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.
September 7, 1992 - All Things Considered’s Gary Eichten gets a history lesson on Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota. The Corn Palace, created to promote South Dakota agriculture, celebrates its 100th birthday in 1992.
September 1, 1992 - Local sports commentator Howard Sinker shares his view that the 1992 Minnesota Twins season will end with close of regular MLB season.
August 31, 1992 - All Thing’s Considered’s Gary Eichten interviews Lung Association representative about young women smokers. Interviewee notes smoking used as an unhealthy weight-loss tool.
August 29, 1992 - On this Minnesota State Fair Midday program, MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews Sharon Anderson about dog training. Anderson also answers audience and listener questions.
August 20, 1992 - All Things Considered’s Gary Eichten talks with Steven E. Schier, professor of political science at Carleton College, about the negative impact for President Bush in changing course with tax increase policy.
August 19, 1992 - Joseph Komro, director of the Minnesota State Band, talks with MPR’s Gary Eichten about concert series and history of the band.
August 18, 1992 - Former Minnesota Governor Elmer L. Anderson talks with MPR’s Gary Eichten about how the Minnesota GOP party has changed and become more conservative over the years.
August 17, 1992 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews researcher about status and aftermath of a train derailment near Duluth that led to spillage of toxic chemicals and city evacuation. Interviewee states that long-term health effects are unlikely from the brief exposure to gaseous cloud.
August 17, 1992 - Local sports commentator Howard Sinker details the poor play of the reigning championship Minnesota Twins as the 1992 regular season hits the final weeks of play.
August 13, 1992 - Former Vice President Walter Mondale discusses how a VP candidate works with presidential candidate on synching up and the necessity for compatibility in a successful campaign.