Stories from December 24, 2025

Is a plant-based diet right for you?
Plant-based diets are growing more popular. MPR News host Angela Davis revisits a conversation with the founder of the “Vegan Sexy Cool” podcast and a professor of nutrition about the benefits and challenges of going vegan.
North Carolina’s Lumbee Tribe receives full federal recognition after 137-year effort
The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has finally received full federal recognition, which it has sought since 1888. Tribal leaders were moved to tears after President Trump signed the measure.
Steven Stamkos scores in OT to give the Predators a 3-2 win over the Wild
Steven Stamkos scored 53 seconds into overtime to give the Nashville Predators a 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild. Stamkos got a step on his defender as he raced down the slot, and Erik Haula found him with a pass that Stamkos deflected past goalie Filip Gustavsson.
More than a third of states sue HHS over a move that could curtail youth gender-affirming care
Nineteen states, including Minnesota, and the District of Columbia have sued the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, its Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and its inspector general over a declaration that could complicate access to gender-affirming care for young people. 
Documents from the investigation into the Camp House Fire show that the man who started the destructive blaze left a small fire before it was completely extinguished. When he returned about three hours later, the fire had spread out of control.
Flu cases are surging in Minnesota this holiday season. Here's how to protect yourself
Doctors and public health officials warn the flu can cause serious symptoms and even death in the most vulnerable people, and they say it's not too late to get a flu shot. Here are their tips for staying safe over the holidays.
From dreams to sacred sites: Jim Bear Jacobs' commitment to storytelling, connection
Jim Bear Jacobs, citizen of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, has worked in racial justice for a decade and a half. But recent changes in federal policy have brought an end to his work with a local faith-based organization. Even so, Jacobs remains committed to the work spurred by dreams years ago.
St. Cloud nonprofit reports harassment wrongly linking it to fraud in state programs
The Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization says over the past three weeks, two men showed up at its office on different occasions, threatened staff and accused them of defrauding taxpayers.
‘Oh my God, this is really bad!’ New details reveal origins of destructive Camp House Fire
The man who pleaded guilty to starting the Camp House Fire left a campfire smoldering while he left to buy fishing bait. Some people whose homes were destroyed are still struggling to return.