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.
August 12, 1978 - Dr. Earl Joseph, a futurist and a staff scientist with the Sperry Univac Corporation in St. Paul, speaking at the Saint Paul Rotary Club. Joseph specializes in the study of how computers will influence our lives in the coming years.
August 26, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, a segment of guitarist Sharon Isbin providing a demonstration on playing the instrument. Isbin shares some views on performance.
August 26, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, a segment of guitarist Sharon Isbin giving lecture on guitar playing and performance. Topics include confidence, technique, and music memory.
September 2, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, MPR’s Rich Dietman interviews Mike Zerby and Regene Radniecki, photojournalists with the Minneapolis Tribune, who discuss the dilemma, problems, and joys of their craft. The photographers share what it's like to record the trauma of an auto accident and the happiness of a school year full of children all in the course of a day's work.
September 2, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, MPR’s Rich Dietman interviews Phil Easton, and his son John, who discuss the history and various aspects of running the Stillwater Gazette.
September 9, 1978 - This regional public affairs program presents live coverage on the dedication of renovated Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul, with MPR co-anchors Rich Dietman and Marilyn Heltzer.
September 23, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, Tim Kneeland, survival expert and teacher, discusses what to do in several crisis situations and offers tips for winter outings and survival kits for cars.
October 7, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, highlighted excerpts of broadcast coverage from the National Conference on the Role of the Arts in Urban Economic Development. Program also contains report and interviews regarding conference.
October 14, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, MPR’s Jeff Evans explores TV viewing habits and talks with the four local area television general managers - WCCO’s Jame Rupp, KMSP’s Don Swartz, WTCN’s Robert Fransen, and KSTP’s Stanley Hubbard. Program includes a look at the history of local TV news programming.
October 21, 1978 - On this regional public affairs program, 5th district candidates Martin Olav Sabo (DFL) and Michael Till (I-R), discuss and debate the issues. The two candidates are looking to fill the seat vacated by Donald Fraser, who sought Minnesota U.S. Senate seat.