<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By HALELUYA HADERO The Associated Press</a>

With President-elect Donald Trump adding uncertainty around whether a TikTok ban will go into effect, the focus is now turning to companies like Google and Apple that are expected to take the popular video sharing app&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-vpn-supreme-court-b4f79b099bb9de11541e9239899cbfff">off their platforms in just two days.</a>

Though the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-tiktok-china-security-speech-166f7c794ee587d3385190f893e52777">Supreme Court on Friday unanimously upheld</a>&nbsp;a federal law that could ban TikTok nationwide, it’s unclear how a shutdown of the popular social media platform will play out and what Americans will see when the clock strikes midnight on Sunday.

The court decision comes against a backdrop of unusual political agitation by Trump, who vowed that he could negotiate a solution after he takes office, and the administration of President Joe Biden, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-trump-executive-order-1e95d9836bf6f8c0c245ed1c3234d968">has signaled it won’t enforce the law</a>&nbsp;beginning Sunday, his final full day in office. Now, tech observers — and some users — are intently watching to see what happens over the weekend and beyond.

“We’re really in uncharted territory here in terms of tech policy,” said Sarak Kreps, the director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute.

Under the law, mobile app stores — like the ones operated by Apple and Google — and internet hosting services will face major fines if they continue to distribute the platform to U.S. users beyond the deadline for divestment from ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company. The companies could pay up to $5,000 for each user who continues to access TikTok, meaning penalties could total to a large sum.

Late Friday night, TikTok posted a statement on X saying that “the Biden White House and the Department of Justice have failed to provide the necessary clarity and assurance to the service providers that are integral to maintaining TikTok’s availability to over 170 million Americans.”

“Unless the Biden Administration immediately provides a definitive statement to satisfy the most critical service providers assuring non-enforcement, unfortunately TikTok will be forced to go dark on January 19,” it said.

Experts have noted TikTok’s app should remain available for current users, but existing ones will no longer be able to update it, making it unusable in the long term.

Trump’s national security adviser has signaled this week that the incoming administration may take steps to “keep TikTok from going dark,” though what that looks like — and if any of those steps can withhold legal scrutiny — remains unclear.

“My decision on TikTok will be made in the not-too-distant future, but I must have time to review the situation,” Trump said Friday in a post on Truth Social after the court’s ruling. Earlier in the day, he said in another post that TikTok was among the topics in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-inauguration-china-us-782413bbc4ca5e06c9e39ce9ae151ea2">his conversation with Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>.

In the meantime, some of the attention has turned to tech companies, such as Apple, Google and Oracle, who currently offer TikTok on their app stores or host company data on their servers.

Tech CEOs have been attempting to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-big-tech-ceo-donations-visits-1ddf9464047b519abe5593244be488d9">forge friendlier ties with Trump</a>, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-supreme-court-trump-b96013a8447e9bdb5508ebe436aadf9a">wants to put the TikTok ban on hold</a>, since he was elected in November. But Kreps said it would “defy credulity” for them to continue to offer TikTok, even if they want to please Trump, since it would open them up to punitive fines.

Tech companies are also used to removing apps at the behest of governments. In 2023, Apple says it removed nearly 1,500 apps globally. Nearly 1,300 of the apps were taken down in China.

“Penalties for companies like Apple and Google could run as high as $850 billion,” Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., wrote on X on Thursday, while referring to the U.S. TikTok law. “Not sure I’d take a politician’s word if I ran those companies.”

Meanwhile, David Choffnes, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University in Boston, said he believes there’s a “small chance” that nothing happens to TikTok, but acknowledged that would require “enormous risk on the on the part of the companies that support them.”

Apple, Google and Oracle did not respond to questions sent this week about their plans on TikTok.

In a video after the court ruling, TikTok CEO Shou Chew, who is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration and be granted a prime seating location on the dais, thanked the president-elect for “his commitment to work” with TikTok to “find a solution” that keeps the platform available.

“We are grateful and pleased to have the support of a president who truly understands our platform — one who has used TikTok to express his own thoughts and perspectives, connecting with the world and generating more than 60 billion views of his content in the process,” Chew said.

Earlier this week, TikTok told its U.S. employees that its offices would remain open for work even if the “situation” won’t be resolved by Sunday. In the memo, which was first reported by The New York Times and confirmed by the company, TikTok told workers that their “employment, pay and benefits” were secure, adding that the law was written in a way that impacts the U.S. user experience, not the entities that employ them.

Meanwhile, in a letter sent Friday to Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland, an attorney for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-creators-sue-ban-bytedance-3324b0fee4473f6e05c5c51ae5ff6946">TikTok creators who sued the government</a>&nbsp;asked the administration to pause enforcement of the law “until there is further definitive guidance.”

“In addition, we request that you clarify that no app store, internet hosting service, or other provider faces any risk of enforcement or penalties with respect to TikTok, CapCut, or any other ByteDance apps, until such further guidance has been issued,” said the letter by attorney Jeffrey Fisher.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By HALELUYA HADERO The Associated Press</a>With President-elect Donald Trump adding uncertainty around whether a TikTok ban will go into effect, the focus is now turning to companies like Google and Apple that are expected to take the popular video sharing app&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-vpn-supreme-court-b4f79b099bb9de11541e9239899cbfff">off their platforms in just two days.</a>Though the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-tiktok-china-security-speech-166f7c794ee587d3385190f893e52777">Supreme Court on Friday unanimously upheld</a>&nbsp;a federal law that could ban TikTok nationwide, it’s unclear how a shutdown of the popular social media platform will play out and what Americans will see when the clock strikes midnight on Sunday.The court decision comes against a backdrop of unusual political agitation by Trump, who vowed that he could negotiate a solution after he takes office, and the administration of President Joe Biden, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-trump-executive-order-1e95d9836bf6f8c0c245ed1c3234d968">has signaled it won’t enforce the law</a>&nbsp;beginning Sunday, his final full day in office. Now, tech observers — and some users — are intently watching to see what happens over the weekend and beyond.“We’re really in uncharted territory here in terms of tech policy,” said Sarak Kreps, the director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute.Under the law, mobile app stores — like the ones operated by Apple and Google — and internet hosting services will face major fines if they continue to distribute the platform to U.S. users beyond the deadline for divestment from ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company. The companies could pay up to $5,000 for each user who continues to access TikTok, meaning penalties could total to a large sum.Late Friday night, TikTok posted a statement on X saying that “the Biden White House and the Department of Justice have failed to provide the necessary clarity and assurance to the service providers that are integral to maintaining TikTok’s availability to over 170 million Americans.”“Unless the Biden Administration immediately provides a definitive statement to satisfy the most critical service providers assuring non-enforcement, unfortunately TikTok will be forced to go dark on January 19,” it said.Experts have noted TikTok’s app should remain available for current users, but existing ones will no longer be able to update it, making it unusable in the long term.Trump’s national security adviser has signaled this week that the incoming administration may take steps to “keep TikTok from going dark,” though what that looks like — and if any of those steps can withhold legal scrutiny — remains unclear.“My decision on TikTok will be made in the not-too-distant future, but I must have time to review the situation,” Trump said Friday in a post on Truth Social after the court’s ruling. Earlier in the day, he said in another post that TikTok was among the topics in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-inauguration-china-us-782413bbc4ca5e06c9e39ce9ae151ea2">his conversation with Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>.In the meantime, some of the attention has turned to tech companies, such as Apple, Google and Oracle, who currently offer TikTok on their app stores or host company data on their servers.Tech CEOs have been attempting to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-big-tech-ceo-donations-visits-1ddf9464047b519abe5593244be488d9">forge friendlier ties with Trump</a>, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-supreme-court-trump-b96013a8447e9bdb5508ebe436aadf9a">wants to put the TikTok ban on hold</a>, since he was elected in November. But Kreps said it would “defy credulity” for them to continue to offer TikTok, even if they want to please Trump, since it would open them up to punitive fines.Tech companies are also used to removing apps at the behest of governments. In 2023, Apple says it removed nearly 1,500 apps globally. Nearly 1,300 of the apps were taken down in China.“Penalties for companies like Apple and Google could run as high as $850 billion,” Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., wrote on X on Thursday, while referring to the U.S. TikTok law. “Not sure I’d take a politician’s word if I ran those companies.”Meanwhile, David Choffnes, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University in Boston, said he believes there’s a “small chance” that nothing happens to TikTok, but acknowledged that would require “enormous risk on the on the part of the companies that support them.”Apple, Google and Oracle did not respond to questions sent this week about their plans on TikTok.In a video after the court ruling, TikTok CEO Shou Chew, who is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration and be granted a prime seating location on the dais, thanked the president-elect for “his commitment to work” with TikTok to “find a solution” that keeps the platform available.“We are grateful and pleased to have the support of a president who truly understands our platform — one who has used TikTok to express his own thoughts and perspectives, connecting with the world and generating more than 60 billion views of his content in the process,” Chew said.Earlier this week, TikTok told its U.S. employees that its offices would remain open for work even if the “situation” won’t be resolved by Sunday. In the memo, which was first reported by The New York Times and confirmed by the company, TikTok told workers that their “employment, pay and benefits” were secure, adding that the law was written in a way that impacts the U.S. user experience, not the entities that employ them.Meanwhile, in a letter sent Friday to Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland, an attorney for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-creators-sue-ban-bytedance-3324b0fee4473f6e05c5c51ae5ff6946">TikTok creators who sued the government</a>&nbsp;asked the administration to pause enforcement of the law “until there is further definitive guidance.”“In addition, we request that you clarify that no app store, internet hosting service, or other provider faces any risk of enforcement or penalties with respect to TikTok, CapCut, or any other ByteDance apps, until such further guidance has been issued,” said the letter by attorney Jeffrey Fisher.

