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 29, 1993 - A Midday interview with Roger Moe, state senator of the 2nd District. Moe comments on Governor Carlson’s tax plan and the varied approaches on taxes at the State Capitol.
April 29, 1993 - MPR’s Bill Catlin reports that the Minnesota House is taking up health care reform bill. Drafted legislation is designed to reduce health care spending in the state by creating large Integrated Service Networks (ISN).
May 1, 1993 - Deb Brown, University of Minnesota extension horticulturist, answers questions about lawns, shrubs, and flower & vegetable gardens.
May 3, 1993 - A Midday broadcast of Rigoberta Menchu, 1992 Nobel Peace Prize winner, speaking at the Carlson Lecture Series at held Northrop Auditorium. Menchu's address was on the topic "Peace and Human Rights: The International Year of Indigenous People."
May 3, 1993 - Midday’s Gary Eichten interviews Ron Libertus, advocate and expert in American Indian art & culture, shares his insights on how Mille Lacs spearfishing during spawning season is an important part of native tradition. Libertus details the ties to cyclical nature, tribute, and spirituality.
May 4, 1993 - Arlene DeCandia, founder and CEO of the Riverwood Companies, discusses starting a business. Topics include reasons and challenges of running your own business. DeCandia also answers listener questions.
May 4, 1993 - Local sports commentator Howard Sinker comments on the very bad month at start of the Minnesota Twins 1993 MLB season.
May 5, 1993 - John Marty, state senator representing the 54th District, shares his view that the campaign finance reform bill is too weak. Independent expenditures are discussed.
May 6, 1993 - Midday’s Gary Eichten interviews Jim Dutcher, former University of Minnesota basketball coach, about National Basketball Association star Kevin McHale. The star NBA player is retiring after 13 seasons with the Boston Celtics.
May 7, 1993 - On this First Friday program, MPR’s Beth Friend presents a story collection that includes: Tuning into International Radio Network; author Jane Smiley on considering the “mother’s point of view;” Randy Davidson on death of the American orchestras; heyday of Minnesota’s ballrooms; and tips shopping for music at ethnic grocers.