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.
March 28, 1996 - Midday discusses the 1996 Education Bill and changes in public education with guests DFL State Senator Larry Pogemiller, the chair of the Senate Education Committee; and Republican State Senator Gen Olson. Guests also answer listeners questions.
March 28, 1996 - Martin Sabo, U.S. representative for Minnesota's 5th District, shares his opposition on Congress passage of a line-item veto ability for a U.S. President.
March 28, 1996 - Robert Leech, executive director of Minnesota Board of Medical Practices, comments on a Public Citizen study that shows doctors that continue to practice despite violations, some being serious crimes.
March 29, 1996 - "Unheard World" National Geographic doc. The second in a series of documentaries from National Geographic called "Radio Expeditions". Today's broadcast is called "The Unheard World", and it explores the world of natural sounds and the effect of modern technology. (Eichten off, Paula Schroeder hosts)
April 1, 1996 - Midday’s Gary Eichten talks with John Labosky, the president of The Capital City Partnership, about the newly created organization’s plans for revitalizing downtown St. Paul.
April 2, 1996 - Bob McFarlin, director of public affairs at Minnesota Department of Transportation, shares what a proposed five-cent gas tax increase would offer the public in regards to maintenance projects.
April 3, 1996 - Midday examines Affirmative Action with guests Daniel Farber, University of Minnesota constitutional law professor; and John Skrentny, University of Pennsylvania sociology professor. Guests also answer listeners questions.
April 3, 1996 - State Senator Ted Mondale comments on decision at State Capitol to expand existing Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, rather than building a new one at another site.
April 8, 1996 - Don Arnosti, state director of Minnesota Chapter of the National Audubon Society, provides insights into the status of biodiversity in the state. Topics include Minnesota prairies, forests, and food crops.
April 11, 1996 - Midday presents a call-in program in connection with special series The Economic War among the States. Guests Art Rolnick, member of the Federal Reserve; and Jay Novak, commissioner of Trade and Economic Development, share their views and answer listener questions.