MPR News editor-at-large and retired host Gary Eichten has worn many hats during his 40-plus-year career at Minnesota Public Radio, including news director, special events producer and station manager. He has served as host for Minnesota Public Radio's live, special events news coverage, and has hosted all of the major news programs on Minnesota Public Radio, including Midday, which he hosted for more than 20 years.
A graduate of St. John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota, Eichten began his career at Minnesota Public Radio as a student announcer at KSJR (Minnesota Public Radio's first station). Among the honors Eichten has received during his career is the Corporation for Public Broadcasting award for best local news program. He also assisted in the development of two Peabody award-winning documentaries. In 2007, he was inducted into the Pavek Museum of Broadcasting's Hall of Fame. Eichten has also been awarded the prestigious 2011 Graven Award by the Premack Public Affairs Journalism Awards Board for his contribution to excellence in the journalism profession.
January 24, 1996 - On this Midday program, guest Jack Gillis discusses the design, performance, safety features of new cars, and the best strategies for purchasing them. Gillis also answers listeners questions.
January 22, 1996 - Dave Gruenes, Minnesota Commerce commissioner, gives his perspective on possible merger of First interstate and First Bank.
January 17, 1996 - Ann Rest, DFL state representative and chair of Minnesota House Tax Committee, explains concepts of a federal flat tax.
January 16, 1996 - A special Midday program on the day the Minnesota Legislature reconvenes and the Governor gives his State of the State Address. Several former governors and former legislative leaders offer some wisdom based on their experiences.
January 15, 1996 - Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton reflects on the mission and legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
January 5, 1996 - MPR’s Gary Eichten speaks with Walter Mondale, U.S. ambassador to Japan, on news that Tomiichi Murayama is stepping down as Japanese prime minister, and the potential ascension of Ryutaro Hashimoto to the position.
January 3, 1996 - MPR’s Gary Eichten talks Walter Mondale, U.S. ambassador to Japan and former U.S. vice president. Mondale discusses Japan, and the greater Asia Pacific region. Mondale also answers listener questions.
December 29, 1995 - Paul Wellstone, Minnesota U.S. senator, discusses attempts to balance the federal budget in Washington, a shutdown possibility, his upcoming campaign for re-election in 1996, and environmental issues. Wellstone also answers listener questions.
December 26, 1995 - Dean Barkley, chair of the Independence Party, on merger of his independent party with Perot's United We Stand.
December 22, 1995 - Former Governor Elmer L. Andersen comments on cuts and layoffs taking place at H.B. Fuller. Andersen reflects on company history of protecting jobs when Andersen was president, a post he held until 1974.