This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Program opens with Irita Van Doren introducing the Luncheon guests and overseeing the drawing of books. There is quite a bit of excitement among audience winners.

Maurice Dolbier then introduces the first speaker of the day, science fiction author Arthur Clarke, his most recent novel "Prelude to Mars." Clarke recounts a recent trip to Long Island when he saw for himself a lunar landing module. He discusses the near reality of a moon landing. He likens man's exploration of space to primordial shift from sea to land. He mentions some of the concepts that fascinate him - mainly our place in the vastness of the universe and makes and "advertisement" for his upcoming collaboration with Stanley Kubrick, "Journey Beyond the Stars."

Next, Dolbier introduces John D. Rockefeller III, who presents on the publication of a recent panel work, "The Performing Arts: Problems and Prospects." His goal is to broaden the arts to be for the many, rather than the privileged few. He offers recommendations:
1) Parents must play a role, giving children the opportunity to know and enjoy the arts. 2) Individuals must work with the schools to include the arts in the school curriculum.

Finally, traffic commissioner Henry A. Barnes is introduced, a traffic engineer and the author of "The Man with Red and Green Eyes." He discusses the many problems of traffic, particularly those in New York City. He makes many traffic jokes and speaks of the many unusual situations he has faced.

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 71300
Municipal archives id: T995