Spectrum was a regional affairs program that ran from 1976 through 1979 (network stations individually broadcast programming of regional interest on Saturday mornings, of which, Spectrum was broadcast for 91.1 KSJN).
Spectrum presented a wide range of “local” subject matter. Everything from debates, speeches, documentaries, and long-form reports could be heard from week to week. Program included many well-known MPR voices, such Bob Potter, Debbie Gage, Rich Dietman, Neal St. Anthony, Dan Olson, and Dale Connelly, among others.
June 2, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of Alex Haley speaking at the World Press Institute at Macalester College in St. Paul. Haley’s address is on his book "Roots," the story of his search for his ancestors in Africa.
June 9, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, Ray McGee, children's counselor at Washburn Guidance Center in Minneapolis, discusses problems and challenges of children during the summer. McGee shares skills and resources to assist parents.
June 16, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of Dr. Urie Bronfenbrenner, psychologist at Cornell University and a leading expert on changes in the American family, speaking at the annual meeting of the Community Planning Organization at St. Catherine's College in St. Paul.
June 23, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, John Welckle and Craig Stoneberg, social studies teachers from Burnsville High School, discuss a future studies course at their school. They are joined by students Mark Thompson and Eric Thompson, who have completed the course.
June 30, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of Neal Peirce, syndicated columnist for the Washington Post Writers Group and a contributing editor for the National Journal, speaking to the Committee on Urban Environment, an advisory group to the City Planning Commission of Minneapolis. Pierce’s address was on the topic of city development as it relates to neighborhoods and shopping centers.
June 30, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, Charles Weaver, new chairman of the Metropolitan Council, discusses the Metropolitan Council and urban development. He also shares his thoughts on Neal Peirce speech to the Committee on Urban Environment.
July 7, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, MPR’s Rich Dietman presents highlights from Hispanic festival on the West Side of St. Paul. This was the first El Midwest Canto Al Pueblo (aka - Song to the People). Program includes interviews with artists, music breaks, poetry reading, and other sounds from and about the festival.
July 21, 1979 - On this special Spectrum/Home for the Weekend broadcast, MPR’s Rich Dietman presents a group discussion and live call-in program on Minnesota Public Radio's programming decisions, its technical operations, and funding of the network.
July 28, 1979 - Dr. James Kern, psychologist and former professor of guidance and counseling at Winona State University, speaking at a conference of the Mental Health Association of Minnesota at Carleton College in Northfield. The theme of conference was "The Value of Children.” Kern shares stories and insights of the child.
August 11, 1979 - On this regional public affairs program, C. Donald Peterson, Minnesota State Supreme Court justice; John Finnegan, executive editor at St. Paul Pioneer Press-Dispatch; and Marshall Tannick, Minneapolis attorney and former journalist, discuss a number of 1979 court decisions affecting first amendment press rights including freedom of the press, the right to privacy, and the people's right to know.