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 4, 1994 - Call-in with Senator Paul Wellstone. Special live coverage of the DFL state convention. Listeners have the chance to talk to Senator Wellstone.
June 6, 1994 - Midday presentation of 50th anniversary commemoration of D-Day. Program begins speech by President Clinton at Normandy American Cemetery, followed by a sound portrait of individual memories from that invasion.
June 7, 1994 - Midday presents Tom Peters speaking at a forum for chief executives of Twin Cities-based companies, sponsored by the accounting firm of Deloitte and Touche. Peter’s address is on the topic of company innovation and reorganization as key to success.
June 8, 1994 - I-R gubernatorial candidates Rod Grams, Bert McKasy, and Gen Olson discuss campaign and upcoming primary. Topics include personal attacks, crime bill, education debate, and DC statehood. The group also answer listener questions.
June 10, 1994 - On this First Friday program, MPR’s Beth Friend presents a story collection of various arts and culture topics. Several pieces are based on the theme of ethnicity.
June 13, 1994 - Connie Goldman, former Minnesota Public Radio reporter, presents "The Ageless Spirit: Conversations in Praise of Age," a program about growing older that she produced and narrated. Goldman traveled the country gathering insight and interviews with celebrities in their 50s and beyond. They shared their hopes, passions and concerns about the second half of their lives.
June 14, 1994 - Conservative political activist Marsie Leier comments on waves of change in Independent Republican Party and talks of a Independent Republican purge.
June 14, 1994 - A Midday interview with Minnesota State Senator Gene Merriam on taxpayer liability for bonds.
June 15, 1994 - Local sports commentator talks about Twin’s good stretch, the looming MLB strike, and minor leagues interest.
June 16, 1994 - Bob Weinholzer, former Minnesota Republican Party chairman, discusses the process of how political parties screen candidates and finding any “skeletons in the closet.”