What will happen to TikTok on Apple and Google's app store on Sunday?

TOPEKA, Kan. -&nbsp;The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams made an impressive start to the new year as the indoor season rolled on at the Washburn Rust Buster on Friday. Numerous Tigers claimed top-10 finishes, while five recorded NCAA Division II national qualifying marks.

The men's team had several standout performances, including three national qualifying marks.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;improved his national qualifying time in the 60-meter dash, placing&nbsp;fifth with a time of 6.83. The senior later finished in second place in the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.53, achieving another national qualifying mark in the process.

Senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;delivered the other national qualifying performance, winning the pole vault with a top clearance of 16-6.75.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/christian-darrah/8512">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;also secured an individual title, placing first in the 3,000-meter run with an impressive time of 8:26.46. He was closely followed by teammate&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8499">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>, who secured second place with a time of 8:27.39.

The Tigers showcased their depth in the 200-meter dash, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;tying for eighth place at 21.89.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;followed in 10th place, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;finished in 11th and 12th, respectively.

Clark's success in the field was complemented by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>, who placed third in the long jump with a leap of 23-5.25. Churchman also excelled on the track, finishing seventh in the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 8.58.The women's team delivered equally strong performances, led by two national qualifying performances in field events.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/annabeth-baalmann/8389">Annabeth Baalmann</a>&nbsp;cleared the national qualifying threshold in the pole vault for the third time in as many meets this season, finishing second with a top mark of 12-2.50.In the field events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;earned third place in the shot put with a throw of 44-10.25, achieving another provisional mark. Booker also placed ninth in the weight throw with a mark of 48-10.00, capping off a stellar day.

The Tigers excelled in the distance events, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8444">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;finishing second in the 3,000-meter run with a time of 10:26.37.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8397">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;followed in fourth place at 10:39.80, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/abbye-hudson/8399">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;rounded out the top performers in ninth place, clocking 10:52.43.In the sprints and middle-distance events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/reba-mader/8402">Reba Mader</a>&nbsp;placed eighth in the 400-meter dash with a time of 58.99, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/eden-bathurst/8441">Eden Bathurst</a>&nbsp;finished ninth in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:27.42. In the 60-meter hurdles,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;delivered a strong performance, placing ninth with a time of 9.51.The Tigers' impressive showing at the Washburn Rust Buster bodes well for the remainder of the indoor season. Fort Hays State will return to action next Friday (Jan. 24) at the Rumble in the Jungle Invitational in Pittsburg, Kansas.

Full FHSU Results Men's 60m Dash 5th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;– 6.83 # 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;– 6.92 13th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;– 6.95 18th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;– 6.99 20th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ajai-holmes/8531">Ajai Holmes</a>&nbsp;– 7.00 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/eddie-mcvay/7868">Eddie McVay</a>&nbsp;– 7.05 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kenny-fritsch/8489">Kenny Fritsch</a>&nbsp;– 7.06 76th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/dylan-velasco/8536">Dylan Velasco</a>&nbsp;– 7.40 84th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kade-harris/8491">Kade Harris</a>&nbsp;– 7.44

200m Dash 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;– 21.53 # 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 10th —&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;– 21.91 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 21.92 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kenny-fritsch/8489">Kenny Fritsch</a>&nbsp;– 22.42 59th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/brody-burns/8523">Brody Burns</a>&nbsp;– 23.73 62nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/cole-darling/8483">Cole Darling</a>&nbsp;– 23.96

400m Dash 33rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/asher-wassom/8537">Asher Wassom</a>&nbsp;– 52.32

800m Run 27th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/braylon-moore/8533">Braylon Moore</a>&nbsp;– 2:05.08

60m Hurdles 7th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 8.58 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 8.95 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/spencer-rich/8534">Spencer Rich</a>&nbsp;– 9.62

Mile Run 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ian-weich/8519">Ian Weich</a>&nbsp;– 4:27.25 13th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8487">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;– 4:27.94 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/daniel-bechle/8478">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;– 4:29.29 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/emery-wolfe/8510">Emery Wolfe</a>&nbsp;– 4:37.88 35th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/daniel-little/8514">Daniel Little</a>&nbsp;– 4:40.21 49th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ethan-emmons/8486">Ethan Emmons</a>&nbsp;– 4:48.9 461st –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/andrew-waller/8508">Andrew Waller</a>&nbsp;– 4:55.89

3,000m Run 1st&nbsp; –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/christian-darrah/8512">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;– 8:26.46 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8499">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;– 8:27.39 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/noah-morenz/8495">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;– 8:47.78 34th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/carsyn-turpin/8505">Carsyn Turpin</a>&nbsp;– 9:12.40 38th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/cole-krug/8513">Cole Krug</a>&nbsp;– 9:17.72

Long Jump Finals 3rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 23-5.25 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 20-4.50

Pole Vault 1st –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;– 16-6.75 # 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kurtis-mccormick/8493">Kurtis McCormick</a>&nbsp;– 14-2.00 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/rylan-white/8538">Rylan White</a>&nbsp;– 14-2.00 16th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/trevor-christensen/8528">Trevor Christensen</a>&nbsp;– 13-8.25 19th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/mason-younger/8540">Mason Younger</a>&nbsp;– 13-8.25

Women's 60m Dash Finals 46th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;– 8.31

400m Dash 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/reba-mader/8402">Reba Mader</a>&nbsp;– 58.99 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/amelia-foster/8395">Amelia Foster</a>&nbsp;– 1:02.29

800m Run 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/eden-bathurst/8441">Eden Bathurst</a>&nbsp;– 2:27.42

60m Hurdles 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;– 9.51 19th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/elysia-kunkler/8577">Elysia Kunkler</a>&nbsp;– 10.10 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 10.27

Mile Run 14th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/alayna-cossaart/8392">Alayna Cossaart</a>&nbsp;– 5:31.33

3,000m Run 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8444">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;– 10:26.37 4th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8397">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;– 10:39.80 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/abbye-hudson/8399">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;– 10:52.43

Long Jump 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 14-3.75

Pole Vault 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/annabeth-baalmann/8389">Annabeth Baalmann</a>&nbsp;– 12-2.50 #

Shot Put 3rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;– 44-10.25 # 22nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/emma-slade/8475">Emma Slade</a>&nbsp;– 34-1.50 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 33-8.00

Weight Throw 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;– 48-10.00 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/emma-slade/8475">Emma Slade</a>&nbsp;– 45-4.25 38th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kieran-burke/8391">Kieran Burke</a>&nbsp;– 39-2.50

