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.
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.
May 11, 1993 - On this Midday program, a conversation with Dr. Kenneth Zapp, expert on the former Yugoslavia and professor of economics at Metropolitan State University. Zapp shares insights on the Bosnia conflict.
May 12, 1993 - Joe Nathan, director of the Center for School Change at University of Minnesota's Humphrey Institute, reacts to K-12 funding bill.
May 15, 1993 - Minnesota travel writer John Shepard visits MPR studios with some summer vacation ideas. Shepard details areas of state beyond the well-traversed.
May 18, 1993 - Harvey Golub, president and CEO of American Express Company, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Golub’s address was on the topic “Making Change Happen: An Imperative for Business.” Following speech, Golub 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.
May 20, 1993 - U.S. Congressman Martin Sabo shares his thoughts on House Budget Committee efforts in pushing through economic package at the U.S. Capitol.
May 21, 1993 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews George Latimer, former St. Paul mayor, about his political reflections and local politics. Topics include his run for mayor, convention outcomes, and endorsements.