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.
December 25, 1991 - Part 4 of Midday After One - "Stories of the Season," where notable community members and Minnesota Public Radio staff read their favorite holiday tales.
December 25, 1991 - Part 3 of Midday - "Stories of the Season," where notable community members and Minnesota Public Radio staff read their favorite holiday tales.
January 2, 1992 -
January 4, 1992 - University of Minnesota futurist Arthur Harkins looks to the year ahead, and beyond!
January 6, 1992 - Dan Olson hosts a documentary which takes a look at childhood sexual abuse of boys. In the second part of the program, Dan is joined by Mic Hunter, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of a new book on the topic of sexual abuse of boys.
January 10, 1992 - Bob Kerrey, U.S. Senator from Nebraska and Democratic presidential candidate, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Kerrey’s address was on various political and campaign topics. Following speech, Kerrey answered audience questions. Tim Penny, U.S. congressman from Minnesota; and Jeri Joseph, senior fellow at the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs, introduces Kerrey. 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.
January 11, 1992 - Joanne Slavin, nutritionist from the University of Minnesota, takes listener's questions about food, provides insights into healthy food habits for the new year, talks about the cholesterol debate.
February 5, 1992 - Murray Wiedenbaum, the former chair of President Reagan's Council of Economic Advisors, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Wiedenbaum’s address was titled, “The U.S. Economy After the Cold War: Will There Be a Peace Dividend?” Following speech, Wiedenbaum 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.
February 6, 1992 - Dr. Theodore Sizer, chairman of the Coalition of Essential Schools, discusses education reform and a study that showed American students are behind students in other countries. Sizer also answers listener questions. Sizer is author of "Horace's Compromise" and "Horace's School: Redesigning the American High School."
February 8, 1992 - University of Minnesota extension horticulturist Deb Brown answers listener questions about houseplants and winter care of bulbs, shrubs, and trees.