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.
February 12, 1977 - This regional public affairs program is a discussion on current system of police chief appointment in Minneapolis, where the chief is chosen by the mayor. Presently, the chief of police in Minneapolis is selected by the mayor. Generally, the chief's term follows the two year term-of-office that the mayor serves. Some have accused the department of becoming too political because of that system. That is, critics say in order to gain a high position in the department, a police officer must actively support the winning candidate for mayor. As mayors change and philosophies differ, personnel is shuffled, which hinders the crime-fighting effectiveness of the department because there is a lack of continuity within the police administration. Defenders of the present system say the best police department is one that reflects the philosophy of the mayor, because in that vein, the department is then more responsible to the wishes of the electorate. Neal St. Anthony met with several people concerned with the situation and prepared this report.
March 5, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, John Boland, chairman of the Metropolitan Council, presents a "State of the Region" address on the occasion of the council's 10th anniversary. His remarks were followed by comments from Ted Kolderie, president of the Citizens League.
March 5, 1977 - Marilyn Chou, a policy analyst from the Hudson Institute in New York, speaking at the Farm Forum in Minneapolis. Chou talked about her impressions of agriculture on the People's Republic of China. She was introduced by Fritz Corrigan of the Peavey Company.
March 12, 1977 - The Minnesota legislature is considering measures to help streamline criminal justice in Minnesota. Senator McCutcheon recently talked about what he thinks the legislature can do as he spoke to a Saint Paul Citizens League meeting.
March 12, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, George Fisher presents work of some young radio producers and performers, with highlights from KSJN's Young People's Radio Festival entrants. Includes a story on UFO sightings, a NSAB radio broadcast, an interview of Garrison Keillor, amongst others.
March 26, 1977 - Dr. John Flagler, director of labor education at the University of Minnesota, speaking on the effects of alternative technology on workers. Speech given at the Conference on Intermediate Technology. Flagler is introduced by the conference moderator, Thomas Felt.
March 26, 1977 - Excerpts from the Intermediate Technology conference held in Minneapolis which brought together 500 Minnesotans involved or interested in low-energy-use alternative technology, designed to reduce our need for fossil fuels. Includes a panel discussion, in response to the lecture by British economist Dr. E.F. Schumacher. The first speaker is Dr. Ian Barbour, Professor of Religion and Professor of Physics at Carleton College in Northfield. Moderator of the program is Thomas Feldt, chairman of the Inter-Regional Financial Group
March 26, 1977 - James Summer, former vice chairman of General Mills, argues that small is not always beautiful, and he will also propose how industry can better work in the public interest. His speech was entitled, "Corporate America: New Challenges, New Responsibilities", and given at the Conference on Intermediate Technology.
April 30, 1977 - Dr. Herbert Benson, an associate professor at the Harvard School of Medicine, speaking at "Lifestyles in a Stressful World" conference at University of Minnesota, and sponsored by the University Hospitals Volunteer Association. Benson spoke on causes of hypertension and his suggestions for reducing it. After speech, Benson answered audience questions. Benson also heads the hypertension unit at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston and is author of the book, "The Relaxation Response". In his address, Benson discussed some of the causes of hypertension and his suggestions for reducing it.
May 21, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, an example of the Minnesota legislature and how they function. The debate on this program is on the Ban the Can Bill, which deals with container deposit and litter. Program includes several State Senators; the first being Minneapolis DFLer William Luther, followed by IR George Pillsbury of Wayzata, and appearances by a host of others. You might want to have a pencil and paper handy so you can take notes and keep track of the various amendments and arguments offered. MPR legislative reporter Debbie Gage to introduce the program.