For Jake Dunne, mornings at KWCH Channel 12 usually begin with forecasting Kansas weather. But behind the familiar face on Wichita television is a journey that spans several states, a life-altering medical emergency, and a mission to combat human trafficking.

A Wichita native, Dunne’s career has come full circle. He attended Kinsler Elementary, Wilbur Middle School, and Northwest High School before interning at KWCH in the 1990s under veteran meteorologists Merrill Teller and Mark Larson. That early experience launched a television career that would take him across the country—from South Carolina and the Rocky Mountains to Michigan and the Gulf Coast—before an unexpected opportunity brought him home.

In 2019, as Teller prepared to retire, Dunne said, "I just got this email that, you know, Merrill Teller was getting ready to retire, and they were curious if I wanted to come home. And, you know, this was the summer of 2019, and you know, the rest they say is history.

Dunne’s interest in meteorology began early, shaped by growing up in Kansas and a fascination with tracking temperatures and storms. 

"I mean, growing up in Kansas, I remember back in the day, would ride my bike during the afternoon, especially in the summer, to the local bank at the hottest part of the day and record the high temperature and log it." said Dunne.

Over the years, he refined his skills across dramatically different climates, from hurricanes along the Atlantic coast to complex mountain weather systems.

Today, Dunne explains that forecasting is a balance of science, mathematics, and communication. While modern computer models provide increasingly accurate data—often exceeding 95 percent accuracy within a 36-hour window—it is still the meteorologist’s job to interpret those models and tell a clear, engaging story for viewers, particularly during severe weather events.

A Medical Emergency That Changed Everything

On July 3, 2024, that routine was abruptly interrupted. Shortly after delivering a weather segment, Dunne experienced sudden dizziness, vision loss, and severe nausea while still in the studio. He was rushed to Wesley Medical Center and admitted to the neuro-trauma unit with stroke-like symptoms.

For more than a day, Dunne was unable to walk or see out of his right eye. Unsure if he would fully recover—or return to television—he faced what he describes as one of the most frightening moments of his life.

Within weeks, his symptoms resolved, and he returned to the air. But the experience sparked a new determination.

Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days

While recovering, Dunne made a decision that would redefine his outlook: if he could run again, he would compete in the World Marathon Challenge—seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days.

The challenge is as extreme as it sounds. Dunne logged nearly 200 miles in a single week, racing in conditions that ranged from subzero wind chills in Antarctica to 95-degree heat in Australia.&nbsp;

"We did Cape Town first and then flew to Antarctica and we did two marathons. I finished two marathons in less than 16 hours apart. So you talk about no recovery time. And Antarctica was miserable. The start time, temperature. We started at 1230 at night. It was nine degrees Fahrenheit, with the wind chill somewhere between minus 20 and minus 30-degrees." said Dunne.&nbsp;

Despite injuries and exhaustion, Dunne finished all seven races. He is now the only known runner from Kansas to complete the feat and one of fewer than 500 men worldwide to have done so.

Dunne’s challenge was about more than endurance. He partnered with ICT SOS, a Wichita-based nonprofit dedicated to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors.

The organization provides safe housing, counseling, education, and prevention outreach, particularly in communities along major interstate corridors such as I-35, I-70, and I-135—routes Dunne notes are frequently exploited by traffickers.

<a href="https://ictsos.org/">LINK: ICTSOS - Fighting Human Trafficking in Wichita</a>

<a href="https://www.brighthouseks.org/contact-us">Editor's note: Brighthouse here in Hutchinson helps victims of domestic abuse and human trafficking.&nbsp; Here's a link to their website.&nbsp;</a>

Funds raised through his global run continue to support ICT SOS’s work, and Dunne says he plans to advocate for the organization for as long as he is able.

In addition to his television career, Dunne is also a running coach, helping others train for everything from their first 5K to full marathons. He emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and gradual progression—advice shaped by decades of experience and reinforced by his own recovery.

For Dunne, running has become more than a sport. It is a vehicle for purpose, connection, and resilience.

From forecasting Kansas storms to racing across frozen ice and desert heat, Jake Dunne’s story is one of perseverance—and proof that sometimes the most powerful journeys begin after life forces you to stop, reflect, and start again.

KWCH Meteorologist Jake Dunne turns health scare into global running mission

One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Wednesday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Equinox driven by Joshua Mercer, 26, Newton, was southbound on U.S. 77 just north of Lyon Creek Road.&nbsp; The SUV left the roadway to the west, continued southbound in the ditch where it came to rest.

