Bonnie & Friends

In this high-energy Wednesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman celebrate the big winner of their "Valentine’s Day in Vegas" giveaway following a dramatic party at Kingpin’s. While the Red River Valley is still shaking off a week-long deep freeze, warmer temperatures in the 20s and 30s are finally on the horizon. The duo discusses the "yo-yo" season of the Minnesota Timberwolves, a historic rankings boost for the NDSU women’s basketball team, and some truly bizarre science—including soil microbes that might one day charge your phone. Between local news and a deep dive into what’s hiding under your couch cushions, the team highlights several incredible nonprofits preparing for next week's Giving Hearts Day. Key Moments The Big Vegas Reveal: Deanna Shackelford of Fargo is crowned the grand prize winner of the "Valentine’s Day in Vegas" trip after a tense Wizard of Oz trivia tiebreaker and a final spin of the wheel. Deanna gains praise for her sportsmanship, offering her runner-up friend Becky a second chance to spin for the win. Couch Cushion Archeology: The "Question of the Morn" leads to hilarious listener stories about what turns up in the furniture, from seven stray socks and Goldfish crackers to "Trucker Brian’s" car keys and Pauly from Idaho’s "retirement fund" of loose change and petrified French fries. Timberwolves Rollercoaster: Jace recaps the Wolves' impressive win over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, noting that the team has now won three straight after a five-game losing skid. The "Bactory" Soil Device: Ag Director Bridgette Readel shares a futuristic story about a UK company developing a device that captures electrons from soil microbes to power remote farm equipment—essentially turning the ground into a giant battery. Avery Kunin’s Record Run: The NDSU women’s basketball team hits a program-high #1 ranking in the Mid-Major Poll, with standout Avery Kunin continuing her dominant season with multiple "Peak Performer of the Week" honors. Laser Pointers and Federal Crimes: A scary report from Griggs County details a pilot being targeted by a laser while flying over Binford, a reminder that shining lasers at aircraft is a serious federal offense. Giving Hearts Day Spotlight: Ashley Hamm from "Dear NICU Mama" and Rob Sweers from the "New Life Center" join the show to discuss their missions. Rob shares the exciting news that 32 new beds just went live at their retrofitted warehouse shelter to meet rising local…

In this action-packed Thursday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman celebrate a "bonus 24 hours" after Jace realizes he didn't actually miss his dad’s 75th birthday. As the Red River Valley prepares for the coldest day of the week, the duo delivers critical updates on a high-stakes legal battle over North Dakota term limits and the official detection of the emerald ash borer in Fargo. The sports world is equally busy, with the Super Bowl 60 matchup officially set between the Seahawks and the Patriots, and a historic home-winning streak snapped on the college hardwood. Later, the team welcomes Steph Ressler from Churches United to discuss the organization's incredible recovery and their $1 million goal for the upcoming Giving Hearts Day. Key Moments The Birthday Panic: Jace recounts a stressful morning where he thought he’d missed his father’s 75th birthday, only to realize it was Thursday, not Friday—granting him a much-needed "extra day" in a long week. Super Bowl 60 Set: The NFL playoffs conclude with the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots securing their spots in Santa Clara, setting up a legendary rematch a decade after their infamous goal-line battle. Fargo’s Ash Tree Alert: NDSU Extension horticulturist Don Kinsler confirms the arrival of the emerald ash borer in Fargo, advising residents to watch for woodpecker activity as the first sign of an infested tree. Churches United’s Mission of Hope: Steph Ressler shares how the community helped the shelter dig out of a $1 million deficit, highlighting their new "Silver Lining" apartments for seniors—the fastest-growing homeless population. Groundhog Day Anticipation: With Groundhog Day falling on Monday, the team debates whether Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow, while Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki promises a "February thaw" regardless of the rodent's prediction. TSA's Unusual Finds: The hosts review the most bizarre security discoveries of the year, from replica bombs in Boise to travelers attempting to smuggle ten turtles in their pants. Agriculture Insights: Ag Director Bridgette Readel discusses "short stature corn" hybrids that increase stability and carbon storage, and warns backyard flock owners about the dangers of using frozen eggs. The Soup Judging Circuit: Bonnie and the Coffee Club crew recap a successful soup contest at the Moorhead American Legion, raving about a "Marry Me Chicken" entry and Steve Barron’s winning traditional Nefla soup.

