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.
October 8, 1973 - Architect and theorist Richard Buckminster "Bucky" Fuller speaks on the discovery of the eternal pattern operative in the universe.
October 9, 1973 - Laura Nader, American anthropologist, speaking at Macalester College. Nader’s address was on the topic of community understanding, or lack thereof, law.
October 15, 1973 - Connie Goldman discusses Irish traditional music with musicians, who share both insight on its history and play various melodies.
October 15, 1973 - Connie Goldman report of a day-long seminar on the elimination of sex bias in education.
October 21, 1973 - Writer and philosopher Ayn Rand speaking at Ford Hall Forum. Rand’s address was titled “Censorship: Local and Express.”
October 22, 1973 - Judge Miles Lord, from the Federal District Court of Minnesota, discusses with Greg Barron.
October 23, 1973 - MER’s Dennis Rooney interviews Joseph Roche, a member of Minnesota Orchestra, about the death and legacy of Pablo Casals. Roche shares experience of being a part of Casals Festival.
November 8, 1973 - John Borchert, director for Center for Urban and Regional Affairs at University of Minnesota, speaking to the Commission on Minnesota's Future in Alexandria. Borchert’s speech was on the topic of the ways and extent to regulate, without violating our democratic precepts.
November 13, 1973 - Professor Herman Schwartz speaks on his critical view of the U.S. prison program. Topics include history of modern prison system, inhumane conditions, guards, and race. During the tragic inmate uprising at Attica State Prison in 1971, Schwartz served as the first intermediary between the prisoners and the prison administration.
November 14, 1973 - U.S. Representative Don Fraser remarks on nomination of Gerald Ford and why political system doesn't cleanse self of those who abuse power.