EMS transported Mercer&nbsp;to a Junction City hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Newton man injured following accident near Junction City

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Recent obituaries and service times

The smell of oven-fresh bread and the conversations around it have defined Cindy Falk’s career for 40 years. As she retires from Kansas Wheat, Falk leaves behind a legacy built on education, outreach and a strong connection between Kansas wheat farmers and the consumers who use their product.

Falk began working with the Kansas Wheat Commission in 1985 when she received a phone call, asking her to become a volunteer Speak for Wheat spokesperson. That role grew into a full-time career focused on promoting wheat foods, home baking and science-based nutrition through classrooms, fairs, test kitchens and national organizations.

A central part of Falk’s work was the Kansas Wheat Commission recipe booklet. Beginning in 1988, she contributed to 37 editions, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1966. The booklets became a widely recognized Kansas Wheat resource, distributed across Kansas and nationally to represent wheat farmers and Kansas agriculture.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this job, or I wouldn’t have continued for 40 years,” Falk said. “That one phone call truly changed my life.”

In addition to her work in Kansas, Falk played a major role in domestic wheat promotion through her leadership with the Wheat Foods Council. As public perceptions of grain foods shifted and fad diets gained attention, her priority continued to be science-based education and accurate nutrition information.

Raised on her grandparents’ wheat farm near Laclede, Kan., Falk brought a personal understanding of agriculture to every outreach effort. Whether working the Kansas State Fair booth or welcoming international visitors into the test kitchen, her goal was to help consumers better understand where wheat comes from.

“Consumers want to hear from the wheat farmer,” Falk said. “People like to ask questions and learn directly from the people involved.”

One of Falk’s most visible accomplishments was helping grow the Kansas Festival of Breads into the National Festival of Breads. What began as a state baking contest evolved into the nation’s only amateur yeast bread competition, drawing hundreds of entries from nearly every state and thousands of attendees during its in-person years in Manhattan. 

The event paired baking with education, giving finalists the opportunity to tour wheat farms, ride in combines during harvest and visit mills and elevators. Those experiences helped turn bakers into ambassadors for wheat and Kansas agriculture. The contest has continued as a fully remote baking competition. Participants submit recipes via email, and recipe testing and judging are conducted at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center in Manhattan, Kan. 

As Falk enters retirement, she plans to spend more time with family, travel and continue teaching baking and food skills in her community. While her role with Kansas Wheat is ending, her connection to the wheat industry remains strong.

Wheat Scoop: Cindy Falk - A lifetime of service defined by wheat

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Zachary	Lynn	Stinson	12/24/2025 1:02&nbsp;PM	Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction,				Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,				Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

Wallace	Dyrnell	Mitchell	12/25/2025 2:41&nbsp;PM	Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction,				Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Quintin	Lee	Nichols	12/24/2025 7:55&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Martin	Ramon	Duran	12/25/2025 8:28&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Micheal	Anthony	O'Bryan	12/25/2025 8:06&nbsp;PM	Operate a MV w/o a valid license,				Leave the scene of an accident; Injury or Property Damage &gt; $1000

Dustin	Ryan	Friesen	12/26/2025 12:06&nbsp;AM	Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

Daily Bookings

The McPherson Unified School District (USD 418) has finalized a two-part bond proposal that will appear on the March 3, 2026 election ballot, advancing a major facilities initiative designed to modernize schools, improve safety, and address aging infrastructure without—or with a targeted—tax increase.

The plan stems from the district’s Long-Range Facility Plan, adopted by the Board of Education following months of community engagement, data analysis and survey feedback. The proposal is separated into two questions to clearly communicate priorities and financial structure to voters.

Question 1, which is structured to be mill-rate neutral, asks voters to approve $62.5 million in funding for high-priority projects that will not increase the current school tax rate. Key components include:

District officials emphasize that this first phase focuses on the most urgent infrastructure needs while maintaining current tax rates by leveraging existing debt structures.

Question 2, contingent on the success of the first, would authorize $27 million and require a 4.75 mill increase—approximately $9.10 per month for the owner of a $200,000 home—toward broader districtwide improvements. These include:

According to the district’s materials, the two-question structure provides voters a direct choice on essential upgrades while showing how future improvements build upon the foundational work funded by Question 1.

