Max Armstrong offers a look at a January 1 event in several states - a boost to the minimum wage. Twenty states will boost wages for workers including several Midwest states. He explores how those increases impact retailers. The winter meeting season starts right after the start of the New Year. And Max shares that this last week of the year has been filled with year-end requests for charities - and he advises you check out any charity where you donate. He notes that several groups may not have an agenda that agrees with you. He also suggests some others to consider.

Midwest Digest is a twice-daily look at news from around the Midwest. Veteran broadcaster Max Armstrong offers news and commentary for the region.