In this Friday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman guide listeners through the final hours of a brutal Arctic cold snap. While the morning begins at a bone-chilling 12 below zero, Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki offers a light at the end of the tunnel: a "February thaw" with temperatures potentially reaching the 30s next week. The team recaps a massive comeback win for the Minnesota Wild and a statement victory for the Timberwolves against Oklahoma City. Between stories of 72-hour tree-hugging marathons and bizarre TSA finds, the duo highlights the community spirit of "Freezin' for a Reason" and checks in with NDSU horticulturist Don Kinsler regarding the arrival of the emerald ash borer in Fargo. Key Moments The Great Warm-Up: Dean Wysocki predicts that after a "goose egg" high on Friday, the region will see a dramatic swing into the 20s and 30s, though he warns that the LRC cycle suggests a stormier February is right around the corner. Wild Shootout & Wolves Upswing: Jace celebrates the Minnesota Wild's 17th win in 18 games against Chicago and the Timberwolves' impressive 123-111 victory over the defending champ Thunder, led by Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle. Emerald Ash Borer Alert: Don Kinsler confirms that the invasive emerald ash borer has officially been detected in Fargo, advising residents to look for woodpecker activity as a key sign of infestation. Freezin' for a Reason: The Moorhead American Legion kicks off its fifth annual fundraiser for homeless veterans, featuring a "Puzzle, Pizza, and Beer" contest and live music from the Front Fenders. Bizarre Airport Discoveries: The team reviews TSA’s most unusual finds of the year, including a traveler in Boise who tried to fly with a replica C4 explosive made of PVC pipes and wooden blocks. Record-Breaking Hug: Bonnie shares the story of a 22-year-old woman in Kenya who set a world record by hugging a tree for 72 consecutive hours to raise environmental awareness. Shopping in the "New Normal": Listeners weigh in on how high prices have changed their habits, from ditching brand-name sodas to shopping at Aldi and the "Asian American Market" to save on meat and produce. Friday Food Fight: The debate over "take and bake" versus delivery pizza gets heated, with Bonnie revealing her controversial preference for frozen pizza over both.

In this Thursday morning edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a "brutal" cold snap that has high temperatures struggling to reach zero. Despite the deep freeze, the studio is full of warmth as Jace celebrates his father’s 75th birthday and recaps the thrilling setup for Super Bowl 60. The team dives into local headlines, from a Moorhead fentanyl bust to the appointment of Rick Berg as NDSU’s interim president. Later, they are joined by Mark Simonet of the FM Legion Riders to preview "Freezin' for a Reason," a massive fundraiser for homeless veterans that involves live bands, a soup cook-off, and brave souls sleeping in tents. Key Moments The Super Bowl 60 Rematch: Jace breaks down the NFL Conference Championships, where the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots both secured victories to set up a legendary rematch a decade in the making. NDSU’s New Leadership: The team discusses the appointment of former congressman Rick Berg as interim president of NDSU, taking the reins as David Cook departs for Iowa State. Moorhead Middle School Bust: A serious report on the arrest of a local student in possession of 1,500 fentanyl pills leads to a discussion on the implementation of random canine searches in schools. "Freezin' for a Reason": Mark Simonet joins the studio to

