By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A 31-year-old man from Ellis County was arrested on Jan. 5 on multiple allegations of aggravated battery.

Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham said Cody Pevey Armbrister is being held at the Ellis County Jail. He said the alleged incident occurred Dec. 31, 2025.

Cunningham said Armbrister is facing the following charges:

• Robbery • Two counts of aggravated domestic battery • Two counts of aggravated battery • Criminal threat • Interference with law enforcement • Criminal restraint • Possession of marijuana • Possession of drug paraphernalia

According to court documents, Armbrister allegedly grabbed a phone from a woman’s hands, injuring them. Armbrister allegedly choked the woman with both hands while pinning her down to a bed, the documents said.

The documents also said the woman was allegedly shoved down in the bathroom before Armbrister allegedly choked her with his left hand while restraining her hands to prevent her from stopping him.

Court documents said Armbrister allegedly shoved the woman into a bathtub, causing her to hit her head and back. Armbrister allegedly held a knife against her throat during the incident, according to the court documents.

Cunningham said law enforcement received a delayed report at 10:12 a.m. on Jan. 5, and Armbrister was arrested by the Hays Police Department at 10:56 a.m. the same day in the 1100 block of Walnut Street in Hays.

According to court documents, Armbrister allegedly fled from a law enforcement officer before being arrested.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769132566438.png" alt="Armbrister photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Armbrister photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA 31-year-old man from Ellis County was arrested on Jan. 5 on multiple allegations of aggravated battery.Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham said Cody Pevey Armbrister is being held at the Ellis County Jail. He said the alleged incident occurred Dec. 31, 2025.Cunningham said Armbrister is facing the following charges:• Robbery • Two counts of aggravated domestic battery • Two counts of aggravated battery • Criminal threat • Interference with law enforcement • Criminal restraint • Possession of marijuana • Possession of drug paraphernaliaAccording to court documents, Armbrister allegedly grabbed a phone from a woman’s hands, injuring them. Armbrister allegedly choked the woman with both hands while pinning her down to a bed, the documents said.The documents also said the woman was allegedly shoved down in the bathroom before Armbrister allegedly choked her with his left hand while restraining her hands to prevent her from stopping him.Court documents said Armbrister allegedly shoved the woman into a bathtub, causing her to hit her head and back. Armbrister allegedly held a knife against her throat during the incident, according to the court documents.Cunningham said law enforcement received a delayed report at 10:12 a.m. on Jan. 5, and Armbrister was arrested by the Hays Police Department at 10:56 a.m. the same day in the 1100 block of Walnut Street in Hays.According to court documents, Armbrister allegedly fled from a law enforcement officer before being arrested.

Ellis County man arrested for allegedly pulling knife on a woman

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Bitterly cold temperatures and snow are in the forecast for Hays starting Friday and extending into Sunday.

The <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ddc/">National Weather Service in Dodge City </a>has issued a Winter Storm Watch from noon Friday until 6 a.m. Sunday, with two to five inches of snow predicted.&nbsp;

A Cold Weather Advisory is also in effect Friday through Sunday. Friday's daytime high will be 7 degrees with the overnight low dipping to -4 degrees and a wind chill factor of -20 degrees. Saturday's high will be even colder at 4 degrees.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Transportation encourages the public to limit travel.

“We urge the public to limit travel for the safety of both motorists and our workers,” said KDOT Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Frye. “If you must travel, be prepared. Check&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019be642f654-14f0c989-4ee6-484d-a28f-de0f28b11fbb-000000/SSgRbydNbX513Fa-pcnClAI7fQyk4QYbqMTa_ii0iFk=441">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;for current road conditions before you leave. It’s maintained 24/7 and offers real-time camera views so you can see the road conditions for yourself.”&nbsp;

