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.
May 19, 1994 - Daniel Farber, a law professor at the University of Minnesota, comments on Montana court ruling and 2nd Amendment regarding gun control issue.
May 19, 1994 - With the National Rifle Association holding its annual convention in Minneapolis, Midday has a call-in on gun control and the NRA, as well as a discussion with guests Howard Orenstein, Minnesota DFL state representative; and Richard Gardiner, NRA’s Counsel for Legislative Affairs.
May 18, 1994 - Sports commentator Howard Sinker gives his take on the surprising play of the Minnesota Twins in May with a run of wins. Trading players is also mentioned.
May 17, 1994 - Two DFL candidates seeking party endorsement for Minnesota Governor visit Midday to pitch their candidacies. Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman and State Senator John Marty debate topics of education, welfare, DFL endorsement, and community investment. The two also answer listener questions.
May 17, 1994 - Midday’s Gary Eichten interviews Marvin Marshak, chairman of the Physics Department at University of Minnesota, about impactful scientific life of the late professor Al Nier. Marshal also discusses what lies ahead in the study of physics for the next generation of scientists.
May 11, 1994 - U.S. Senator Paul Wellstone comments on the upcoming vote on ethic bill in the U.S. Senate.
May 10, 1994 - David Rusk, former mayor of Albuquerque; and George Latimer, former mayor of St. Paul, discuss the issues and solutions of poverty in the Twin Cities and its suburbs. Rusk and Latimer also answer listener questions.
May 9, 1994 - Midday presents a speech by newly elected President of the Republic of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. Bishop Desmond Tutu introduces Mandela. Following Mandela speech, program presents an address by Rev. Bernice King, daughter of the late Martin Luther King, Jr., at St. Olaf in Northfield.
May 2, 1994 - Clinical social worker Sheila Miller discusses her concerns on TV violence and the limited benefits of simply placing warning labels on television, broadcast, and cable programming.
April 27, 1994 - A special Talk of Minnesota program, with caller commentary of the late President Richard Nixon. Topics include Watergate, the Nixon administration’s accomplishments, and Nixon’s legacy.