PARIS (AP) — French President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/emmanuel-macron">Emmanuel Macron</a>&nbsp;welcomed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;to Paris on Saturday with a full dose of presidential pomp as the two held a hastily arranged meeting with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy before celebrating the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-notre-dame-reopening-paris-macron-f2543dc70b4d89b256cde9aa53bbbd44">grand reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral</a>.

On a day that mixed pageantry with attention to pressing global problems, the once and future American president was warmly embraced by Macron upon arriving at the Elysee Palace.

“It’s a great honor for French people to welcome you five years later,” Macron told Trump. “Welcome back again.”

Trump said it was a “very great honor" to be there, while hinting at challenges ahead.

“It certainly seems like the world is going a little crazy right now. And we’ll be talking about that,” Trump said.

An actual red carpet was rolled out for Trump as Macron bestowed the kind of full diplomatic welcome that France offers sitting American presidents, complete with trumpets blaring and members of the Republican Guard in full uniform. It was a clear sign that even though Trump doesn't take office until Jan. 20, 2025, Macron and other European leaders are already working to win his favor and treating him as America's representative on the world stage.

President Joe Biden declined an invitation to attend the Notre Dame ceremony, five years after a devastating fire, with the White House citing a scheduling conflict. First lady Jill Biden was the official U.S. representative in his place.

Macron and leaders across Europe are trying to persuade the president-elect to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Macron's office said the war, along with conflicts in the Mideast, would be discussed.

As Trump arrived at the official residence of the French president, Macron went out of his way to project an image of close ties, offering handshakes and plenty of back-patting for the cameras.

In a video posted later on X, Macron could be heard asking Trump: “You remember?” as both men entered a reception room.

Trump spent about 90 minutes inside, meeting first with Macron before they were joined by Zelenskyy for about 35 minutes.

Macron had long planned to meet separately with Zelenskyy. The French president's office said the three-way talks were proposed by Macron and arranged shortly before Trump’s arrival. Trump has pledged to end the war in Ukraine swiftly but has not specified how, raising concerns in Kyiv about what terms may be laid out for any future negotiations.

A person familiar with Trump's plans had said before the meeting was announced that while Trump and Zelenskyy were attending the cathedral ceremony and surrounding events and probably would interact, Trump's transition team had not worked with the Ukrainians to schedule formal talks.

After the place meeting, a Trump senior transition official did not push back on the idea that it had come together at the last minute, but said it had been “discussed fully and agreed to” and that Trump had been “fully briefed” ahead of time.

The three leaders spoke in English, and translator was in the room, according to a French official.

Accompanying Trump to Paris was a small contingent of advisers that included incoming chief of staff Susie Wiles, along with Steve Witkoff, a longtime friend and real estate investor whom Trump has tapped as his special envoy to the Middle East, and Massad Boulos, who is the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany and will serve as senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs.

The group did not appear to include anyone with expertise on Ukraine.

“United States, Ukraine and France. Together on this historic day. United for Notre-Dame. Let’s continue to work together for peace and security,” Macron wrote on X afterward.

Trump’s victory last month threw into doubt the Biden administration's flow of money and arms to Ukraine — aid bolstered even more on Saturday by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-weapons-russia-trump-biden-himars-zelenskyy-7b2560ad6bd54a6275da0ceb5241c0e8">U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's announcement of a $988 million package</a>&nbsp;that brings American military support to more than $62 billion since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

Trump has characterized Zelenskyy as “the greatest salesman on Earth” for winning billions in U.S. aid. Trump also has said he work out a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine within a day of taking office and has promoted his good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In an effort to build trust with the incoming U.S. administration, Zelenskyy’s top aide Andriy Yermak met key members of Trump’s team on a two-day trip to the U.S. earlier this week.

Macron has argued that Ukraine's defeat or a cease-fire with Russia on unfavorable terms to Ukraine would be viewed as a loss for the U.S. and even Trump himself, according to two European officials familiar with the matter.

After arriving at Notre Dame for the ceremony, Trump was greeted by Macron and his wife, Brigitte. He was given prime seating at the service right between them — a better location than Jill Biden, who sat on Brigitte Macron's other side — and many current heads of government and state.

Inside, Trump also greeted Zelenskyy as well as Britain’s Prince William, who Trump met with later at the British ambassador’s residence in Paris. Trump was greeted in the foyer, shook the royal’s hand and said “good man, this one.”

Trump told reporters the Prince of Wales was doing “a fantastic job” before the two went to sit down and talk in a private room reserved for high-profile figures in the residence that once was the Paris town home of Princess Pauline Borghese, the youngest sister French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Prince William was also scheduled to meet separately with Jill Biden, according to the British royal palace.

Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and X who has spent considerable time with Trump since the election and spent millions to elect him, was also in attendance at Notre Dame.

Macron, who has had an up-and-down relationship with Trump, has made a point of cultivating their bond since the Republican defeated Democrat Kamala Harris. But Macron's office nonetheless played down the significance of the invitation, saying other politicians not now in office had been invited as well.

Trump was invited as president-elect of a “friendly nation,” Macron's office said, adding, “This is in no way exceptional, we’ve done it before."

Trump is known to revel in pomp and circumstance. One of his first trips as president his first term was to Paris, where Macron made him the the guest of honor at Bastille Day events. Trump later said he wanted to replicate the grand military parade back in the United States.

Relations between France and the U.S. during Trump’s first term began warmly enough but grew&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-joe-biden-emmanuel-macron-france-33fdc2f2e334ecd29148f4de7b98fb41">increasingly strained</a>&nbsp;over time.

Macron was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-72f386baac584e48a3ee6487e3a63ed7">guest of honor</a>&nbsp;at Trump’s first state dinner, and Trump traveled to France several times. But the relationship suffered after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-business-summits-middle-east-europe-284d2f177cb64239857ad8c821ec62a1">Macron criticized Trump</a>&nbsp;for questioning the need for NATO and raising doubts about America’s commitment to the mutual defense pact.

During the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump often mocked Macron, imitating his accent and threatening to impose steep tariffs on wine and champagne bottles shipped to the U.S. if France tried to tax American companies.

But Macron was one of the first global leaders to congratulate Trump last month after the election.

When he accepted the invitation to travel to Paris, Trump said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/emmanuel-macron">Macron</a>&nbsp;had done “a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory, and even more so. It will be a very special day for all!” Trump was president in 2019, when a fire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/649ccfad63de28c7ef38bc3ffe24a5d3">nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark</a>.

