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 15, 1993 - On this Midday program, studio guests are Ann Rest, chair of the Minnesota House Tax Committee Ann Rest; and Ron Abrams, House assistant minority leader. The two discuss income taxes, property taxes and sales taxes.
April 16, 1993 - George Shapiro, professor of speech communication at the University of Minnesota, discusses ethical leadership. Topics include power, gender, and short-term mindsets. Shapiro also answers listener questions. Issues surrounding Durenberger, “phonegate” at the Capitol, and the University of Minnesota are also mentioned.
April 17, 1993 - Chris Robert's piece about new community-police programs plays before Jackie Cherryhomes and Yusef Mgeni answer listener questions in light of the Rodney King verdict and Los Angeles riots.
April 19, 1993 - Norman Johnson, retired Rear Admiral and vice-president and dean of students at Bostin University, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Johnson’s address was on the topic of children at risk in public education. Following speech, Johnson 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 19, 1993 - Midday’s Gary Eichten interviews Jack Tunheim, Minnesota’s chief deputy attorney general, about two gun control bills being debated at the State Capitol. The two provisions include allowing cities in metro area to have stricter gun ownership rules and semi-automatic purchasers having to go through a background check.
April 20, 1993 - As Midday guest, Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson shares his viewpoints on state budget, legislative moves at the State Capitol, and national economy forecast. Governor Carlson also answers listener questions.
April 21, 1993 - A Midday interview with John Marty, state senator from District 54, about money, term limits, and campaign finances in state politics. Marty discusses the various bills at the Capitol.
April 22, 1993 - Allan Boesak, of the African National Congress, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Boesak’s address was titled "Dreams and Reality After Apartheid." Following speech, Boesak answered audience questions. David Pruese, director of the Global Mission Institute at Luther Northwestern Seminary in St. Paul, introduced Boesak. 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 24, 1993 - George Karvel, Minnesota chair in real estate at St. Cloud State University, visits the MPR studios to talk about real estate…including mortgage interest rates, refinancing trends in home buying and selling, and much more.
April 26, 1993 - MPR’s Gary Eichten talks with famous musician Doc Severinsen, who has been named the first principal pops conductor for the Minnesota Orchestra. Severinsen details what symphony orchestra program will look like as a “pops” concert.