Midday, the longest running MPR news program, began as an extension of a daily half hour noon newscast called “Midday Report.” In September 1971 it expanded into various longer iterations, running weekdays, as well as encompassing some weekend programming. During this period, it was described as: “A program of news and information, a calendar of the day’s cultural events and the environmental report.” In January 1972 the name changed to Midday, and a month later it was described as: “A program of news, consumer and environmental information, discussion of public issues, and reports by the MPR and NPR news staffs."
Separate MPR public affairs programming were featured, such as Spectrum, Sportfolio, MPR Special, Insight, Weekend, Forum, and MPR’s Mainstreet Radio, among others. Local programming was also featured, including Westminster Town Hall Forum, Carlson Lecture Series, Minnesota Meeting, Minnesota Press Club, and Mondale Policy Forum. National outside programming included Options, Horizons, Communique, National Press Club, Chappaqua Lecture, Ford Hall Forum, Commonwealth Club, among others; and interview shows from the likes of Studs Terkel, William F. Buckley and Nancy Fushan.
As the years progressed, the “Interview” and “Call-in” would become a regular format for Midday. Beginning in the mid-1970’s until 1992, Midday was hosted by Bob Potter, after which, Gary Eichten became the permanent host. Many guest hosts also participated over the years. During the Eichten era, Midday became a daily two-hour program staple, running from 11AM-1PM. Midday ended its run in January 2012, when long-time host Eichten retired.
March 12, 1988 - On this Sportfolio program, Greg Cylkowski, local Greg Cylkowski, discusses the many aspects of the psychology of sports. Cylkowski also answers listener questions.
March 12, 1988 - On this Weekend program, Al Sicherman, food writer at the Star Tribune, discusses various food topics and his book “Caramel Knowledge.” Sicherman also answers listener questions.
March 12, 1988 - Star Tribune food writer Al Sicherman takes listener questions about cooking, cuisine, and related topics.
March 14, 1988 - MPR's Stephen Smith and George Boosey live report from the Governor’s office. Governor Rudy Perpich holds press conference on proposal to adjust funding for University of Minnesota and review of the management structure of school. He also speaks on Ken Keller’s resignation as president of University of Minnesota the day before.
March 15, 1988 - Diane Malone, tax manager at the twin cities office of Coopers and Lybrand, answers listener questions about preparation of 1987 federal individual income tax returns.
March 19, 1988 - On this Sportfolio program, Duane Koslowski, U.S. wrestler, and Ron Backes, U.S. shot-putter, discuss the money and cost of the Olympics. Topics include their individual sports, funding, and support systems. Koslowski and Backes also answer listener questions.
March 21, 1988 - University of Minnesota astronomy professors Larry Rudnick and John Dickey answer listener questions about the beginning and end of the universe.
March 22, 1988 - Harrison Salisbury, journalist and author, talks about some of the major stories he has covered, which he chronicles in his newest book, "A Time of Change: A Reporter's Tale of Our Time." Salisbury also answers listener questions. Beginning of program is discussion on Central American military involvement, and subsequent local protests. Mr. Salisbury is a Minnesota native, and U of M graduate.
April 2, 1988 - On this Sportfolio program, Tim Hanson, U of M basketball player and former “Minnesota Mr. Basketball,” discusses college basketball and his time as a Gopher. Topics include money in sports, coaches, and recruiting. Hanson also answer listener questions.
April 2, 1988 - University of Minnesota physicist Dr. George Freier answers listener questions about weather myths and weather lore...some of which are surprisingly correct.