Midday, the longest running MPR news program, began as an extension of a daily half hour noon newscast called “Midday Report.” In September 1971 it expanded into various longer iterations, running weekdays, as well as encompassing some weekend programming. During this period, it was described as: “A program of news and information, a calendar of the day’s cultural events and the environmental report.” In January 1972 the name changed to Midday, and a month later it was described as: “A program of news, consumer and environmental information, discussion of public issues, and reports by the MPR and NPR news staffs."
Separate MPR public affairs programming were featured, such as Spectrum, Sportfolio, MPR Special, Insight, Weekend, Forum, and MPR’s Mainstreet Radio, among others. Local programming was also featured, including Westminster Town Hall Forum, Carlson Lecture Series, Minnesota Meeting, Minnesota Press Club, and Mondale Policy Forum. National outside programming included Options, Horizons, Communique, National Press Club, Chappaqua Lecture, Ford Hall Forum, Commonwealth Club, among others; and interview shows from the likes of Studs Terkel, William F. Buckley and Nancy Fushan.
As the years progressed, the “Interview” and “Call-in” would become a regular format for Midday. Beginning in the mid-1970’s until 1992, Midday was hosted by Bob Potter, after which, Gary Eichten became the permanent host. Many guest hosts also participated over the years. During the Eichten era, Midday became a daily two-hour program staple, running from 11AM-1PM. Midday ended its run in January 2012, when long-time host Eichten retired.
June 7, 1974 - On this program of Firing Line, William F. Buckley interviews Eugene McCarthy on how the post-Watergate presidency should look, and how the office might be revised so as to bring it back within republican discipline.
June 14, 1974 - MPR’s Dulcie Lawrence reports on Gloria Steinem speaking at the Loring Park celebration of local women’s caucus.
June 24, 1974 - Following a Conservative Baptist Convention held here in St. Paul, this program focuses on subject of “Baptists”. Includes report segments, music selections, speeches, and interviews with Professor Bruce Shelley of the Conservative Baptist Theological Seminary in Denver; Dr. Russell Shive, national director of the Conservative Baptist Association; and Oregon Senator Mark Hatfield.
July 3, 1974 - Eugene McCarthy speaks on Richard Nixon, Watergate, and politics. Following speech is a Q&A with audience.
July 6, 1974 - Stephen Baker interviews Minnesota's junior Senator and senior politician. Humphrey confesses he is a workaholic; discusses his recent illness; reflects on his political career.
July 11, 1974 - MPR’s Connie Goldman has a conversation with Ted Hall about small town weekly, “The Rainy Lake Chronicle.” Hall reflects on his career in journalism, writing, and publishing.
July 12, 1974 - Dr. Margaret and Norman Silberberg, authors of the book “Who Speaks For The Child,” provide commentary on overemphasis on reading in school curriculum and resultant problems.
July 13, 1974 - “In Search of Americanism” program collects various interviews and views of citizens from the Fargo-Moorhead area on what America is, what our culture and beliefs are, and our common ideals, and perceptions on patriotism.
July 19, 1974 - A recap of a women's mini-college program held at Fergus Falls Community College on women searching for self, sponsored in part by the Minnesota Humanities Commission and the AAUW.
July 23, 1974 - Excerpts of various speeches from dinner of National Citizens Committee for Fairness to the Presidency. Richard Nixon speaks via phone call. Rabbi Baruch M. Korff lead the five-day session.