Great Plains News Digest
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MINNESOTA
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US-FEMA Funds-Lawsuit-Immigration
Federal judge says Trump administration must restore disaster money to Democratic states
SUMMARY: A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to cut Homeland Security funding from states that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy ruled Monday in favor of 12 attorneys general who sued after their states faced reduced federal grants due to their “sanctuary” status. The Department of Homeland Security and FEMA had cut over $233 million from several states. McElroy found the funding cuts arbitrary and ordered their restoration. She emphasized the importance of the funding for law enforcement programs, especially after a recent shooting attack at Brown University. DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the department plans on fighting the order.
WORDS: 543 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:29 p.m. CST
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MISSOURI
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US–Election 2026 Redistricting
Voters sue to suspend Missouri’s new congressional map until a referendum
SUMMARY: Opponents of a new Missouri congressional map backed by President Donald Trump have filed a lawsuit asking a court to suspend the districts for the 2026 elections. Opponents submitted over 300,000 petition signatures earlier this month for a statewide referendum next fall. Election officials have until midsummer to review and verify the signatures. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway says the new districts became law on Dec. 11 and will remain in place unless the signatures are certified as insufficient. Opponents contend the new districts should have been suspended the moment the referendum petition was submitted. The court battle highlights the stakes involved in an ongoing nationwide redistricting battle.
WORDS: 584 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 1:32 p.m. CST
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US–Oklahoma-Bible Essay-Instructor
Oklahoma instructor removed from teaching for failing a Bible-based gender essay
SUMMARY: The University of Oklahoma has removed an instructor who was accused by a student of religious discrimination. The complaint from 20-year-old junior Samantha Fulnecky was over a failing grade on a psychology paper in which she cited the Bible and called promoting a belief in multiple genders “demonic.” The university said Monday that its investigation found that the graduate teaching assistant had been arbitrary in giving Fulnecky zero points on the assignment. The attorney for instructor Mel Curth said Tuesday in a statement that Curth denies being arbitrary. Fulnecky’s grade became a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over academic freedom on college campuses and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
WORDS: 566 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 2:32 p.m. CST
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NEBRASKA
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US–Former Senator-Cancer
Former Nebraska US Sen. Ben Sasse reveals advanced pancreatic cancer diagnosis
SUMMARY: Former Nebraska U.S. Senator Ben Sasse has announced his diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer. He shared the news on social media, revealing he learned of the disease last week. The 53-year-old Sasse resigned from the Senate in January 2023 to become the president of the University of Florida. He was a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and one of seven Republican senators to vote for Trump’s conviction after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Sasse expressed determination to fight the disease, highlighting advancements in immunotherapy and other treatments as part of his hope.
WORDS: 356 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 10:42 a.m. CST
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OKLAHOMA
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US–Oklahoma-Bible Essay-Instructor
Oklahoma instructor removed from teaching for failing a Bible-based gender essay
SUMMARY: The University of Oklahoma has removed an instructor who was accused by a student of religious discrimination. The complaint from 20-year-old junior Samantha Fulnecky was over a failing grade on a psychology paper in which she cited the Bible and called promoting a belief in multiple genders “demonic.” The university said Monday that its investigation found that the graduate teaching assistant had been arbitrary in giving Fulnecky zero points on the assignment. The attorney for instructor Mel Curth said Tuesday in a statement that Curth denies being arbitrary. Fulnecky’s grade became a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over academic freedom on college campuses and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
WORDS: 566 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 2:32 p.m. CST
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SPORTS
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KANSAS
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FBN–Michaels-Prime Time-40 Years
The voice of prime time football: Al Michaels is still going strong at 40 years of calling NFL games
SUMMARY: Al Michaels has reached a remarkable milestone in his broadcasting career, marking 40 years as the play-by-play announcer for the NFL’s primetime games. This season, his Christmas night game will be his 779th NFL broadcast. Michaels began his career with ABC’s “Monday Night Football” in 1986, and later moved to NBC for “Sunday Night Football.” He is now in his fourth season with Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.” Michaels, who turned 81 in November, shows no signs of slowing down. His passion and excitement for big games remain strong, making him a legendary figure in sports broadcasting.