In this action-packed Wednesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a morning of breaking local news and sports triumphs. The Minnesota Wild provide a major highlight, overcoming a three-goal deficit to defeat the Blackhawks in a thrilling shootout. Meanwhile, the team looks ahead to the Super Bowl as the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks prepare for a high-stakes rematch. Closer to home, a serious alert is issued for Fargo residents following the first detection of the invasive emerald ash borer in the city. Between discussions on changing shopping habits due to inflation and the "joys" of owning aging pets, the duo welcomes Nick and Lucas Johnson from Sweet Shots to talk indoor golf escapes and the evolution of their menu. Key Moments Wild Comeback in St. Paul: Jace recaps the Minnesota Wild's gritty 4-3 shootout win over Chicago, highlighting Jesper Wallstedt’s "Wall of St. Paul" performance and Kirill Kaprizov’s decisive shootout goal. Emerald Ash Borer Hits Fargo: NDSU Extension horticulturist Don Kinsler joins the show to discuss the devastating impact of the emerald ash borer, recently discovered near the Fargo library, and offers tips on how to identify and treat at-risk ash trees. Super Bowl Rematch Set: The NFL playoffs conclude with the Seahawks edging the Rams and the Patriots surviving a Denver blizzard to set up a Super Bowl 60 showdown in Santa Clara. Inflation and Shopping Habits: Bonnie and Jace dive into the "Question of the Morn," hearing from listeners about their shift toward generic brands, stocking up during sales, and the skyrocketing price of Doritos and soda. Winter Woes & Exploding Trees: The team discusses the ongoing cold snap, vehicle diagnostic failures, and debunks the "exploding tree" myth while warning of a 17-below-zero dip coming Thursday night. Sweet Shots in the Studio: GM Nick Johnson and Pro Lucas Johnson stop by to discuss the facility's breakaway netting system designed for ice strain, their revamped corporate memberships, and why 80% of their customers aren't actually "golfers". Local Vigil for Peace: A report on a silent vigil held in Moorhead to honor Alex Pretty and Renee Gooden, both killed in recent incidents involving federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis. Agriculture Automation: Ag Director Bridgette Readel highlights a new automated rail car lid system from Rayhawk, designed to keep grain elevator workers safer and warmer during the winter months.

In this action-packed Tuesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman guide listeners through the final stretch of a bitter January cold snap. While the "goose egg" high of zero degrees looms for Friday, there is a glimmer of hope as temperatures are projected to hit the 30s by next week. The team dives into the local impact of the emerald ash borer discovery in Fargo and gets an exclusive look at "Cookie University" with the Girl Scouts. On the sports front, Jace recaps a wild shootout victory for the Minnesota Wild and looks ahead to a Super Bowl rematch a decade in the making. Plus, the hosts explore changing shopping habits in an era of high prices and the moving (if slightly unoffical) story of spreading a loved one's ashes on a favorite lake. Key Moments Emerald Ash Borer Alert: NDSU Extension horticulturist Don Kinsler joins the studio to discuss the devastating arrival of the emerald ash borer in Fargo, offering a "woodpecker warning" for homeowners and details on his upcoming free gardening webinar series. Wild Comeback: Jace breaks down the Minnesota Wild’s thrilling shootout win over the Blackhawks, where they erased a 3-0 deficit led by "The Wall of St. Paul," goalie Jesper Wallstedt, and a decisive goal by Kirill Kaprizov. Cookie University 101: Bailey Brooker from Dakota Horizons Girl Scouts previews the upcoming cookie season, introducing the "Explore Mores" rocky road cookie and explaining how "Cookie University" at NDSU prepares young entrepreneurs for digital sales. Super Bowl Rematch: The stage is set for Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara, featuring a high-stakes rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots—ten years after the infamous goal-line interception. The "Exploding Tree" Debunking: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki returns to laugh off viral social media memes about exploding trees, explaining the actual science of expanding sap while warning of dangerous 50-below wind chills. Smart Shopping Habits: Bonnie and Jace discuss how inflation has changed their grocery runs, from Bonnie’s $300 "Butcher Block" win to Jace’s quest for 12-packs of soda that don't cost a fortune. TSA's Hall of Bizarre: The team reviews the most unusual airport security finds of the year, including replica bombs used as "training aids" and travelers attempting to hide turtles in their pants and bras. Agriculture Innovation: Ag Director Bridgette Readel reports on "short stature corn" hybrids that reduce carbon intensity and…

