Bonnie & Friends

Bonnie & Friends

By WDAY Radio - AM 970 and FM 93.1NewsDaily News
Download on the App Store

Bonnie & Friends episodes

  • 03-09-26 Bonnie & Friends: Daylight Savings, Tiny Hail, and the Road to Early Spring
    In this Monday morning edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate the "sleepy" aftermath of the weekend's clock change. While the spring-forward transition has the crew reaching for extra coffee, the Red River Valley is buzzing over bizarre weekend weather that saw temperatures hit a record-breaking 60°F alongside reports of tiny hail in northern North Dakota. The duo recaps an action-packed sports weekend, including a major All-Star milestone for Anthony Edwards and a thrilling Senior Bowl performance by former Bison quarterback Cole Payton. Between updates on a historic NDSU presidential appointment and a high-stakes legal battle over term limits, the team sits down with Hannah Bettenhausen from Unseen to discuss the global fight against human trafficking. Key Moments The 60-Degree Fever: Bonnie and Jace discuss the "unusual" weekend weather, where spring-like warmth triggered isolated thundershowers and tiny hail in Walsh County—a stark contrast to the sub-zero deep freeze just weeks ago. Snoop Dogg and the Olympic Flame: The team reacts to Snoop Dogg’s star turn as an Olympic torchbearer in Italy and debates his potential as a permanent hockey color commentator. Timberwolves’ All-Star Milestone: Jace celebrates Anthony Edwards being named an NBA All-Star for the fourth time, noting his impressive season averages and his role as the lone representative for the Wolves. Fighting Human Trafficking: Hannah Bettenhausen from Unseen joins the studio to highlight how her organization provides critical marketing and creative tools to anti-trafficking groups across 24 countries. Term Limit Turmoil: The show covers a brewing legal storm as former lawmakers sue the state to block a measure that would double North Dakota legislative term limits from eight to sixteen years. The "Cata-strophe" Avoided: Bonnie shares the viral story of a cat that escaped its owners in Spain and walked over 150 miles across the border to return to its original home in France. NDSU’s Interim Choice: The team discusses the appointment of former congressman Rick Berg as the interim president of NDSU following David Cook’s departure for Iowa State. Couch Cushion Archeology: The "Question of the Morn" unearths a treasure trove of listener stories, from "Trucker Brian’s" car keys to Jace’s personal discovery of pretzels—but still no sign of his missing remote.
    2 hr 20 min
  • 03-03-26 Bonnie & Friends: Blood Moons, Thawing Tundras, and the Great "McNugget Caviar" Debate
    In this Tuesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman welcome listeners during a rare total lunar eclipse. While the "blood moon" was partially obscured by clouds in the Red River Valley, the real excitement lies in the weather forecast, with a massive "February thaw" threatening to push temperatures into the 40s. The team recaps a high-stakes night in Minnesota sports, from the Timberwolves breaking their Toronto jinx to the Wild's pre-Olympic winning streak. Between updates on the dramatic "McNugget Caviar" Valentine's trend and the search for Savannah Guthrie’s missing mother, the duo explores the nostalgic world of childhood winter memories—including 10-foot snow drifts and "snowman legs." Key Moments A Total Lunar Eclipse: Jace and Bonnie kick off the show tracking the "blood moon." While the "schmutz" on the windshields and cloud cover made for a muted viewing in Fargo, the celestial event provided a dramatic backdrop to a chilly 30-degree morning. The 41-Degree Hope: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki promises a dramatic temperature swing, predicting a high of 41 degrees for next Monday. The team discusses the potential for "shorts weather" and the inevitable "February thaw" that helps melt