Bonnie & Friends

Bonnie & Friends

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Bonnie & Friends episodes

  • 01-20-26 Bonnie & Friends: Deep Freeze Dangers, Championship Dreams, and the "Barbie" Tariff Blunder
    In this Tuesday edition of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman prepare listeners for a brutal stretch of Arctic weather, with high temperatures struggling to reach 10 below zero and wind chills plummeting to 50 below. The duo breaks down Indiana University’s historic first-ever football national championship win over Miami and celebrates the Minnesota Wild’s high-scoring victory in Toronto. Between weather alerts, the team explores a series of bizarre headlines—from a grandmother hit with an $800 tariff on a $22 Barbie doll to a serial hitchhiking rabbit in Colorado. Later, experts from the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center join the studio to discuss the realities of human trafficking and stalking in the local community. Key Moments The Arctic Plunge: Bonnie and Jace warn of "dangerous, life-threatening cold" settling into the Red River Valley, offering tips on preventing frostbite and "finger splits," while Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki admits he’s been betting on city high temperatures with co-host Ronnie Lee. Hoosiers Make History: Jace recaps Indiana's 27-21 thriller over Miami to clinch the FBS National Championship, noting the team’s incredible 16-0 season—a feat shared by only four programs in college football history, including the 2019 NDSU Bison. The $800 Barbie: Bonnie shares a cautionary tale of a Boston woman who tried to gift her granddaughter a Canadian "pro hockey" Barbie, only to receive a massive FedEx bill after a decimal point error valued the doll at $2,200. Girl Scout Cookie Shake-up: The team laments the discontinuation of "S’mores" and "Toast-Yay!" cookies while anticipating the new "Explore Mores"—a chocolate marshmallow toasted almond cream sandwich cookie. Local Safety Spotlight: Sarah Stompro and Jodi Hudson from the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center provide a sobering look at how traffickers use "mental and emotional leverage" rather than "white vans" to exploit victims locally, particularly among indigenous populations. Farming with Bridgette Readel: Ag Director Bridgette Readel explains the difference between "strip tillage" and "strip freshening" and introduces the "Farm Dog of the Year," a cattle herder recently honored by the American Farm Bureau. Northern Lights & Solar Flares: Listeners share photos of vivid aurora borealis displays captured through cell phone lenses on the Minnesota side of the river following a massive solar flare.
    2 hr 17 min
  • 01-19-26 Bonnie & Friends: Post-Blizzard Deep Freeze and the "Golden Child" Returns
    In this episode of Bonnie & Friends, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate the aftermath of a brutal three-day blizzard stretch that paralyzed the Red River Valley. The duo provides critical updates on road reopenings, including the long-awaited clearing of I-29, while warning listeners about a dangerous "Arctic plunge" bringing wind chills as low as 50 below zero. "Big Game" James McCarty makes his triumphant (and slightly sunburnt) return from a Florida vacation, sharing humorous tales of theme park lines and family "jabs" from his mother. Between serious reports on local crashes and fire crews battling blazes in whiteout conditions, the team finds time to celebrate Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday and debate the best ways to avoid awkward family get-togethers. Key Moments The Great Blizzard Recap: Bonnie and Jace discuss the "gross" weekend weather, noting that while only about two inches of snow fell, high winds created life-threatening visibility and "polished" road surfaces into glare ice. Highway 104: The team reacts to a shocking North Dakota State Patrol report of a driver cited for going 104 mph on a closed road with a juvenile in the vehicle during the storm. James’s Florida Fiasco: James McCarty recounts his travel woes, including flight delays in Chicago and his mother’s perfectly timed "one-liner" about his weight during a family margarita night. Dangerous Cold Ahead: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki warns that while the snow has stopped, a "deep freeze" is settling in, with actual air temperatures dropping to 30 below zero by the weekend. Family Get-Togethers: The hosts and callers tackle the "Question of the Morn," discussing whether they dread or look forward to family reunions, touching on everything from political rivalries to "living in a small house". The "Baywatch" Reboot: Bonnie tries to convince James to audition for the new Baywatch series in California, suggesting he could be the "comedic relief" or a beachside informant. Agricultural Strategies: Ag Director Bridgette Readel stops by to offer tips for farmers looking to lower their tax bills, including income averaging and donating commodities to charity. Ticket Giveaways: The show wraps up with a flurry of calls as listeners compete for tickets to the Red River Valley Boat and Marine Products Show.