# indicates NCAA Division II national qualifying mark

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737214084021.png" alt="Washburn Athletics photo/Gene Cassell" />
 <figcaption>Washburn Athletics photo/Gene Cassell</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsTOPEKA, Kan. -&nbsp;The Fort Hays State men's and women's track and field teams made an impressive start to the new year as the indoor season rolled on at the Washburn Rust Buster on Friday. Numerous Tigers claimed top-10 finishes, while five recorded NCAA Division II national qualifying marks.The men's team had several standout performances, including three national qualifying marks.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;improved his national qualifying time in the 60-meter dash, placing&nbsp;fifth with a time of 6.83. The senior later finished in second place in the 200-meter dash with a time of 21.53, achieving another national qualifying mark in the process.Senior&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;delivered the other national qualifying performance, winning the pole vault with a top clearance of 16-6.75.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/christian-darrah/8512">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;also secured an individual title, placing first in the 3,000-meter run with an impressive time of 8:26.46. He was closely followed by teammate&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8499">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>, who secured second place with a time of 8:27.39.The Tigers showcased their depth in the 200-meter dash, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;tying for eighth place at 21.89.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;followed in 10th place, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;finished in 11th and 12th, respectively.Clark's success in the field was complemented by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>, who placed third in the long jump with a leap of 23-5.25. Churchman also excelled on the track, finishing seventh in the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 8.58.The women's team delivered equally strong performances, led by two national qualifying performances in field events.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/annabeth-baalmann/8389">Annabeth Baalmann</a>&nbsp;cleared the national qualifying threshold in the pole vault for the third time in as many meets this season, finishing second with a top mark of 12-2.50.In the field events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;earned third place in the shot put with a throw of 44-10.25, achieving another provisional mark. Booker also placed ninth in the weight throw with a mark of 48-10.00, capping off a stellar day.The Tigers excelled in the distance events, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8444">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;finishing second in the 3,000-meter run with a time of 10:26.37.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8397">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;followed in fourth place at 10:39.80, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/abbye-hudson/8399">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;rounded out the top performers in ninth place, clocking 10:52.43.In the sprints and middle-distance events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/reba-mader/8402">Reba Mader</a>&nbsp;placed eighth in the 400-meter dash with a time of 58.99, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/eden-bathurst/8441">Eden Bathurst</a>&nbsp;finished ninth in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:27.42. In the 60-meter hurdles,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;delivered a strong performance, placing ninth with a time of 9.51.The Tigers' impressive showing at the Washburn Rust Buster bodes well for the remainder of the indoor season. Fort Hays State will return to action next Friday (Jan. 24) at the Rumble in the Jungle Invitational in Pittsburg, Kansas.Full FHSU Results Men's 60m Dash 5th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;– 6.83 # 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;– 6.92 13th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;– 6.95 18th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;– 6.99 20th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ajai-holmes/8531">Ajai Holmes</a>&nbsp;– 7.00 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/eddie-mcvay/7868">Eddie McVay</a>&nbsp;– 7.05 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kenny-fritsch/8489">Kenny Fritsch</a>&nbsp;– 7.06 76th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/dylan-velasco/8536">Dylan Velasco</a>&nbsp;– 7.40 84th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kade-harris/8491">Kade Harris</a>&nbsp;– 7.44200m Dash 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>&nbsp;– 21.53 # 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nakari-morrical-palmer/8496">Nakari Morrical-Palmer</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/toby-wahlmeier/8507">Toby Wahlmeier</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 10th —&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 21.89 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/avrey-albright/8476">Avrey Albright</a>&nbsp;– 21.91 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 21.92 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kenny-fritsch/8489">Kenny Fritsch</a>&nbsp;– 22.42 59th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/brody-burns/8523">Brody Burns</a>&nbsp;– 23.73 62nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/cole-darling/8483">Cole Darling</a>&nbsp;– 23.96400m Dash 33rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/asher-wassom/8537">Asher Wassom</a>&nbsp;– 52.32800m Run 27th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/braylon-moore/8533">Braylon Moore</a>&nbsp;– 2:05.0860m Hurdles 7th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 8.58 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 8.95 29th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/spencer-rich/8534">Spencer Rich</a>&nbsp;– 9.62Mile Run 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ian-weich/8519">Ian Weich</a>&nbsp;– 4:27.25 13th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8487">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;– 4:27.94 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/daniel-bechle/8478">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;– 4:29.29 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/emery-wolfe/8510">Emery Wolfe</a>&nbsp;– 4:37.88 35th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/daniel-little/8514">Daniel Little</a>&nbsp;– 4:40.21 49th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ethan-emmons/8486">Ethan Emmons</a>&nbsp;– 4:48.9 461st –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/andrew-waller/8508">Andrew Waller</a>&nbsp;– 4:55.893,000m Run 1st&nbsp; –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/christian-darrah/8512">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;– 8:26.46 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8499">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;– 8:27.39 11th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/noah-morenz/8495">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;– 8:47.78 34th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/carsyn-turpin/8505">Carsyn Turpin</a>&nbsp;– 9:12.40 38th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/cole-krug/8513">Cole Krug</a>&nbsp;– 9:17.72Long Jump Finals 3rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;– 23-5.25 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/drew-tolar/8535">Drew Tolar</a>&nbsp;– 20-4.50Pole Vault 1st –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;– 16-6.75 # 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/kurtis-mccormick/8493">Kurtis McCormick</a>&nbsp;– 14-2.00 12th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/rylan-white/8538">Rylan White</a>&nbsp;– 14-2.00 16th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/trevor-christensen/8528">Trevor Christensen</a>&nbsp;– 13-8.25 19th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/mason-younger/8540">Mason Younger</a>&nbsp;– 13-8.25Women's 60m Dash Finals 46th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;– 8.31400m Dash 8th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/reba-mader/8402">Reba Mader</a>&nbsp;– 58.99 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/amelia-foster/8395">Amelia Foster</a>&nbsp;– 1:02.29800m Run 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/eden-bathurst/8441">Eden Bathurst</a>&nbsp;– 2:27.4260m Hurdles 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/chloe-mader/8449">Chloe Mader</a>&nbsp;– 9.51 19th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/elysia-kunkler/8577">Elysia Kunkler</a>&nbsp;– 10.10 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 10.27Mile Run 14th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/alayna-cossaart/8392">Alayna Cossaart</a>&nbsp;– 5:31.333,000m Run 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8444">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;– 10:26.37 4th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8397">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;– 10:39.80 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/abbye-hudson/8399">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;– 10:52.43Long Jump 30th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 14-3.75Pole Vault 2nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/annabeth-baalmann/8389">Annabeth Baalmann</a>&nbsp;– 12-2.50 #Shot Put 3rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;– 44-10.25 # 22nd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/emma-slade/8475">Emma Slade</a>&nbsp;– 34-1.50 23rd –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kylin-rudzik/8405">Kylin Rudzik</a>&nbsp;– 33-8.00Weight Throw 9th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/liberty-booker/8390">Liberty Booker</a>&nbsp;– 48-10.00 17th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/emma-slade/8475">Emma Slade</a>&nbsp;– 45-4.25 38th –&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-track-and-field/roster/kieran-burke/8391">Kieran Burke</a>&nbsp;– 39-2.50# indicates NCAA Division II national qualifying mark

🏃‍♂️ FHSU posts five national qualifying marks, two wins at Washburn

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

GARDEN CITY - The Hays High basketball teams resumed Western Athletic play Friday with a pair of wins in Garden City.

GIRLS: #6-5A Hays 63, #7-6A Garden City 21 Both of the girls teams entered the matchup with a state ranking next to their names.

Hays used a 19-0 lead to blow open a two point game in the first half and never looked back in a 63-21 victory. Hays never trailed scoring the first four points of the game on steals and layups by Kenlee Winter. The Indians still had a two point lead at 11-9 with one minute left in the first quarter.

Hays scored the final five of the first and then the first 14 points of the second for a 30-9 lead. The 19-0 run put away any thoughts of the Indians dropping the road game to bed. The Indian defense didn't allow a second quarter field and just four free throws. Hays led 38-13 at halftime.

Hays only allowed eight second half points and none in the fourth quarter. The Indians outscored the Buffaloes 17-8 in the third quarter and 8-0 in a continuous clock fourth quarter.

Hays improves to 8-0 with the victory and 2-0 in WAC play. Garden City falls to 6-4, 1-2. The Indians travel to Wichita to take on Independent on Monday. The varsity game starts at 3:00. There will be no sub-varsity games.

Jenna Schmeidler 16; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 14; Molly Martin 13; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 3; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 2; Lynsi Kanak 3; Molly Buckles 2; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.

BOYS:&nbsp;Hays 69, Garden City 50 Hays High made a season high thirteen three pointers on their way to a 69-50 win over Garden City.

The Indians never trailed. The score was tied once at two points a piece. Garden City got within two points at 10-8 and had the ball three times but did not score.

Hays led 16-8 after the first quarter and pushed their advantage into double digits twice. The Buffaloes scored five points in the final fifteen seconds of the second quarter to cut the Hays lead down to 32-27 at halftime.

Hays hit seven three pointers in the first half which matched a season high for an entire game. They added six more in the second half.

The Indians hit their first four shots of the third quarter to build a 42-27 advantage. The Buffaloes did respond back with six straight points to get the Indian lead to single digits one final time.

Hays responded by outscoring Garden City 27-17 rest of the way for the 69-50 victory.&nbsp; Johnny Cano scored a career high 21.

