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 23, 1998 - William Ivey, the new chairman of the National Endowment of the Arts, speaking to the American Symphony Orchestra League's National Conference in St. Paul. Ivey’s address was on government funding of NEA, and the organization’s future. Program continues MPR's Garrison Keillor speaking to the American Symphony Orchestra League's National Conference in St. Paul. Keillor provides humorous anecdotes on the future of the symphony orchestra.
June 24, 1998 - Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt's recent Twin Cities address...given as part of the "Pen Pals" Author Lecture Series sponsored by the Library Foundation of Hennepin County. Frank McCourt is the author of the best seller Angela's Ashes.
June 24, 1998 - Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt's recent Twin Cities address...given as part of the "Pen Pals" Author Lecture Series sponsored by the Library Foundation of Hennepin County. Frank McCourt is the author of the best seller Angela's Ashes.
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.