the winter blues. Timberwolves End the 22-Year Jinx: Jace recaps the Wolves' thrilling 128-126 victory over the Raptors, marking the franchise's first win in Toronto since 2004. The crew reflects on where they were two decades ago—James was in kindergarten while Bonnie and Jace were in their 30s. The "McNugget Caviar" Craze: The team reacts to McDonald’s bizarre Valentine’s Day promotion: a kit pairing Siberian Sturgeon Caviar with chicken nuggets. Bonnie remains "weirded out" by the combination of high-class fish eggs and fast-food poultry. Search for Nancy Guthrie: A serious update on the abduction of Savannah Guthrie’s mother, Nancy. Reports of a multi-million dollar Bitcoin ransom note have surfaced, with the FBI and Pima County Sheriff’s Office investigating the Tucson-area crime. Winter Memory Lane: The "Question of the Morn" brings out heartwarming listener stories, from building a celebrity snowman on a three-story garage roof in Valley City to a 1974 "snowmageddon" in Monterey, California, that emptied classrooms in seconds. Olympic "Skimo" and Snoop Dogg: With the Winter Olympics approaching, the team previews "Ski Mountaineering" (Skimo) and celebrates Snoop Dogg’s role as an Olympic torchbearer and guest commentator. Fargo’s "Teacher of the Year": A shout-out to Discovery Middle School Spanish teacher Jim Urlacher, officially named the Fargo Public Schools…
    2 hr 22 min
  • 03-02-26 Bonnie & Friends: Geopolitical Shifts, a "February Thaw," and Couch Cushion Archeology
    In this high-energy Monday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a morning of monumental global news and a surprising turn in the local weather. The team discusses the local reaction to major geopolitical shifts involving Iran and explores a welcome "February thaw" that could see temperatures soaring into the 50s. Between updates on the Minnesota Timberwolves' latest winning streak and the Wild's pre-Olympic momentum, the duo dives into the "Question of the Morn" regarding the bizarre treasures hidden under couch cushions. The show also spotlights the vital work of local nonprofits ahead of Giving Hearts Day and previews a new "Name That Jingle" contest. Key Moments Geopolitical Groundquake: The show covers the local impact of the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, including a gathering of Fargo's Iranian community at Broadway Square where residents tied to the region assembled to chant "USA." The 50-Degree Hope: While the morning started at a brisk 17 degrees, Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki hints at a massive warm-up, with some models suggesting a high of 51 degrees later in the week—a dramatic swing from the recent deep freeze. Couch Cushion Archeology: Listeners share hilarious and slightly gross discoveries from under their furniture, ranging from "Trucker Brian’s" car keys and seven of Jace’s son’s missing socks to petrified Goldfish crackers and a "retirement fund" of loose change. Timberwolves' Toronto Curse Broken: Jace celebrates the Wolves' thrilling victory over the Raptors, marking the team's first win in Toronto in 22 years, while also discussing the recent trade of Mike Conley Jr. to the Bulls. Giving Hearts Day Spotlight: The team sits down with Stephanie Ressler from Churches United to discuss their mission of housing men, women, and children and their $1 million goal for the upcoming fundraiser. Stray Paws and 150-Mile Treks: The duo shares the incredible story of a cat that escaped in Spain and walked 155 miles back to its original home in France, narrowly avoiding a "catastrophe." Olympic Fever: With the Winter Olympics kicking off, Bonnie and Jace discuss the debut of "Ski Mountaineering" (Skimo) and the rigorous training athletes undergo for these high-altitude events. A New Tuesday Tradition: Bonnie previews the upcoming "Name That Jingle" contest, where listeners can win $25 gift cards to Ziti’s Italian American by identifying classic commercial tunes.