Hays evens their record at 4-4 and now 2-0 in conference play. Garden City falls to 3-7, 1-2.&nbsp;The Indians travel to Wichita to take on Independent on Monday. The varsity game starts at 3:00. There will be no sub-varsity games.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 21; Trace Jacobs 2; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Trey Oakley 4; Tiger Johnson 12; Brody Harmoney 0; Izaac Fox 12; Noah Smalley 0; Dawson Ruder 12; Alex Loving 0.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostGARDEN CITY - The Hays High basketball teams resumed Western Athletic play Friday with a pair of wins in Garden City.GIRLS: #6-5A Hays 63, #7-6A Garden City 21 Both of the girls teams entered the matchup with a state ranking next to their names.Hays used a 19-0 lead to blow open a two point game in the first half and never looked back in a 63-21 victory. Hays never trailed scoring the first four points of the game on steals and layups by Kenlee Winter. The Indians still had a two point lead at 11-9 with one minute left in the first quarter.Hays scored the final five of the first and then the first 14 points of the second for a 30-9 lead. The 19-0 run put away any thoughts of the Indians dropping the road game to bed. The Indian defense didn't allow a second quarter field and just four free throws. Hays led 38-13 at halftime.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2011641043&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-wbkb-highlights-v-2" title="Hays High WBKB Highlights v Garden City Jan 17 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Highlights v Garden City Jan 17 2025</a></div></div>Hays only allowed eight second half points and none in the fourth quarter. The Indians outscored the Buffaloes 17-8 in the third quarter and 8-0 in a continuous clock fourth quarter.Coach Len Melvin<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2011646075&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-wbkb-post-v-garden" title="Hays High WBKB Post v Garden City Jan 17 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Post v Garden City Jan 17 2025</a></div></div>Hays improves to 8-0 with the victory and 2-0 in WAC play. Garden City falls to 6-4, 1-2. The Indians travel to Wichita to take on Independent on Monday. The varsity game starts at 3:00. There will be no sub-varsity games.Jenna Schmeidler 16; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 14; Molly Martin 13; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 3; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 2; Lynsi Kanak 3; Molly Buckles 2; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.BOYS:&nbsp;Hays 69, Garden City 50 Hays High made a season high thirteen three pointers on their way to a 69-50 win over Garden City.The Indians never trailed. The score was tied once at two points a piece. Garden City got within two points at 10-8 and had the ball three times but did not score.Hays led 16-8 after the first quarter and pushed their advantage into double digits twice. The Buffaloes scored five points in the final fifteen seconds of the second quarter to cut the Hays lead down to 32-27 at halftime.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2011646211&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-mbkb-highlights-v-2" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Garden City Jan 17 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Garden City Jan 17 2025</a></div></div>Hays hit seven three pointers in the first half which matched a season high for an entire game. They added six more in the second half.The Indians hit their first four shots of the third quarter to build a 42-27 advantage. The Buffaloes did respond back with six straight points to get the Indian lead to single digits one final time.Hays responded by outscoring Garden City 27-17 rest of the way for the 69-50 victory.&nbsp; Johnny Cano scored a career high 21.Coach Sean Dreiling<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2011646903&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-mbkb-post-v-garden" title="Hays High MBKB Post v Garden City Jan 17 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Post v Garden City Jan 17 2025</a></div></div>Hays evens their record at 4-4 and now 2-0 in conference play. Garden City falls to 3-7, 1-2.&nbsp;The Indians travel to Wichita to take on Independent on Monday. The varsity game starts at 3:00. There will be no sub-varsity games.Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 21; Trace Jacobs 2; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Trey Oakley 4; Tiger Johnson 12; Brody Harmoney 0; Izaac Fox 12; Noah Smalley 0; Dawson Ruder 12; Alex Loving 0.

🏀 Hays sweeps at Garden City

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By HALELUYA HADERO </a> <a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">AP Business Writer</a>

TikTok has cemented itself as a quintessential entertainment app, offering everything from funny skits and makeup tutorials to social commentary and news.

Without a sale to an approved buyer, the platform is expected to vanish from U.S. app stores by Sunday now that the Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-tiktok-china-security-speech-166f7c794ee587d3385190f893e52777">unanimously upheld the the ban</a>.

The decision came against the backdrop of unusual political agitation by President-elect Donald Trump, who vowed that he could negotiate a solution. It’s unclear what options are open to Trump once he is sworn in as president on Monday. An official in the Biden administration told the Associated Press on Thursday that the outgoing administration was leaving the implementation of the law to the new administration.

TikTok has more than 170 million U.S. users. According to the Pew Research Center, that includes most teens and a third of adults. If you are an avid user, or a creator who relies on the platform for income, here’s what you need to know about the ban and how to prepare for it:

A lawyer representing TikTok told Supreme Court justices last week that TikTok will “go dark” on Jan. 19 if the law isn't struck down.

What that means in practice is unclear currently, but the law bars app stores operated by Apple, Google and others from offering TikTok beginning on Sunday. Internet hosting services also will be prohibited from hosting TikTok.

Users should continue to have access to TikTok if it’s already downloaded on their phones, but the app will disappear from Apple and Google’s app stores — so new users won’t be able to download it.

This would mean that TikTok wouldn’t be able to send updates, security patches and bug fixes to users, all of which will degrade the quality of the app and likely lead to security issues. Eventually, the app will become unworkable.

Akin to the app, David Choffnes, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University in Boston, says the TikTok website should continue to work even after the ban goes into effect.

The statute would prohibit domestic internet hosting providers from hosting the platform, Choffnes said, but companies could theoretically use servers outside of the U.S. That likely will make content on the platform load more slowly and lead to worse performance on the app and the TikTok website, he said.

Are there any workarounds to access TikTok?

Yes, but some tech savviness is required and it’s not clear what will and won’t work.

The most common workaround that’s brought up is a VPN, or virtual private network, that allows users to mask their location. A VPN encrypts your traffic data and then routes it through private tunnels to secure servers around the world, which prevents anyone else from being able to read it.

Lauren Hendry Parsons, the director of communications and advocacy at ExpressVPN, maintains that people could access their TikTok accounts by using a VPN and making some other changes to their phone’s settings that would allow them to jump to a nearby country’s app store.

If large droves of users do that, it’s possible that tech companies, such as Apple or Google, could recognize it as a legal liability and find other ways to clamp down on the app. But they also might avoid going that route since they’re trying to forge friendlier ties with Trump, who now wants to “save TikTok” and could potentially direct his Justice Department to abandon enforcement of the law all together.

U.S. TikTok users with Android devices might also be able to continue to update the platform through third-party app stores, a method called sideloading. But bypassing the security protocols that well-known app stores have in place might also leave users more vulnerable to malware, said Gus Hurwitz, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania with expertise in telecommunications and technology.

Would I still have access to my favorite videos?

TikTok&nbsp;<a href="https://support.tiktok.com/en/account-and-privacy/personalized-ads-and-data/requesting-your-data">allows you to save</a>&nbsp;the videos or photos you’ve posted, or content from your favorite influencers. Any posts you choose to save will be downloaded and kept on your phone.

Many TikTok creators allow users to download their posts, but it’s possible you might not be able to save everything you want since some put limits on their content. Users also can’t download content off of private accounts or those registered to anyone under the age of 16.

If you're interested, the platform allows you to request a copy of your TikTok data, which includes things like your comment and video watching history. The company says it may take a few days to prepare that type of file.

If a TikTok ban occurs, established social media platforms, such as Meta’s Instagram, Snapchat and Google’s YouTube are expected to benefit from having one of their biggest competitors taken off of the U.S. market.

The rise of the short-form video platform led many others to offer TikTok-like feeds on their own platforms, such as Instagram’s Reels and YouTube’s Shorts. And if TikTok goes away, it’s likely that creators, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/small-business-tiktok-ban-bytedance-f5fd7ababa3d7c1155e4f15b21e2db5b">small businesses</a>, on the app would more easily switch to Reels and Shorts since they already have large audiences and a user base that overlaps with TikTok, said Jasmine Enberg, an analyst at market research company Emarketer.

TikTok users themselves have tested the waters with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-alternative-social-media-platforms-ban-49af1bfd2a1543a09b327544c380f217">several other platforms</a>&nbsp;outside of the established platforms. Among the ones that have received the most buzz: China's Xiaohongshu ("RedNote") and Lemon8.

The TikTok saga will be in the hands of the incoming Trump administration, which has already said that's its exploring options to “preserve” the popular app.

“We will put measures in place to keep TikTok from going dark,” Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, Trump’s pick for national security adviser, said Thursday during an interview on Fox News' Fox &amp; Friends. Waltz also commented that the law allows for an extension on the ban "as long as a viable deal is on the table.”