Check <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cfa26ae4-4b64-4d43-908f-be0803106892">here</a> for the latest cancellations and postponements in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769096670340.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostBitterly cold temperatures and snow are in the forecast for Hays starting Friday and extending into Sunday.The <a href="https://www.weather.gov/ddc/">National Weather Service in Dodge City </a>has issued a Winter Storm Watch from noon Friday until 6 a.m. Sunday, with two to five inches of snow predicted.&nbsp;A Cold Weather Advisory is also in effect Friday through Sunday. Friday's daytime high will be 7 degrees with the overnight low dipping to -4 degrees and a wind chill factor of -20 degrees. Saturday's high will be even colder at 4 degrees.&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Transportation encourages the public to limit travel.“We urge the public to limit travel for the safety of both motorists and our workers,” said KDOT Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Frye. “If you must travel, be prepared. Check&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019be642f654-14f0c989-4ee6-484d-a28f-de0f28b11fbb-000000/SSgRbydNbX513Fa-pcnClAI7fQyk4QYbqMTa_ii0iFk=441">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;for current road conditions before you leave. It’s maintained 24/7 and offers real-time camera views so you can see the road conditions for yourself.”&nbsp;Check <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/cfa26ae4-4b64-4d43-908f-be0803106892">here</a> for the latest cancellations and postponements in the area.

Winter storm advisory for Hays Friday into Sunday; bitterly cold temperatures, snow 

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Kansas City Chiefs attorney told legislators Wednesday that projections show STAR bonds financing the team’s stadium deal will be paid off 10 to 15 years earlier than the expected 30-year term, upping economic benefits for the state.

Korb Maxwell, a Chiefs attorney, told legislators the planned $3 billion domed stadium and mixed-use development in Wyandotte County, and a $300 million Chiefs headquarters and training facility in Johnson County, will add to the state coffers earlier than expected.

He addressed a joint meeting of the Senate and House commerce committees, where legislators put him on the hot seat for an hour as they attempted to clear up “confusion” and answer constituent concerns about the deal.

Most of the questions, couched from different angles, came down to the dollars — how do the economics of the deal work for Kansas, how will Kansans living in the western part of the state benefit and is the estimated $1 billion economic impact realistic?

While many specifics of the plan are still in planning stages, Maxwell said, the STAR bonds — or sales tax and revenue bonds — are projected to pay off early, which will then push the revenue to the state’s treasury years ahead of time.

The Chiefs project will be funded through a 60-40 public-private partnership, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Project-Monitor-2.0-STAR-Bond-Agreement-Execution-Version.pdf" target="_blank">terms posted online</a>&nbsp;by the Kansas Department of Commerce. The state’s 60% of funding will come from a mix of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/community-programs/star-bonds/" target="_blank">STAR bonds</a>&nbsp;and the Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund, which is revenue from iLottery and sports betting. STAR bonds also will be repaid with 100% of liquor sales tax collected in the district.

Aside from expected benefits of 20,000 construction jobs and $4 billion in investment during the building phase, Maxwell touted long-term effects.

“This is also about 4,000 permanent careers, hundreds of millions of dollars in annual payroll once the team starts playing,” he said. “It also includes visiting team payroll, broadcaster payroll, concerts, major national events, Republican or Democratic conventions that could be hosted.”

Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican, wasn’t convinced about the economic benefits.

“I do appreciate the optimism that this will be one of the first stadiums to pay for itself in new growth, so it will be interesting to watch that play out,” he said, adding that he’d like to know what happens if in 30 years the Chiefs moved again, leaving an empty stadium.

Maxwell answered by explaining the level of investment being made by the team showed their commitment to the stadium project, and also pointed out the team has been at its current location for more than 60 years.

“We absolutely plan to be there for the very long term,” he said.&nbsp;

Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell who chairs the House commerce committee, asked Maxwell about information he hears repeatedly that all emails, contracts and other aspects of the deal would be kept private until 2029.

Maxwell said he didn’t know where that idea came from because his understanding was that Kansas open records and open meetings laws wouldn’t allow that to happen.

However, the reference to a July 1, 2029, deadline comes directly from the 2024 special session law that allows the Kansas Department of Commerce to negotiate a deal to move the Chiefs or the Royals to the state.