USD 418 places two-question bond proposal on March ballot

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.Info forecast.</a>

Three-day Outlook

RICE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Thursday in Rice County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Ram 1500 driven by&nbsp;Layne A.&nbsp;Vaughan-Meier, 18, Lorraine, was southbound on 10th Road at Kansas 4 Highway four and one half miles east of Bushton. The driver missed the stop sign. The pickup struck struck the side of an eastbound 2025 Ford F250 driven by Gregory S. Akers, 68, Akers. After impact the Ford came toa rest in the south ditch, facing northeast.

EMS transported&nbsp;Vaughan-Meier and a passenger in the Ram Russell W. Lane, 18, Lorraine to&nbsp;Ellsworth County Medical Center. Akers and a passenger in the Ford were not injured. All four were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after Kan. teen driver missed stop sign

Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the southeast corner of Avenue C and South Main.

In 1885, a group of Hutchinson businessmen went to New York City to convince Jay Gould, president of the Union Pacific Railroad, to construct a connecting line from Hutchinson to Hoisington, where the Union Pacific main line ran.

This railroad was the second to arrive in Hutch and named the Wichita and Colorado Railroad. The first depot was on the southwest corner of Avenue G and Main. The first photo shows that first depot in 1888.

In 1900, the Avenue C and Main site was chosen for the new, now-named Missouri-Pacific Railway Depot. The second photo shows that impressive building in 1918.

The third photo shows the Cole Brothers Circus unloading at the depot in 1941.

The fourth photo shows one of the "Big Boy" steam locomotives at the depot in 1948.

About 1950, passenger service was discontinued and, in 1951, the top two floors were removed as usage declined.

About 1960, the Mo-Pac was absorbed into the Union Pacific system. The fifth photo shows what the building looked like afterward in 1960.

The sixth photo shows the building in 1976 being used just for freight.

In 1986, this building was razed. The seventh photo shows the land today at the crossing.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anchorinnhutch">Anchor Inn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Anchorawayhutch/">Anchor Away</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Missouri-Pacific Depot - Vol. 154

NEWTON, Kan. — USD 373 Newton Public Schools will ask voters on March 3, 2026, to approve a $50 million facilities improvement bond aimed at addressing aging infrastructure, safety upgrades and storm shelter needs across the district.

District officials said the proposed bond targets end-of-life roofing and HVAC systems, along with security improvements such as code-compliant storm shelters. Plans call for hardening existing shelters at elementary schools and constructing multiuse spaces at Cooper Early Education Center, Chisholm Middle School and Newton High School that would also serve as storm shelters while meeting other campus needs.

The proposal follows a facilities assessment and nearly yearlong planning process conducted with outside firm RSP and a committee of school and community representatives.

Newton High School would receive the largest share of improvements, including remodeling about 40 percent of interior classroom space. Projects would address removable walls, upgrade science labs and renovate culinary arts kitchens, all original to the 1970s, and include upgrades to the school pool. District officials said adding new culinary and science lab space would allow construction to proceed without disrupting classes and would enable classroom rotation during the school year.

At Chisholm Middle School, plans include upgrades to pod bathrooms and former locker room spaces, which date to the 1950s, in addition to new storm shelter additions.

Cooper Early Education Center would see a new classroom and conference space that doubles as a storm shelter, along with work on the slate roof, which dates to the 1930s.

Nearly all schools would receive HVAC and roof work. All elementary schools would get playground upgrades and, if funding allows, shade structures. Districtwide security upgrades would add interior intruder locks to classroom doors at all district-owned schools.

The bond would require a 4.3 mill increase, which district officials estimate would cost about $4.12 per month for a $100,000 home and $8.24 per month for a $200,000 home.

Facilities assessment documents, architectural renderings and building-by-building cost lists are available at <a href="http://www.usd373.org/bond2026">www.usd373.org/bond2026</a>.

The district has scheduled public tours and informational sessions ahead of the vote:

USD 373 to put $50 million bond before voters March 3, 2026

HARVEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle driven by Curtis Moss, 48, Lindsborg, was northbound in the left lane of Interstate 135 at E First Street in Newton.&nbsp; A southbound 2024 Ford Maverick driven by Brian Voth, 65, Newton, moved from the right lane to the left lane to pass another vehicle. The motorcycle rear-ended the pickup.

&nbsp;EMS transported Moss to Wesley Med Center. Voth was properly restrained and not injured. Moss was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after motorcycle rear-ends a pickup

COWLEY COUNTY —A suspect wanted for a shooting in Cowley County is finally in custody.

