planet we now call Uranus in 1781, what did he first call it? |
Answer |
Georgium Sidus (the George Star) |
Song |
All Star |
Artist |
Smash Mouth |
Hint |
Herschel was living in Great Britain at the time. |
Number |
78 |
Realm |
What's in a name? |
Subrealm |
Nothing, apparently. |
Question |
There are so many varieties of apples that the names are bound to get ridiculous sooner or later. What apple is named [season] [fruit]? |
Answer |
Winter Banana |
Song |
Bananaphone |
Artist |
Raffi |
Hint |
Apple is not the fruit. |
Number |
79 |
Realm |
Oscar snubs |
Subrealm |
Not involving Leonardo DiCaprio |
Question |
It took singer/songwriter Randy Newman 16 nominations before he finally won his first Oscar in 2001. But that's not the record for most Oscar nominations without an award. Who owns this distinction (but sadly no Oscars)? |
Answer |
Kevin O'Connell (Sound re-recording mixer), with 20 nominations |
Song |
Loser |
Artist |
Beck |
Hint |
You've probably never heard of him, but you've certainly heard his work. |
Number |
80 |
Realm |
Not the vigor we deserve |
Subrealm |
But "The Vigor We Need" |
Question |
California must be one of the fittest states in the union. After all, out of all the chairs of the President's Council on Fitness, two of them have also served as Governor of California. Who are these two men? |
Answer |
Richard Nixon and Arnold Schwarzeneggar |
Song |
Chicken Fat |
Artist |
Robert Preston |
Hint |
One of them was an actor. One of them was a president. |
Note |
Richard Nixon was never actually governor of California. Polar Vortex acknowledged the error and gave points to everyone who said Ahnold. |
Number |
81 |
Realm |
Where are they now? |
Subrealm |
The most iconic people whose names you dont know |
Question |
Many of our younger listeners may have grown up watching the Teletubbies on television. Late in 2014, British college student Jess Smith made news when she revealed her connection to the show in a widely-publicized facebook post. How was the dance student related to the Teletubbies? |
Answer |
She was the sun baby. A clip of her giggling as an infant opened up every episode of the show. |
Song |
Soak Up The Sun |
Artist |
Sheryl Crow |
Hint |
How many human actors were ever shown? |
Number |
82 |
Realm |
Things Americans Don't Know About |
Subrealm |
Science! |
Question |
Everyone knows the story they were taught in school: there were these two scientists, Fahrenheit and Celsius, who invented different temperature scales that different parts of the world (read, the US and everyone else) use. But what you're not told is that the temperature scale Celsius devised differs in one major way from the Celsius we use today. What was this difference? |
Answer |
He set 100 and 0 degrees as the freezing point and boiling point, respectively, of water. He reversed the scale! |
Song |
Hot and Cold |
Artist |
Katy Perry |
Hint |
What defines the scale now, and how did that differ for Mr. Celsius? |
Number |
83 |
Realm |
Fun With Acronyms |
Subrealm |
At the Movies |
Question |
In the 1994 hit The Santa Clause, Tim Allen plays Scott Calvin, a divorced father who unwittingly becomes Santa Clause. In the movie's climax, he is arrested while delivering presents and put in jail. Luckily, a troupe of elves, codenamed E.L.F.S., with help from Calvin's son Charlie, are able to bust Santa out of prison in time to save Christmas. What does the acronym E.L.F.S stand for? |
Answer |
Effective Liberating Flight Squad |
Song |
YMCA |
Artist |
Village People |
Hint |
Not to be confused with the Competent Freeing Airborne Unit |
Number |
84 |
Realm |
All About That Bass |
Subrealm |
No Treble |
Question |
What extreme instrument made of pvc and wood can reach a low note one octave below the standard piano which at a frequency of 16 Hz is below the standard range of human hearing? |
Answer |
Hyperbass Flute |
Song |
Slap That Bass |
Artist |
Bluegrass Student Union |
Hint |
It's an instrument you would REALLY not expect to play this low. |
Number |
85 |
Realm |
Practical Packaging |
Subrealm |
Only 343 days until Christmas! |
Question |
During the holiday season, you can find all sorts of everyday products in special holiday-themed packaging. But it turns out one of these everyday products regularly comes in its holiday packaging. For Christmas 1902, the packaging was redesigned in such a way that this product could be hung on a Christmas tree. It incorporates this design to this day. What is this common product? |
Answer |
Animal crackers (specifically Barnum's Animals) |
Song |
Animal |
Artist |
Neon Trees |
Hint |
This is something you eat and often give as a gift to small children in lieu of candy. |
Number |
86 |
Realm |
The Twelve Days of Christmas |
Subrealm |
And the Twelve Months spent paying for them. |
Question |
This year, rather than bombard you with gifts for twelve days, your true love has decided that one present a day is quite enough. Don't worry, you'll still receive all the Lords-a-leaping and turtle doves and such, but you'll only get one a day until the list of gifts has been exhausted. Assuming this is not a leap year and that each round of the song constitutes a new set of gifts, if you are given one gift a day, how many days of the year will your true love NOT be responsbile for providing a present? |
Answer |
Just one! There are 364 gifts. |
Song |
Twelve Days of Christmas |
Artist |
Bob abd Doug McKenzie |
Hint |
Remember that each day in the original song starts a whole new set of gifts, so you have to count those separately! |
Number |
87 |
Realm |
As Seen on TV |
Subrealm |
And Never Seen Again |
Question |
Over the years, several people have pushed the envelope on Saturday Night Live, but only a few have pushed it too far. One such person was singer-songwriter Sinead O'Connor, who is banned for life from the comedy program. She started a flurry of controversy when, during a live musical number, she tore up a photograph. Who was this a picture of, and why did she tear it up? |
Answer |
The Pope, to protest the child sex scandals in the Catholic Church. |
Song |
Picture |
Artist |
Kid Rock & Sheryl Crow or Allison Moorer |
Hint |
Everybody knows him, but not everyone knows his name |
Number |
88 |
Realm |
It's a bird! No, it's a plane! |
Subrealm |
No, it's a blimp! |
Question |
In the early 80s, the Goodyear Blimp was given a very strange honor indeed by a town in California. What was this honor, and what was the town? |
Answer |
Redondo Beach, CA named the Goodyear Blimp its official bird. |
Song |
Birdplane |
Artist |
Axis of Awesome |
Hint |
They must not realize blimps dont have wings. nor do they poop on your windshield |