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2024s/b2023_24/measures/HB2001/" target="_blank">House Bill 2001</a>&nbsp;says negotiations and documentation around sports team deals would not be subject to open records requests and would remain confidential until July 1, 2029.&nbsp;

The intent of the Commerce Department is to maintain transparency, which is why the terms sheet and other documentation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/chiefs-media-kit/" target="_blank">were made public</a>&nbsp;on the agency’s website when the announcement was made in December, according to Rachel Willis, director of legislative affairs for the Commerce Department.

After the legislative hearing, she affirmed that even though that language is in HB 2001, the agency will only hold back sensitive information for short periods of time, such as maintaining confidentiality that may affect issuing the STAR bonds. Otherwise, transparency on this deal is important, she said.

Rep. Stephanie Sawyer Clayton, D-Overland Park, questioned the use of other tax incentives programs, such as a Community Improvement District, which would put a special tax on a designated area that would go to pay off the STAR bonds.

“This is the first I’d heard about it, so I am curious to know, do we know where that CID would be, and would it only apply to things that are built after the formation of the district?” she said. “I don’t like CIDs in general, when they include places where people have to shop. We have to get gas. We have to go to the grocery store. I don’t mind economic development incentives when there’s choice involved.”

Maxwell said the CID would be for the development the Chiefs are building and new developments around the stadium. Adding a CID is part of the reason the STAR bonds are projected to pay off more quickly than the 30-year term.

Sawyer Clayton also confirmed with Maxwell that labor used to build the stadium would be primarily union workers.

Legislators peppered Maxwell with questions, including whether work is being done to address needed infrastructure changes in the area where the stadium will be located next to the Kansas Speedway, whether local governments were partnering with the state on the project and how the future looks for economic development around the stadium.

Although Maxwell said many of the items were in early stages and emphasized the Chiefs and Commerce Department are working with local entities, he said the Chiefs are already in discussion with developers interested in being part of the mixed-use development.