Earlier this month, police issued an arrest warrant and are asked the public for help to locate shooting suspect 25-year-old Levi Garwood, according to a statement from Winfield Police. The alleged crime occurred on November 22 near Main Street in Winfield. First responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and later to a hospital in Wichita.

Detectives conducted witness interviews and reviewed audio and video evidence before seeking a warrant through the Cowley County District Court. Just after 4:30p.m.&nbsp; December 23, Garwood was booked into the Cowley County jail, according to online jail records. He is being held&nbsp; on a $500,000 bomd on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp; Police have not released details of the arrest.

After hiding for a month, Kan. attempted murder suspect is in custody

SALINE COUNTY —Salina Police are asking the public for help to identifiy suspects in connection with three burglaries.

On December 19, business burglaries were reported at The Boy Scouts of America, 644 S. Ohio and All Eyes on You Salon, 905 E. Prescott, both in Salina.

The suspect made forced entry into both buildings. 

The suspect took numerous food items, cash, keys, plastic cups and a Boy Scout medal from the Scout building. Total damage and loss were valued at over $3,000. The suspect took&nbsp; multiple gift cards, cash, an HP laptop, and 24 necklace chains with connectors from All Eyes on You Salon. Total damage and loss were valued at over $4,000.

Also reported that same day was a residential burglary which occurred just a couple of blocks down from the salon in central Salina. 

The suspect entered an attached garage and stole a black Kastking tacklebox, a silver lighter, and a wallet. Total loss was valued at over $100. 

Recovered from the scene was a Boy Scout medal and several food items which had been stolen from the Boy Scouts of America.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS.

You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>.

You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2025-33993.

Police need help to ID suspect in central Kan. burglaries

SHAWNEE COUNTY. – On Saturday evening, December 20, at approximately 9 p.m., a Topeka Police Department officer was conducting a traffic stop at the intersection of SW 6th Street and SW Lane when a suspected impaired driver traveling at a high rate of speed rear-ended the patrol vehicle, according to a report released Friday by Topeka Police.

The crash resulted in minor injuries to the officer and an arrestee who were inside the patrol vehicle at the time of the collision. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital, treated for their injuries, and later released.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2023, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on roadways across the United States. These crashes—and the resulting loss of life—are entirely preventable.

Beginning Friday, December 26, 2025, through Thursday, January 2, 2026, the Topeka Police Department will participate in the statewide “Taking Down DUI” New Year’s safety enforcement campaign. During the enforcement period, TPD officers will focus on identifying impaired drivers and enforcing seat belt laws to help keep Topeka roadways safe throughout the holiday season.

This enforcement initiative is made possible through a Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

If you’re drinking, don’t drive. Responsible driving saves lives:

• Plan a safe ride home before celebrating. If you drink, don’t drive—use a rideshare service, taxi, or call a sober friend.

• If someone has been drinking, take their keys and help arrange a sober ride home.

• If you observe an impaired driver, call 911 to report it to local law enforcement.

Kan. officer, suspect injured after impaired driver struck patrol car

NEW YORK (AP) — Perry Archangelo Bamonte, longtime guitarist and keyboardist for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/50f12c2e4dc445949d535aef8f033eab">influential goth band</a>&nbsp;The Cure, has died. He was 65.

The band made the announcement on their official website on Friday.

“It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas,” the band wrote.

“Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, ‘Teddy’ was a warm hearted and vital part of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/goth-history-book-lol-tolhurst-cure-37451452c321455ea0c3c166a525d071">The Cure story,”</a>&nbsp;the statement continued. “Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed.”

Bamonte worked with the band in various roles from 1984 to 1989, including as roadie and guitar tech. He officially joined the band in 1990, when keyboardist Roger O’Donnell quit. It was then that he became a full-time member of the group, playing guitar, six-string bass and keyboard.

Having joined just after the band’s mainstream breakthrough, 1989’s “Disintegration,” Bamonte is featured on a number of The Cure’s albums, including 1992’s “Wish” — which features the career-defining hits ″Friday I’m in Love″ and “High” — as well as the 1996’s “Wild Mood Swings,” 2000’s “Bloodflowers” and 2004’s self-titled release.

Bamonte was fired from The Cure by its singer and leader Robert Smith in 2005. At that point in time, he had performed at over 400 shows across 14 years. Bamonte rejoined the group in recent years, touring with the band in 2022 for another 90 gigs.

