From ‘Benson’ to ‘Star Trek’

Reader Lew Anderson notes that two series regulars from the TV sitcom “Benson” went on to featured roles in the “Star Trek” universe. Rene Auberjonois, who played Clayton Endicott III, the governor’s chief of staff, on “Benson,” played Odo on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” Ethan Phillips, who played Pete Downey, the governor’s press secretary, on “Benson,” was Neelix on “Star Trek: Voyager.”

“Benson” was a spinoff from what 1970s series?

A) “All in the Family”

B) “The Brady Bunch”

C) “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” D) “Soap”

Answer: “Benson” was a spinoff of the 1970s sitcom “Soap.”

Charming short film won Oscar

The only short film to win an Oscar for best original screenplay was the 1956 French film “Le Ballon Rouge” (“The Red Balloon”), written and directed by Albert Lamorisse and starring his 6year-old son, Pascal. What makes this most unusual is the fact that the 34minute film contains almost no dialogue.

Nevertheless, it’s one of the more charming and memorable films you’ll ever see.

Which of these was the first character balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade?

A) Bugs Bunny

B) Felix the Cat

C) Snoopy

D) Underdog

Answer: In 1927, Felix the Cat became the first character balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Philly museum founded in 1812

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia is the oldest natural history institution in the Western Hemisphere. Founded March 21, 1812, for “the encouragement and cultivation of the sciences and the advancement of useful learning,” it began as a pure research institution, sponsoring expeditions to collect plant, animal and mineral samples from around the world. In 1828, it opened as a museum for the public.

Remains of the human ancestor Homo habilis were unearthed in the 1960s at what site?

A) Bauru Basin, Brazil

B) Candeleros Formation, Argentina C) Eutaw Formation, United States D) Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania

Answer: A research team led by Louis and Mary Leakey discovered Homo habilis remains at Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania in the 1960s.