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.
May 21, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, MPR legislative reporter Debbie Gage introduces 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.
May 28, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, an investigation of latest research at the University of Minnesota into agriculture. A tour of University of Minnesota Agricultural Experiment station is presented, highlighting food science, plant genetics, and animal science.
June 4, 1977 - Charles Cheng, professor at the University of California at Los Angeles Graduate School of Education, speaking at a forum sponsored by the Minnesota League of Women Voters. His topic is teachers’ unions, collective bargaining, and the role of citizens in such negotiations.
June 11, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of panel discussion entitled "Equal Opportunities and the Quality of Life in the Metropolitan Conglomerate."
June 18, 1977 - John Lavine, Wisconsin newspaper publisher and University of Wisconsin regent, gives speech titled "Why Johnny Can't Read and What You Should Do About It" at the annual dinner of the Minneapolis Concerned Citizens for Public Education.
June 18, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, a presentation of Twin Cities author Judith Guest speaking at Women as Writers symposium.
June 25, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, Mark Korell of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and Saint Paul developer Ron Soderberg discuss money for housing and tips on renovation, and answer listener calls.
July 9, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, St. Paul writer Christina Baldwin discusses her book “One to One: Self Understanding Through Journal Writing.”
July 9, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, historian Gretchen Kreuter speaks at University of Minnesota's Women's Day on Campus, sponsored by Continuing Education for Women.
July 16, 1977 - On this regional public affairs program, Bev Blindy of the Southside Nursery School; Deb Anderson of the Hennepin County Sex Abuse Team; and Ann Elwood, who works with parents, discuss the subject of parenting, child abuse and the family.