Ask Mr. Know It All

Q. Is it true there is a growing trend for men to wear an engagement ring?

K.N., Memphis, Tenn.

A. The idea of men wearing an engagement ring has started in the U.S. recently, while in other parts of the world, it is common practice. Some have been calling the male engagement ring a “mangagement” ring, a marriage of the words “man” and “engagement.” From what limited information is available, a small plain band is the most-popular style. The ring is usually worn on the ring finger and removed the day of the wedding, though some men opt to wear both rings.

Q. I saw a portion of an old Western TV show called “Wagon Train.” Robert Horton was a true hunk of a man. Is he still alive?

G.P.B., Gilbertsville, Pa.

A. Yes, he is still alive. He’ll be 90 on July 29; he and his wife live in the Los Angeles suburbs. Horton made dozens of appearances in movies, television shows and plays. He is best known for playing Flint McCullough in “Wagon Train” from 1957 to 1962. He left the series to pursue a career in musical theater.

About five years ago, his publicist announced he would no longer make public appearances.

DID YOU KNOW?

The first name of Bob Denver’s character Gilligan from “Gilligan’s Island” was Willy.

Q. As a kid, my favorite candy bar was PayDay. By the time I got into high school, I lost my sweet tooth and never regained it. From time to time I look at the candy offerings at store checkouts, but I never see my old favorite. Is it still being made?

W.L., Frankfort, Ky.

A. The PayDay candy bar was created and introduced by Frank Martoccio in 1932. In 1967, the Martoccio family sold the business. The manufacturing rights changed hands several times over the next decades until 1996, when it was acquired by the Hershey Co. According to candy folklore, Martoccio was at a loss for a name of his new confectionary delight. An employee suggested that since the day was payday, he should name it in honor of the day. The boss liked it, and so did millions of customers.

Q. What is the shortest word in English containing all five vowels?

M.R., Rock Hill, S.C.

A. It’s “eunoia,” which means, among other things, “well mind” or “beautiful thinking.”

Q. I was a fan of Shaquille O’Neal’s when he played for the Heat in the NBA. What size shoe does he wear? Is there a meaning to his first name?

R.T., Miami

A. At 7 feet, 1 inch, Shaq needs a large foundation to hold his giant frame — size 23 shoes work just fine. Shaquille is a variation of the name Shakil; it means “handsome” in Arabic.

Send your questions to Mr. Know-It-All at AskMrKIA@gmail.com or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

2014 Gary Clothier