    2 hr 21 min
  • 01-16-26 Bonnie & Friends: A High-Alert Morning in the Red River Valley
    In this intense morning broadcast, Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman track a fast-moving winter storm that has turned the region into a "sandstorm" of blowing snow and ice. The duo provides real-time updates as visibility drops to zero, semis pull off the interstates, and local schools—including West Fargo and Moorhead—move to late starts and e-learning days. Beyond the weather, the team covers significant local news, including the expanded search for missing woman Isadora Wengel and a bizarre situation involving the city of Horace’s sewage system. Between sports updates on the Timberwolves and Wild, they also find time to chat with Steve Carney about ice fishing safety and debate the merits of "soup-flavored" hard candy. Key Moments Zero-Visibility Alerts: Bonnie and Jace hear firsthand from "Road Warriors" and a truck driver named Trevor, who describes being "a sitting duck" near Gardner after eight semis were forced to pull over due to whiteout conditions. Safety Check with the State Patrol: Sergeant Jesse Grabo joins the show to confirm multiple jackknifed semis and vehicles in the ditch, urging listeners that if they don't have to be out, they should "stay the hell home." Search for Isadora Wengel: Fargo police expand their search area to include Otter Tail County, asking property owners to review surveillance footage for any signs of the missing 25-year-old. The Horace "Flushing" Fiasco: A strange and costly story emerges from Horace, where city pumps are being destroyed by residents flushing everything from mop heads and t-shirts to syringes. Ice Fishing and Equipment Failure: Steve Carney calls in to warn about shifting ice conditions due to the wind and shares a cautionary tale about the importance of carrying spare screws for your ice auger. The Friday Food Fight: Jace celebrates his sister's birthday by asking listeners for their favorite desserts, leading to a debate over "bump cakes" versus "bundt cakes" and whether anyone actually wants to try a beef-pot-roast-flavored throat drop. Sports Desk: Jace breaks down a tough loss for the Wild and looks ahead to the Timberwolves matchup in Houston, noting the team will have to manage without star Anthony Edwards.
    0 min
  • 01-15-26 Bonnie & Friends: Batten Down the Hatches
    Join Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman as they navigate a busy Thursday morning in the FM Metro. The team breaks down a serious weather shift heading for the region, with Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki warning of "whiteout conditions" and brutal wind chills on the way. Beyond the forecast, the duo covers local headlines ranging from a massive tire theft solved by social media to the retirement of a Minnesota sports legend. They also dive into the "Question of the Morning," which takes a hilarious (and slightly gross) turn into the realities of winter pet ownership. Whether you're looking for the latest Bison scores or advice on how to survive a "Blue Monday," this episode has you covered. Key Moments The Calm Before the Storm: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki provides a detailed look at the incoming winter system. While snow totals might be low, he warns that 45 mph gusts will turn the commute into a nightmare, potentially creating near-blizzard conditions across North Dakota and Minnesota. A Vikings Icon Retires: The sports desk discusses the end of an era as Detroit Lakes native Adam Thielen officially hangs up his cleats. Jace looks back at Thielen's incredible journey from a local tryout to becoming a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most beloved receivers in Vikings history. The Mystery of the "Turd-sickle": The "Question of the Morning" asks listeners what they've been doing outdoors lately. The conversation takes a relatable turn as Bonnie and listeners discuss the treacherous task of cleaning up frozen dog waste—or "turd-sickles"—stuck to the icy ground. Social Media Sleuths: A viral Facebook post helps Tennessee police crack a $24,000 tire theft case involving five teenagers. The team discusses how surveillance footage and a quick-thinking friend led to the recovery of 40 high-dollar truck tires. Dolly Parton & Blue Monday: The crew explores the "Blue Monday" phenomenon—the supposedly most depressing day of the year—and sends well-wishes to the incomparable Dolly Parton as she addresses fans about her health and her upcoming 80th birthday. What the Cow Says: Ag Director Bridget Readel joins the show to discuss fascinating new research from New Zealand using AI to translate cow "moos," aiming to help farmers identify animal stress and health issues before they become critical.
