In this Thursday episode, Kevin Flynn hosts solo for Scott Hennen (who is on a DC listener trip), with a special appearance by Jay Thomas. The discussion heats up over local Fargo politics, the massive Somali fraud case in Minnesota, and a judge who overturned a related conviction. They also delve into the legal controversy surrounding Fargo's needle exchange program.
Fargo/Minnesota Corruption & Fraud
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Needle Exchange Controversy (0:04:36 - 0:05:14): Fargo City Commissioner Michelle Turnberg's investigation reveals that the Harm Reduction Center has handed out over one million syringes in two years, with 300,000 unreturned. Kev and Jay criticize the program as "enabling" drug use.
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Massive Somali Fraud and Treason (0:06:55 - 0:08:16): Discussion turns to the widespread Somali fraud in Minnesota, noting the multiple-wives-and-benefits scam and a former TSA agent's claim of weekly cash-filled suitcases leaving the Minneapolis airport. A caller and the hosts link the activities of the Democratic Party and figures like George Soros to treason.
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Woke Judge Overturns Fraud Conviction (0:12:44 - 0:13:58): Jay Thomas and a texter discuss a "woke judge," Sarah West, in Minnesota who overturned a $7.2 million Medicaid fraud conviction against Fata Yusef and his wife, a decision that has sparked widespread outrage, with even Attorney General Ellison planning an appeal.
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The Problem with Fargo's Needle Program Legality (0:20:53 - 0:22:15): The hosts investigate the legality of the city distributing paraphernalia. Jay finds that state or local laws authorize syringe services programs (SSPs), providing an exemption for participants and staff from drug paraphernalia laws, a decision approved by Republican-led lawmakers in North Dakota.
Local Fargo & Regional Issues
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Fargo Mayor Mahoney's Failures (0:15:20 - 0:16:32): A caller criticizes Fargo Mayor Mahoney for "gone off the rails," particularly concerning his handling of the Harwood annexation issue with Applied Digital and pushing for a questionable $93 million "affordable living" apartment complex.
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Tyreek Jones Debacle (0:28:09 - 0:29:43): Kev and Jay discuss the Fargo police's handling of the multiple murder case prime suspect, Tyreek Jones. After four months in hiding, Jones was arrested, questioned, and released when his version of events matched security footage, despite having outstanding warrants.
🏒 Giveaways, Outdoors, and Culture
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UND Hockey Ticket Giveaway (0:01:46 - 0:02:19): Kevin announces a giveaway for UND Hockey tickets: a four-pack for Friday and a pair for Saturday. Listeners can text "Go Sioux" or "Sue Hockey Rocks" to 701-237-1590 to enter.
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Dean's Brutal Weekend Weather (0:10:07 - 0:11:06): Dean Wysocki, the chief meteorologist, reports that dangerous wind chills (20 to 35 below) will make Saturday "brutal" across the state, but temperatures will rebound to the 30s and 40s by early next week.
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The Wizard of Oz at The Sphere (0:30:19 - 0:30:52): Jay Thomas mentions his upcoming trip to Las Vegas to see "The Wizard of Oz" at the Sphere, noting the high-tech, immersive experience has received rave reviews.
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Lighthouse Commodities: Market Agent (0:39:13 - 0:41:40): Kevin talks with David Spickler of Lighthouse Commodities, who explains how his firm acts as an "agent" for farmers to help them navigate volatile grain markets, focusing on soybeans and corn.