WORDS: 1348 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:02 p.m. CST
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US–Christmas-Sports-How-To-Watch
Christmas Day sports: Here’s a look at the premier matchups on the holiday
SUMMARY: The evolution of the Christmas Day sports calendar in the U.S. has given fans a respite if they need a break from family gatherings or just some entertainment while they sip on eggnog. This year’s major events include five NBA games and three NFL games, with games spanning more than 12 hours. The NBA games include the Spurs at Thunder, Rockets at Lakers, Timberwolves at Nuggets, Cavaliers at Knicks and Mavericks at Warriors. In the NFL, it’s the Lions at Vikings, Broncos at Chiefs and Cowboys at Commanders.
WORDS: 652 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:35 p.m. CST
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FBN–Chiefs-Kelce
Travis Kelce’s possible final home game for the Chiefs: A bittersweet Christmas showdown
SUMMARY: Travis Kelce has played 96 regular-season home games for the Kansas City Chiefs. The next one might be his last. The 36-year-old Kelce, chosen for the Pro Bowl for the 11th time, will be at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday for a game against the Denver Broncos. With the Chiefs out of playoff contention, it could be his final appearance there. Kelce has not announced his retirement but plans to decide quickly after the season. He’s had a standout year, joining Jerry Rice as the only players with 800 yards receiving in 12 consecutive seasons.
WORDS: 602 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 1:19 p.m. CST
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MINNESOTA
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US–Christmas-Sports-How-To-Watch
Christmas Day sports: Here’s a look at the premier matchups on the holiday
SUMMARY: The evolution of the Christmas Day sports calendar in the U.S. has given fans a respite if they need a break from family gatherings or just some entertainment while they sip on eggnog. This year’s major events include five NBA games and three NFL games, with games spanning more than 12 hours. The NBA games include the Spurs at Thunder, Rockets at Lakers, Timberwolves at Nuggets, Cavaliers at Knicks and Mavericks at Warriors. In the NFL, it’s the Lions at Vikings, Broncos at Chiefs and Cowboys at Commanders.
WORDS: 652 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:35 p.m. CST
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FBN–Vikings-McCarthy
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy has a fractured throwing hand. Max Brosmer to start vs. Lions
SUMMARY: J.J. McCarthy has a hairline fracture in his throwing hand that will keep him out of Minnesota’s upcoming game against Detroit and make Max Brosmer the starting quarterback this week. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said further examination of McCarthy’s right hand revealed the small fracture. Initial X-rays at the stadium were negative for broken bones after McCarthy was injured late in the second quarter against the New York Giants and unable to properly grip the ball. Brosmer started for McCarthy on Nov. 30 at Seattle and threw four interceptions in a 26-0 loss. The Vikings host the Lions on Thursday.
WORDS: 491 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 2:33 p.m. CST
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BKN–Knicks-Timberwolves
Timberwolves beat Towns for first time as Edwards scores 38 points in 115-104 win over Knicks
SUMMARY: Anthony Edwards scored 38 points to help the Minnesota Timberwolves beat former teammate Karl-Anthony Towns for the first time and hold off the New York Knicks 115-104. Julius Randle had 17 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter and Rudy Gobert contributed 11 points, 16 rebounds and his reliably fierce rim protection as the Wolves won their 10th game in 12 tries. Towns scored a season-high 40 points before fouling out in the final minute for the Knicks in the absence of fellow All-Star Jalen Brunson. Tyler Kolek had 20 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists in Brunson’s place.
WORDS: 329 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 9:48 p.m. CST
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HKN–Predators-Wild
Steven Stamkos scores in OT to give the Predators a 3-2 win over the Wild
SUMMARY: 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. Ryan O’Reilly had a goal and an assist, Roman Josi also scored and Juuse Saros stopped 30 shots for the Predators, who have won three in a row and four of five. Brock Faber and Joel Eriksson Ek scored for the Wild, who have lost two straight following a seven-game win streak. Gustavsson made 26 saves.
WORDS: 276 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 9:58 p.m. CST
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MISSOURI
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FBN–Michaels-Prime Time-40 Years
The voice of prime time football: Al Michaels is still going strong at 40 years of calling NFL games
SUMMARY: Al Michaels has reached a remarkable milestone in his broadcasting career, marking 40 years as the play-by-play announcer for the NFL’s primetime games. This season, his Christmas night game will be his 779th NFL broadcast. Michaels began his career with ABC’s “Monday Night Football” in 1986, and later moved to NBC for “Sunday Night Football.” He is now in his fourth season with Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.” Michaels, who turned 81 in November, shows no signs of slowing down. His passion and excitement for big games remain strong, making him a legendary figure in sports broadcasting.