    2 hr 24 min
  • 01-14-26 Bonnie & Friends: Sourdough Fails, Slaying the Bucks, and the Landfill Search
    It’s a morning of high contrast on Bonnie and Friends as hosts Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a day that begins with a balmy 40-degree record morning high and ends with a plunge into sub-zero wind chills. The duo brings you critical updates on the search for missing West Fargo woman Isadora Wengel, where law enforcement has entered their fifth day scouring the local landfill for evidence. But the morning isn’t all heavy headlines—between Jace recapping a masterclass performance by the short-handed Timberwolves and Bonnie’s struggle with a "hot mess" DIY hand-knit blanket, this episode is the perfect mix of local grit and morning wit. Key Moments The Search for Isadora Wengel: Fargo and West Fargo Police issue a joint plea for residents and businesses to check their security cameras. The investigation has moved into its fifth day at the Fargo landfill, with authorities expressing grave concerns regarding potential foul play. Timberwolves Crush Milwaukee: Even without stars Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, the Wolves put on their best performance of the season, leading by as many as 41 points. Jace breaks down how rookie Joan Beranger stepped up big in the paint. Weather Whiplash: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki warns that the "party is over." After a spring-like morning, a cold front is crashing through the valley, bringing 40 mph wind gusts and a "near-blizzard" forecast for Friday. Baking Fails & New Skills: Bonnie and Jace dive into this morning’s question: "What would you like to learn how to do?" From mastering the drums to the complicated science of sourdough bread and Bonnie’s "hot mess" chunky blanket project, the crew explores the hurdles of learning as an adult. Vegas Qualifier & Fargo Force: Congratulations to Christina Magow from Glendon, who called in just in time to get qualified for the "Valentine’s Day in Vegas" giveaway. Plus, the show gives away tickets to the Fargo Force's upcoming home series against the Lincoln Stars. Bears Down, Packers Out: The hosts recap a wild NFL weekend, focusing on the Chicago Bears' stunning comeback over the Green Bay Packers and the upcoming divisional round matchups. The "Honey Bun" Myth: In a teaser for the Coffee Club, the crew discusses a bizarre report claiming that common breakfast items like honey buns and white bread could potentially trigger a breathalyzer test due to fermentation.
    2 hr 21 min
  • 01-13-26 Bonnie & Friends: Silver Snowflakes and Weather Whiplash
    Buckle up for a high-energy Tuesday on Bonnie and Friends! Hosts Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a day of major "weather whiplash," with temperatures hitting a record-breaking 40 degrees before crashing toward sub-zero wind chills. The duo covers heavy local headlines, including the latest in the search for missing West Fargo woman Isadora Wengel and the escalating federal immigration operations in the region. But it’s not all serious—the crew dives into the "Wild World of Weeds," explores the strictest DUI penalties in the nation, and welcomes West Fargo Parks and Recreation to discuss a massive city-wide scavenger hunt where silver snowflakes are worth cold, hard cash. Key Moments Investigation Update: Fargo Police Chief Dave Zabulski shares sobering updates regarding the disappearance of Isadora Wengel, noting a high concern for foul play as the investigation expands across the metro. The "Silver Snowflake" Hunt: Lance and Brooke from West Fargo Parks and Rec stop by to kick off "Winter Days." They reveal details about a high-stakes scavenger hunt featuring five hidden snowflakes worth $400 each—if you can decipher the daily clues. ICE Surges & Legal Battles: The team discusses the "largest immigration operation ever in Minnesota," which has led to a major lawsuit filed by Attorney General Keith Ellison against the federal government and reports of Native Americans being wrongfully detained. Weather Whiplash: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki warns of a 40-degree drop within 24 hours. He also teases a potentially nasty Friday, using the "B-word" (blizzard) to describe the incoming snow and 45 mph wind gusts. DUI Science & Stamps: The hosts explore which states have the toughest DUI laws and learn a new "word of the day"—philatelist—while discussing the upcoming Muhammad Ali commemorative postal stamp. Hardwood & Gridiron Recaps: Jace breaks down the Timberwolves' gutsy 104-103 win over the Spurs, fueled by an Anthony Edwards game-winner, and recaps the Houston Texans' dominant playoff victory over the Steelers. Canned Food Favorites: A lighter listener segment reveals the local obsession with canned favorites like split pea soup, spam, and even "kipper snacks," sparking a debate on which foods are pantry essentials and which are "hard passes."