In 2019, Bamonte was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/50f12c2e4dc445949d535aef8f033eab">inducted into the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame</a>&nbsp;alongside the rest of The Cure.

His last performance with the band was on Nov. 1, 2024 in London for a special one-off event to launch their latest album and first in 16 years, “Songs of a Lost World.” The concert was filmed for “The Cure: The Show of a Lost World,” a film released in cinemas globally this month. It is also available to purchase on Blu-ray and DVD.

The Associated Press&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cure-song-lost-world-album-review-5c94952a91e7bbde75d580ae8f4e0c27">described “Songs of a Lost World”</a>&nbsp;as “lush and deeply orchestral, swelling and powerful” — one of the best of the band’s career.

Perry Bamonte, guitarist and keyboardist for The Cure, dies at 65

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the casue of a house fire inKansas City, Missouri.

Just after 8a.m. December 23, KCFD companies were dispatched to a reported fire in the 5500 block of East 18th&nbsp;Street in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. On arrival, it was reported that a trailer camper and a house had heavy fire showing. Crews knocked down the flames on the exterior of the structure and made their way inside for an aggressive interior attack.

Multiple hose lines were used to extinguish the fires, which was brought under control at 8:24 a.m. Searches throughout the structure were performed and came back all clear. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

Cause of Kansas City house fire under investigation

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — To tax tips or not? That is a question that will confront lawmakers in states across the U.S. as they convene for work next year.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump’s administration</a>&nbsp;is urging states to follow its lead by enacting a slew of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-republican-trump-tax-bill-f65be44e1050431a601320197322551b">new tax breaks</a>&nbsp;for individuals and businesses, including deductions for tips and overtime wages, automobile loans and business equipment.

In some states, the new federal tax breaks will automatically apply to state income taxes unless legislatures opt out. But in many other states, where tax laws are written differently, the new tax breaks won't appear on state tax forms unless legislatures opt in.

In states that don't conform to the federal tax changes, workers who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-taxes-tips-overtime-restaurants-a8cafab342a569080fabaa27b122b52b">receive tips or overtime</a>&nbsp;— for example — will pay no federal tax on those earnings but could still owe state taxes on them.

States that embrace all of Trump's tax cuts could provide hundreds of millions of dollars of annual savings to certain residents and businesses. But that could financially strain states, which are being hit with higher costs because of new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-bill-medicaid-snap-food-trump-congress-4e1826a670b5eb2b802f08adc1c325a2">Medicaid and SNAP food aid requirements</a>&nbsp;that also are included in the big bill Trump signed.

Most states begin their annual legislative sessions in January. To retroactively change tax breaks for 2025, lawmakers would need to act quickly so tax forms could updated before people begin filing them. States also could apply the changes to their 2026 taxes, a decision requiring less haste.

So far, only a few states have taken votes on whether to adopt the tax breaks.

“States in general are approaching this skeptically," said Carl Davis, research director at the nonprofit Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.

Trump's treasury presses states to `immediately conform'

A bill Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sign-tax-cut-bill-july-4-3804df732e461a626fd8c2b43413c3f0">signed on July 4</a>&nbsp;contains about $4.5 trillion of federal tax cuts over 10 years.

It creates temporary tax deductions for tips, overtime and loan interest on new vehicles assembled in the U.S. It boosts a tax deduction for older adults. And it temporarily raises cap on state and local tax deductions from $10,000 to $40,000, among other things. The law also provides numerous tax breaks to businesses, including the ability to immediately write off 100% of the cost of equipment and research.

Forty-one states levy individual income taxes on wages and salaries. Forty-four states charge corporate income taxes.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent this month called on those states “to immediately conform” to the federal tax cuts and accused some Democratic-led states that haven't done so of engaging in "political obstructionism.” Though Bessent didn't mention it, many Republican-led states also have not decided whether to implement the tax deductions.

“By denying their residents access to these important tax cuts, these governors and legislators are forcing hardworking Americans to shoulder higher state tax burdens, robbing them of the relief they deserve and exacerbating the financial squeeze on low- and middle-income households,” Bessent said.

But some tax analysts contend there's more for states to consider. The tax break on tips, for example, could apply to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/09/22/2025-18278/occupations-that-customarily-and-regularly-received-tips-definition-of-qualified-tips">nearly 70 occupation fields</a>&nbsp;under a proposed rule from the Internal Revenue Service. But that would still exclude numerous low-wage workers, said Jared Walczak, vice president of state projects at the nonprofit Tax Foundation.

