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.
July 7, 1995 - A special edition of First Friday, presenting Connie Goldman's "Richard Avedon - A Sound Portrait.” Goldman interviews photographer Richard Avedon. They discuss Avedon’s work, and his thoughts and process of photography. Formally a reporter at MPR, Goldman has since produced several radio profiles. An exhibit of Avedon's work, "Richard Avedon: Evidence 1944-1994", was at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.
July 7, 1995 - Local sports commentator Howard Sinker provides commentary about Minnesota Twins trade of Rick Aguilera as the team finds itself with a dismal mid-season record.
July 8, 1995 - Call-in program featuring University of Minnesota extension horticulturist Deb Brown on summer gardening
July 11, 1995 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews historian Arthur McWatt about the history of Black people in Minnesota and the early days of the civil rights movement here. McWatt reflects on Roy Wilkins and local NAACP.
July 14, 1995 - John Hockenberry, former NPR reporter, speaking at Macalester College in St. Paul. Hockenberry’s address was on the topic of his book about disability. Hockenberry also reads excerpts from book. Hockenberry is a two-time Peabody Award-winner and a reporter for ABC News. He is a paraplegic as a result of a car accident when he was nineteen. He has used a wheelchair since then and has written a new book about his experiences titled, "Moving Violations: War Zones, Wheelchairs, and Declarations of Independence."
July 21, 1995 - As part of the Voices of Minnesota series, two important women figures in Minnesota are highlighted. Stephen Smith interviews historian Sara Evans, a founder of the womens' studies movement in America. Catherine Winter interviews retired justice Rosalie Wahl, the first woman on the Minnesota Supreme Court. This was a Midday special rebroadcast of highlights from the Voices of Minnesota series.
July 22, 1995 - On this weekend Midday program, host Mark Zdechlik talks with futurist Arthur Harkins about what could potentially be ahead for mankind in the 21st century. Harkins gives examples and answers listener questions.
July 28, 1995 - U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone shares his reaction to the passage of a U.S. Senate rules change that creates gift ban for members of the chamber.
July 29, 1995 - On this Saturday Midday program, MPR’s Mark Zdechilk interviews Minnesota author Jon Hassler about his work, writing in general, and small town life.
August 1, 1995 - Baseball commentator Howard Sinker talks with MPR’s Gary Eichten about the Minnesota Twins trading away veteran pitching staff, leaving the team with four rookies and a second year pitcher.