    2 hr 17 min
  • 01-12-26 Bonnie & Friends: Landfills, Late Layups, and a 13-Pound Surprise
    Kick off your week with Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman as they navigate a mild but "ugly" Monday in the FM Metro. This episode covers heavy local headlines, including the expanded investigation into a missing West Fargo woman and the latest federal enforcement activity in the Twin Cities. On the lighter side, the duo dives into the tech world with Doosan Bobcat’s award-winning AI, a massive airline merger, and a Texas baby that’s already wearing three-month-old clothing. Whether it's high-stakes NFL playoff recaps or tips on how to declutter your "junk drawer" crawlspace, this episode has everything you need to start your work week. Key Moments Investigation Update: Fargo police expand their search for missing 24-year-old Isadora Wengel, executing warrants in South Fargo and focusing search efforts on specific areas of the local landfill. Federal Enforcement & Closures: Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem announces hundreds more agents are headed to Minneapolis, while local restaurants in Fergus Falls and Detroit Lakes cite ICE activity as the reason for sudden closures. Wemby vs. Ant-Man: Jace recaps a thriller on the hardwood where Anthony Edwards led a 19-point comeback for the Timberwolves, capped off by a game-winning drive against 7-foot-4 Victor Wembanyama. Tech & Travel Trends: Doosan Bobcat receives praise at CES for an AI platform designed to minimize repair downtime, while Sun Country and Allegiant Airlines announce a major merger. The 13-Pound Newcomer: A lighter look at a headline-grabbing birth in Arlington, Texas, where a mother gave birth to a baby weighing nearly 13 pounds—surprising doctors who expected a 10-pounder. Keeping Busy & Purging the Past: Listeners weigh in on winter projects, ranging from cross-stitching and sewing to the daunting task of cleaning out 40-year-old "junk" tucked away in crawlspaces. Kingpins & Coffee Club: Nader from Kingpins stops by to talk Sunday buffets and "Arcade Happy Hour," and the Coffee Club crew teases an upcoming deep dive into "As Seen on TV" products.
    2 hr 20 min
  • 01-09-26 Bonnie & Friends: Wallaby Paddles, Bone Temples, and the 10,000 Point Club
    It’s a packed "Finally Friday" on Bonnie and Friends! Hosts Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a whirlwind of local news, from Fargo’s latest push to address homelessness to a controversial update on a federal officer-involved shooting in Grand Forks. The show takes a turn for the bizarre with stories of a "bone-collecting" grave robber in Pennsylvania and an escaped South Carolina wallaby that found its way into a resident's swimming pool. Between debating the ethics of eating raw cookie dough in the "Friday Food Fight" and celebrating a major milestone for Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, this episode perfectly blends essential local updates with the strange-but-true stories that keep the FM Metro talking. Key Moments Fargo's State of the City: Mayor Tim Mahoney discusses plans to expand services for the homeless population, including a push for a larger downtown engagement center to better manage community needs. The "Bone Collector" Mystery: The crew dives into a chilling report from Pennsylvania where a man was found hoarding 100 sets of human remains in his basement and a storage unit, sparking a conversation on the "why" behind such a macabre hobby. Anthony Edwards Hits 10k: Sports Director Jace Denman recaps the Timberwolves' big win over Cleveland, highlighted by "Ant-Man" becoming the third-youngest player in NBA history to reach 10,000 career points. Wallaby in the Pool: A lighthearted look at an escaped exotic animal in South Carolina that survived its neighborhood jaunt by taking an accidental dip in a backyard swimming pool. Fishing Clear Ice with Steve Carney: Outdoor expert Steve Carney joins to discuss the "gin clear" ice on Big Stone Lake, advising anglers to remain completely silent while fishing for "spooky" walleye in shallow water. Friday Food Fight: Cookie Dough Edition: The hosts and listeners square off on a childhood classic: is it okay to eat raw cookie dough? Germ-freak Bonnie says "hard pass," while the rest of the crew defends the tradition. Vegas Bound: Michelle Angus of West Fargo calls in with just over a minute to spare on the clock to become the latest qualifier for the "Valentine’s Day in Vegas" giveaway.
