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 25, 1998 - Speeches from the events marking the 50th anniversary of Minneapolis Mayor Hubert Humphrey's civil rights speech to the Democratic National Convention. Speakers are NAACP Chairman Julian Bond, and writer Richard Rodriguez. You'll also hear Humphrey's speech to the convention.
June 26, 1998 - MPR sports analyst Howard Sinker talks about the late homerun champion Roger Maris, and the new challenger to his record, who is coming to town for Twins/Cardinals game, Mark McGuire. Also interviewed is Johnnie Blanchard, New York Yankees great, and Minneapolis native. Sinker also answers listener questions. Program contains pledge drive segments.
June 26, 1998 - MPR sports analyst Howard Sinker continues discussion of baseball with Gary Eichten. They talk with Herb Carneal, Hall of Fame broadcaster for the Minnesota Twins. Sinker also answers listener questions. Program contains pledge drive segments.
June 29, 1998 - Suzanna Sherry, professor at the University of Minnesota law school, talks about Supreme Court rulings that have come down at the end of the term. Rulings included Indian rights and State rights over federal courts. Justice Blackman’s legacy is also discussed. Sherry also answers listener questions. Program contains pledge drive segments.
June 30, 1998 - Ray Suarez, Host of NPR’s “Talk of the Nation”, speaking at a Minnesota Journalism Center forum on the craft of interviewing.
July 1, 1998 - Ken Peterson, chair of the Management Department at Metropolitan State University, discusses Metropolitan State University's annual Civic Confidence poll. Peterson was co-director of the poll and shares the results. He also answers listener questions.
July 2, 1998 - Bob Walker, the President of Handgun Control, Inc and the Center to Prevent Handgun Violence, discusses gun laws debate both nationally and in Minnesota. Topics include licensing, gun use by children, and gun legislation. Walker also answers listener questions.
July 2, 1998 - Midday presents a broadcast of the Minnesota Citizens’ Forum gubernatorial debate held within state office building at State Capitol. The six DFL candidates, Skip Humphrey III, Doug Johnson, Mark Dayton, Mike Freeman, Ted Mondale, John Marty, and Independent candidate, Jesse Ventura, attended. (Republican Norm Coleman did not accept invitation) Candidates spoke and answered questions from four groups of citizen panelists gathered throughout the state. Lori Sturdevant, of the Star Tribune, moderated debate.
July 3, 1998 - MPR’s Stephanie Curtis talks with Gary Eichten about the summer movies. Asteroids, killers, and monsters make up a slew of summers releases. Commentary on “Armageddon”, “Truman Show”, “Out of Sight”, and “X-Files”. There is also a discussion on the top 100 films put out by AFI. Curtis also answers listeners questions.
July 3, 1998 - As part of the country’s 222nd birthday celebration, this program focuses on listener commentary on America, freedom, and what it means. Midday host Gary Eichten talks with callers, many of which are new immigrants.