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.
December 29, 1995 - Paul Wellstone, Minnesota U.S. senator, discusses attempts to balance the federal budget in Washington, a shutdown possibility, his upcoming campaign for re-election in 1996, and environmental issues. Wellstone also answers listener questions.
January 3, 1996 - MPR’s Gary Eichten talks Walter Mondale, U.S. ambassador to Japan and former U.S. vice president. Mondale discusses Japan, and the greater Asia Pacific region. Mondale also answers listener questions.
January 5, 1996 - National Press Club Broadcast featuring three-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Edward Albee. He wrote "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" "A Delicate Balance," "Zoo Story" and many others.
January 15, 1996 - Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton reflects on the mission and legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
January 16, 1996 - A special Midday program on the day the Minnesota Legislature reconvenes and the Governor gives his State of the State Address. Several former governors and former legislative leaders offer some wisdom based on their experiences.
January 17, 1996 - Ann Rest, DFL state representative and chair of Minnesota House Tax Committee, explains concepts of a federal flat tax.
January 22, 1996 - Dave Gruenes, Minnesota Commerce commissioner, gives his perspective on possible merger of First interstate and First Bank.
January 24, 1996 - On this Midday program, guest Jack Gillis discusses the design, performance, safety features of new cars, and the best strategies for purchasing them. Gillis also answers listeners questions.
January 24, 1996 - Joe Nathan, director of Center for School Change at University of Minnesota’s Humphrey Institute, talks about statistics and successes of charter schools in Minnesota.
January 24, 1996 - Midday’s Gary Eichten talks with State Senator Ted Mondale about his decision not to run for legislative seat. Mondale describes what he thinks of the job.