Trump, mindful of TikTok’s popularity, and his own 14.7 million followers on the app, finds himself on the opposite side of the argument from prominent Senate Republicans who fault TikTok’s Chinese owner for not finding a buyer before now. Trump said in a Truth Social post shortly before the decision was issued that TikTok was among the topics in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-inauguration-china-us-782413bbc4ca5e06c9e39ce9ae151ea2">his conversation Friday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew is expected to be seated on the dais for the inauguration along with tech billionaires Elon Musk, who is CEO of SpaceX, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, OpenAI CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/sam-altman">Sam Altman</a>&nbsp;and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, according to two people with the matter. The people spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By HALELUYA HADERO </a> <a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22HALELUYA%20HADERO%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">AP Business Writer</a>TikTok has cemented itself as a quintessential entertainment app, offering everything from funny skits and makeup tutorials to social commentary and news.Without a sale to an approved buyer, the platform is expected to vanish from U.S. app stores by Sunday now that the Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-tiktok-china-security-speech-166f7c794ee587d3385190f893e52777">unanimously upheld the the ban</a>.The decision came against the backdrop of unusual political agitation by President-elect Donald Trump, who vowed that he could negotiate a solution. It’s unclear what options are open to Trump once he is sworn in as president on Monday. An official in the Biden administration told the Associated Press on Thursday that the outgoing administration was leaving the implementation of the law to the new administration.TikTok has more than 170 million U.S. users. According to the Pew Research Center, that includes most teens and a third of adults. If you are an avid user, or a creator who relies on the platform for income, here’s what you need to know about the ban and how to prepare for it:<h2>What happens on Jan. 19?</h2>A lawyer representing TikTok told Supreme Court justices last week that TikTok will “go dark” on Jan. 19 if the law isn't struck down.What that means in practice is unclear currently, but the law bars app stores operated by Apple, Google and others from offering TikTok beginning on Sunday. Internet hosting services also will be prohibited from hosting TikTok.Users should continue to have access to TikTok if it’s already downloaded on their phones, but the app will disappear from Apple and Google’s app stores — so new users won’t be able to download it.This would mean that TikTok wouldn’t be able to send updates, security patches and bug fixes to users, all of which will degrade the quality of the app and likely lead to security issues. Eventually, the app will become unworkable.Akin to the app, David Choffnes, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University in Boston, says the TikTok website should continue to work even after the ban goes into effect.The statute would prohibit domestic internet hosting providers from hosting the platform, Choffnes said, but companies could theoretically use servers outside of the U.S. That likely will make content on the platform load more slowly and lead to worse performance on the app and the TikTok website, he said.<h2>Are there any workarounds to access TikTok?</h2>Yes, but some tech savviness is required and it’s not clear what will and won’t work.The most common workaround that’s brought up is a VPN, or virtual private network, that allows users to mask their location. A VPN encrypts your traffic data and then routes it through private tunnels to secure servers around the world, which prevents anyone else from being able to read it.Lauren Hendry Parsons, the director of communications and advocacy at ExpressVPN, maintains that people could access their TikTok accounts by using a VPN and making some other changes to their phone’s settings that would allow them to jump to a nearby country’s app store.If large droves of users do that, it’s possible that tech companies, such as Apple or Google, could recognize it as a legal liability and find other ways to clamp down on the app. But they also might avoid going that route since they’re trying to forge friendlier ties with Trump, who now wants to “save TikTok” and could potentially direct his Justice Department to abandon enforcement of the law all together.U.S. TikTok users with Android devices might also be able to continue to update the platform through third-party app stores, a method called sideloading. But bypassing the security protocols that well-known app stores have in place might also leave users more vulnerable to malware, said Gus Hurwitz, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania with expertise in telecommunications and technology.<h2>Would I still have access to my favorite videos?</h2>TikTok&nbsp;<a href="https://support.tiktok.com/en/account-and-privacy/personalized-ads-and-data/requesting-your-data">allows you to save</a>&nbsp;the videos or photos you’ve posted, or content from your favorite influencers. Any posts you choose to save will be downloaded and kept on your phone.Many TikTok creators allow users to download their posts, but it’s possible you might not be able to save everything you want since some put limits on their content. Users also can’t download content off of private accounts or those registered to anyone under the age of 16.If you're interested, the platform allows you to request a copy of your TikTok data, which includes things like your comment and video watching history. The company says it may take a few days to prepare that type of file.<h2>Are people going to other apps?</h2>If a TikTok ban occurs, established social media platforms, such as Meta’s Instagram, Snapchat and Google’s YouTube are expected to benefit from having one of their biggest competitors taken off of the U.S. market.The rise of the short-form video platform led many others to offer TikTok-like feeds on their own platforms, such as Instagram’s Reels and YouTube’s Shorts. And if TikTok goes away, it’s likely that creators, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/small-business-tiktok-ban-bytedance-f5fd7ababa3d7c1155e4f15b21e2db5b">small businesses</a>, on the app would more easily switch to Reels and Shorts since they already have large audiences and a user base that overlaps with TikTok, said Jasmine Enberg, an analyst at market research company Emarketer.TikTok users themselves have tested the waters with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-alternative-social-media-platforms-ban-49af1bfd2a1543a09b327544c380f217">several other platforms</a>&nbsp;outside of the established platforms. Among the ones that have received the most buzz: China's Xiaohongshu ("RedNote") and Lemon8.<h2>What is going to happen next?</h2>The TikTok saga will be in the hands of the incoming Trump administration, which has already said that's its exploring options to “preserve” the popular app.“We will put measures in place to keep TikTok from going dark,” Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, Trump’s pick for national security adviser, said Thursday during an interview on Fox News' Fox &amp; Friends. Waltz also commented that the law allows for an extension on the ban "as long as a viable deal is on the table.”Trump, mindful of TikTok’s popularity, and his own 14.7 million followers on the app, finds himself on the opposite side of the argument from prominent Senate Republicans who fault TikTok’s Chinese owner for not finding a buyer before now. Trump said in a Truth Social post shortly before the decision was issued that TikTok was among the topics in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-inauguration-china-us-782413bbc4ca5e06c9e39ce9ae151ea2">his conversation Friday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping</a>.TikTok CEO Shou Chew is expected to be seated on the dais for the inauguration along with tech billionaires Elon Musk, who is CEO of SpaceX, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, OpenAI CEO&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/sam-altman">Sam Altman</a>&nbsp;and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, according to two people with the matter. The people spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning._______

How to prepare for a TikTok ban, including how to save your content

WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump will take the oath of office from inside the Capitol Rotunda on Monday due to forecasts of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arctic-siberian-cold-chilly-trump-inauguration-7537abf637d19e681e9c517e1e82cb4b">intense cold weather</a>, upending months of meticulous planning for a massive outdoor event with crowds sprawling down the National Mall.

“The weather forecast for Washington, D.C., with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows,” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. “There is an Arctic blast sweeping the Country. I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way.”

The Rotunda is prepared as an alternative for each inauguration in the event of inclement weather.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inauguration-security-a3df8ed878f2c0587f7038d68a0447f6">The swearing-in</a>&nbsp;was last moved indoors in 1985, when President Ronald Reagan began his second term. Monday’s forecast calls for the lowest Inauguration Day temperatures since that day.

Outgoing President Joe Biden, members of Congress and some other dignitaries and notable guests will be able to view&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inauguration-schedule-events-2997c668b2242e8646cfdc07ca3e22f7">the ceremony</a>&nbsp;from inside the Capitol Rotunda. But even if they are standing shoulder-to-shoulder packing the Rotunda as in 1985, many will be forced to watch the swearing-in from elsewhere.

Alternate plans were being devised to accommodate as many guests as possible. More than 250,000 guests are ticketed to view the inauguration from around the Capitol grounds and tens of thousands more were expected to be in general admission areas or to line the inaugural parade route from the Capitol to the White House.

Trump said some supporters would be able to watch the ceremony from Washington’s Capital One Arena on Monday, a day after he plans to hold a rally there. He said he would visit the arena, which has a capacity of about 20,000, after his swearing-in, and host a modified inaugural parade there.

Trump said other inaugural events, including the Sunday rally and his participation in three official inaugural balls on Monday night, would take place as scheduled.

The U.S. Secret Service, which leads the security planning for the inauguration, said it was working with organizers to “adapt” its plans for the event due to the scheduling changes.

The National Weather Service is predicting the temperature to be around 22 degrees (minus-6 Celsius) at noon during the swearing-in, the coldest since Reagan’s second inauguration saw temperatures plunge to 7 degrees (minus-14 Celsius). Barack Obama’s 2009 swearing-in was 28 degrees (minus-2 Celsius).

“The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies will honor the request of the President-elect and his Presidential Inaugural Committee to move the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies inside the U.S. Capitol to the Rotunda," a spokesperson said Friday.

The Capitol Rotunda was one of the areas breached during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection by supporters of Trump trying to block the certification of his 2020 defeat to Biden. The temporary inaugural platform, where Trump was to have been sworn-in outdoors, was the site of some of the most violent clashes between rioters and police officers trying to protect the Capitol complex.