“Lawmakers need to consider whether these are worth the cost,” Walczak said.

Only a few states offer tax breaks for tips and overtime

Because of the way state tax laws are written, the federal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-tax-tips-trump-workers-restaurants-182a89e3dc5c1da51fcd3ad1aadc571f">tax breaks for tips</a>&nbsp;and overtime wages would have carried over to just seven states — Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon and South Carolina. But Colorado opted out of the state tax break for overtime shortly before the federal law was enacted.

Michigan this fall became first — and, so far, only — state to opt into the tax breaks for tips and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-taxes-social-security-overtime-tariffs-989016ef41dc1533b05d1871d69c03ff">overtime wages</a>, effective in 2026. The overtime tax exemption is projected to cost the state nearly $113 million and the tips tax break about $45 million during its current budget year, according to the state treasury department.

Michigan lawmakers offset that by decoupling from five federal corporate tax changes the state's treasury estimated would have reduced Michigan tax revenues by $540 million this budget year.

Republican state Rep. Ann Bollin, chair of the Michigan House Appropriations Committee, said the state could not afford to embrace all the tax cuts while still investing in better roads, public safety and education.

“The best path forward is to have more money in people’s pockets and have less regulation — and this kind of moved in that direction,” she said.

Arizona could be among the next states to act. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs has called upon lawmakers to adopt the tax breaks for tips, overtime, seniors and vehicle loans, and follow the federal government by also increasing the state's standard deduction for individual income taxpayers. Republican state House leaders said they stand ready to pass the tax cuts when their session begins Jan. 12.

Several states have rejected corporate tax breaks

In addition to Michigan, lawmakers in Delaware, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island have passed measures to block some or all of the corporate tax cuts from taking effect in their states.

A new Illinois law decoupling from a portion of the corporate tax changes could save the state nearly $250 million, said Democratic state Sen. Elgie Sims, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. He said that could help ensure continued funding for schools, health care and vital services.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/j-b-pritzker">Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker</a>, an outspoken Democratic opponent of Trump, also cited budget concerns for rejecting the corporate tax cut provision. He said states already stand to lose money because of other provisions in Trump's big bill, such as a requirement to cover more of the costs of running the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

“The decoupling is an effort to try to hold back the onslaught from the federal government to make sure that we can support programs like the one we’re announcing today,” Pritzker told reporters at a December event publicizing a grant to address homelessness in central Illinois.

US Treasury wants more states to embrace Trump's tax cuts. So far, only a few have done so

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with a burglary.

On November 7, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of criminal damage and burglary to a vehicle in the City of Delia, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified as Shaun Justin Barber, 41, of Delia.&nbsp; Deputies developed probable cause to search a residence and received a search warrant for 203 East Street in Delia where the suspect was believed to be staying. 

Deputies seized illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia from the residence.&nbsp; The suspect was not present and a warrant was issued for his arrest.&nbsp; On December 22, 2025, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and arrested him on the outstanding Jackson County warrant.&nbsp; 

Barber was transferred to Jackson County where he was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Deputies capture Kan. suspect wanted for November burglary 

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/charleyduffin/">Charley Duffin</a>

When Jan. 1 rolls around, Missouri’s minimum wage will increase from $13.75 to $15 an hour, putting the state ahead of many others.

The Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations announced that the minimum wage is set to increase by $1.25 beginning in 2026. The minimum wage rate will be in effect for all non-exempt employers.

Missouri’s HB 567, signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe into law on July 10, repealed statewide earned paid sick time while simultaneously modifying the state’s minimum wage law.

It eliminated the automatic inflation adjustments that were set to begin in 2027 and kept the $15 per hour rate for public employers. However, it is also removing voter-approved worker protections for businesses as of Aug. 28.

Lily Roberts is the managing director of economic policy at the Center for American Progress, a nonpartisan economic policy institute. She said conversations about adjusting the minimum wage reflect rising prices that have increased in recent years.

“Everybody can tell you about inflation, and everybody can tell you about the cost of rent or groceries or childcare being really expensive, but the flip side of that is wages,” Roberts said. “There are many folks who are worse off and less able to keep up with those raising prices because a major pillar of how we make wage policy hasn’t been changed since 2009.”

