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.
August 4, 1995 - Midday presents Tipper Gore speaking at a conference on families, co-sponsored by Vice-President Al Gore and the University of Minnesota's Children, Youth and Family Consortium. Gore’s address was on the topic of sex and violence in the media and its effect on children.
August 8, 1995 - MPRs Gary Eicthen interviews Sarah Jaehne about push by Independence Party in finding support for Colin Powell as a presidential candidate.
August 9, 1995 - Midday presents an NPR Special Report on the end of World War II in 1945, upon the U.S. bombing of Nagasaki, Japan. Scott Simon hosts report that includes various historical readings, audio, and interviews.
August 9, 1995 - Mayor Norm Coleman addresses safety concerns in downtown St. Paul, especially at night. He focuses on complaints from establishments like Mickey’s.
August 9, 1995 - Dick Welch, section manager for Non-Smoking and Health at Minnesota Department of Health, details results of survey on teenage smokers in the state.
August 10, 1995 - Robert Rubin, U.S. Treasury Secretary, speaking at Minnesota Meeting. Rubin’s address was titled, “The Debt and the Economy: Tough Choices for America's Future.” Following speech, Rubin 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.
August 11, 1995 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews Art Wirtz, fire information officer for U.S. Forest Service, about status of fire north of Gunflint Trail. Wirtz discusses dry conditions, evacuations, and the crews battling fire.
August 11, 1995 - Judith Martin, professor of geography and director of the urban studies program at the University of Minnesota, comments on geographic component of St. Paul murders and how they are viewed compared to Minneapolis.
August 12, 1995 - Call-in program with Joanne Slavin, a nutritionist from the University of Minnesota.
August 14, 1995 - A drama-documentary by writer Norman Corwin about the anniversary of the end of World War II, called "50 Years Later: 14 August," featuring voices of Charles Kuralt and Pat Carroll. Following documentary, a special "Talk of Minnesota" program, with recorded recollections and listener memories of V-J day, 50 years ago.