    2 hr 13 min
  • 02-25-26 Bonnie & Friends: Thawing Out, Dream Meanings, and a Murder Trial Begins
    In this Wednesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman welcome a break from the messy wintry mix of earlier in the week. With a high of 15°F today and a push toward the mid-30s just around the corner, the mood is lifting across the Red River Valley. The duo covers a major local legal development as a jury is seated in the murder trial of Leo D’Arto, a Fargo man accused in the 2024 shooting death of Samson Blair. Between sports updates on the Minnesota Wild’s winning streak and the Timberwolves' quest to keep their momentum in Memphis, the team explores the mysterious world of dreams and the vital role of recycling in the community. Key Moments The Thaw is Real: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki shares some rare "good news" for February, predicting a significant warm-up with temperatures potentially hitting 40°F by Monday—though he warns that the month remains on a "stormier than normal" track. Leo D’Arto Trial Begins: A jury has been officially seated for the trial of 31-year-old Leo D’Arto. He faces felony charges of intentional murder and unlawful possession of a firearm in connection with the August 2024 shooting of Samson Blair. Dreaming of Answers: Bonnie and Jace dive into a fascinating discussion with the Coffee Club crew about dream meanings and the science of sleep, including a look at which foods might actually help you get a better night’s rest. Wild and Wolves Update: Jace recaps the Minnesota Wild’s current winning streak and discusses the Timberwolves' 108-83 blowout victory over Golden State. The team also prepares for a big night of high school basketball as the Moorhead Spuds host Sartell. Home and Garden Season: The team previews the upcoming Red River Valley Home and Garden Show, which kicks off this Friday at the Fargodome, offering a perfect indoor escape for residents tired of the winter gloom. Ag Outlook from San Antonio: Ag Director Bridgette Readel checks in from a national agricultural event in Texas to discuss global commodity shifts and the "drainage difference" in modern tiling projects. Recycling Matters: The show highlights the impact of local recycling efforts with guests Jen and Mary, emphasizing how simple habits in the Fargo-Moorhead area contribute to a larger environmental goal. A New Tuesday Tradition: Bonnie reminds listeners to tune in next week for the debut of "Name That Jingle," a new contest where fans can…
    2 hr 18 min
  • 02-24-26 Bonnie & Friends: Wintry Mixes, Stolen Wheels, and the "Dumb Dumb" Awards
    In this Tuesday morning edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a messy "wintry mix" as rain and sleet coat the Red River Valley. The duo provides essential travel warnings as ice begins to freeze on windshields and interstates. Beyond the weather, the team dives into a series of bizarre and serious local headlines—from a girl struck in a West Fargo crosswalk to a high-stakes legal battle over North Dakota term limits heading to the Supreme Court. Later, they explore the lighter side of life, discussing the "Dumb Dumb" awards for obvious warning signs and a heart-warming story of a runaway cat that walked 155 miles to find its way home. Key Moments Wintry Mix Alert: Jace reports a messy commute with freezing rain turning windshields into sheets of ice, while Bonnie tracks a winter weather advisory north of the metro that threatens near-blizzard conditions. Term Limit Legal Battle: A major story emerges as a lawsuit is filed to block a legislative resolution that seeks to double North Dakota lawmaker term limits from eight years to sixteen. Stolen Rental Recovery: Fargo police highlight the effectiveness of their "Flock" license plate readers, recovering a stolen rental car and arresting a Detroit Lakes man less than an hour after the vehicle was taken. Wild Shootout Victory: Jace recaps the Minnesota Wild’s thrilling 4-3 shootout win over the Blackhawks, noting that the team erased a 3-0 deficit to secure their 17th victory in the last 18 meetings with Chicago. Timberwolves Regroup: After a disappointing five-game skid, Jace discusses the Wolves' dominant 108-83 win over a depleted Golden State roster and the rising trade rumors surrounding Mike Conley Jr. The "Dumb Dumb" Awards: The hosts and Coffee Club crew laugh over warning labels that only exist because someone actually tried the act—like using a hairdryer in the shower or eating the silica gel packs found in shoeboxes. The 155-Mile Trek: Bonnie shares the incredible story of a cat that escaped its owners at a gas station in Spain and successfully walked over 150 miles back to its original home in France. Nonprofit Spotlight: The team previews a visit with Thomas Hill from YouthWorks to discuss their mission for "Nonprofit Day of the Week" and looks ahead to the final breakfast fundraiser for the FM Legion Riders.