Gomez Licon reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Colvin from New York. Associated Press writers Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Danica Kirka in London contributed to this report.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733603028810.png" alt="First lady Jill Biden, Brigitte Macron, President-elect Trump and French President Macron at the Cathedral ceremony on Saturday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
                        <figcaption>First lady Jill Biden, Brigitte Macron, President-elect Trump and French President Macron at the Cathedral ceremony on Saturday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>PARIS (AP) — French President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/emmanuel-macron">Emmanuel Macron</a>&nbsp;welcomed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;to Paris on Saturday with a full dose of presidential pomp as the two held a hastily arranged meeting with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy before celebrating the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-notre-dame-reopening-paris-macron-f2543dc70b4d89b256cde9aa53bbbd44">grand reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral</a>.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President-elect Donald Trump arrives at Élysée Palace, the residence of French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, ahead of a re-opening ceremony of the Notre Dame Cathedral. <a href="https://t.co/PkOHoaUIWL">pic.twitter.com/PkOHoaUIWL</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1865447514469552339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> arrives at Élysée Palace and shakes hands with President Macron 🇺🇸🇫🇷 <a href="https://t.co/WiC8vWGYla">pic.twitter.com/WiC8vWGYla</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1865423000176111717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>On a day that mixed pageantry with attention to pressing global problems, the once and future American president was warmly embraced by Macron upon arriving at the Elysee Palace.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> arrives at Élysée Palace and is greeted by President Macron 🇺🇸🇫🇷 <a href="https://t.co/CwcHMjMGgm">pic.twitter.com/CwcHMjMGgm</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1865428275775848866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>“It’s a great honor for French people to welcome you five years later,” Macron told Trump. “Welcome back again.”</p><p>Trump said it was a “very great honor" to be there, while hinting at challenges ahead.</p><p>“It certainly seems like the world is going a little crazy right now. And we’ll be talking about that,” Trump said.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President-elect Trump greets Prince William at Notre Dame Cathedral Re-Opening in Paris, France. <a href="https://t.co/D5I8KU3tuy">pic.twitter.com/D5I8KU3tuy</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1865458557686034537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>An actual red carpet was rolled out for Trump as Macron bestowed the kind of full diplomatic welcome that France offers sitting American presidents, complete with trumpets blaring and members of the Republican Guard in full uniform. It was a clear sign that even though Trump doesn't take office until Jan. 20, 2025, Macron and other European leaders are already working to win his favor and treating him as America's representative on the world stage.</p><p>President Joe Biden declined an invitation to attend the Notre Dame ceremony, five years after a devastating fire, with the White House citing a scheduling conflict. First lady Jill Biden was the official U.S. representative in his place.</p><p>Macron and leaders across Europe are trying to persuade the president-elect to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Macron's office said the war, along with conflicts in the Mideast, would be discussed.</p><p>As Trump arrived at the official residence of the French president, Macron went out of his way to project an image of close ties, offering handshakes and plenty of back-patting for the cameras.</p><p>In a video posted later on X, Macron could be heard asking Trump: “You remember?” as both men entered a reception room.</p><p>“I remember,” Trump answered.</p><p>Trump spent about 90 minutes inside, meeting first with Macron before they were joined by Zelenskyy for about 35 minutes.</p><p>Macron had long planned to meet separately with Zelenskyy. The French president's office said the three-way talks were proposed by Macron and arranged shortly before Trump’s arrival. Trump has pledged to end the war in Ukraine swiftly but has not specified how, raising concerns in Kyiv about what terms may be laid out for any future negotiations.</p><p>A person familiar with Trump's plans had said before the meeting was announced that while Trump and Zelenskyy were attending the cathedral ceremony and surrounding events and probably would interact, Trump's transition team had not worked with the Ukrainians to schedule formal talks.</p><p>After the place meeting, a Trump senior transition official did not push back on the idea that it had come together at the last minute, but said it had been “discussed fully and agreed to” and that Trump had been “fully briefed” ahead of time.</p><p>The three leaders spoke in English, and translator was in the room, according to a French official.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> greets U.S. Marines that are stationed in France 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/RFXANX7GWL">pic.twitter.com/RFXANX7GWL</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1865453672076841073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Accompanying Trump to Paris was a small contingent of advisers that included incoming chief of staff Susie Wiles, along with Steve Witkoff, a longtime friend and real estate investor whom Trump has tapped as his special envoy to the Middle East, and Massad Boulos, who is the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany and will serve as senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs.</p><p>The group did not appear to include anyone with expertise on Ukraine.</p><p>“United States, Ukraine and France. Together on this historic day. United for Notre-Dame. Let’s continue to work together for peace and security,” Macron wrote on X afterward.</p><p>Trump’s victory last month threw into doubt the Biden administration's flow of money and arms to Ukraine — aid bolstered even more on Saturday by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-weapons-russia-trump-biden-himars-zelenskyy-7b2560ad6bd54a6275da0ceb5241c0e8">U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's announcement of a $988 million package</a>&nbsp;that brings American military support to more than $62 billion since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">United States, Ukraine, and France. Together on this historic day. Gathered for Notre-Dame. Let us continue our joint efforts for peace and security. <a href="https://t.co/hEYGEklihT">pic.twitter.com/hEYGEklihT</a></p>&mdash; Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1865455792683434384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Trump has characterized Zelenskyy as “the greatest salesman on Earth” for winning billions in U.S. aid. Trump also has said he work out a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine within a day of taking office and has promoted his good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p><p>In an effort to build trust with the incoming U.S. administration, Zelenskyy’s top aide Andriy Yermak met key members of Trump’s team on a two-day trip to the U.S. earlier this week.</p><p>Macron has argued that Ukraine's defeat or a cease-fire with Russia on unfavorable terms to Ukraine would be viewed as a loss for the U.S. and even Trump himself, according to two European officials familiar with the matter.</p><p>After arriving at Notre Dame for the ceremony, Trump was greeted by Macron and his wife, Brigitte. He was given prime seating at the service right between them — a better location than Jill Biden, who sat on Brigitte Macron's other side — and many current heads of government and state.</p><p>Inside, Trump also greeted Zelenskyy as well as Britain’s Prince William, who Trump met with later at the British ambassador’s residence in Paris. Trump was greeted in the foyer, shook the royal’s hand and said “good man, this one.”</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President-elect Trump meets with Prince William in Paris, France. <a href="https://t.co/tQsBFy0IN9">pic.twitter.com/tQsBFy0IN9</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1865593033355333822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Prince of Wales greets President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> at the British Ambassador&#39;s Residence 🇺🇸🇬🇧 <a href="https://t.co/VsYvOmk8gI">pic.twitter.com/VsYvOmk8gI</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1865500075893363170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> meets with the Prince of Wales 🇺🇸🇬🇧 <a href="https://t.co/FhghYHQtd7">pic.twitter.com/FhghYHQtd7</a></p>&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1865500807174443264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Trump told reporters the Prince of Wales was doing “a fantastic job” before the two went to sit down and talk in a private room reserved for high-profile figures in the residence that once was the Paris town home of Princess Pauline Borghese, the youngest sister French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.</p><p>Prince William was also scheduled to meet separately with Jill Biden, according to the British royal palace.</p><p>Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and X who has spent considerable time with Trump since the election and spent millions to elect him, was also in attendance at Notre Dame.</p><p>Macron, who has had an up-and-down relationship with Trump, has made a point of cultivating their bond since the Republican defeated Democrat Kamala Harris. But Macron's office nonetheless played down the significance of the invitation, saying other politicians not now in office had been invited as well.</p><p>Trump was invited as president-elect of a “friendly nation,” Macron's office said, adding, “This is in no way exceptional, we’ve done it before."</p><p>Trump is known to revel in pomp and circumstance. One of his first trips as president his first term was to Paris, where Macron made him the the guest of honor at Bastille Day events. Trump later said he wanted to replicate the grand military parade back in the United States.</p><p>Relations between France and the U.S. during Trump’s first term began warmly enough but grew&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-joe-biden-emmanuel-macron-france-33fdc2f2e334ecd29148f4de7b98fb41">increasingly strained</a>&nbsp;over time.</p><p>Macron was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-72f386baac584e48a3ee6487e3a63ed7">guest of honor</a>&nbsp;at Trump’s first state dinner, and Trump traveled to France several times. But the relationship suffered after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-business-summits-middle-east-europe-284d2f177cb64239857ad8c821ec62a1">Macron criticized Trump</a>&nbsp;for questioning the need for NATO and raising doubts about America’s commitment to the mutual defense pact.</p><p>During the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump often mocked Macron, imitating his accent and threatening to impose steep tariffs on wine and champagne bottles shipped to the U.S. if France tried to tax American companies.</p><p>But Macron was one of the first global leaders to congratulate Trump last month after the election.</p><p>When he accepted the invitation to travel to Paris, Trump said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/emmanuel-macron">Macron</a>&nbsp;had done “a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full level of glory, and even more so. It will be a very special day for all!” Trump was president in 2019, when a fire&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/649ccfad63de28c7ef38bc3ffe24a5d3">nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark</a>.</p><p>___</p><p>Gomez Licon reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Colvin from New York. Associated Press writers Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Danica Kirka in London contributed to this report.</p>

🎥 Highlights of Trumps's return to the world stage at Notre-Dame reopening 

<b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

The Hays Community Theatre is giving one last spooky thrill before the holidays with its production of "A Haunted Sort of Christmas."

"A Haunted Sort of Christmas" is an original play that follows a Kansas native and his fiancee as they renovate an old building in Hays. They are joined by a ghost hunter who uncovers the building's mysteries.

Playwright and director Cheryl Glassman said additional characters from the 1800s appear, inspired by actual historical figures from the area.

"We have characters that show up that may or may not be spirits from the 1870s. Wild Bill and Kate Coffey, who owned Kate Coffey's Salon in Hays, she is there," Glassman said.

The play is set for 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 2 p.m. Saturday at the Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.

Tickers are available now for $10. You can purchase yours online <a href="https://etix.com/ticket/v/12715">here </a>or at the doors.

Glassman said the theater troupe is hosting a food drive alongside the production.&nbsp;Those attending are asked to bring a nonperishable food item.

"The food drive is because we are all here to help one another," she said. "The food will go to various Hays food banks."

The play centers around Hays native Patreek Kalomes, who brings his reluctant fiancee from New York, Helen Teeran, to Hays on Christmas Eve to meet his family and renovate an old building.

Paleontologist and ghost hunter Trevor Manly comes along for the ride, convinced the building is haunted. As Helen begins cleaning, she discovers a dead body. When people dressed in 1870s attire start appearing, Trevor’s suspicions seem increasingly plausible as Christmas carolers add to the chaos.

Glassman said that despite its somewhat macabre plot, the play is “family-friendly” and suitable for children ages 9 and older. The cast includes 15 people ages 8 to 68.

"It's got something for everyone," she said. "This show is to create a joyful time, laugh, have a good time, and experience expressions in your heart and soul."

Jarrett Leiker of Munjor plays Kalomes, Codi Fenwick of Hays plays Teeran and Arron Hardin plays Manly. Vocalist&nbsp;Michelle English plays the 1870s character Mama and has a solo. The accompanist is Amy Staab of Ellis.

The cast includes seasoned and first-time actors, supported by crews behind the scenes. Rehearsals began on Nov 12.

“All in all, the show may have an unusual title, but its premise brings the spirit of love, life and Christmas to the audience,” Glassman said.

A lover of history, Glassman has researched the history of Hays and the surrounding area through the Ellis County Historical Society archives.

"I did a lot of research over the course of my life through the historical society," she said.&nbsp;<br>

Glassman has written 10 other plays. Hays Community Theatre has staged several previous Christmas productions that Glassman wrote and directed, including her play, “My Deadly Valentine.”

She has a long history with Hays Community Theatre. In 2004, Glassman and a close friend, the late Paula Huser, started the organization.

&nbsp;“I am very passionate about giving the community a place to enjoy participating in theater, either through acting or as part of the audience,” she said.

The theater is holding auditions for its upcoming production of "Leaving Iowa" from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19. The show premieres in February.

You can find more information at the Hays Community Theatre <a href="https://www.hctks.com/">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayscommunitytheatre">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733321595177.jpeg" alt="Madicyn Urban as Marry Kidd, Codi Fenwick as Helen Teeran, Adam Conkey as Wild Bill and Arron Hardin as Trevor Manly in Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Photo By Jeff Leiker/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Madicyn Urban as Marry Kidd, Codi Fenwick as Helen Teeran, Adam Conkey as Wild Bill and Arron Hardin as Trevor Manly in Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Photo By Jeff Leiker/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The Hays Community Theatre is giving one last spooky thrill before the holidays with its production of "A Haunted Sort of Christmas."</p><p>"A Haunted Sort of Christmas" is an original play that follows a Kansas native and his fiancee as they renovate an old building in Hays. They are joined by a ghost hunter who uncovers the building's mysteries.</p><p>Playwright and director Cheryl Glassman said additional characters from the 1800s appear, inspired by actual historical figures from the area.</p><p>"We have characters that show up that may or may not be spirits from the 1870s. Wild Bill and Kate Coffey, who owned Kate Coffey's Salon in Hays, she is there," Glassman said.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733424777103.jpeg" alt="Ghosts from the Old West. Actors Jerrett Leiker, Brooke Leiker, Codi Fenwick and Aaron Hardin  appear in this scene for&nbsp;Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo " />
                        <figcaption>Ghosts from the Old West. Actors Jerrett Leiker, Brooke Leiker, Codi Fenwick and Aaron Hardin  appear in this scene for&nbsp;Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo </figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The play is set for 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 2 p.m. Saturday at the Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.</p><p>Tickers are available now for $10. You can purchase yours online <a href="https://etix.com/ticket/v/12715">here </a>or at the doors.</p><p>Glassman said the theater troupe is hosting a food drive alongside the production.&nbsp;Those attending are asked to bring a nonperishable food item.</p><p>"The food drive is because we are all here to help one another," she said. "The food will go to various Hays food banks."</p><p>The play centers around Hays native Patreek Kalomes, who brings his reluctant fiancee from New York, Helen Teeran, to Hays on Christmas Eve to meet his family and renovate an old building.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733425049018.jpeg" alt="Adam Conkey as Wild Bill, Brooke Leiker as Kate Coffey and Jerrett Leiker as Patreek Kalomes&nbsp;in Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Photo By Jeff Leiker/Hays Post " />
                        <figcaption>Adam Conkey as Wild Bill, Brooke Leiker as Kate Coffey and Jerrett Leiker as Patreek Kalomes&nbsp;in Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Photo By Jeff Leiker/Hays Post </figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Paleontologist and ghost hunter Trevor Manly comes along for the ride, convinced the building is haunted. As Helen begins cleaning, she discovers a dead body. When people dressed in 1870s attire start appearing, Trevor’s suspicions seem increasingly plausible as Christmas carolers add to the chaos.</p><p>Glassman said that despite its somewhat macabre plot, the play is “family-friendly” and suitable for children ages 9 and older. The cast includes 15 people ages 8 to 68.</p><p>"It's got something for everyone," she said. "This show is to create a joyful time, laugh, have a good time, and experience expressions in your heart and soul."</p><p>Jarrett Leiker of Munjor plays Kalomes, Codi Fenwick of Hays plays Teeran and Arron Hardin plays Manly. Vocalist&nbsp;Michelle English plays the 1870s character Mama and has a solo. The accompanist is Amy Staab of Ellis.</p><p>The cast includes seasoned and first-time actors, supported by crews behind the scenes. Rehearsals began on Nov 12.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733424686870.jpeg" alt="Chelsie Nelson, in charge of costumes and hairstyles, adjusts the facial covering worn by Madicyn Urban, who plays Mary Kidd for Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Chelsie Nelson, in charge of costumes and hairstyles, adjusts the facial covering worn by Madicyn Urban, who plays Mary Kidd for Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733424713810.jpeg" alt="Playwright and director Cheryl Glassman speaking Codi Fenwick, Aaron Hardin, Ella Fenwick, and Zachary Leiker for Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo" />
                        <figcaption>Playwright and director Cheryl Glassman speaking Codi Fenwick, Aaron Hardin, Ella Fenwick, and Zachary Leiker for Hays Community Theatre's "A Haunted Sort of Christmas." Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>“All in all, the show may have an unusual title, but its premise brings the spirit of love, life and Christmas to the audience,” Glassman said.</p><p>A lover of history, Glassman has researched the history of Hays and the surrounding area through the Ellis County Historical Society archives.</p><p>"I did a lot of research over the course of my life through the historical society," she said.&nbsp;<br></p><p>Glassman has written 10 other plays. Hays Community Theatre has staged several previous Christmas productions that Glassman wrote and directed, including her play, “My Deadly Valentine.”</p><p>She has a long history with Hays Community Theatre. In 2004, Glassman and a close friend, the late Paula Huser, started the organization.</p><p>&nbsp;“I am very passionate about giving the community a place to enjoy participating in theater, either through acting or as part of the audience,” she said.</p><p>The theater is holding auditions for its upcoming production of "Leaving Iowa" from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19. The show premieres in February.</p><p>You can find more information at the Hays Community Theatre <a href="https://www.hctks.com/">website </a>and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayscommunitytheatre">Facebook</a>.</p>

