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.
May 20, 1975 - MPR reporter Bill Siemering talks with poet Robert Bly about the philosophy of mother conscience and the advantages offered if the human race were to get back to this particular way of meditation.
May 22, 1975 - Judge Lisa Richette, author of "The Throwaway Children", speaking on children's rights at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth.
May 24, 1975 - In this MPR Special, State Capitol reporter Dulcie Lawrence summarizes some of the highlights of the session, with commentary and taped excerpts from floor sessions, committee meetings, and interviews.
May 29, 1975 - Dr. William Nolan, Litchfield surgeon and author of several books including "The Making of a Surgeon," speaking on the importance of good doctor-patient communication.
May 29, 1975 - Don Kendall, Chairman of Pepsi Cola, one of the first firms to become involved with trade between the U.S. and Russia, talks about detente and trade with the communists.
May 30, 1975 - Hubert Humphrey at St. John's 1975 commencement, speaking optimistically on the future of the United States.
June 2, 1975 - Harrison Salisbury, journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner, speaking at the Midwest Working Journalists Forum on the University of Minnesota campus.
June 2, 1975 - James Reston, journalist and author, speaks at Colby College about the role of the news media, its responsibility, and where it is headed.
June 12, 1975 - John R. Silber, president of Boston University, addressing the 50th graduating class at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth.
June 12, 1975 - 7th District Congressman Bob Bergland visits with constituents in Detroit Lakes, Bemidji, Brainerd, and Alexandria. On this particular meeting, he speaks with high school teachers and administrators in Detroit Lakes.