    2 hr 16 min
  • 02-23-26 Bonnie & Friends: Post-Blizzard Cleanup, All-Star Reserves, and the Quest for "Salt-Free" Eating
    In this Monday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman recap a weekend of wild winter weather that left the Red River Valley digging out from significant snow drifts. While the deep freeze is finally showing signs of a thaw—with a high of 41 degrees on the horizon—the team stays busy with a jam-packed news and sports cycle. Jace breaks down the Minnesota Timberwolves' "yo-yo" season and the excitement of Anthony Edwards being named an All-Star for the fourth time. Between discussions on bizarre "McNugget Caviar" kits and the most unusual TSA finds of the year, the duo sits down with Ashley Hamm of Dear NICU Mama to highlight the life-changing support her organization provides for mothers of premature infants. Key Moments The Great Snow Removal: Bonnie and Jace discuss the weekend's high winds and drifting snow, warning downtown Fargo residents to clear the streets for plows while looking ahead to a much-needed "warm-up" in the teens and 20s. Anthony Edwards is an All-Star: Jace celebrates "Ant-Man" making his fourth All-Star appearance, though he notes that Edwards is the lone representative for a Timberwolves team currently riding a rollercoaster four-game winning streak. Dear NICU Mama: Ashley Hamm joins the studio to discuss her nonprofit’s mission to provide hope and peer support for mothers navigating the isolation of the NICU, including the release of their new children’s board book, Right on Time. TSA’s Hall of Shame: The team reviews the most bizarre airport security finds of 2025, from replica bombs in Boise to a traveler attempting to hide ten turtles in their pants. McNugget Caviar Kit: McDonald's attempts to "class up" the drive-thru with a limited-time Valentine's Day kit that pairs Siberian Sturgeon Caviar with chicken nuggets. A "Bactory" in Your Field: Ag Director Bridgette Readel shares a futuristic report on a UK company developing a device that captures electrons from soil microbes to power remote farm electronics like electric fences. The "Yoshi" Shirt: Jace's bright souvenir shirt from his Florida family vacation sparks a listener debate, with comments ranging from "super cute" to a firm recommendation that it be "shunned to the golf course". Healthy Habits & Salty Sins: The "Question of the Morn" features listeners' healthiest regular choices, though the hosts admit that "super salty" potato oles and late-night ice cream are still their ultimate weaknesses.
    2 hr 17 min
  • 02-10-26 Bonnie & Friends: Unexpected Wins, Trade Shakeups, and the Future of NDSU
    In this high-energy Thursday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman celebrate a long-awaited mid-winter thaw with temperatures finally hitting a balmy 40 degrees. The show recaps a historic night for Minnesota sports, including the Timberwolves breaking a 22-year losing streak in Toronto and the Wild heading into the Olympic break on a five-game winning streak. Between breaking news on major leadership changes at NDSU and the Minnesota Vikings, the duo dives into a lighthearted "Question of the Morn" about the best infomercial purchases, from life-saving medical devices to "ploofy slippers". Key Moments The Toronto Curse is Broken: Jace recaps the Timberwolves' thrilling 128-126 victory over the Raptors, marking their first win in Toronto since 2004—a "lifetime ago" for the younger members of the crew. NDSU Interim Leadership: The team discusses the appointment of former congressman Rick Berg as the interim president of NDSU, taking the reins after David Cook’s departure for Iowa State. Wild’s Overtime Magic: The Minnesota Wild secure their fifth straight win in a high-scoring 6-5 overtime thriller against Nashville, featuring a hat trick by Matt Boldy and a walk-off goal from captain Jared Spurgeon. Vikings and Twins Shakeups: "Big Game" James McCarty breaks down the major front-office departures, including Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Twins President Derek Falvey. Giving Hearts Day Spotlight: The show features two vital local nonprofits: Dear NICU Mama, which supports families of premature infants, and New Life Center, which just opened a new 32-bed warming shelter to combat rising regional homelessness. Infomercial All-Stars: Listeners share their favorite "As Seen on TV" wins, ranging from the George Foreman Grill and OxiClean to "pajama jeans" and Jace's life-changing "Inspire" sleep device. A "McNugget Caviar" Valentine: The team reacts to McDonald's bizarre new limited-time Valentine’s Day kit that pairs chicken nuggets with sturgeon caviar. Agriculture Update: Bridgette Readel reports on Stan Kroenke becoming the largest private landowner in the U.S. and explores the science behind soil microbes that can potentially generate electricity to power farm equipment.