Hays Community Theatre presents 'A Haunted Sort of Christmas' Dec. 12-14

LIBERTY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling had a big showing at the Jewell Duals, hosted by William Jewell College on Saturday (Dec. 7). The Tigers knocked off a pair of NCAA nationally ranked teams and one NAIA nationally ranked team on their way to a 4-1 day, moving to 7-2 overall on the season. Their only blemish for the day was a loss to the No. 1 team in the country, the University of Iowa.

Fort Hays State 23, #7 Lindenwood 20The Tigers made a big splash early to announce their presence, picking up their first-ever win over a Top 10 nationally ranked team. After Lindenwood jumped out to a 10-0 lead through two matches, the Tigers started to fight their way back and ultimately got past the Lions in two of the last three matches.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lindsey-lopez/8284">Lindsey Lopez</a>&nbsp;started the Tiger comeback at 117 with a 10-0 tech fall. Her sister&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;pulled the Tigers within one with a forfeit win. The Lions held on to their lead momentarily 13-10 when Cayden Condit, the No. 8 ranked wrestler at 131, won a tight 4-2 decision over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;tied the match up at 13-13 with a 7-0 shutout decision at 138.Lindenwood moved back in front 16-13 when No. 10 ranked Rebecca Strong scored a tight 2-0 decision over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/dylen-ritchey/8287">Dylen Ritchey</a>&nbsp;at 145, but the Tigers blew past the Lions with pins in the next two matches.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/kaylee-ricketts/8218">Kaylee Ricketts</a>&nbsp;started the Tigers momentum swing with a fall in 3:57 at 160, then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;notched a fall in 1:46 to push the Tigers out to an insurmountable 23-16 lead with one match to go. Sara Lake, ranked No. 3 at 207 for Lindenwood, picked up a tech fall over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>, but it wasn't enough as the Tigers won 23-20.

<b>Fort Hays State 27, #25 William Jewell 18</b><br>The Tigers had to fight from behind for a win against their second-straight NCAA ranked opponent, this time blowing past host and No. 25 ranked William Jewell in the second match of the day. The Cardinals built an 8-1 win with a decision at 110 and a fall at 117, but&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;brought the Tigers all the way back into the lead.

Lopez started the swing with a 12-3 decision, making it 9-4 in favor of WJC. Laswell scored a 9-6 decision to make it 10-7 in favor of WJC. Then Moore pushed the Tigers in front 12-10 with a fall at 1:52. A 7-2 decision for Paige Barber at 145 for WJC over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/ashlynn-goodwin/8212">Ashlynn Goodwin</a>&nbsp;tied the match 13-13, but the Tigers put the pedal down in the next two matches when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/josie-houk/8279">Josie Houk</a>&nbsp;dialed up a pin in 1:00 at 160 and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;posted a 10-0 tech fall at 180. FHSU led 22-13 with two matches to go, once again mathematically locked for a win.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>&nbsp;lost by fall at 207, but the Tigers got the five points back when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/arianna-ortiz/8214">Arianna Ortiz</a>&nbsp;received a forfeit win at 103. FHSU won 27-18.

<b>Fort Hays State 43, William Jewell "B" 0</b><br>William Jewell fielded a "B" squad for the duals of just three wrestlers, which turned into an easy dual win for FHSU. Both teams were open at 103, but seven Tigers picked up forfeit wins.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/amanda-jaeger/8280">Amanda Jaeger</a>&nbsp;scored a fall in 4:22 at 131,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/dylen-ritchey/8287">Dylen Ritchey</a>&nbsp;had a 9-0 decision at 145, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;had a fall in 40 seconds at 197.

<b>Iowa 36, Fort Hays State 1</b><br>Fort Hays State's only speed bump of the day was running into defending national champion and No. 1 ranked University of Iowa in the fourth round of matches. Outside of both teams being open at 103, Iowa won all nine matches contested.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;at 138 was the only Tiger to notch a team point, dropping an 11-1 tech fall to No. 3 ranked Nanea Estrella.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;(124) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>&nbsp;(131) held their opponents to just decisions. The Hawkeyes had four of their No. 1 ranked wrestlers (Gonzalez – 117, Larramendy – 160, Welker – 180, and Foeller 207) compete in the dual.

<b>Fort Hays State 41, Missouri Baptist 5</b><br>The Tigers shook off the setback against Iowa with flying colors as they dominated their way to a 41-5 win over Missouri Baptist, the No. 19 ranked team in NAIA. Missouri Baptist picked up its only team points in the 103 match with the Tigers being open. After that, FHSU reeled off nine-straight wins to put an exclamation point on their big day in Liberty.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/sophia-shultz/8289">Sophia Shultz</a>&nbsp;(110),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;(138), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/josie-houk/8279">Josie Houk</a>&nbsp;(160) all had falls to supply the Tigers five points each.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lindsey-lopez/8284">Lindsey Lopez</a>&nbsp;(117),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/ashlynn-goodwin/8212">Ashlynn Goodwin</a>&nbsp;(145), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;(180) all picked up forfeit wins in their respective classes.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;(124) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>&nbsp;(131) each scored tech fall shutouts of their opponents, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>&nbsp;(207) wrapped the day with a 4-0 shutout decision.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with four wins each for the day.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733674307121.png" alt="FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett" />
                        <figcaption>FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>FHSU Athletics</i></p><p>LIBERTY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Women's Wrestling had a big showing at the Jewell Duals, hosted by William Jewell College on Saturday (Dec. 7). The Tigers knocked off a pair of NCAA nationally ranked teams and one NAIA nationally ranked team on their way to a 4-1 day, moving to 7-2 overall on the season. Their only blemish for the day was a loss to the No. 1 team in the country, the University of Iowa.</p><p>Fort Hays State 23, #7 Lindenwood 20The Tigers made a big splash early to announce their presence, picking up their first-ever win over a Top 10 nationally ranked team. After Lindenwood jumped out to a 10-0 lead through two matches, the Tigers started to fight their way back and ultimately got past the Lions in two of the last three matches.</p><p><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lindsey-lopez/8284">Lindsey Lopez</a>&nbsp;started the Tiger comeback at 117 with a 10-0 tech fall. Her sister&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;pulled the Tigers within one with a forfeit win. The Lions held on to their lead momentarily 13-10 when Cayden Condit, the No. 8 ranked wrestler at 131, won a tight 4-2 decision over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;tied the match up at 13-13 with a 7-0 shutout decision at 138.Lindenwood moved back in front 16-13 when No. 10 ranked Rebecca Strong scored a tight 2-0 decision over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/dylen-ritchey/8287">Dylen Ritchey</a>&nbsp;at 145, but the Tigers blew past the Lions with pins in the next two matches.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/kaylee-ricketts/8218">Kaylee Ricketts</a>&nbsp;started the Tigers momentum swing with a fall in 3:57 at 160, then&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;notched a fall in 1:46 to push the Tigers out to an insurmountable 23-16 lead with one match to go. Sara Lake, ranked No. 3 at 207 for Lindenwood, picked up a tech fall over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>, but it wasn't enough as the Tigers won 23-20.</p><p><b>Fort Hays State 27, #25 William Jewell 18</b><br>The Tigers had to fight from behind for a win against their second-straight NCAA ranked opponent, this time blowing past host and No. 25 ranked William Jewell in the second match of the day. The Cardinals built an 8-1 win with a decision at 110 and a fall at 117, but&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;brought the Tigers all the way back into the lead.</p><p>Lopez started the swing with a 12-3 decision, making it 9-4 in favor of WJC. Laswell scored a 9-6 decision to make it 10-7 in favor of WJC. Then Moore pushed the Tigers in front 12-10 with a fall at 1:52. A 7-2 decision for Paige Barber at 145 for WJC over&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/ashlynn-goodwin/8212">Ashlynn Goodwin</a>&nbsp;tied the match 13-13, but the Tigers put the pedal down in the next two matches when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/josie-houk/8279">Josie Houk</a>&nbsp;dialed up a pin in 1:00 at 160 and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;posted a 10-0 tech fall at 180. FHSU led 22-13 with two matches to go, once again mathematically locked for a win.</p><p><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>&nbsp;lost by fall at 207, but the Tigers got the five points back when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/arianna-ortiz/8214">Arianna Ortiz</a>&nbsp;received a forfeit win at 103. FHSU won 27-18.</p><p><b>Fort Hays State 43, William Jewell "B" 0</b><br>William Jewell fielded a "B" squad for the duals of just three wrestlers, which turned into an easy dual win for FHSU. Both teams were open at 103, but seven Tigers picked up forfeit wins.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/amanda-jaeger/8280">Amanda Jaeger</a>&nbsp;scored a fall in 4:22 at 131,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/dylen-ritchey/8287">Dylen Ritchey</a>&nbsp;had a 9-0 decision at 145, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;had a fall in 40 seconds at 197.</p><p><b>Iowa 36, Fort Hays State 1</b><br>Fort Hays State's only speed bump of the day was running into defending national champion and No. 1 ranked University of Iowa in the fourth round of matches. Outside of both teams being open at 103, Iowa won all nine matches contested.</p><p><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;at 138 was the only Tiger to notch a team point, dropping an 11-1 tech fall to No. 3 ranked Nanea Estrella.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;(124) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>&nbsp;(131) held their opponents to just decisions. The Hawkeyes had four of their No. 1 ranked wrestlers (Gonzalez – 117, Larramendy – 160, Welker – 180, and Foeller 207) compete in the dual.</p><p><b>Fort Hays State 41, Missouri Baptist 5</b><br>The Tigers shook off the setback against Iowa with flying colors as they dominated their way to a 41-5 win over Missouri Baptist, the No. 19 ranked team in NAIA. Missouri Baptist picked up its only team points in the 103 match with the Tigers being open. After that, FHSU reeled off nine-straight wins to put an exclamation point on their big day in Liberty.</p><p><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/sophia-shultz/8289">Sophia Shultz</a>&nbsp;(110),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>&nbsp;(138), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/josie-houk/8279">Josie Houk</a>&nbsp;(160) all had falls to supply the Tigers five points each.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lindsey-lopez/8284">Lindsey Lopez</a>&nbsp;(117),&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/ashlynn-goodwin/8212">Ashlynn Goodwin</a>&nbsp;(145), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;(180) all picked up forfeit wins in their respective classes.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>&nbsp;(124) and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/jamie-laswell/8282">Jamie Laswell</a>&nbsp;(131) each scored tech fall shutouts of their opponents, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/hailey-conley/8276">Hailey Conley</a>&nbsp;(207) wrapped the day with a 4-0 shutout decision.</p><p><a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/lexie-lopez/8283">Lexie Lopez</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/nichole-moore/8375">Nichole Moore</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-wrestling/roster/isabella-renfro/8286">Isabella Renfro</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with four wins each for the day.</p>

