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.
June 27, 1994 - U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger, member of the Senate Finance Committee, discusses the work at the U.S. Capitol to put together a health care reform bill.
July 1, 1994 -
July 1, 1994 - A Midday interview with Jim Ulland, Minnesota state commerce commissioner, shares his thoughts on Walter Mondale being U.S. Ambassador to Japan. Ulland sees Secretary of State as a much better role for Mondale.
July 4, 1994 -
July 6, 1994 - On the 140th anniversary of Republican Party, Midday’s Gary Eichten chats with professor George H. Miller about the formation of the party in Ripon, Wisconsin.
July 8, 1994 - U.S. Representative Rod Grams visits the Midday studios to answer listener questions. Grams is the 1994 Independent-Republic party's endorsed U.S. Senate candidate.
July 11, 1994 - Dan Quayle, former vice -president, at Minnesota Meeting in downtown Minneapolis. Quayle’s address was on the topic of his book, politics, and reform. Following address, Quayle 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.
July 13, 1994 - Midday presents Peter G. Peterson, president of the Concord Coalition and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Peterson’s address was on U.S. economy and federal deficit. Following speech, Peterson answered audience questions.
July 15, 1994 - Midday presents Albert Reynolds, prime minister of Ireland, speaking at University of Minnesota's Humphrey Institute. Reynolds’ address was titled, "A Charter for Peace and Reconciliation in Ireland." After address Reynolds answered audience questions, which were presented from the podium by Robert Kudrle, Associate Dean of the Humphrey Institute.
July 16, 1994 - On this Saturday Midday, Catherine Watson, travel editor for the Star Tribune, discusses various world travel. Topics include Mexico, outdoor experiences, and handicapped travel. Watson also answer listener questions.