“Our phone has been ringing off the hook since the moment that we announced in Kansas on Dec. 22, and we are considering all of those possibilities and looking at, is that right to go in Olathe? Is that right to go in Wyandotte County?” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769097385844.png" alt=" Korb Maxwell, an attorney for the Chiefs, answered questions Wednesday about the deal to move build a domed stadium and team headquarters in Kansas. He told a legislative committee he expects the STAR bonds issued for the project to pay off early, based on projections. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Korb Maxwell, an attorney for the Chiefs, answered questions Wednesday about the deal to move build a domed stadium and team headquarters in Kansas. He told a legislative committee he expects the STAR bonds issued for the project to pay off early, based on projections. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Kansas City Chiefs attorney told legislators Wednesday that projections show STAR bonds financing the team’s stadium deal will be paid off 10 to 15 years earlier than the expected 30-year term, upping economic benefits for the state.Korb Maxwell, a Chiefs attorney, told legislators the planned $3 billion domed stadium and mixed-use development in Wyandotte County, and a $300 million Chiefs headquarters and training facility in Johnson County, will add to the state coffers earlier than expected.He addressed a joint meeting of the Senate and House commerce committees, where legislators put him on the hot seat for an hour as they attempted to clear up “confusion” and answer constituent concerns about the deal.Most of the questions, couched from different angles, came down to the dollars — how do the economics of the deal work for Kansas, how will Kansans living in the western part of the state benefit and is the estimated $1 billion economic impact realistic?While many specifics of the plan are still in planning stages, Maxwell said, the STAR bonds — or sales tax and revenue bonds — are projected to pay off early, which will then push the revenue to the state’s treasury years ahead of time.The Chiefs project will be funded through a 60-40 public-private partnership, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Project-Monitor-2.0-STAR-Bond-Agreement-Execution-Version.pdf" target="_blank">terms posted online</a>&nbsp;by the Kansas Department of Commerce. The state’s 60% of funding will come from a mix of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/community-programs/star-bonds/" target="_blank">STAR bonds</a>&nbsp;and the Attracting Professional Sports to Kansas Fund, which is revenue from iLottery and sports betting. STAR bonds also will be repaid with 100% of liquor sales tax collected in the district.Aside from expected benefits of 20,000 construction jobs and $4 billion in investment during the building phase, Maxwell touted long-term effects.“This is also about 4,000 permanent careers, hundreds of millions of dollars in annual payroll once the team starts playing,” he said. “It also includes visiting team payroll, broadcaster payroll, concerts, major national events, Republican or Democratic conventions that could be hosted.”Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican, wasn’t convinced about the economic benefits.“I do appreciate the optimism that this will be one of the first stadiums to pay for itself in new growth, so it will be interesting to watch that play out,” he said, adding that he’d like to know what happens if in 30 years the Chiefs moved again, leaving an empty stadium.Maxwell answered by explaining the level of investment being made by the team showed their commitment to the stadium project, and also pointed out the team has been at its current location for more than 60 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769097338594.png" alt="Sen. Kenny Titus questioned what would happen if the Chiefs moved, leaving an empty stadium behind, during a Wednesday joint meeting of the House Commerce, Labor and Economic Development and Senate Commerce committees. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Kenny Titus questioned what would happen if the Chiefs moved, leaving an empty stadium behind, during a Wednesday joint meeting of the House Commerce, Labor and Economic Development and Senate Commerce committees. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“We absolutely plan to be there for the very long term,” he said.&nbsp;Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell who chairs the House commerce committee, asked Maxwell about information he hears repeatedly that all emails, contracts and other aspects of the deal would be kept private until 2029.Maxwell said he didn’t know where that idea came from because his understanding was that Kansas open records and open meetings laws wouldn’t allow that to happen.However, the reference to a July 1, 2029, deadline comes directly from the 2024 special session law that allows the Kansas Department of Commerce to negotiate a deal to move the Chiefs or the Royals to the state.<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2024s/b2023_24/measures/HB2001/" target="_blank">House Bill 2001</a>&nbsp;says negotiations and documentation around sports team deals would not be subject to open records requests and would remain confidential until July 1, 2029.&nbsp;The intent of the Commerce Department is to maintain transparency, which is why the terms sheet and other documentation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/chiefs-media-kit/" target="_blank">were made public</a>&nbsp;on the agency’s website when the announcement was made in December, according to Rachel Willis, director of legislative affairs for the Commerce Department.After the legislative hearing, she affirmed that even though that language is in HB 2001, the agency will only hold back sensitive information for short periods of time, such as maintaining confidentiality that may affect issuing the STAR bonds. Otherwise, transparency on this deal is important, she said.Rep. Stephanie Sawyer Clayton, D-Overland Park, questioned the use of other tax incentives programs, such as a Community Improvement District, which would put a special tax on a designated area that would go to pay off the STAR bonds.“This is the first I’d heard about it, so I am curious to know, do we know where that CID would be, and would it only apply to things that are built after the formation of the district?” she said. “I don’t like CIDs in general, when they include places where people have to shop. We have to get gas. We have to go to the grocery store. I don’t mind economic development incentives when there’s choice involved.”Maxwell said the CID would be for the development the Chiefs are building and new developments around the stadium. Adding a CID is part of the reason the STAR bonds are projected to pay off more quickly than the 30-year term.Sawyer Clayton also confirmed with Maxwell that labor used to build the stadium would be primarily union workers.Legislators peppered Maxwell with questions, including whether work is being done to address needed infrastructure changes in the area where the stadium will be located next to the Kansas Speedway, whether local governments were partnering with the state on the project and how the future looks for economic development around the stadium.Although Maxwell said many of the items were in early stages and emphasized the Chiefs and Commerce Department are working with local entities, he said the Chiefs are already in discussion with developers interested in being part of the mixed-use development.“Our phone has been ringing off the hook since the moment that we announced in Kansas on Dec. 22, and we are considering all of those possibilities and looking at, is that right to go in Olathe? Is that right to go in Wyandotte County?” he said.

Kansas legislators grill Chiefs' attorney on economics behind deal to bring team across state line

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Once considered an at-risk student, Remy Stull found direction through a special high school program and is now a successful barber who seeks to give back to others.

Stull found inspiration through&nbsp;<a href="https://jagkansas.org/" target="_blank">Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas</a>&nbsp;(JAG-K) at Hays High School.