    2 hr 19 min
  • 01-08-26 Bonnie & Friends: Deer in the Den, Drones in the Field, and the "U-Haul" Rush to Texas
    It’s a busy Thursday on Bonnie and Friends as hosts Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman navigate a mild January morning with big news for the Fargo-Moorhead area. The duo dives into the latest local headlines, including a major new subdivision near the Fargo Sports Complex and the growing "Border Battle" for residents as data reveals where Americans are moving (and which states they are fleeing). From the heart-pounding semifinals of the college football playoffs to a bizarre story about a deer trashing a Wisconsin basement, this episode blends essential local updates with the strange-but-true stories that keep the Midwest talking. Key Moments The Great Migration: Jace and Bonnie discuss the latest U-Haul moving data, revealing that Texas was the top destination for movers last year, while states like Illinois and California saw the largest mass exits. Intruder in the Basement: The crew recaps a chaotic scene in Wisconsin where a family returned home to find a deer had crashed through a window and lived in their basement for two days, leaving behind a trail of blood, broken glass, and quite a mess. Ag Update & Drone Bans: Ag Director Bridget Riedel joins the show to discuss a significant new ban on DJI drones due to national security concerns and offers expert advice for "chicken ranchers" looking to winterize their coops before the next cold snap. Fargo’s Growing Footprint: Details emerge on a massive new 153-acre development project South of 64th Avenue that will bring a mix of commercial, residential, and mixed-use spaces to the metro. The "Whack" Heard ‘Round the World: A look back at sports history marks the anniversary of the infamous Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding incident, sparking a debate on the most shocking moments in athletic history. Winter Road Hazards: A serious travel warning is issued for Northeastern North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota, where freezing rain has created ice-covered roads and "no travel" advisories in Pembina County. Vegas Bound: The show celebrates its first local qualifier for the "Valentine's Day in Vegas" giveaway, which includes a trip to see The Wizard of Oz at the spectacular Las Vegas Sphere.
    2 hr 17 min
  • 01-07-26 Bonnie & Friends: Bucket Lists, Blocked Kicks, and the Shaved Head Secret
    It is a mild Wednesday in January, and Bonnie Amistadi and Jace Denman are bringing the heat to WDAY Radio. With temperatures soaring toward an unseasonable 37 degrees, the duo dives into a packed morning featuring a history-making appointment to the North Dakota Supreme Court and a look at the future of the Fargo Mayor’s race. From heart-pounding sports recaps to a deep dive into listener bucket lists—ranging from African safaris to riding Harleys across the country—this episode balances local headlines with the kind of morning banter that makes your commute fly by. Key Moments Fargo’s Mayoral Shuffle: The political landscape is heating up as State Senator Josh Boshea officially enters the race for Fargo Mayor, joining Deputy Mayor Denise Kolpak in the bid to succeed the term-limited Tim Mahoney. A Milestone for Justice: History was made as Lisa Fair MacEvers was sworn in as the first female Chief Justice of the North Dakota Supreme Court, taking over the gavel from John Jensen. Overtime Heartbreak & Triumphs: The crew recaps a wild FCS Championship game where Montana State blocked two critical kicks to "walk off" Illinois State in a 35-34 overtime thriller. The Gobert Transformation: Jace and Bonnie notice a big change on the hardwood—Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert has shaved his head, and the team seems to be reaping the benefits after a dominant win over Miami. The Buckets and the Lists: Listeners weigh in on their ultimate life goals, leading to discussions about trips to London, spring training baseball, and even a "wild boar hunt" in Texas. The High-Powered Emu and Music Store Monkeys: The weird news segment delivers as the team discusses an emu named Kevin who went on the run in Arizona and a spicy Capuchin monkey named Cinnamon who trashed a Tennessee music store. Freezing for a Reason: Mark Simonet from the FM Legion Riders stops by to "nominate" Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki for the Tent Challenge—an awareness event for homeless veterans that involves spending two nights outside in the January cold.
    2 hr 21 min

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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!