🤼‍♀️ Tiger women take down three ranked opponents at Jewell Duals

HAYS - The Hays High girls and boys programs were both in the finals of the 42nd Annual Gerald Mitchell Hays City Shootout on Saturday. It was the first time since 2003 that both teams were the finals of their home tournament.

<b>GIRLS:&nbsp;#9 Hays 63 , Life Prep 56<br></b>Hays never trailed in their championship game against Life Prep winning 63 to 56. The Indians never trailed in their three tournament games.

Hays jumped out to a 10-3 lead in the first five minutes of the game using a pair of 5-0 spurts wrapped around a three pointer from the Fire. Hays stretched their lead to seven twice before settling for a 16-10 lead at the end of one quarter.

Hays built on their lead in the second quarter until it reached 17 at halftime. The Indians used a 14-3 run midway through the quarter to take their first double digit lead.

Hays led by 17 once again at 38-21 with just over four minutes left in the third quarter when Life Prep made it a game again. The Fire rattled off 14 straight points closing the score down to 38-21. A 7-2 run to end the quarter pushed the lead back to eight at 45-37.

Hays never could completely pull away from Life Prep. The Fire had the ball down three twice in the fourth but could not get any closer.

Hays made each of their last six free throws in the final two minutes to win 63-56.

Jenna Schmeidler led the Indians with a game and career high 25. Katie Linenberger added 12 and Molly Martin 10. The Indians made 28 of 34 free throws.

Jenna Scheidler 25; Katie Linenberger 12; Molly martin 10; Kenlee Winter 3; Morgan Armbruster 3; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 0; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 4; Zoe Winter 6.

<b>BOYS: Blue&nbsp; Valley Northwest 62, Hays 42<br></b>Blue Valley Northwest used a 20-2 second quarter run on their way to a 62-42 victory over the Hays High Indians to claim the championship of the Hays City Shootout.

The two teams traded blows for the first quarter. The game was tied four times over the first six minutes. Hays took their final lead at 12-11 with 1:35 left in the quarter. The Huskies outscored Hays 6-1 over the remainder of that time though and led 17-13 going to the second quarter.

Hays trailed by five at 23-18 when Northwest went on their 20-2 run. The blitz covered 3:50. A Carter Lang half court three beat the buzzer to make the score 43-23 at the break.

Hays scored the first four points of the fourth quarter but never got closer than the 16 point difference of 43-27.

Hays never threatened rest of the way in a 62-42 loss.

Dawson Ruder scored 12 points and Carter Lang added a career high 11.

Carter Lang 11; Johnny Cano 0; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer; Trey Oakley 9; Tiger Johnson 6; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 2; Noah Smalley 0; Dawson Ruder 12.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733673397030.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER<br></b>Hays Post</p><p>HAYS - The Hays High girls and boys programs were both in the finals of the 42nd Annual Gerald Mitchell Hays City Shootout on Saturday. It was the first time since 2003 that both teams were the finals of their home tournament.</p><p><b>GIRLS:&nbsp;#9 Hays 63 , Life Prep 56<br></b>Hays never trailed in their championship game against Life Prep winning 63 to 56. The Indians never trailed in their three tournament games.</p><p>Hays jumped out to a 10-3 lead in the first five minutes of the game using a pair of 5-0 spurts wrapped around a three pointer from the Fire. Hays stretched their lead to seven twice before settling for a 16-10 lead at the end of one quarter.</p><p>Hays built on their lead in the second quarter until it reached 17 at halftime. The Indians used a 14-3 run midway through the quarter to take their first double digit lead.</p><p>Highlights</p><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/1976335059&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-1" title="Hays HIgh WBKB Highlights v Life Prep Dec 07, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays HIgh WBKB Highlights v Life Prep Dec 07, 2024</a></div></div><p>Hays led by 17 once again at 38-21 with just over four minutes left in the third quarter when Life Prep made it a game again. The Fire rattled off 14 straight points closing the score down to 38-21. A 7-2 run to end the quarter pushed the lead back to eight at 45-37.</p><p>Hays never could completely pull away from Life Prep. The Fire had the ball down three twice in the fourth but could not get any closer.</p><p>Hays made each of their last six free throws in the final two minutes to win 63-56.</p><p>Coach Len Melvin</p><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/1976335167&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-coach-v-life" title="Hays High WBKB Coach v Life Prep Dec 07, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Coach v Life Prep Dec 07, 2024</a></div></div><p>Jenna Schmeidler led the Indians with a game and career high 25. Katie Linenberger added 12 and Molly Martin 10. The Indians made 28 of 34 free throws.</p><p>Jenna Scheidler 25; Katie Linenberger 12; Molly martin 10; Kenlee Winter 3; Morgan Armbruster 3; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 0; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 4; Zoe Winter 6.</p><p><b>BOYS: Blue&nbsp; Valley Northwest 62, Hays 42<br></b>Blue Valley Northwest used a 20-2 second quarter run on their way to a 62-42 victory over the Hays High Indians to claim the championship of the Hays City Shootout.</p><p>The two teams traded blows for the first quarter. The game was tied four times over the first six minutes. Hays took their final lead at 12-11 with 1:35 left in the quarter. The Huskies outscored Hays 6-1 over the remainder of that time though and led 17-13 going to the second quarter.</p><p>Hays trailed by five at 23-18 when Northwest went on their 20-2 run. The blitz covered 3:50. A Carter Lang half court three beat the buzzer to make the score 43-23 at the break.</p><p>Highlights</p><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/1976336111&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-1" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Blue Valley NW Dec 07, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Blue Valley NW Dec 07, 2024</a></div></div><p>Hays scored the first four points of the fourth quarter but never got closer than the 16 point difference of 43-27.</p><p>Hays never threatened rest of the way in a 62-42 loss.</p><p>Coach Sean Dreiling</p><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/1976336847&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-coach-v-blue" title="Hays High MBKB Coach v Blue Valley NW Dec 07, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Coach v Blue Valley NW Dec 07, 2024</a></div></div><p>Dawson Ruder scored 12 points and Carter Lang added a career high 11.</p><p>Carter Lang 11; Johnny Cano 0; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer; Trey Oakley 9; Tiger Johnson 6; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 2; Noah Smalley 0; Dawson Ruder 12.</p>

🏀 Hays High girls claim Shootout title; boys runner-up

JUNCTION CITY – The Hays High boys wrestling team opened
their season Saturday at the Junction City Blue Jay Duals. The Indians went 2-3
on the day. After losing to Washburn Rural 60-24 and to Emporia 54-21, they
came back to beat Wichita West 46-36 and Hutchinson 51-24 before dropping their
final dual to Shawnee Heights 46-33.