&nbsp;JAG-K is a nonprofit program that partners with schools to offer an elective course to academically struggling students. The program offers support to help students transition to post-secondary education, military service or the workforce.&nbsp;

Stull was born in Hays in 2004 and is now a young barber at Fade Factory, 129 East 8th St., following a childhood of family instability and abuse.

"Growing up, my parents were both struggling with addiction," Stull said. "It was something that impacted my life, and at this point, in the best way possible."

Stull was permanently placed with his grandparents at about age 3. He said anger was a major challenge in his early years, so he turned to sports as an outlet.

Stull said he participated in almost every sport offered in Hays, including football, baseball, track and wrestling. By his freshman year of high school, he said therapy became a turning point that helped him better understand his emotions.

He said this is where it shaped his ability to speak and connect with others.

"Growing up, I saw a lot of what not to do rather than what to do," he said. "Once you get a gift, you can use it for good or bad. You can speak life into somebody, or you can tear somebody apart with your words, and for a while, that's what I did. It wasn't something that brought me peace."

During his sophomore year, Bryan Zollinger, a coach, teacher and JAG-K career specialist at Hays High School, recruited Stull into the program. Stull said he was hesitant at first because of the stigma surrounding JAG-K, but decided to join after learning it was student-led.

"Zollinger also said, 'Oh yeah, and you don't have to do any homework.' That's what I needed to hear," Stull said.

Stull said JAG-K gave him opportunities for leadership and career exploration, including managing the program’s social media and competing in events that led him into public speaking.

He also credited JAG-K with providing real-world experience in a barbershop setting. Through the program, students help decide which guest speakers they want to hear from.

When given the choice, Stull chose Leo Vazquez, owner of Fade Factory. That decision would ultimately lead to a greater relationship, especially when Stull later became a barber himself.

"It's such a full-circle moment because I used to go to Leo when I was just a little kid for haircuts, when he was working at Park Avenue Salon," he said.&nbsp;

Stull said the first haircut he gave, which later launched his career, started as a joke with a friend.

"We ended up going to Walmart and bought $20 clippers, and I ended up cutting his hair. It didn't turn out half bad," Stull said.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, barbershops and salons were not cutting hair. Stull saw an opportunity and set up his own shop in his grandparents’ garage.

"I had people from little kids all the way up to age 60. I had grown adults coming in," Stull said. "My grandparents would walk out and see some of these people that were coming to me and ask, 'How are you even getting these people in here?"

Stull said his barbershop grew rapidly through word of mouth and social media marketing. As demand surged, with as many as 30 clients on weekends, he raised prices to help slow the pace.

During this period, Stull was still in school and attending sports practices. However, he sustained multiple injuries, followed by the difficult decision of choosing between college football scholarships and paying for barber school.

Stull attended a Paul Mitchell-affiliated barber school in Wichita before returning to cut hair at Fade Factory under Vazquez, beginning around July 2023 after graduating.

Today, Stull averages about 35 to 40 haircuts per week, opting to cut fewer clients at a higher price point.

"I don't want to be standing there all day long doing haircuts," he said. "It's given me the opportunity to have more freedom, whether that's going to teach classes or engulfing myself in something else."

Stull emphasizes the relationship-building side of barbering, citing the networking, conversations and doors that open through his clients.

"It's given me opportunities in every facet of life. If I need somebody for something, I can call someone for that because I know a guy," he said.

Stull said he has traveled across the U.S. for barber expos and events, where he has met high-level figures in the industry, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@deepcutwithvicblends">VicBlends</a>, an entrepreneur and motivational speaker.

In addition to barbering, Stull earns income through sponsorships and brand deals tied to his social media presence on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@remy_stull?lang=en">TikTok</a>, where he has over 118,000 followers, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rms_blendz/">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@THE_3S_POD/featured">YouTube</a>.

Stull said day trading has become his newest focus. He noted a steep learning curve but said he recently took a payout and hopes trading will become his primary source of income in the future.

"I want to get to a point where I'm cutting hair for fun and not for funds," he said.&nbsp;"I genuinely believe in the next five to 10 years, I will be standing on a stage in front of 1,000 people, being able to speak to them and give back."

