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 12, 1994 - Native American environmentalist and writer Winona LaDuke speaks at the Woman's Club of Minneapolis on the difference between indigenous and industrial ways of thinking. She also discusses feminism, environmental racism and broken treaties.
April 14, 1994 - With the 50th anniversary of the Minnesota Democratic Party and the Minnesota Farmer–Labor Party, Midday guests Betty Wilson and John Haynes share the history of the DFL party. They detail how the two separate political organizations came together in the state.
April 14, 1994 - On the birthday of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party, Midday’s Gary Eichten talks with Minnesota politician Eugene McCarthy about the history of the DFL in the state.
April 16, 1994 - Fishing expert Chet Meyers talks about fishing in Minnesota and answers listener questions. Topics include the various fish openers, equipment, technique, and different types of fish.
April 18, 1994 - Minnesota State Senator Dick Cohen talks about reality of finding arts education funding at the Capitol amidst a tight state budget.
April 18, 1994 - MPR’s Gary Eichten talks with U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone about the options available to the U.S. as Goražde, a U.N. designated safe haven, has been taken over by Bosnian Serb military.
April 21, 1994 - Gaylord Nelson, former U.S. senator and founder of Earth Day, speaking at The Woman's Club of Minneapolis. Nelson’s address was on the topic of continued dangers of environmental self-destruction.
April 22, 1994 - Midday presents Thomas Kochman, author and president of Kochman Communications in Chicago, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. His address is titled, "Crossing Cultural Barriers: From Melting Pot to Salad Bowl." After speech, Kochman answers audience questions.
April 25, 1994 - Midday’s Gary Eichten interviews Rod Sando, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources commissioner, about Mille Lacs Band of Chippewa Indians v. Minnesota court case.
April 27, 1994 - NPR SPECIAL live coverage of Richard Nixon funeral service. Program includes sermon from Billy Graham; speeches by Henry Kissinger, Bob Dole, Pete Wilson, and Bill Clinton. There are also brief commentary and reports.