    2 hr 18 min
  • 02-09-26 Bonnie & Friends: Post-Super Bowl Thaw and Heart-Pumping Rescues in the Valley
    In this Monday morning broadcast, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman recap a high-stakes Super Bowl 60 that saw the Seattle Seahawks return to glory with a 31-27 victory over the New England Patriots. While the sports world celebrates, the Red River Valley is finally seeing a reprieve from the deep freeze, with temperatures climbing toward a balmy 41 degrees by next Monday. The duo dives into dramatic local headlines, including the justification of a deadly Moorhead shooting and a harrowing ski-lift rescue in Minnesota. Between discussions on "ploofy slippers" and the healthiest ways to snack, the team sits down with Ashley Hamm of Dear NICU Mama to explore the vital community support for families of premature infants. Key Moments Seahawks Soar Again: Jace recaps Super Bowl 60, where Sam Darnold and the Seahawks edged out the Patriots 31-27, and the New England defense's standout performance in a blizzard-filled AFC title game was finally put to the test in Santa Clara. Moorhead Shooting Report: The Clay County Attorney’s Office releases its final report clearing all officers involved in the August 2025 shooting deaths of Nathan and Lucas Heiberg, declaring their actions justified after a violent domestic assault encounter. Stranded on the North Shore: Bonnie details a technical rescue at Lutsen Mountains where 44 guests were stranded 40 feet in the air for five hours after a chairlift malfunctioned in frigid conditions. Dear NICU Mama: Ashley Hamm shares her personal journey of spending 87 days in the NICU and how her nonprofit now provides virtual support and "Right on Time" board books to isolated mothers worldwide. The "Yoshi" Shirt: James McCarty’s bright souvenir shirt from his Florida vacation sparks listener comments ranging from "super cute" to "sexy," proving that a little color can brighten even a sub-zero Monday. Infomercial Gold: The "Question of the Morn" reveals listeners' best (and weirdest) impulse buys, including the "ploofy slippers," the "Veg-O-Matic," and Jace’s life-saving "Inspire" sleep apnea device. Agriculture Insights: Ag Director Bridgette Readel discusses "bactory" devices that capture electrons from soil microbes to power farm electronics and warns of the "food bullying" tactics used in misleading grocery labels. Groundhog Day Results: The team debates Punxsutawney Phil’s shadow, while Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki predicts a quick flip to spring regardless of the rodent's call.
    2 hr 2 min
  • 02-06-26 Bonnie & Friends: Super Bowl Prop Bets, Olympic "Skimo," and the Great Fry-Dip Debate
    In this Friday installment of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman prepare listeners for a high-stakes weekend of sports and a long-awaited break in the weather. While the morning started with a "windy bite" and falling temperatures, a massive 40-degree "melting day" is on the horizon. The duo dives into the final details of Super Bowl 60, including the obscure prop bets that have everyone talking—from the color of the Gatorade dump to whether the coin toss will favor heads or tails. Betweenrecaps of the Timberwolves' historic win in Toronto and the Wild's five-game winning streak, the team explores the grueling new Olympic sport of "Ski Mountaineering" and sits down with Samantha Christopherson from AFSP to discuss mental health advocacy. Key Moments Super Bowl 60 Countdown: Jace and "Big Game" James McCarty break down the Seahawks vs. Patriots rematch in Santa Clara, California. They explore the surge in sports betting and share quirky facts, like the specific recycled materials used in the game-ending confetti spectacle. The "February Thaw": Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki promises a dramatic temperature swing, predicting a "conservative 40" degrees for Monday, which will feel like a heat wave after the recent sub-zero stretch. Olympic "Skimo" Debut: Bonnie previews "Ski Mountaineering" (or Skimo), a new Olympic