Topeka-Washburn Rural HS defeated Hays 60-24

<p><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>JUNCTION CITY – The Hays High boys wrestling team opened
their season Saturday at the Junction City Blue Jay Duals. The Indians went 2-3
on the day. After losing to Washburn Rural 60-24 and to Emporia 54-21, they
came back to beat Wichita West 46-36 and Hutchinson 51-24 before dropping their
final dual to Shawnee Heights 46-33.</p><h2>POOL B - Hays</h2><p>Guaranteed 3rd place</p><h2>Match #1 Round 1</h2><p>Topeka-Washburn Rural HS defeated Hays 60-24</p><ul>
                        <li><b>106</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cyler Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Collin Rezac (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;Fall 2:42</li><li><b>113</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Camden Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ethan Koci (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;Fall 1:47</li><li><b>120</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Ryder Harrison (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>126</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Walker Doyal (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ethan Branaman (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 1:08</li><li><b>132</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cooper Stivers (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>138</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Landen Kocher-Munoz (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Devin Quach (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:25</li><li><b>144</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Easton Broxterman (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>150</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brodye Kocher-Munoz (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Gabriel Campbell (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 3:07</li><li><b>157</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kristjan Marshall (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Roberto Macias (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 3:43</li><li><b>165</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brenner Beninga (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brian Prough (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 2:41</li><li><b>175</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Lane Geist (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Hayden Neyer (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;Fall 2:29</li><li><b>190</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jadyn Baum (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jonathan Rigler (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 2:20</li><li><b>215</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brungardt Boston (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Eli Heiman (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;Fall 0:01</li><li><b>285</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Dallas Koelling (Topeka-Washburn Rural HS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jacinto Carillo (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 2:30</li>
                    </ul><h2>Match #2 Round 2</h2><p>Emporia defeated Hays 54-21</p><ul>
                        <li><b>106</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jack Haynes (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Cyler Luck (Hays)&nbsp;Dec 4-3</li><li><b>113</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kolton Wyatt (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Camden Luck (Hays)&nbsp;Dec 12-7</li><li><b>120</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Gabe Wassom (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>126</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Carlos Ramos (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ethan Branaman (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 1:39</li><li><b>132</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jackson Goodman (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>138</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Landon Wohletz (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Devin Quach (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:35</li><li><b>144</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Matthew Goodman (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>150</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Gabriel Campbell (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Keven Cubias (Emporia)&nbsp;Fall 1:49</li><li><b>157</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roberto Macias (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Benji Gamez (Emporia)&nbsp;Fall 1:10</li><li><b>165</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Garrett LeBlanc (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brian Prough (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:54</li><li><b>175</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Tayten Ervin (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Lane Geist (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 1:29</li><li><b>190</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jonathan Rigler (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Andyn Perez (Emporia)&nbsp;Fall 1:43</li><li><b>215</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brungardt Boston (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Fernando Arzate (Emporia)&nbsp;Dec 11-10</li><li><b>285</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jose Vargas (Emporia)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jacinto Carillo (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 1:35</li>
                    </ul><h2>Match #3 Round 3</h2><p>Hays defeated Wichita West 46-36</p><ul>
                        <li><b>106</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cyler Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>113</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Camden Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Luis Hidrogo (Wichita West)&nbsp;Fall 1:04</li><li><b>120</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Ethan Branaman (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>126</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Nathan Strobel (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>132</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;David Del Rel Morales (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>138</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kevin Pacheco (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Devin Quach (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 3:08</li><li><b>144</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Wyatt Powell (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>150</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Gabriel Campbell (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>157</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roberto Macias (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ariel Nevarez (Wichita West)&nbsp;Fall 1:31</li><li><b>165</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brian Prough (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>175</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Lane Geist (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Collin Miller (Wichita West)&nbsp;TF 19-4</li><li><b>190</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jonathan Rigler (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Mencaii En (Wichita West)&nbsp;TF 20-5</li><li><b>215</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;James Moore (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brungardt Boston (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 2:35</li><li><b>285</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Chance Johnson (Wichita West)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jacinto Carillo (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:39</li>
                    </ul><h2>Rnd4 Mat 4 - Hays</h2><p>Guaranteed 1st place</p><h2>Match #1 1st Place Match</h2><p>Hays defeated Hutchinson 51-24</p><ul>
                        <li><b>106</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cyler Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Tommy Perkins (Hutchinson)&nbsp;TF 15-0</li><li><b>113</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Camden Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Eli Thomas (Hutchinson)&nbsp;TF 15-0</li><li><b>120</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Ethan Branaman (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Daniel Jimenez (Hutchinson)&nbsp;Fall 1:27</li><li><b>126</b>&nbsp;- Double Forfeit</li><li><b>132</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kameron Wilson (Hutchinson)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>138</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Alex Stowell (Hutchinson)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Devin Quach (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:48</li><li><b>144</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Ayden Robidoux (Hutchinson)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>150</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Gabriel Campbell (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Anthony Gresham (Hutchinson)&nbsp;Fall 3:09</li><li><b>157</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roberto Macias (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Chris Evans (Hutchinson)&nbsp;TF 17-2</li><li><b>165</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Karson Etienne (Hutchinson)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brian Prough (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:56</li><li><b>175</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Lane Geist (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Nico Garcia (Hutchinson)&nbsp;Fall 1:36</li><li><b>190</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jonathan Rigler (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jayden Tuchardt (Hutchinson)&nbsp;Fall 0:09</li><li><b>215</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brungardt Boston (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ashtun Lemonds (Hutchinson)&nbsp;Fall 1:12</li><li><b>285</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jacinto Carillo (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li>
                    </ul><h2>Rnd5 Mat 2 - Hays</h2><p>Guaranteed 2nd place</p><h2>Match #1 1st Place Match</h2><p>Shawnee Heights defeated Hays 46-33</p><ul>
                        <li><b>106</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cyler Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Urijah Seel (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;Fall 1:22</li><li><b>113</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Camden Luck (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jacob Reyes (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;Dec 6-2</li><li><b>120</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Ethan Branaman (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>126</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Saul Ortiz (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>132</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Dallas Owens (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>138</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brody Brown (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Devin Quach (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 0:52</li><li><b>144</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Carson Anderson (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>150</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Christian Labrador (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Gabriel Campbell (Hays)&nbsp;Maj 20-8</li><li><b>157</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Roberto Macias (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Evan Johnson (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;Fall 4:25</li><li><b>165</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kael Westgate (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brian Prough (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 2:52</li><li><b>175</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Cain Purvis (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Lane Geist (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 3:45</li><li><b>190</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Jonathan Rigler (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Dawson Hoge (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;Fall 0:41</li><li><b>215</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Brungardt Boston (Hays)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Unknown (Unattached)&nbsp;Forf</li><li><b>285</b>&nbsp;-&nbsp;Will Skaggs (Shawnee Heights)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jacinto Carillo (Hays)&nbsp;Fall 1:48</li>
                    </ul>

🤼‍♂️ HHS boys go 2-3 at Junction City Duals

VALLEY CENTER – The Hays High girls’ wrestling team opened
their season with a second-place finish at the Valley Center Girls Invitational
Saturday. The Indians scored 162 points, 41 1/2 behind first place Garden City.

The Indians had three wrestlers win championships and three
finish in second place. Timber Lovewell (145), Lexi Barnett (155) and Eleanor Stoffel
(190) all went undefeated and finished first. Emersyn Cooper (100), Kenlee
Vehige (120) and Addison Neuberger (135) all finished second.

Valley Center Girls Invitational Results for Hays

Emersyn Copper (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 12.0 team points.

Chassidy Carlisle (3-2) placed 5th and scored 11.0 team points.

Chloe Robben (2-2) placed 3rd and scored 7.0 team points.

Keyla Macias (0-2) place is unknown and scored 0.0 team points.

Kenlee Vehige (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 16.0 team points.

Reese Vehige (3-2) placed 5th and scored 11.0 team points.

Addison Nueberger (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 18.0 team points.

Timber Lovewell (5-0) placed 1st and scored 25.0 team points.

Lexi Barnett (4-0) placed 1st and scored 22.0 team points.

Emily Casas (2-2) placed 5th and scored 9.0 team points.

Eleanor Stoffel (3-0) placed 1st and scored 20.0 team points.

Jenessa Carrillo (2-3) placed 4th and scored 11.0 team points.