Earlier Friday, Trump's inaugural committee announced that, like his first inauguration, Trump would take the oath of office on a family Bible given to him by his mother as well as the Bible used by President Abraham Lincoln at his first inauguration in 1861. Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn in on a family Bible given to him by his maternal great-grandmother.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737134491514.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump will take the oath of office from inside the Capitol Rotunda on Monday due to forecasts of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arctic-siberian-cold-chilly-trump-inauguration-7537abf637d19e681e9c517e1e82cb4b">intense cold weather</a>, upending months of meticulous planning for a massive outdoor event with crowds sprawling down the National Mall.“The weather forecast for Washington, D.C., with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows,” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. “There is an Arctic blast sweeping the Country. I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737026821027.png" alt="Donald Trump's official Inaugural photo" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump's official Inaugural photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Rotunda is prepared as an alternative for each inauguration in the event of inclement weather.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inauguration-security-a3df8ed878f2c0587f7038d68a0447f6">The swearing-in</a>&nbsp;was last moved indoors in 1985, when President Ronald Reagan began his second term. Monday’s forecast calls for the lowest Inauguration Day temperatures since that day.Outgoing President Joe Biden, members of Congress and some other dignitaries and notable guests will be able to view&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inauguration-schedule-events-2997c668b2242e8646cfdc07ca3e22f7">the ceremony</a>&nbsp;from inside the Capitol Rotunda. But even if they are standing shoulder-to-shoulder packing the Rotunda as in 1985, many will be forced to watch the swearing-in from elsewhere.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Ronald Reagan&#39;s second inauguration in 1985 took place in the Capitol Rotunda on January 21, 1985. <a href="https://t.co/zaUQ5VFi4L">https://t.co/zaUQ5VFi4L</a> <a href="https://t.co/ldQYoyM9bO">pic.twitter.com/ldQYoyM9bO</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1880295095087329545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Alternate plans were being devised to accommodate as many guests as possible. More than 250,000 guests are ticketed to view the inauguration from around the Capitol grounds and tens of thousands more were expected to be in general admission areas or to line the inaugural parade route from the Capitol to the White House.Trump said some supporters would be able to watch the ceremony from Washington’s Capital One Arena on Monday, a day after he plans to hold a rally there. He said he would visit the arena, which has a capacity of about 20,000, after his swearing-in, and host a modified inaugural parade there.Trump said other inaugural events, including the Sunday rally and his participation in three official inaugural balls on Monday night, would take place as scheduled.The U.S. Secret Service, which leads the security planning for the inauguration, said it was working with organizers to “adapt” its plans for the event due to the scheduling changes.The National Weather Service is predicting the temperature to be around 22 degrees (minus-6 Celsius) at noon during the swearing-in, the coldest since Reagan’s second inauguration saw temperatures plunge to 7 degrees (minus-14 Celsius). Barack Obama’s 2009 swearing-in was 28 degrees (minus-2 Celsius).“The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies will honor the request of the President-elect and his Presidential Inaugural Committee to move the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies inside the U.S. Capitol to the Rotunda," a spokesperson said Friday.The Capitol Rotunda was one of the areas breached during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection by supporters of Trump trying to block the certification of his 2020 defeat to Biden. The temporary inaugural platform, where Trump was to have been sworn-in outdoors, was the site of some of the most violent clashes between rioters and police officers trying to protect the Capitol complex.Earlier Friday, Trump's inaugural committee announced that, like his first inauguration, Trump would take the oath of office on a family Bible given to him by his mother as well as the Bible used by President Abraham Lincoln at his first inauguration in 1861. Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn in on a family Bible given to him by his maternal great-grandmother.___

Moving Trump's swearing-in to Capitol Rotunda is a challenge 

The Hays Area Planning Commission will hear a rezoning request for more housing in the  northwest section of the city during its Monday meeting.&nbsp;

Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Inc. is requesting a change from agriculture to residential general district for 20 acres of land at the south end of an agricultural field, west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st streets. &nbsp;

The property has been identified in the city of Hays' comprehensive plan for residential development due to its proximity to other developments and availability of city utilities for extension.&nbsp;

Planning commissioners will also discuss the regulations for small sheds.&nbsp;

Current regulations for small sheds less than 120 square feet do not require a building permit, but they must meet side and rear yard setbacks, which has led to enforcement challenges.

Staff is in support of the reduction of regulations for accessory structures.

Public hearings are expected to be set for both items for Feb. 17.&nbsp;

The complete Jan. 20 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01202025-1523">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737124838981.png" alt="Proposed 20 acre housing development located&nbsp;west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st Streets. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed 20 acre housing development located&nbsp;west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st Streets. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737124966252.png" alt="Proposed 20 acre housing development located west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st Streets. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed 20 acre housing development located west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st Streets. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe Hays Area Planning Commission will hear a rezoning request for more housing in the northwest section of the city during its Monday meeting.&nbsp;Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Inc. is requesting a change from agriculture to residential general district for 20 acres of land at the south end of an agricultural field, west of Thunderbird Drive and between 33rd and 41st streets. &nbsp;The property has been identified in the city of Hays' comprehensive plan for residential development due to its proximity to other developments and availability of city utilities for extension.&nbsp;Planning commissioners will also discuss the regulations for small sheds.&nbsp;Current regulations for small sheds less than 120 square feet do not require a building permit, but they must meet side and rear yard setbacks, which has led to enforcement challenges.Staff is in support of the reduction of regulations for accessory structures.Public hearings are expected to be set for both items for Feb. 17.&nbsp;The complete Jan. 20 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01202025-1523">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays Area Planning Commission to discuss rezoning for more Hays housing 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Low temperatures in northwest Kansas are forecast to drop into the single digits as of this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Western Kansas has two chances for snow during the next four days, with the strongest chance for snow in Hays on Monday.

Today's high is forecast to be 49, and tonight's low will be 17. Winds are forecast to gust as high as 38 mph.

The high is forecast for 25 on Saturday with a low of 4 and 21 on Sunday also with a low of 4. The high on Monday is forecast for 17 degrees with a low of -4. Hays has a 20% chance of snow before noon on Monday.

Snowfall amounts are expected to be light.

The National Weather Service is warning of prolonged, dangerously cold weather.

Temperatures are expected to be well below freezing for three to four days, with wind chills dropping as low as -30, the weather service said.

"Ensure you have a way to keep warm and check in with friends and family," the weather service said.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLow temperatures in northwest Kansas are forecast to drop into the single digits as of this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.Western Kansas has two chances for snow during the next four days, with the strongest chance for snow in Hays on Monday.Today's high is forecast to be 49, and tonight's low will be 17. Winds are forecast to gust as high as 38 mph.The high is forecast for 25 on Saturday with a low of 4 and 21 on Sunday also with a low of 4. The high on Monday is forecast for 17 degrees with a low of -4. Hays has a 20% chance of snow before noon on Monday.Snowfall amounts are expected to be light.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737130350288.jpeg" alt="Snowfall forecasts from the National Weather Service in Dodge City." />
 <figcaption>Snowfall forecasts from the National Weather Service in Dodge City.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737130404931.png" alt="Weekend forecast for northwest Kansas from the National Weather Service in Goodland." />
 <figcaption>Weekend forecast for northwest Kansas from the National Weather Service in Goodland.</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service is warning of prolonged, dangerously cold weather.Temperatures are expected to be well below freezing for three to four days, with wind chills dropping as low as -30, the weather service said."Ensure you have a way to keep warm and check in with friends and family," the weather service said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737130607657.jpeg" alt="National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737130653741.jpeg" alt="National Weather Service, Goodland" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Goodland</figcaption>
 </figure>

Extreme cold, snow forecast for western Kansas this weekend

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City business owner tried to strike deputies and their vehicles with an 85,000-pound crane while they executed a court order Thursday morning.

August J. Baanders, 64, is now charged with interference with a legal process, a misdemeanor, according to the Clay County Sheriff.

The Clay County Circuit Court issued seven levy orders for all businesses under the LPG umbrella, owned by Baanders and his wife. (ref. case No. 23CY-CV01643) In a levy, the Sheriff’s Office is ordered to seize property so it may be sold to pay judgment in a civil case when the defendant fails to pay.

Just after 6a.m. Thursday, dozens of deputies arrived at LPG at 971 N. Jefferson Street in Kearney, Mo., at about 6 a.m. today to execute the levy. They blocked all of the entrances to the property. Evidence – to include footprints in the snow – showed the suspect parked a distance away and snuck onto the property.

At 6:55 a.m., three deputies blocking a gate saw a large construction crane driving toward them. (LPG manufactures propane tanks and had several items of heavy equipment on site.) All of the deputies were on foot outside of their vehicles. Deputies ordered the driver to stop multiple times, including flashing lights at him. Fearing for their safety, the deputies drew their weapons, at which point the crane stopped. It came within six inches of striking a patrol vehicle.

Baanders initially began to exit the crane, then he refused to come down the ladder. Deputies had to pull him off the ladder to take him into custody.

