🟢 Episode Summary:
Live from the SHIELDS parking lot in Fargo, The Jay Thomas Show dives headfirst into the Federal Premium Hunting Expo mayhem, duck calls, and the dog-jumping spectacle. But that’s just the surface. Jay tackles the heated local controversy surrounding swimmer’s itch at Pelican Lake, with science-backed insights from experts and impassioned calls from locals. Toss in speed limit enforcement drama, a Harley for sale, and an inspiring rescue story from Turtle Mountain Animal Rescue—this episode is an all-you-can-hear buffet of community talk, weather updates, and outdoor life in North Dakota.
🧑🤝🧑 Guests Featured:
-
Vinny “Hot Tub Vinny”, from Hot Springs Spas & Pool Tables Too
-
Dean Wysocki, WDAY Chief Meteorologist
-
Marjorie Matheson, Co-chair, Pelican Lake Swimmer’s Itch Task Force
-
Curtis Blakesmore, Leading Expert on Swimmer’s Itch Parasites
-
Keith Benning, Founder, Turtle Mountain Animal Rescue
-
Weston & Bella, SHIELDS Expo Coordinators
-
Austin Thornock, Co-owner, Colorado Custom Game Calls
-
Joshua & Brad, Local hunters and callers
🕰️ Timestamps & Standout Moments:
0:00 – Hot Tub Vinny kicks it off with spa talk and the Hot Springs experience
1:36 – Jay welcomes listeners from the SHIELDS hunting expo—it's packed!
4:30 – Swimmer’s Itch controversy erupts: listener emails spark debate
7:29 – Speed limit enforcement gets stricter—Highway Patrol cracks down
12:02 – Jay reminisces about Sturgis and biker culture
18:55 – Harley for sale: Jay shares details on Alex’s nearly-new ride
27:49 – Weston from SHIELDS previews the Hunting Expo deals and vendors
32:34 – Dock Dogs competition & how to register your jumping pup
38:04 – Turtle Mountain Animal Rescue story begins with Keith Benning
45:25 – Email frenzy: highway speed enforcement, swimmers itch feedback
50:24 – Jay dives into science: Marjorie and Curtis explain parasites & ducks
1:08:11 – Local duck hunters weigh in on relocating mergansers
1:31:32 – Keith Benning back on mic with incredible stories of rescue & community
1:49:17 – Expo deals & $7,000 in giveaways
1:52:23 – Austin from Colorado Custom Game Calls demos his calls live!
2:03:20 – Jay’s dog Morgan the bird-chasing Westie steals the show
🎧 Listener Perks:
-
Free entry to the Federal Premium Hunting Expo
-
$7,000+ in giveaways: shotguns, scopes, gift cards, and more
-
Live dock dogs competition
-
Meet expert vendors and try out top-tier gear
📝 Bonus Topics:
-
Pelican Lake swimmers itch research: new strains, ducklings, and snails
-
Law enforcement using drones to catch traffic infractions
-
Jay’s ongoing war with online commenters and misinformation
-
Forecasts for Derby Day, SHIELDS weekend, and Sturgis attendees
📢 Call to Action:
Share this episode with your favorite hunting buddy or lake neighbor. Got opinions on swimmer’s itch or want to weigh in on merganser ducks? Email us at studio@wdayradionow.com or call 701-293-9000 during the show.