<p><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>VALLEY CENTER – The Hays High girls’ wrestling team opened
their season with a second-place finish at the Valley Center Girls Invitational
Saturday. The Indians scored 162 points, 41 1/2 behind first place Garden City.</p><p>The Indians had three wrestlers win championships and three
finish in second place. Timber Lovewell (145), Lexi Barnett (155) and Eleanor Stoffel
(190) all went undefeated and finished first. Emersyn Cooper (100), Kenlee
Vehige (120) and Addison Neuberger (135) all finished second.</p><h2>Valley Center Girls Invitational Results for Hays</h2><h2>GIRLS - 100</h2><p>Emersyn Copper (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 12.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Emersyn Copper (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Andrea Gonzalez (Rose Hill) 0-4 (Fall 0:12)</li><li>Round 2 - Tianna Murphy (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 4-0 won by fall over Emersyn Copper (Hays) 3-1 (Fall 1:18)</li><li>Round 3 - Emersyn Copper (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Deanna Rivas (Garden City) 1-3 (Fall 0:41)</li><li>Round 4 - Emersyn Copper (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Adalyn Carey (Valley Center) 2-2 (Fall 0:47)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 105</h2><p>Chassidy Carlisle (3-2) placed 5th and scored 11.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Payton Burton (Rose Hill) 3-2 won by fall over Chassidy Carlisle (Hays) 3-2 (Fall 0:52)</li><li>Round 2 - Chassidy Carlisle (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Cheyenne Hampton (Valley Center) 1-4 (Fall 2:31)</li><li>Round 3 - Kaira Acosta (Garden City) 5-0 won by fall over Chassidy Carlisle (Hays) 3-2 (Fall 1:30)</li><li>Consolation Bracket - Chassidy Carlisle (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Deborah Jerez (Derby) 0-5 (Fall 2:09)</li><li>5th Place Match - Chassidy Carlisle (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Elaine Rhea (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 2-3 (Fall 2:33)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 110</h2><p>Chloe Robben (2-2) placed 3rd and scored 7.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Chloe Robben (Hays) 2-2 won by fall over Itzel Rivera (Garden City) 1-3 (Fall 0:53)</li><li>Round 2 - Alexa Luna (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 3-1 won by major decision over Chloe Robben (Hays) 2-2 (MD 14-4)</li><li>Round 3 - Chloe Robben (Hays) 2-2 won by fall over Caitlin Kintzel (Mulvane) 0-4 (Fall 0:28)</li><li>Round 4 - Lauren Horton (Derby) 4-0 won by fall over Chloe Robben (Hays) 2-2 (Fall 1:16)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 115</h2><p>Keyla Macias (0-2) place is unknown and scored 0.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Marina Loera (Garden City) 5-0 won by fall over Keyla Macias (Hays) 0-2 (Fall 1:08)</li><li>Round 2 - Oakly Sorenson (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 2-3 won by fall over Keyla Macias (Hays) 0-2 (Fall 0:37)</li><li>Round 4 - Madison Polson (Garden City) 3-2 won by medical forfeit over Keyla Macias (Hays) 0-2 (M. For.)</li><li>Round 5 - Jeorjia Johnson (Valley Center) 1-4 won by medical forfeit over Keyla Macias (Hays) 0-2 (M. For.)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 120</h2><p>Kenlee Vehige (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 16.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 2 - Kenlee Vehige (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Gracey Wood (Derby) 1-3 (Fall 0:46)</li><li>Round 3 - Kenlee Vehige (Hays) 3-1 won by decision over Annaly Enriquez (Garden City) 2-2 (Dec 12-9)</li><li>Round 4 - Kenlee Vehige (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Zailyn Cortez (Andover Central HS) 0-4 (Fall 0:31)</li><li>Round 5 - Kenlee Vehige (Hays) 3-1 received a bye () (Bye)</li><li>1st Place Match - Leiannah Landreth (Mulvane) 5-0 won by fall over Kenlee Vehige (Hays) 3-1 (Fall 0:26)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 125</h2><p>Reese Vehige (3-2) placed 5th and scored 11.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Crystal Loera (Garden City) 5-0 won by fall over Reese Vehige (Hays) 3-2 (Fall 1:39)</li><li>Round 2 - Jordan Henry (Rose Hill) 2-3 won by fall over Reese Vehige (Hays) 3-2 (Fall 1:15)</li><li>Round 3 - Reese Vehige (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Melanie Arias (Andover Central HS) 0-5 (Fall 1:17)</li><li>Consolation Bracket - Reese Vehige (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Addi Williams (Mulvane) 1-4 (Fall 0:35)</li><li>5th Place Match - Reese Vehige (Hays) 3-2 won by fall over Evelyn Benitez (Garden City) 2-3 (Fall 1:44)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 135</h2><p>Tionna Napue (0-1) placed 7th.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Margarita Guzman (Garden City) 5-0 won by fall over Tionna Napue (Hays) 0-1 (Fall 3:16)</li><li>Round 2 - Emma Carey (Valley Center) 3-2 won by medical forfeit over Tionna Napue (Hays) 0-1 (M. For.)</li><li>Round 3 - Navia Garcia-Bebek (Rose Hill) 2-2 won by medical forfeit over Tionna Napue (Hays) 0-1 (M. For.)</li><li>Consolation Bracket - Jaida Carter (Andover HS) 1-3 won by medical forfeit over Tionna Napue (Hays) 0-1 (M. For.)</li><li>7th Place Match - Tionna Napue (Hays) 0-1 received a bye () (Bye)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 135</h2><p>Addison Nueberger (3-1) placed 2nd and scored 18.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Addison Nueberger (Hays) 3-1 received a bye () (Bye)</li><li>Round 2 - Addison Nueberger (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Jaida Carter (Andover HS) 1-3 (Fall 3:02)</li><li>Round 3 - Addison Nueberger (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Talyn Herndon (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 1-3 (Fall 1:17)</li><li>Championship Bracket - Addison Nueberger (Hays) 3-1 won by fall over Emma Carey (Valley Center) 3-2 (Fall 3:12)</li><li>1st Place Match - Margarita Guzman (Garden City) 5-0 won by fall over Addison Nueberger (Hays) 3-1 (Fall 0:54)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 145</h2><p>Timber Lovewell (5-0) placed 1st and scored 25.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Timber Lovewell (Hays) 5-0 won by fall over Jaslene Moncada (Garden City) 4-1 (Fall 3:31)</li><li>Round 2 - Timber Lovewell (Hays) 5-0 won by fall over Mya Gonzales (Garden City) 0-4 (Fall 1:02)</li><li>Round 3 - Timber Lovewell (Hays) 5-0 won by fall over Jeira Schwind (Derby) 2-3 (Fall 5:23)</li><li>Round 5 - Timber Lovewell (Hays) 5-0 won by fall over Makenzie Rogers (Mulvane) 3-2 (Fall 0:56)</li><li>1st Place Match - Timber Lovewell (Hays) 5-0 won by major decision over Olivia Randle (Andover HS) 3-1 (MD 15-4)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 155</h2><p>Lexi Barnett (4-0) placed 1st and scored 22.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Lexi Barnett (Hays) 4-0 received a bye () (Bye)</li><li>Round 2 - Lexi Barnett (Hays) 4-0 won by fall over Elaina Gamble (Mulvane) 2-2 (Fall 0:23)</li><li>Round 3 - Lexi Barnett (Hays) 4-0 won by fall over Audry Murphy (Andover Central HS) 0-3 (Fall 0:17)</li><li>Championship Bracket - Lexi Barnett (Hays) 4-0 won by fall over Emily Douthitt (Andover Central HS) 2-3 (Fall 0:44)</li><li>1st Place Match - Lexi Barnett (Hays) 4-0 won by decision over Elayna Evans (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 4-1 (Dec 11-9)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 170</h2><p>Emily Casas (2-2) placed 5th and scored 9.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Whitney Truman (Valley Center) 1-3 won by fall over Emily Casas (Hays) 2-2 (Fall 3:08)</li><li>Round 2 - Emily Casas (Hays) 2-2 received a bye () (Bye)</li><li>Round 3 - Mary Condo (Garden City) 4-0 won by fall over Emily Casas (Hays) 2-2 (Fall 0:23)</li><li>Consolation Bracket - Emily Casas (Hays) 2-2 won by fall over Paris Lozoya (Garden City) 0-4 (Fall 0:37)</li><li>5th Place Match - Emily Casas (Hays) 2-2 won by fall over Mikaela Lara (Valley Center) 1-3 (Fall 1:38)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS 190</h2><p>Eleanor Stoffel (3-0) placed 1st and scored 20.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Eleanor Stoffel (Hays) 3-0 won by fall over Analee Bielby (Rose Hill) 0-3 (Fall 2:18)</li><li>Round 2 - Eleanor Stoffel (Hays) 3-0 won by fall over Analicia Lopez (Derby) 2-1 (Fall 0:33)</li><li>Round 3 - Eleanor Stoffel (Hays) 3-0 won by fall over Eleanor Crotts (Garden City) 1-2 (Fall 1:23)</li>
                    </ul><h2>GIRLS - 235</h2><p>Jenessa Carrillo (2-3) placed 4th and scored 11.0 team points.</p><ul>
                        <li>Round 1 - Jenessa Carrillo (Hays) 2-3 won by fall over Maribel Hernandez (Garden City) 2-2 (Fall 3:44)</li><li>Round 2 - Brooklyn Burling (Wichita-Haysville Campus) 5-0 won by fall over Jenessa Carrillo (Hays) 2-3 (Fall 1:17)</li><li>Round 3 - Jenessa Carrillo (Hays) 2-3 won by fall over Azul Rodriguez (Valley Center) 1-4 (Fall 0:56)</li><li>Championship Bracket - Maricela Gutierrrez (Valley Center) 3-1 won by fall over Jenessa Carrillo (Hays) 2-3 (Fall 0:43)</li><li>3rd Place Match - Taijonna Bryant (Andover HS) 2-2 won by fall over Jenessa Carrillo (Hays) 2-3 (Fall 2:25)</li>
                    </ul>

🤼‍♀️ HHS girls' second at Valley Center Invitational

NEW YORK (AP) — Zuby Ejiofor posted career highs scoring 28 points and grabbing 13 rebounds and St. John's used an offensive eruption after halftime to beat Kansas State 88-71 in a Big 12-Big East Battle contest on Saturday.

Ejiofor finished 11-for-17 shooting, Kadary Richmond scored 13 points and RJ Luis Jr. and reserve Simeon Wilcher each scored 11 for St. John's (7-2). The Red Storm had a 51-40 rebound advantage and a 17-10 edge in assists.

Brendan Hausen scored 21 of his 27 points before halftime, David N'Guessan scored 15 points and Coleman Hawkins 11 and grabbed nine rebounds for the Wildcats (6-3).

In a game of runs, St. John's ran away with it after halftime, starting with an 18-5 run over the first 4 1/2 minutes to go up 53-44 with consecutive 3-pointers from Luis and Aaron Scott. Ruben Prey's 3 gave the Red Storm a 62-50 lead at 11:01 to play and they led by double digits for the remainder. St. John's scored 53 points after intermission.

The first half featured runs by both teams.

St. John's used a 12-1 run turning a 16-7 deficit to a 19-17 lead; it's first lead of the game. The Wildcats countered with a 14-2 outburst in which Hausen sank three 3s and Max Jones added another for a 31-21 lead. St. John's rallied with an 8-0 spurt that took just a little more than minute to get within 31-28 with 3:42 left before halftime. The Wildcats led 39-35 at halftime.

It was the first time the two teams faced each other since Dec. 10, 1965, when then first-year head coach Lou Carnesseca led St. John’s to a 72-65 win. Carnesecca died at age 99 on Nov. 30.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733603540446.png" alt="Photo Kansas State Athletics" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>NEW YORK (AP) — Zuby Ejiofor posted career highs scoring 28 points and grabbing 13 rebounds and St. John's used an offensive eruption after halftime to beat Kansas State 88-71 in a Big 12-Big East Battle contest on Saturday.</p><p>Ejiofor finished 11-for-17 shooting, Kadary Richmond scored 13 points and RJ Luis Jr. and reserve Simeon Wilcher each scored 11 for St. John's (7-2). The Red Storm had a 51-40 rebound advantage and a 17-10 edge in assists.</p><p>Brendan Hausen scored 21 of his 27 points before halftime, David N'Guessan scored 15 points and Coleman Hawkins 11 and grabbed nine rebounds for the Wildcats (6-3).</p><p>In a game of runs, St. John's ran away with it after halftime, starting with an 18-5 run over the first 4 1/2 minutes to go up 53-44 with consecutive 3-pointers from Luis and Aaron Scott. Ruben Prey's 3 gave the Red Storm a 62-50 lead at 11:01 to play and they led by double digits for the remainder. St. John's scored 53 points after intermission.</p><p>The first half featured runs by both teams.</p><p>St. John's used a 12-1 run turning a 16-7 deficit to a 19-17 lead; it's first lead of the game. The Wildcats countered with a 14-2 outburst in which Hausen sank three 3s and Max Jones added another for a 31-21 lead. St. John's rallied with an 8-0 spurt that took just a little more than minute to get within 31-28 with 3:42 left before halftime. The Wildcats led 39-35 at halftime.</p><p>It was the first time the two teams faced each other since Dec. 10, 1965, when then first-year head coach Lou Carnesseca led St. John’s to a 72-65 win. Carnesecca died at age 99 on Nov. 30.</p>

🏀 Ejiofor's 28-points leads St. John's over Kansas State

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Hays City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham summed up the commission's consensus Thursday as they discussed engineering services for extending utilities for the development of city-owned property just northeast of Interstate 70 Exit 161.

"It's a long-term plan. We're not going to build this out tomorrow. ... It's looking for what we need in 10 and 20 years," she said.

"We are designing it to keep it as flexible as we can. ... At some point, we'll have to make some decisions," said Tom Howie, Hays project manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for&nbsp;continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.

A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art.

City commissioners will consider awarding a $118,750 low bid from Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, at their Dec. 12 meeting.

Hays has already been <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a> as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I'm very focused on retail development in this community, as are many," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs.

"I think we need to be looking at everything possible we can do to make ourselves attractive to people out there, and I know Grow Hays is working closely with a broker to find (it)."&nbsp;

City Manager Toby Dougherty said the project can be likened to when the city first extended utilities north from Vine Street under I-70 to the current thriving retail/business corridor.

"This is a long-term potential commercial corridor for us," Dougherty said, "not just the city's property but the other properties around it. The first significant step is getting utilities punched into there."

&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil said many people wondered why the city bought the property.

"This shows that we're serious about development. ... We need retail. It's a priority," he said.

Musil also wants to see a new convention center built at that location "to bring events back to town. That helps everything."

Hays' general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;

In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;

Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;

One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.