In this Monday morning edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman battle through a week-long deep freeze that has settled into the Red River Valley. With actual temperatures hitting 20 below and wind chills reaching dangerous levels of 50 to 60 below zero, the team discusses the "wonky" reality of winter life—from bursting pipes and vehicle diagnostic glitches to the "molasses-like" speed of teenagers in the morning. On the sports desk, the Super Bowl matchup is officially set as the Seahawks prepare for a high-stakes rematch against the Patriots. Plus, the crew explores the weirdest TSA finds of 2025 and welcomes "Big Game" James McCarty back from a pizza-filled weekend event at All Sauger Meats. Key Moments The Brutal Cold Snap: Bonnie and Jace discuss the persistent Arctic air, noting that while Sunday offered a brief "win" at 23 degrees, the region remains under a cold weather advisory with life-threatening wind chills. Super Bowl Rematch Set: Jace recaps the NFL Conference Championships, where the New England Patriots survived a "fringe blizzard" in Denver to secure a Super Bowl berth against the Seattle Seahawks—a rematch of their classic duel from a decade ago. Exploding Trees & Murder Hornets: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki returns to debunk a viral "exploding tree" meme, explaining that while freezing sap can make a loud cracking sound, it’s a far cry from trees blowing up like dynamite. The "Yoshi" Shirt Controversy: James McCarty draws both smiles and "sexy" comments from listeners for his bright, Super Mario-themed souvenir shirt from Florida, which he claims was an attempt to bring color to a dark Monday. TSA's Hall of Shame: The team reviews the bizarre airport finds of the past year, including a traveler in Boise who packed a replica bomb as a "training aid" and multiple instances of people hiding turtles in their pants and bras. Amber Alert Happy Ending: Jace shares the good news that seven-year-old Brindley Nelson was found safe after being abducted at her bus stop in Zimmerman, Minnesota, leading to a broader discussion about school bus safety and social media dangers. Healthy Habits & Junk Food Sins: The "Question of the Morn" reveals listeners' healthiest habits—ranging from aronia berry juice to tofu—while Bonnie and Jace admit to the irresistible allure of salty potato oles and late-night ice cream. Fargo’s Growing Pains: The show covers new developments for the I-29 interchange at 64th…

In this frigid Friday installment of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman confront the coldest morning of the season, with actual temperatures at 20 below zero and wind chills plummeting toward a lethal 60 below. The team provides critical updates on school e-learning days and dangerous road conditions, including a rollover on I-29. On the sports front, Jace and "Big Game" James McCarty recap a defensive battle at the inaugural American Bowl in Florida, featuring local standouts Jack Strand and Bri Kapenu. Between warnings about frostbite and "exploding trees," the duo finds time to celebrate a historic winning streak for the NDSU women's basketball team and debate the best food finds at local potlucks. Key Moments The 60-Below Sting: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki issues a dire warning about life-threatening wind chills, noting that frostbite can settle in within five minutes and explaining why "exploding trees" are more about freezing sap than actual pyrotechnics. Local Products in the American Bowl: James McCarty breaks down the low-scoring 7-6 thriller in Lakeland, Florida, where MSUM's Jack Strand and NDSU's Bri Kapenu showcased their skills for NFL scouts. Fargo’s Interchange Upgrade: The show covers the Fargo City Commission’s green light for a major 64th Avenue I-29 interchange project, leveraging over $61 million in area investment. Avery Kunin’s Dominance: Jace highlights NDSU junior Avery Kunin, who secured her 14th double-double of the year to lead the Bison women to their 15th straight victory. Accidental Apple Cheddar: James McCarty shares his experience at All Sauger Meats, revealing that their fan-favorite apple cheddar meat sticks were actually created by a happy accident in the kitchen. The "Turd Ferguson" Mystery: A lighthearted debate ensues over the 1962 banning of the "impure" dance craze song from Catholic schools, set to be revealed in Monday's "Music Flashback". Friday Food Fight: Jace asks listeners for the best "out of the norm" food they've tried at a potluck, leading to submissions like "Russian Salad," "Grape Salad," and a very firm "no" from Janet on trying "Tiger Meat". Moorhead Fentanyl Arrest: A sobering report details the arrest of a Horizon Middle School student in possession of 1,500 fentanyl pills, prompting the school to implement regular canine searches.