No one was hurt in the incident. Baanders is being held on a $2,500 bond. If he posts the bond, one of its conditions is that he cannot interfere with law enforcement executing the levy of his property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737068204063.png" alt="Photo Clay County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clay County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City business owner tried to strike deputies and their vehicles with an 85,000-pound crane while they executed a court order Thursday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737068112950.png" alt="Baanders-photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Baanders-photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>August J. Baanders, 64, is now charged with interference with a legal process, a misdemeanor, according to the Clay County Sheriff.The Clay County Circuit Court issued seven levy orders for all businesses under the LPG umbrella, owned by Baanders and his wife. (ref. case No. 23CY-CV01643) In a levy, the Sheriff’s Office is ordered to seize property so it may be sold to pay judgment in a civil case when the defendant fails to pay.Just after 6a.m. Thursday, dozens of deputies arrived at LPG at 971 N. Jefferson Street in Kearney, Mo., at about 6 a.m. today to execute the levy. They blocked all of the entrances to the property. Evidence – to include footprints in the snow – showed the suspect parked a distance away and snuck onto the property.At 6:55 a.m., three deputies blocking a gate saw a large construction crane driving toward them. (LPG manufactures propane tanks and had several items of heavy equipment on site.) All of the deputies were on foot outside of their vehicles. Deputies ordered the driver to stop multiple times, including flashing lights at him. Fearing for their safety, the deputies drew their weapons, at which point the crane stopped. It came within six inches of striking a patrol vehicle.Baanders initially began to exit the crane, then he refused to come down the ladder. Deputies had to pull him off the ladder to take him into custody.No one was hurt in the incident. Baanders is being held on a $2,500 bond. If he posts the bond, one of its conditions is that he cannot interfere with law enforcement executing the levy of his property.

KC business owner threatens deputies with a construction crane

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser visits with Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation about estate planning and legacy giving. They also have a preview of February's Match Month in conjunction with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation is going the whole 9 yards" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=qmrvv-17ae70c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser visits with Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation about estate planning and legacy giving. They also have a preview of February's Match Month in conjunction with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;

🎙 Hays Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation going whole 9 yards

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

After serving for more than a decade as a district court
judge in the 23rd judicial district, Judge Glenn Braun’s time on the
bench ended this week.

Braun was first appointed as a district judge in 2012 and
then was re-elected in 2016 and 2020, serving as chief judge of the 23rd
judicial district since 2016. 

He chose not to seek re-election in 2024, and his last day
was Monday, Jan. 13. Hays attorney Curtis Brown was elected in November to fill
Braun’s seat on the bench.

Braun was born in Hays in 1956 and attended many schools
throughout his youth before settling in for four years at Thomas More-Prep in
Hays while his father worked as an attorney in Garden City.

Braun, whose family is from Victoria and Schoenchen, said he
knew from a young age that he would follow in the footsteps of his
father, a well-known trial attorney.

When Braun was in sixth grade, his father took him out of
school to watch a murder trial. His father was the defense attorney in the
trial.

“I watched the trial, from the jury selection all the way to
verdict,” Braun said. “It took a week, and I was hooked. It was the best
education I could get.”

After he got his driver’s permit, he served as his dad’s
chauffeur when he was home in the summer. 

“I went and watched a lot of court at different locations,”
Braun said. “I watched him try a case in federal court. I watched him try
divorce cases way up, east (and in) northeast Kansas. So, I was his chauffeur,
and it was really, really educational.”

He also learned about the profession while playing golf in
the summers with Judge Burt Vance in Garden City. 

"He spoke to me a lot about being a lawyer because he kind
of knew that's where I was going," Braun said.

Braun’s high school graduating class was the first to attend
all four years at TMP, and he went on to graduate from Kansas State and Washburn
School of Law in Topeka, his father’s alma mater. 

While in his second year at law school, Braun took advantage
of an opportunity to work in the Ellis County Attorney’s office for Bill Jeter,
gaining valuable experience and contacts.

He graduated from law school in 1981, and two days after
taking the bar exam, he was back in Hays working for Bob Glassman.

Braun served in private practice for more than three decades, from 1981 to 2012.

He was the Ellis County Attorney from 1989 to 1997. He also
worked as a special DUI prosecutor and then Prosecutor for the City of Hays. 

Braun said serving in those positions kept him and his staff
busy and offered many opportunities. 

“Before I went on the bench, I tried over 100 jury cases,
not just DUIs, as county attorney,” Braun said. “I tried everything from rape,
arson, aggravated robbery, you name it.”

Braun also served on the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission
for seven years. He called those seven years some of the busiest of his life
because the Kansas Legislature allowed the state to own and operate casinos.

“We were involved in the opening of the first three casinos.
Dodge City was the first one. Then was Kansas City, Hollywood, and then down in
Wichita, now actually Mulvane,” Braun said. “It was a fascinating experience.”

He also hired Hays attorney Tom Drees while serving as Ellis
County Attorney. Drees served as assistant county attorney until becoming
county attorney in 1997 when Braun was appointed to the district judge
position.

Drees held that position until he was elected district
judge in the 23rd judicial district in 2020. He was re-elected this fall.

Braun has worked in the legal system for four decades, only 12 of which were as a judge, but he said that time feels like the
equivalent of 25 years. 

He experienced three significant disruptions in court services in
his decade on the bench, but they eventually worked out.

First was the Ellis County Courthouse remodel early in his
time as judge. 

"I came on board, and that was almost from day one with
Judge (Edward) Bougher, we had to figure out, first packing up and leaving the
courthouse and then moving back in,” Braun said. “We moved out in 2014, moved back into 2016, you know, that was a huge undertaking. All the planning that
went in, plus you start to do the regular job.”

Not long after settling in, Judge Bougher was offered a
senior judge position and retired. Braun then handled two dockets for
several months in 2016 before Judge Blake Bittle was appointed. 

&nbsp;Once again, things
appeared to be back to normal, and in 2019, COVID struck a “nightmare” for
Braun and the entire judicial system. 

Braun said they were tasked with abiding by administrative rules and COVID restrictions while still doing their jobs, but they were able to gain some benefits from the pandemic changes.

"You know, there's an old saying, 'Never waste a good
crisis,'" Braun said. "And a lot of good things came of it. We're doing a lot more
remote hearings, which is a great cost savings for litigants and attorneys. All of
that came into where it became more standard out of COVID."

Finally, in October 2023, a cyberattack on the Kansas Office of Judicial Administration network brought the courts' new online system to a standstill.

Braun said they had to completely reverse course, going from
a paperless, electronic-centered way of doing things back to the old paper way.

“Fortunately, the county attorney's office during that
cyberattack, had kept paper files,” Braun said. “We would get copies of
pleadings just so we could get ready for a hearing,” Braun said. 

"We would make do, and everybody cooperated to keep the
administration of justice moving forward. Not violating any ethical rules,"
Braun said. "We are very careful on that, and we got through it until we're
back up and running again."

He said he is extremely proud and impressed with how
district court staff handled the situation.

“They have weathered everything with very few complaints,”
Braun said. “I honestly can say I never heard any of them complain. They just
buckled up, and they did it.”

One of Braun’s most lasting legacies will be
helping to launch the Ellis County Recovery Court.

Created in 2018 as Ellis County Drug Court, now called
Recovery Court, it serves as an alternative to jail and aims to combat substance
abuse addiction.

Braun, former County Attorney Chris Lyon, Recovery Court
Coordinator Teresa Greenwood, former Director of Community Corrections John
Trembley, and Hays attorney Curtis Brown were all major players in creating the Ellis County Recovery Court, the only court of its kind in western
Kansas.

Braun said the judges he talked to told him that presiding over recovery court
would be his favorite job, and they were right. 

"Yes, I've had some heartache," Braun said. "We've had
several of our graduates that have relapsed, but to see the success stories and
to see them now, it's like, man, I was a small, tiny part of that. But at least
I was a part of somebody breaking this cycle of addiction."

Braun kept a picture of every person who graduated from
recovery court in a closet next to his office at the courthouse to
celebrate and honor those individuals’ successes.

“Specialty courts, whether it's a drug recovery court or a
behavioral health, or some people call it mental illness court, a Veterans
Treatment Court, now they have family courts. These are a new, innovative way
of trying to change the revolving door," Braun said.

"If everybody expects them
to be perfect, that doesn't happen, but they make a difference, and I am so
proud to have been involved with the recovery court team and with the
participants that we put in there and to see their change in growth."

Braun said one misconception about recovery court is that it
is easy or the court staff goes easy on participants. 

“It's a lot harder to finish recovery court than it is doing straight probation,” Braun said. “You’ve got to go to AA/NA . You’ve got to go
to a group session for drugs. You’ve got to do pro-social activities, all of
these things.

"You don't have to do that on straight probation. So, it's a
lot harder, and when ... if they can graduate, they've accomplished
something," Braun said. 

Braun said he had some great experiences during his more than 40 years in the legal profession. 

"Whether it's Kansas BAR going to United States Supreme
Court or sitting with the Kansas Supreme Court, or being president of the [Kansas Bar Association],"
Braun said.

Braun said his father loved being a lawyer “probably more
than me.” He said it allows you to learn a little bit about many topics.

"If you're in a civil case, you may learn about engineering
or medicine," Braun said. "If you're in a criminal case, you may learn about
forensics. When I tried the aggravated robbery case, we introduced hair
analysis and shoe print analysis, which are stuff that I would have never been exposed to."

Braun won’t be heading straight to retirement. He will
be taking more time for himself and his family. He and his wife, Amy, have five
children and one grandchild.