A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.

Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.

Jeff Boyle, parks director, discussed the east multi-use connector paths. These paths will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays, which will be voted on next week.

Once the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.

Boyle and Roger Bixenman, superintendent of the Hays Recreation Commission, also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool, and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. 

Recreation commission board members and city commissioners agreed to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools. Hays will reimburse the rec center  $25,447.

The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.

Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733502144403.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty talk about a new retail and housing development north of I-70 at Exit 161. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty talk about a new retail and housing development north of I-70 at Exit 161. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Hays City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham summed up the commission's consensus Thursday as they discussed engineering services for extending utilities for the development of city-owned property just northeast of Interstate 70 Exit 161.</p><p>"It's a long-term plan. We're not going to build this out tomorrow. ... It's looking for what we need in 10 and 20 years," she said.</p><p>"We are designing it to keep it as flexible as we can. ... At some point, we'll have to make some decisions," said Tom Howie, Hays project manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The city purchased the 93 acres, known as the Braun property, in 2019 for&nbsp;continued growth and development opportunities. Hays aims for a 1% population increase each year.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733249649196.png" alt="The Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>The Braun property was purchased by the city of Hays in 2019 for future development. City of Hays</figcaption>
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                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500723566.png" alt="Braun property development concept design by RDG Planning and Design.&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Braun property development concept design by RDG Planning and Design.&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>A 2023 feasibility study by RDG Planning and Design, Omaha, includes residential mixed housing, commercial business, offices, restaurants, hotels, walking trails, open space and public art.</p><p>City commissioners will consider awarding a $118,750 low bid from Kaw Valley Engineering, Salina, at their Dec. 12 meeting.</p><p>Hays has already been <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc8ac5a9-8e28-48ec-a7ab-6c3eeab9f02d">awarded $4 million in state funding for retail development</a> as part of the proposed project.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>"I'm very focused on retail development in this community, as are many," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs.</p><p>"I think we need to be looking at everything possible we can do to make ourselves attractive to people out there, and I know Grow Hays is working closely with a broker to find (it)."&nbsp;</p><div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DFrRKrMsitQ" title="braun property discuss 1" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p>City Manager Toby Dougherty said the project can be likened to when the city first extended utilities north from Vine Street under I-70 to the current thriving retail/business corridor.</p><p>"This is a long-term potential commercial corridor for us," Dougherty said, "not just the city's property but the other properties around it. The first significant step is getting utilities punched into there."</p><p>&nbsp;Commissioner Shaun Musil said many people wondered why the city bought the property.</p><p>"This shows that we're serious about development. ... We need retail. It's a priority," he said.</p><p>Musil also wants to see a new convention center built at that location "to bring events back to town. That helps everything."</p><p>Hays' general fund is primarily funded by the city's local sales tax.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733503964195.png" alt="Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, 755 General Custer Road. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, discussed demolishing obsolete structures at the water reclamation and reuse facility, 755 General Custer Road.&nbsp;</p><p>Three clarifiers were abandoned when the facility was upgraded between 2017 and 2019 to meet the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's new permit requirements.&nbsp;</p><p>One clarifier will be kept, although its metal components will be removed. It will be used if highly contaminated wastewater needs to be temporarily separated.</p><p>A single bid of $191,550 was submitted by M&amp;D, Hays, and is below the budget of $200,000.</p><p>Crispin said the newly opened area would be planted with grass.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733504190466.png" alt="Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>Multi-use paths to be built connecting the northeast side of Hays. City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Jeff Boyle, parks director, discussed the east multi-use connector paths. These paths will provide the necessary links between the existing path, which ends at 22nd Street just south of HaysMed, and the new path, which will connect 41st Street and Hall to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.</p><p>The total low bid for both connector paths is $231,616 from T&amp;T Builders, Hays, which will be voted on next week.</p><p>Once the new paths are constructed, there will be about five miles of multi-use path connecting the north and east sides of town.</p><p>Boyle and Roger Bixenman, superintendent of the Hays Recreation Commission, also presented a review of the 2024 financial reports and attendance for Hays Aquatic Park, Wilson Pool, and the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex. </p><p>Recreation commission board members and city commissioners agreed to split this year's $50,895 operating loss for the pools. Hays will reimburse the rec center  $25,447.</p><p>The sports complex operated at a profit of&nbsp;$39,883.</p><p>Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder was absent from the work session.&nbsp;</p>

🎥 Hays city commissioners discuss uses for land north of I-70

Keren, the comfort dog, visited Fort Hays State University on Wednesday to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs before finals week.

Keren is a 5-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who started training at 8 weeks old and knows more than 35 commands for her role. In her free time, she loves playing with her ball.

Keren is one of 130 Lutheran Church Charities K-9 comfort dogs who support those in need across 27 states. She has been based at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth since 2021.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53e6731c-2742-498b-b930-b2a7dc9d386e">SEE RELATED: Keren, the comfort dog, to help FHSU students destress on Monday</a>

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                    </figure><p><b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Keren, the comfort dog, visited Fort Hays State University on Wednesday to comfort and relieve students' stress with her warm, fluffy hugs before finals week.</p><p>Keren is a 5-year-old purebred Golden Retriever who started training at 8 weeks old and knows more than 35 commands for her role. In her free time, she loves playing with her ball.</p><p>Keren is one of 130 Lutheran Church Charities K-9 comfort dogs who support those in need across 27 states. She has been based at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth since 2021.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53e6731c-2742-498b-b930-b2a7dc9d386e">SEE RELATED: Keren, the comfort dog, to help FHSU students destress on Monday</a></p><figure>
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📷  Photo gallery: Keren, the comfort dog, visits FHSU to help students de-stress

Hays High and Hugoton faced off in the championship semifinals of the Gerald Mitchell Hays City Shootout on Friday evening in both the girls and boys bracket.

Hays scored the first 11 points of the game on their way to a ______ win over Hugoton to punch their ticket into the championship game.

Hugoton scored three points to close the game down to eight which was their closest margin in the game. Hays quickly scored seven more for an 18-3 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

The Indians gave up just a single free throw in the second quarter and pushed their edge to 27 at halftime 31-4.

The lead continued to swell in the third quarter. Hays scored the first 13 points of the third quarter to lead 44-4. The Indians led 48-10 going to the fourth quarter starting a continuous clock fourth quarter. Hays ended the game with a 54-12 win.

Hays improves to 2-0 on the young season and will face Life Prep in the semifinals. Hugoton falls to 1-1.

Eleven players scored for Hays. Molly Martin scored a game high 17.&nbsp;

Jenna Schmeidler 8; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 9; Molly Martin 17; Kenlee Winter 2; Morgan Armbruster 2; Jaysa Roa 2; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 4; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Cunningham 2; Brenna Fletcher 0.

A frantic back and forth first half left Hays with a 21-20 lead. The Indians built several lead of eight but were unable to increase the advantage to double figures. Hugoton scored the last seven points of the first half to close the gap down to one point.

Hays never trailed in the first half after scoring the first four points of the game. Hays led 13-9 after one quarter and led by eight three different times in the third quarter. The final came with three minutes before halftime at 21-13.

The two teams traded punches for the entire second half. Hugoton took their first lead early in the second half. The teams traded the lead over the next four minutes until the Eagles grabbed a 34-30 advantage with 2:00 left in the third.&nbsp;

Hays battled back to tie the game at 32 just before the third quarter ended.

Dawson Ruder scored three of his team high 13 on a conventional three point play to put the Indians in front 35-34 two minutes into the fourth quarter.

The teams traded the lead over the next two minutes with Hugoton take their last lead at 4:10 remaining 40-39. A pair of Trey Oakley free throws gave Hays a lead they never gave up. Thirty seconds later Tiger Johnson buried a left corner three for a 44-40 lead with 2:25 left.

Hays led by five when the Eagles nailed a three pointer with a minute remaining. While leading by three with ten seconds left Hays fouled three times to put Hugoton to the free throw line. The Eagles converted both shots bringing the score to 46-45. Johnny Cano made one of two free throw shots with 4.9 left and a Hugoton three at the buzzer was strong leaving Hays with the victory.

Ruder coupled his 13 points with 12 rebounds for his first double-double of the season and fourth of his career.

Hays is 2-0 and will face Blue Valley Northwest in the championship game at 7:00, following the girls game.

It is the first time since 2003 that the Hays boys and girls have both been in the Shootout championship at the same time.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 9; Trace Jacobs 2; Cooper Lindenmeyer 2; Trey Oakley 9; Tiger Johnson 8; Izaac Fox 4; Dawson Ruder 13.

<p>Hays High and Hugoton faced off in the championship semifinals of the Gerald Mitchell Hays City Shootout on Friday evening in both the girls and boys bracket.</p><p>Girls<br>#9 Hays 54 - Hugoton 12</p><p>Hays scored the first 11 points of the game on their way to a ______ win over Hugoton to punch their ticket into the championship game.</p><p>Hugoton scored three points to close the game down to eight which was their closest margin in the game. Hays quickly scored seven more for an 18-3 advantage at the end of the first quarter.</p><p>The Indians gave up just a single free throw in the second quarter and pushed their edge to 27 at halftime 31-4.</p><p>Highlights</p><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/1975706547&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" title="Hays High WBKB Highlights v Hugoton Dec 6, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Highlights v Hugoton Dec 6, 2024</a></div></div><p>The lead continued to swell in the third quarter. Hays scored the first 13 points of the third quarter to lead 44-4. The Indians led 48-10 going to the fourth quarter starting a continuous clock fourth quarter. Hays ended the game with a 54-12 win.</p><p>Coach Len Melvin</p><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/1975706639&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-game-int-v" title="Hays High WBKB Post Game Int v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Post Game Int v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024</a></div></div><p>Hays improves to 2-0 on the young season and will face Life Prep in the semifinals. Hugoton falls to 1-1.</p><p>Eleven players scored for Hays. Molly Martin scored a game high 17.&nbsp;</p><p>Jenna Schmeidler 8; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 9; Molly Martin 17; Kenlee Winter 2; Morgan Armbruster 2; Jaysa Roa 2; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 4; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Cunningham 2; Brenna Fletcher 0.</p><p>Boys</p><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/1975707283&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-interview" title="Hays High MBKB Post Interview v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Post Interview v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024</a></div></div><p>A frantic back and forth first half left Hays with a 21-20 lead. The Indians built several lead of eight but were unable to increase the advantage to double figures. Hugoton scored the last seven points of the first half to close the gap down to one point.</p><p>Hays never trailed in the first half after scoring the first four points of the game. Hays led 13-9 after one quarter and led by eight three different times in the third quarter. The final came with three minutes before halftime at 21-13.</p><p>Highlights</p><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/1975706855&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" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Hugoton Dec 06, 2024</a></div></div><p>The two teams traded punches for the entire second half. Hugoton took their first lead early in the second half. The teams traded the lead over the next four minutes until the Eagles grabbed a 34-30 advantage with 2:00 left in the third.&nbsp;</p><p>Hays battled back to tie the game at 32 just before the third quarter ended.</p><p>Dawson Ruder scored three of his team high 13 on a conventional three point play to put the Indians in front 35-34 two minutes into the fourth quarter.</p><p>The teams traded the lead over the next two minutes with Hugoton take their last lead at 4:10 remaining 40-39. A pair of Trey Oakley free throws gave Hays a lead they never gave up. Thirty seconds later Tiger Johnson buried a left corner three for a 44-40 lead with 2:25 left.</p><p>Hays led by five when the Eagles nailed a three pointer with a minute remaining. While leading by three with ten seconds left Hays fouled three times to put Hugoton to the free throw line. The Eagles converted both shots bringing the score to 46-45. Johnny Cano made one of two free throw shots with 4.9 left and a Hugoton three at the buzzer was strong leaving Hays with the victory.</p><p>Coach Sean Dreiling</p><p>Ruder coupled his 13 points with 12 rebounds for his first double-double of the season and fourth of his career.</p><p>Hays is 2-0 and will face Blue Valley Northwest in the championship game at 7:00, following the girls game.</p><p>It is the first time since 2003 that the Hays boys and girls have both been in the Shootout championship at the same time.</p><p>Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 9; Trace Jacobs 2; Cooper Lindenmeyer 2; Trey Oakley 9; Tiger Johnson 8; Izaac Fox 4; Dawson Ruder 13.</p>