event where athletes must race both uphill (using carpet-like skins for grip) and downhill, often while carrying their skis on their backs. Timberwolves End the Toronto Curse: Jace celebrates the Wolves' 128-126 victory over the Raptors, marking the franchise's first win in Canada in 22 years—a lifetime ago for many fans. Mental Health Spotlight: Samantha Christopherson of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) discusses the "Out of the Darkness" walks and the critical importance of peer-to-peer support for loss survivors. A "Bait Up" Trivia Challenge: Dean hosts a live trivia segment about last year’s cold snaps, awarding a "Bait Up" cup to a listener who correctly guessed that the region suffered through 14 consecutive sub-zero mornings in 2025. Agriculture and Land Ownership: Ag Director Bridgette Readel reveals that Stan Kroenke (owner of the LA Rams) is now the largest private landowner in the U.S., holding over 2.7 million acres. Friday Food Fight: The studio erupts over the "sweet and salty" debate: is dipping French fries in a milkshake a culinary masterpiece or a total pass? While some listeners swear by it, Bonnie and Jace remain firmly on team "Savory…
    2 hr 10 min
  • 02-05-26 Bonnie & Friends: Vegas Dreams, Super Bowl Schemes, and the McNugget Caviar Craze
    In this high-energy edition of Bonnie & Friends, hosts Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman recap the emotional finale of their massive "Valentine’s Day in Vegas" giveaway at Kingpin’s. The winner, Deanna Shackelford, took home the grand prize after a dramatic Wizard of Oz trivia tiebreaker against her own best friend. As the Red River Valley enjoys a rare February warm-up with highs near 40°F, the team dives into the latest sports news, including the Minnesota Wild’s five-game winning streak and the high-stakes trade rumors surrounding the Timberwolves and NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Between local news updates on school meal legislation and a bizarre "McNugget Caviar" kit from McDonald's, the duo sits down with Callie Adamson Bakken of Matthew's Voice Project to discuss the urgent mission of supporting homeless students in the community. Key Moments The Vegas Tiebreaker: Deanna Shackelford clinches the "Valentine's Day in Vegas" trip after a tense trivia battle. In a display of true friendship, Deanna offered her runner-up friend, Becky, an extra spin of the wheel to share the glory. Timberwolves' Toronto Curse Broken: Jace recaps the Wolves' 128-126 victory over the Raptors, marking the team's first win in Toronto since 2004—a "lifetime ago" for some of the crew. McNugget Caviar? The team reacts to McDonald’s bizarre Valentine’s Day promotion: a kit that pairs Siberian Sturgeon Caviar with a $25 gift card for chicken nuggets, leading to a debate on "fancy" fast food. Supporting Homeless Youth: Callie Adamson Bakken joins the studio to discuss Matthew's Voice Project, which works with school social workers to help over 850 homeless students in the Fargo-Moorhead area reach graduation. Wild Olympic Break: The Minnesota Wild head into a three-week hiatus for the Winter Games on a high note after a thrilling 6-5 overtime win against Nashville, led by Matt Boldy’s hat trick. Infomercial All-Stars: The "Question of the Morn" explores the best (and weirdest) things listeners actually bought from TV ads, ranging from George Foreman grills and "pajama jeans" to Jace's life-changing "Inspire" sleep device. Super Bowl 60 Buzz: Anticipation builds for the Seahawks-Patriots rematch in Santa Clara, while Bonnie highlights a North Dakota barley farmer set to star in a high-profile Budweiser commercial. Agriculture and Ethics: Ag Director Bridgette Readel reports on the skyrocketing prices of "Micro-Mini" Highlander cows and warns farmers about the risks of using AI to safeguard operations from activists.
    2 hr 11 min

About Bonnie & Friends

From the publisher's feed

Join Bonnie Amistadi and guests every weekday from 5am to 8:30am on AM 970 and FM 93.1 WDAY for local news, weather, and conversation done right!