The day after his retirement from the 23rd Judicial District, Braun began serving in a senior judge position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736961672929.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Judge Glenn Braun was honored during his final Recovery Court in January. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Judge Glenn Braun was honored during his final Recovery Court in January. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731093059976.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostAfter serving for more than a decade as a district court
judge in the 23rd judicial district, Judge Glenn Braun’s time on the
bench ended this week.Braun was first appointed as a district judge in 2012 and
then was re-elected in 2016 and 2020, serving as chief judge of the 23rd
judicial district since 2016. He chose not to seek re-election in 2024, and his last day
was Monday, Jan. 13. Hays attorney Curtis Brown was elected in November to fill
Braun’s seat on the bench.Braun was born in Hays in 1956 and attended many schools
throughout his youth before settling in for four years at Thomas More-Prep in
Hays while his father worked as an attorney in Garden City.Braun, whose family is from Victoria and Schoenchen, said he
knew from a young age that he would follow in the footsteps of his
father, a well-known trial attorney.When Braun was in sixth grade, his father took him out of
school to watch a murder trial. His father was the defense attorney in the
trial.“I watched the trial, from the jury selection all the way to
verdict,” Braun said. “It took a week, and I was hooked. It was the best
education I could get.”After he got his driver’s permit, he served as his dad’s
chauffeur when he was home in the summer. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736960025414.jpeg" alt="Newly elected District Court Judge Curtis Brown joined by retired Judge Glenn Braun and District Judge Tom Drees. Photo courtesy Sue Urban" />
 <figcaption>Newly elected District Court Judge Curtis Brown joined by retired Judge Glenn Braun and District Judge Tom Drees. Photo courtesy Sue Urban</figcaption>
 </figure>“I went and watched a lot of court at different locations,”
Braun said. “I watched him try a case in federal court. I watched him try
divorce cases way up, east (and in) northeast Kansas. So, I was his chauffeur,
and it was really, really educational.”He also learned about the profession while playing golf in
the summers with Judge Burt Vance in Garden City. "He spoke to me a lot about being a lawyer because he kind
of knew that's where I was going," Braun said.Braun’s high school graduating class was the first to attend
all four years at TMP, and he went on to graduate from Kansas State and Washburn
School of Law in Topeka, his father’s alma mater. While in his second year at law school, Braun took advantage
of an opportunity to work in the Ellis County Attorney’s office for Bill Jeter,
gaining valuable experience and contacts.He graduated from law school in 1981, and two days after
taking the bar exam, he was back in Hays working for Bob Glassman.Braun served in private practice for more than three decades, from 1981 to 2012.He was the Ellis County Attorney from 1989 to 1997. He also
worked as a special DUI prosecutor and then Prosecutor for the City of Hays. Braun said serving in those positions kept him and his staff
busy and offered many opportunities. “Before I went on the bench, I tried over 100 jury cases,
not just DUIs, as county attorney,” Braun said. “I tried everything from rape,
arson, aggravated robbery, you name it.”Braun also served on the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission
for seven years. He called those seven years some of the busiest of his life
because the Kansas Legislature allowed the state to own and operate casinos.“We were involved in the opening of the first three casinos.
Dodge City was the first one. Then was Kansas City, Hollywood, and then down in
Wichita, now actually Mulvane,” Braun said. “It was a fascinating experience.”He also hired Hays attorney Tom Drees while serving as Ellis
County Attorney. Drees served as assistant county attorney until becoming
county attorney in 1997 when Braun was appointed to the district judge
position.Drees held that position until he was elected district
judge in the 23rd judicial district in 2020. He was re-elected this fall.<h2>Working as a judge in challenging times</h2>Braun has worked in the legal system for four decades, only 12 of which were as a judge, but he said that time feels like the
equivalent of 25 years. He experienced three significant disruptions in court services in
his decade on the bench, but they eventually worked out.First was the Ellis County Courthouse remodel early in his
time as judge. "I came on board, and that was almost from day one with
Judge (Edward) Bougher, we had to figure out, first packing up and leaving the
courthouse and then moving back in,” Braun said. “We moved out in 2014, moved back into 2016, you know, that was a huge undertaking. All the planning that
went in, plus you start to do the regular job.”Not long after settling in, Judge Bougher was offered a
senior judge position and retired. Braun then handled two dockets for
several months in 2016 before Judge Blake Bittle was appointed. &nbsp;Once again, things
appeared to be back to normal, and in 2019, COVID struck a “nightmare” for
Braun and the entire judicial system. Braun said they were tasked with abiding by administrative rules and COVID restrictions while still doing their jobs, but they were able to gain some benefits from the pandemic changes."You know, there's an old saying, 'Never waste a good
crisis,'" Braun said. "And a lot of good things came of it. We're doing a lot more
remote hearings, which is a great cost savings for litigants and attorneys. All of
that came into where it became more standard out of COVID."Finally, in October 2023, a cyberattack on the Kansas Office of Judicial Administration network brought the courts' new online system to a standstill.Braun said they had to completely reverse course, going from
a paperless, electronic-centered way of doing things back to the old paper way.“Fortunately, the county attorney's office during that
cyberattack, had kept paper files,” Braun said. “We would get copies of
pleadings just so we could get ready for a hearing,” Braun said. "We would make do, and everybody cooperated to keep the
administration of justice moving forward. Not violating any ethical rules,"
Braun said. "We are very careful on that, and we got through it until we're
back up and running again."He said he is extremely proud and impressed with how
district court staff handled the situation.“They have weathered everything with very few complaints,”
Braun said. “I honestly can say I never heard any of them complain. They just
buckled up, and they did it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736961752756.jpeg" alt="Detective Brian Shannon presented Ellis County Judge Glenn Braun with a plaque honoring his leadership of Recovery Court" />
 <figcaption>Detective Brian Shannon presented Ellis County Judge Glenn Braun with a plaque honoring his leadership of Recovery Court</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Recovery Court</h2>One of Braun’s most lasting legacies will be
helping to launch the Ellis County Recovery Court.Created in 2018 as Ellis County Drug Court, now called
Recovery Court, it serves as an alternative to jail and aims to combat substance
abuse addiction.Braun, former County Attorney Chris Lyon, Recovery Court
Coordinator Teresa Greenwood, former Director of Community Corrections John
Trembley, and Hays attorney Curtis Brown were all major players in creating the Ellis County Recovery Court, the only court of its kind in western
Kansas.Braun said the judges he talked to told him that presiding over recovery court
would be his favorite job, and they were right. "Yes, I've had some heartache," Braun said. "We've had
several of our graduates that have relapsed, but to see the success stories and
to see them now, it's like, man, I was a small, tiny part of that. But at least
I was a part of somebody breaking this cycle of addiction."Braun kept a picture of every person who graduated from
recovery court in a closet next to his office at the courthouse to
celebrate and honor those individuals’ successes.“Specialty courts, whether it's a drug recovery court or a
behavioral health, or some people call it mental illness court, a Veterans
Treatment Court, now they have family courts. These are a new, innovative way
of trying to change the revolving door," Braun said."If everybody expects them
to be perfect, that doesn't happen, but they make a difference, and I am so
proud to have been involved with the recovery court team and with the
participants that we put in there and to see their change in growth."Braun said one misconception about recovery court is that it
is easy or the court staff goes easy on participants. “It's a lot harder to finish recovery court than it is doing straight probation,” Braun said. “You’ve got to go to AA/NA . You’ve got to go
to a group session for drugs. You’ve got to do pro-social activities, all of
these things."You don't have to do that on straight probation. So, it's a
lot harder, and when ... if they can graduate, they've accomplished
something," Braun said. Braun said he had some great experiences during his more than 40 years in the legal profession. "Whether it's Kansas BAR going to United States Supreme
Court or sitting with the Kansas Supreme Court, or being president of the [Kansas Bar Association],"
Braun said.Braun said his father loved being a lawyer “probably more
than me.” He said it allows you to learn a little bit about many topics."If you're in a civil case, you may learn about engineering
or medicine," Braun said. "If you're in a criminal case, you may learn about
forensics. When I tried the aggravated robbery case, we introduced hair
analysis and shoe print analysis, which are stuff that I would have never been exposed to."<h2>Retirement</h2>Braun won’t be heading straight to retirement. He will
be taking more time for himself and his family. He and his wife, Amy, have five
children and one grandchild.The day after his retirement from the 23rd Judicial District, Braun began serving in a senior judge position.Braun will be assigned to special
cases around the state in that part-time position. He also plans to do some mediation work. Braun said he would pass on the same advice to the
next person to follow in his footsteps that Judge
Ed Bougher gave him when he first started.“Always keep an open mind,” Braun said. “Never fall in that
trap of thinking you got it figured out."When you've done so much legal work, you get a feeling, 'Oh,
I got this. I know all of this. I've got this figured out. I had a case just
like this years ago," Braun said. "But they're all unique and different."