The federal minimum wage is $7.25 and it hasn’t been adjusted since 2009, which Roberts said is the longest it’s gone unchanged since the introduction of minimum wage in 1938.

“$7.25 is so unbelievably low that many people don’t even believe that it’s still that low,” Roberts said.

In Missouri, employers who are involved in retail or service businesses and have an annual gross income less than $500,000 are exempt from having to pay the state minimum wage rate. Instead, those employers can pay their workers any wage at their discretion, according to the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations.

Roberts said Missouri is unique in the fact that it raised its minimum wage to reflect inflation numbers, but when the state implements a $15 an hour minimum wage, it is no longer required to factor in inflation.

Between 2015 and 2019, Missouri’s minimum wage rose just under a dollar, from $7.65 to $8.60. Since 2019, the increase has been at least $0.75 annually every year except for 2023. The $1.25 jump will be the second straight year that the minimum wage has increased by more than a dollar.

Missouri is one of 34 U.S. states, territories and districts that has a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement.

Roberts said Missouri is in line with nearby states, such as South Dakota, Nebraska and Arkansas. All of those states, plus Missouri, have consistently been working on increasing their respective minimum wages.

“Some of them are doing it gradually over time to get to ($15 an hour) and others are passing individual laws,” Roberts said. “These longer-term predictable changes are really the trend right now, where you give businesses and employees a sense of how their wages will grow over time, and it means that it’s easier to predict and easier for employers to budget for.”

She said business owners are often fighting for higher wages, contrary to popular belief, because they need to be able to compete.

“The higher your wages that you pay, in general, the lower your turnover is,” Roberts said. “So businesses that pay really small dollars tend to have a lot of turnover. It actually gets really counterproductive and expensive very quickly because the business owner has to spend all of their time hiring, training and trying to retain folks.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/missouri-minimum-wage-set-to-increase-over-a-dollar-in-2026/article_3d33d784-f2f7-4fb3-a7a7-34fe23712ad8.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>.&nbsp;

Missouri minimum wage set to increase over a dollar 

WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;— The Wichita Police Department arrested an 18-year-old after he shot and critically injured another 18-year-old Tuesday night inside a south Wichita home.

Officers responded to a report of a shooting around 10 p.m. Dec. 23 in the 3600 block of South Eisenhower Court and found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body.&nbsp;

Investigators determined the victim was in the basement with a friend showing him two firearms. During the interaction, the friend reportedly pointed one of the firearms at the victim and fired, striking him.&nbsp;

The victim was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old suspect was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a charge of aggravated battery.&nbsp;

“Tragically we have another incident where we have two young adults playing with a firearm not practicing responsible gun ownership or handling,” Police Chief Joe Sullivan said. “It is tragic that at this time of year when families are supposed to be celebrating this joyous holiday season coming two families lives have forever been changed.”&nbsp;

Kan. teen jailed after accidental shooting critically injures teen

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-islamic-state-nigeria-43478823f0562cafc527fad1448a0542">The United States airstrikes</a>&nbsp;that targeted Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria’s on Thursday marked a major escalation in an offensive that Nigeria’s overstretched military has struggled with for years.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on social media that the “powerful and deadly” strikes in Sokoto state were carried out against Islamic State militants “targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians.”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nigeria-christian-muslim-killings-kidnapping-trump-af57834a1ce47488397bf07931b5cf51">Residents and security analysts have said</a>&nbsp;Nigeria’s security crisis affects both Christians, predominant in the south, and Muslims, who are the majority in the north.

Nigeria, which is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nigeria-killings-bandits-insecurity-tinubu-13ca838d972feb44e2c2006524a3e259">battling multiple armed groups</a>, said the U.S. strikes were part of an exchange of intelligence and strategic coordination between the two countries.

The Associated Press could not confirm the extent of the strikes’ impact. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a post on X about the airstrikes, said: “More to come...”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nigeria-abduction-gunmen-kaduna-2b5537957ce605ca06576d99a0756901">The armed groups</a>&nbsp;in Africa’s most populous country include at least two affiliated with the Islamic State — an offshoot of the Boko Haram extremist group known as the Islamic State West Africa Province in the northeast, and the lesser-known Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) known locally as Lakurawa and prominent in the northwest.

Although officials did not say exactly which group was targeted, security analysts said the target, if indeed against Islamic State militants, was likely members of Lakurawa, which became more lethal in border states like Sokoto and Kebbi in the last year, often targeting remote communities and security forces.

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