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.
February 16, 1994 - Sylvia Hewlett, author and economist, speaking at Women in Leadership Forum at the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul. Dr. Hewlett's address was titled, "A 'Lesser Life' Revisited: Women and Economics in the 90s." Following speech, Hewlett answered audience questions. Hewlett is founder of the National Parenting Association.
February 16, 1994 - A Midday interview with Father Phillip Rask on the significance of Lent. Father Rask details the meanings and actions of the Christian religious observance.
February 16, 1994 - Ann Rest, Minnesota House member representing District 46A, talks about tax reform possibilities in the 1994 legislative session.
February 22, 1994 - A discussion on the potential lowering of cable costs for customers with new FCC cable service rate regulations in place.
February 24, 1994 - Midday presents a broadcast of St. Paul Jaycees' Candidate Forum for 1994 U.S. Senate primary race in filling David Durenberger's Minnesota U.S. Senate seat. Candidates from multiple parties debate their positions. Topics include Bosnia conflict, Russia, business, term limits, endorsement process, and President Clinton’s administration.
February 25, 1994 - Mike Freeman (DFL), Mike Hatch (DFL), Dick Kimbler (I-R), John Marty (DFL), Todd Otis (DFL) and Allen Quist (I-R) participate in St. Paul Jaycees gubernatorial candidate forum. Topics included welfare, campaign ethics, and term limits. Karen Moros asked questions and moderated event.
February 26, 1994 - George Karvel, professor at University of St. Thomas, answers listener questions about housing and real estate. Topics include interest rates, equity, lake property, appreciation expectations, and loan insurance.
February 28, 1994 - On this Midday program, guests Jim Niland and Richard D'Amico answer listener questions about the Target Center and arena’s future with the possibility of Minnesota Timberwolves leaving.
March 1, 1994 - Pollster Bill Morris is interviewed about polling data regarding voter party affiliation…or lack of one.
March 1, 1994 - Chris Georgacas and Rick Stafford, Minnesota’s major party chairs, discuss idea behind political caucuses and their support of them. The two also answer listener questions.