Bonnie and Jace are back at the WDAY studios, and while the morning starts with a deceptive calm and melting snow, there is a "dumpster fire" of a weather day on the horizon. From looming blizzard warnings to the best holiday treats across the Midwest, this episode of Bonnie and Friends covers everything from community safety to the ultimate Christmas playlist.
Episode Highlights
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The Calm Before the Storm: Chief Meteorologist Dean Wysocki breaks down a massive clipper system moving in from Canada. While today offers a high of 37 degrees, tonight brings rain that will flash-freeze into a "skating rink" before turning into a high-wind snow event. The message is clear: if you don't have to travel tomorrow, stay home.
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Clay County Pay Raises: The team discusses the latest news regarding the Clay County Commissioners' approval of significant pay increases for the Sheriff and County Attorneys, including a 10% raise for Sheriff Mark Emting—the first he’s requested in eight years.
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The Great Grinch Debate: In honor of the Question of the Morning, Bonnie and Jace dive deep into their favorite Christmas songs and movies. The discussion sparks a trip down memory lane regarding the three versions of "The Grinch," Jim Carrey’s over-the-top acting, and why "Silent Night" remains the most recorded holiday song in history.
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Targeting Gun Violence: Governor Tim Walz has signed a new executive order to lower gun violence. We look at the formation of a statewide safety council designed to tackle mass violence and domestic terrorism through a collaborative approach involving law enforcement and mental health experts.
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The Ultimate Holiday Menu: Jace and Bonnie explore a state-by-state list of popular holiday dishes. While Minnesotans apparently love their Christmas wreaths (the cookie kind, not the decor), North Dakotans are holding strong with lefse, though the team is skeptical of some "Google Trends" claiming Nevada’s favorite dish is beef stew.
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Meat Raffles and Mystery Bags: Crash calls in to promote the final meat raffle of the year at the Wild Rice Bar and Grill, benefiting the Veterans Honor Flight. He reveals the "Mystery Meat" bags provided by Meats by John & Wayne and the massive 11-pound slabs of bacon up for grabs.
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Innovation on the Farm: WDAY Ag Director Bridgette Readel joins the show from Sioux Falls to talk about the history of tractor innovation, from the first "auto mower" in 1900 to the high-tech swarm of autonomous drones and laser readers shaping the future of the field.
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A "High" School Surprise: The crew shares a bizarre story out of California where a box of "free weed" was left on a sidewalk right next to a high school's Christmas tree fundraiser. As Jace notes, "Surprises are for stockings, not sidewalks."