In this high-energy Thursday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman confront a "brutal cold" that has officially settled into the Red River Valley. With wind chills plummeting toward 50 below zero, the team provides essential safety updates while navigating a morning of "greasy" roads and rollover crashes. On the sports front, the Indiana Hoosiers are still the talk of the town after their historic national title, while the local Fargo Force face a tough overtime loss in Texas. Between debates over the best soup and sandwich combos and a look at the bizarre "exploding tree" memes circulating on social media, the duo welcomes the organizers of the 34th Annual Boat Show to discuss the ultimate indoor winter escape. Key Moments Life-Threatening Cold: Bonnie and Jace break down the confusing array of "Extreme Cold Warnings" and "Wind Chill Watches," with Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki warning that frostbite can occur in as little as five minutes. The "Exploding Tree" Debunk: Dean takes aim at a viral social media meme claiming trees are exploding in the cold, explaining the actual science of freezing sap while reminding listeners not to believe everything they see on Facebook. Fentanyl at School: A sobering report details the arrest of a Moorhead middle school student found with 1,500 fentanyl pills, leading to the announcement of regular, random canine searches in local schools. Comfort Food Classics: The "Question of the Morn" sparks a massive response as listeners share their favorite winter pairings, ranging from classic tomato soup and grilled cheese to "Nefla soup with a Cuban sandwich." Sports Roundup: Jace highlights the 15-game winning streak of the NDSU women’s basketball team and previews the "American Bowl" in Florida, which features local standouts Bri Kapenu (NDSU) and Jack Strand (MSUM). Boat Show Fever: Barry Sinenko and Brian Shin join the studio to preview this weekend's Red River Valley Boat and Marine Products Show at the Fargodome, promising 75-degree indoor temperatures and the return of the popular "trout pond" for kids. The "Alford Plea": The team covers the latest in the South Fargo stabbing case of Ethan Larson, as Michael Dietrich maintains his innocence while acknowledging prosecutors have enough evidence for a conviction. Ag Outlook with Bridgette Readel: Bridgette discusses "Sainfoin," an ancient grain being used as a high-nutrient, bloat-free forage for livestock, and touches on the latest USDA dietary guidelines.

In this Wednesday morning broadcast, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman guide listeners through a "worser" turn in the weather as an Arctic front slams into the Red River Valley. While temperatures hover at 10 above for now, the duo warns of a brutal plunge into the negative 20s with life-threatening wind chills on the horizon. The sports desk is buzzing after the Indiana Hoosiers clinched their first-ever football national championship in a nail-biter against Miami, and Jace laments another fourth-quarter collapse by the Timberwolves. Between slick road reports and "Road Warrior" updates, the team explores everything from the merits of audiobooks to the bizarre "Reply All" email chains that haunt office workers everywhere. Key Moments The Arctic Front Hits: Bonnie and Jace break down a "plethora of advisories," warning that while 10 degrees feels like a win now, the region is bracing for wind chills as low as 51 below zero by the weekend. Hoosiers Rule the Hardwood... and Gridiron: Jace recaps Indiana's historic 27-21 victory over Miami to claim their first football national championship, highlighting quarterback Fernando Mendoza’s gutsy fourth-down touchdown run. The "Reply All" Nightmare: Ronnie Lee joins the show to discuss the "Internal Reply Service," mocking the chaos that ensues when employees accidentally email thousands of coworkers—a mistake that has actually led to firings. Slick Roads and Rollovers: Real-time reports come in from "Road Warriors" describing "greasy" roads and rollover crashes on I-29 and I-94 as fine, powdery snow coats the region. Literary Escapes: The hosts and callers tackle the "Question of the Morn" about recent reads, ranging from Dean Koontz thrillers to Bonnie’s "Hallmark-style" Kindle romances used to survive treadmill sessions. Special Needs Community Spotlight: A somber note on the closure of Charlie’s Place, a local coffee shop employing people with special needs, and the hope that it can reopen in a new form. Ag Update with Bridgette Readel: Bridgette explains the difference between "strip tillage" and "strip freshening" and dives into the new USDA dietary guidelines—which she notes are mostly just "common sense." The "Barbie" Follow-up: Jace and Bonnie discuss the complications of doing taxes, from Logan's "Robin Hood" trading mishaps to the dangers of missing a decimal point.