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.
April 4, 1988 - Massachusetts Institute of Technology Professor Herbert Gross answers listener questions about higher education options for non-traditional students.
April 6, 1988 - Minnesota State epidemiologist Dr. Mike Osterholm answers listener questions about the latest public health issues surrounding AIDS.
April 9, 1988 - On this Sportfolio program, Bill James, baseball writer, discusses Major League Baseball. Topics include start of the baseball season, the Twins, the Royals, strike zone, and future of the game. James also answers listener questions.
April 9, 1988 - University of Minnesota extension horticulturist Deb Brown answers listener questions about spring garden and lawn care.
April 11, 1988 - Andrew Malcolm, assistant national editor for the New York Times, speaking at the Spring Hill Conference Center, in Orono. Malcolm’s address was on the topic of Canada. After speech, Malcom answered audience questions. Malcolm has a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University. He has covered events in Canada, written several books on the country including, "The Canadians," and involved with writing and producing a now completed cable television miniseries on Canada.
April 12, 1988 - Sir Hans Kornberg, a biochemist and master of Christ’s College Cambridge, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Kornberg’s address was on topic "Genetic Manipulation: Threat or Promise? A View from the United Kingdom." Kornberg describes the scientific advances and his belief of regulatory processes needed to protect environment. Minnesota Meeting is a non-profit corporation which hosts a wide range of public speakers. It is managed by the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
April 15, 1988 - Dr. John Williams, former NFL player; Paul Giel, director of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Minnesota; and Mark Rosen, WCCO-TV sports director, take part in a Minnesota Meeting panel discussion, titled "When the Cheering Stops: What Happens to the Student Athlete?" After speech, the panelists answered audience questions. Minnesota Meeting is a non-profit corporation which hosts a wide range of public speakers. It is managed by the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
April 17, 1988 - Architecture writer for the Pioneer Press Dispatch, Larry Millett talks to Bob Potter about the unique architecture of the Twin Cities. Listeners call in with their questions.
April 21, 1988 - Bob Meek, DFL commentator; and Tom Horner, Republican commentator, provide political analysis on the open issues at end of Minnesota legislative session, upcoming state party conventions, and national campaigns. Meek and Horner also answer listener questions.
April 22, 1988 - Attorney Thomas Furber, chairman of an upcoming "State of Entrepreneurship" conference, answers listener questions about starting and running a small business.