WORDS: 1348 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:02 p.m. CST
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US–Christmas-Sports-How-To-Watch
Christmas Day sports: Here’s a look at the premier matchups on the holiday
SUMMARY: The evolution of the Christmas Day sports calendar in the U.S. has given fans a respite if they need a break from family gatherings or just some entertainment while they sip on eggnog. This year’s major events include five NBA games and three NFL games, with games spanning more than 12 hours. The NBA games include the Spurs at Thunder, Rockets at Lakers, Timberwolves at Nuggets, Cavaliers at Knicks and Mavericks at Warriors. In the NFL, it’s the Lions at Vikings, Broncos at Chiefs and Cowboys at Commanders.
WORDS: 652 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:35 p.m. CST
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FBN–Chiefs-Kelce
Travis Kelce’s possible final home game for the Chiefs: A bittersweet Christmas showdown
SUMMARY: Travis Kelce has played 96 regular-season home games for the Kansas City Chiefs. The next one might be his last. The 36-year-old Kelce, chosen for the Pro Bowl for the 11th time, will be at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday for a game against the Denver Broncos. With the Chiefs out of playoff contention, it could be his final appearance there. Kelce has not announced his retirement but plans to decide quickly after the season. He’s had a standout year, joining Jerry Rice as the only players with 800 yards receiving in 12 consecutive seasons.
WORDS: 602 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 1:19 p.m. CST
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FBC–Missouri-Wilson-Lawsuit
Missouri linebacker Damon Wilson II accuses Georgia of illegal punishment in transfer portal lawsuit
SUMMARY: Missouri pass rusher Damon Wilson II claims Georgia’s athletic department is trying to illegally punish him for entering the transfer portal. He filed a lawsuit Tuesday in Boone County, Missouri. Wilson transferred to the Tigers last January after signing a 14-month deal with Georgia’s booster collective. He received $30,000 on a $500,000 deal before entering the portal. Georgia filed a lawsuit last month claiming Wilson owes $390,000 in damages for leaving. Wilson’s countersuit claims the damages are meant to punish him. Georgia spokesman Steve Drummond said the school had no comment due to pending litigation.
WORDS: 238 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 2:32 p.m. CST
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OKLAHOMA
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US–Christmas-Sports-How-To-Watch
Christmas Day sports: Here’s a look at the premier matchups on the holiday
SUMMARY: The evolution of the Christmas Day sports calendar in the U.S. has given fans a respite if they need a break from family gatherings or just some entertainment while they sip on eggnog. This year’s major events include five NBA games and three NFL games, with games spanning more than 12 hours. The NBA games include the Spurs at Thunder, Rockets at Lakers, Timberwolves at Nuggets, Cavaliers at Knicks and Mavericks at Warriors. In the NFL, it’s the Lions at Vikings, Broncos at Chiefs and Cowboys at Commanders.
WORDS: 652 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 12:35 p.m. CST
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BKN–Spurs Wembanyama
Wembanyama playing against Thunder after being listed as questionable
SUMMARY: San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama played against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night after being downgraded to questionable as he returns to full strength from a calf strain. San Antonio enters the matchup against Oklahoma City on a six-game winning streak, including a 111-109 victory over the Thunder on Dec. 11 in the NBA Cup semifinals. Wembanyama has played in five straight games, including the NBA Cup Final on Dec. 16, since missing 12 straight games with a left calf strain. San Antonio’s 124-113 loss to the New York Knicks for the NBA Cup title does not count in the standings or statistics.
WORDS: 274 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 6:30 p.m. CST
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BKN–Thunder Spurs
Spurs beat Thunder for second time in 11 days, storming to 130-110 victory behind Johnson, Castle
SUMMARY: Keldon Johnson had 25 points, Stephon Castle added 24 and the San Antonio Spurs stormed past Oklahoma City 130-110, winning their seventh straight game. Victor Wembanyama’s streak of consecutive games with at least one block ended at 101, but the Spurs were just happy to have him on the court after he was downgraded to questionable on Monday. Wembanyama finished with 12 points. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 33 points for Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City has lost three of five games since opening the season 24-1. The defending champions’ fourth loss this season was by far their worst, as the previous three were by two, two and five points.
WORDS: 346 – MOVED: 12/23/2025 10:13 p.m. CST
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