🏀 Hays High girls and boys advance to Shootout title games

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-hunter-pardon-president-trump-e2d0ce366c6980cd31c6717edbc9938a">is weighing whether to issue sweeping</a>&nbsp;pardons for officials and allies who the White House fears could be unjustly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-enemies-from-within-5c4a34776469a55e71d3ba4d4e68cf62">targeted by President-elect Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;administration, a preemptive move that would be a novel and risky use of the president’s extraordinary constitutional power.

The deliberations so far are largely at the level of White House lawyers. But Biden himself has discussed the topic with some senior aides, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday to discuss the sensitive subject. No decisions have been made, the people said, and it is possible Biden opts to do nothing at all.

Pardons are historically afforded to those accused of specific crimes – and usually those who have already been convicted of an offense — but Biden’s team is considering issuing them for those who have not even been investigated, let alone charged. They fear that Trump and his allies, who have boasted of enemies lists and exacting “retribution,” could launch investigations that would be reputationally and financially costly for their targets even if they don’t result in prosecutions.

While the president’s pardon power is absolute, Biden’s use in this fashion would mark a significant expansion of how they are deployed, and some Biden aides fear it could lay the groundwork for an even more drastic usage by Trump. They also worry that issuing pardons would feed into claims by Trump and his allies that the individuals committed acts that necessitated immunity.

Recipients could include infectious-disease specialist Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was instrumental in combating the coronavirus pandemic and who has become a pariah to conservatives angry about mask mandates and vaccines. Others include witnesses in Trump’s criminal or civil trials and Biden administration officials who have drawn the ire of the incoming president and his allies.

Some fearful former officials have reached out to the Biden White House preemptively seeking some sort of protection from the future Trump administration, one of the people said.

It follows Biden’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-hunter-biden-pardon-son-9307d6bade834df77c265cae7d3b7c25">pardon his son Hunter</a>&nbsp;— not just for his convictions on federal gun and tax violations, but for any potential federal offense committed over an 11-year period, as the president feared that Trump allies would seek to prosecute his son for other offenses. That could serve as a model for other pardons Biden might issue to those who could find themselves in legal jeopardy under Trump.

Biden is not the first to consider such pardons — Trump aides considered them for him and his supporters involved in his failed efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election that culminated in a violent riot at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. But he could be the first to issue them since Trump’s pardons never materialized before he left office nearly four years ago.

Gerald Ford granted a “full, free, and absolute pardon” in 1974 to his predecessor, Richard Nixon, over the Watergate scandal. He believed a potential trial would “cause prolonged and divisive debate over the propriety of exposing to further punishment and degradation a man who has already paid the unprecedented penalty of relinquishing the highest elective office of the United States," as written in the pardon proclamation.

Politico was first to report that Biden was studying the use of preemptive pardons.

On the campaign trail, Trump made no secret of his desire to seek revenge on those who prosecuted him or crossed him.

Trump has talked about&nbsp;<a href="https://enemies/">“enemies from within"</a>&nbsp;and circulated social media posts that call for the jailing of Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Mike Pence and Sens. Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer. He also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-election-2024-gop-c584f9860260f48ddff90ab2dca0433a">zeroed in on former Rep. Liz Cheney,</a>&nbsp;a conservative Republican who campaigned for Harris and helped investigate Jan. 6, and he promoted a social media post that suggested he wanted military tribunals for supposed treason.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-trump-patel-fisa-russia-2d215ded96ad8a08689b6f7f0b2d49ec">Kash Patel, whom Trump has announced</a>&nbsp;as his nominee to be director of the FBI, has listed dozens of former government officials he wanted to “come after.”

Richard Painter, a Trump critic who served as the top White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, said he was reluctantly in support of having Biden issue sweeping pardons to people who could be targeted by Trump's administration. He said he hoped that would “clean the slate” for the incoming president and encourage him to focus on governing, not on punishing his political allies.

“It’s not an ideal situation at all,” Painter said. “We have a whole lot of bad options confronting us at this point.”

While the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immunity-supreme-court-capitol-riot-trial-72ec35de776315183e1db561257cb108">Supreme Court this year ruled that the president enjoys broad immunity</a>&nbsp;from prosecution for what could be considered official acts, his aides and allies enjoy no such shield. Some fear that Trump could use the promise of a blanket pardon to encourage his allies to take actions they might otherwise resist for fear of running afoul of the law.

“There could be blatant illegal conduct over the next four years, and he can go out and pardon his people before he leaves office,” Painter said. "But if he’s going to do that, he’s going to do that anyway regardless of what Biden does."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660730933829.png" alt="Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney" />
                        <figcaption>Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-hunter-pardon-president-trump-e2d0ce366c6980cd31c6717edbc9938a">is weighing whether to issue sweeping</a>&nbsp;pardons for officials and allies who the White House fears could be unjustly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-enemies-from-within-5c4a34776469a55e71d3ba4d4e68cf62">targeted by President-elect Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;administration, a preemptive move that would be a novel and risky use of the president’s extraordinary constitutional power.</p><p>The deliberations so far are largely at the level of White House lawyers. But Biden himself has discussed the topic with some senior aides, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday to discuss the sensitive subject. No decisions have been made, the people said, and it is possible Biden opts to do nothing at all.</p><p>Pardons are historically afforded to those accused of specific crimes – and usually those who have already been convicted of an offense — but Biden’s team is considering issuing them for those who have not even been investigated, let alone charged. They fear that Trump and his allies, who have boasted of enemies lists and exacting “retribution,” could launch investigations that would be reputationally and financially costly for their targets even if they don’t result in prosecutions.</p><p>While the president’s pardon power is absolute, Biden’s use in this fashion would mark a significant expansion of how they are deployed, and some Biden aides fear it could lay the groundwork for an even more drastic usage by Trump. They also worry that issuing pardons would feed into claims by Trump and his allies that the individuals committed acts that necessitated immunity.</p><p>Recipients could include infectious-disease specialist Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was instrumental in combating the coronavirus pandemic and who has become a pariah to conservatives angry about mask mandates and vaccines. Others include witnesses in Trump’s criminal or civil trials and Biden administration officials who have drawn the ire of the incoming president and his allies.</p><p>Some fearful former officials have reached out to the Biden White House preemptively seeking some sort of protection from the future Trump administration, one of the people said.</p><p>It follows Biden’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-hunter-biden-pardon-son-9307d6bade834df77c265cae7d3b7c25">pardon his son Hunter</a>&nbsp;— not just for his convictions on federal gun and tax violations, but for any potential federal offense committed over an 11-year period, as the president feared that Trump allies would seek to prosecute his son for other offenses. That could serve as a model for other pardons Biden might issue to those who could find themselves in legal jeopardy under Trump.</p><p>Biden is not the first to consider such pardons — Trump aides considered them for him and his supporters involved in his failed efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election that culminated in a violent riot at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. But he could be the first to issue them since Trump’s pardons never materialized before he left office nearly four years ago.</p><p>Gerald Ford granted a “full, free, and absolute pardon” in 1974 to his predecessor, Richard Nixon, over the Watergate scandal. He believed a potential trial would “cause prolonged and divisive debate over the propriety of exposing to further punishment and degradation a man who has already paid the unprecedented penalty of relinquishing the highest elective office of the United States," as written in the pardon proclamation.</p><p>Politico was first to report that Biden was studying the use of preemptive pardons.</p><p>On the campaign trail, Trump made no secret of his desire to seek revenge on those who prosecuted him or crossed him.</p><p>Trump has talked about&nbsp;<a href="https://enemies/">“enemies from within"</a>&nbsp;and circulated social media posts that call for the jailing of Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Mike Pence and Sens. Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer. He also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-election-2024-gop-c584f9860260f48ddff90ab2dca0433a">zeroed in on former Rep. Liz Cheney,</a>&nbsp;a conservative Republican who campaigned for Harris and helped investigate Jan. 6, and he promoted a social media post that suggested he wanted military tribunals for supposed treason.</p><p><a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-trump-patel-fisa-russia-2d215ded96ad8a08689b6f7f0b2d49ec">Kash Patel, whom Trump has announced</a>&nbsp;as his nominee to be director of the FBI, has listed dozens of former government officials he wanted to “come after.”</p><p>Richard Painter, a Trump critic who served as the top White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, said he was reluctantly in support of having Biden issue sweeping pardons to people who could be targeted by Trump's administration. He said he hoped that would “clean the slate” for the incoming president and encourage him to focus on governing, not on punishing his political allies.</p><p>“It’s not an ideal situation at all,” Painter said. “We have a whole lot of bad options confronting us at this point.”</p><p>While the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immunity-supreme-court-capitol-riot-trial-72ec35de776315183e1db561257cb108">Supreme Court this year ruled that the president enjoys broad immunity</a>&nbsp;from prosecution for what could be considered official acts, his aides and allies enjoy no such shield. Some fear that Trump could use the promise of a blanket pardon to encourage his allies to take actions they might otherwise resist for fear of running afoul of the law.</p><p>“There could be blatant illegal conduct over the next four years, and he can go out and pardon his people before he leaves office,” Painter said. "But if he’s going to do that, he’s going to do that anyway regardless of what Biden does."</p>