Stull has been teaching barbering classes and delivering business talks, often through JAG-K programs in schools across Kansas, such as Hays High and Russell High School.

He added that students often reach out afterward to thank him for his speeches.

"A lot of these kids do come from environments where they might not have the advantages I now have. ... That's something that I strive for, being able to help these kids understand that they have influence and what they're going through now does not define who they are," Stull said.

A quote Stull often leaves students with is "Success's only stipulation is for you to make a choice. Nobody's gonna make that choice but you."

Stull credited his grandparents, Zollinger, Vazquez, his girlfriend and many others with helping shape his life.

Hays High has offered the JAG-K program for about a decade. The program was introduced to the Hays Middle School for the first time this year.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/88b12c95-ba26-4b96-8730-e5e8d6cf6619">SEE RELATED STORY: JAG-K program expands to Hays Middle School</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769023968887.jpeg" alt="Barber Remy Stull of Hays at his work station in Fade Factory. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Barber Remy Stull of Hays at his work station in Fade Factory. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostOnce considered an at-risk student, Remy Stull found direction through a special high school program and is now a successful barber who seeks to give back to others.Stull found inspiration through&nbsp;<a href="https://jagkansas.org/" target="_blank">Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas</a>&nbsp;(JAG-K) at Hays High School.&nbsp;JAG-K is a nonprofit program that partners with schools to offer an elective course to academically struggling students. The program offers support to help students transition to post-secondary education, military service or the workforce.&nbsp;Stull was born in Hays in 2004 and is now a young barber at Fade Factory, 129 East 8th St., following a childhood of family instability and abuse."Growing up, my parents were both struggling with addiction," Stull said. "It was something that impacted my life, and at this point, in the best way possible."Stull was permanently placed with his grandparents at about age 3. He said anger was a major challenge in his early years, so he turned to sports as an outlet.Stull said he participated in almost every sport offered in Hays, including football, baseball, track and wrestling. By his freshman year of high school, he said therapy became a turning point that helped him better understand his emotions.He said this is where it shaped his ability to speak and connect with others."Growing up, I saw a lot of what not to do rather than what to do," he said. "Once you get a gift, you can use it for good or bad. You can speak life into somebody, or you can tear somebody apart with your words, and for a while, that's what I did. It wasn't something that brought me peace."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024038556.jpeg" alt="Stull was born in Hays in 2004 and is now a barber at Fade Factory, 129 East Eighth St., following a childhood of instability and abuse. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stull was born in Hays in 2004 and is now a barber at Fade Factory, 129 East Eighth St., following a childhood of instability and abuse. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>During his sophomore year, Bryan Zollinger, a coach, teacher and JAG-K career specialist at Hays High School, recruited Stull into the program. Stull said he was hesitant at first because of the stigma surrounding JAG-K, but decided to join after learning it was student-led."Zollinger also said, 'Oh yeah, and you don't have to do any homework.' That's what I needed to hear," Stull said.Stull said JAG-K gave him opportunities for leadership and career exploration, including managing the program’s social media and competing in events that led him into public speaking.He also credited JAG-K with providing real-world experience in a barbershop setting. Through the program, students help decide which guest speakers they want to hear from.When given the choice, Stull chose Leo Vazquez, owner of Fade Factory. That decision would ultimately lead to a greater relationship, especially when Stull later became a barber himself.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024171054.jpeg" alt="Hays High School JAG-K Career Specialist Bryan Zollinger said Stull was one of the first students in the program in a separate interview with Hays Post. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays High School JAG-K Career Specialist Bryan Zollinger said Stull was one of the first students in the program in a separate interview with Hays Post. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024755907.jpeg" alt="Remy Stull credited JAG-K with providing real-world experience in a barbershop setting. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Remy Stull credited JAG-K with providing real-world experience in a barbershop setting. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's such a full-circle moment because I used to go to Leo when I was just a little kid for haircuts, when he was working at Park Avenue Salon," he said.&nbsp;Stull said the first haircut he gave, which later launched his career, started as a joke with a friend."We ended up going to Walmart and bought $20 clippers, and I ended up cutting his hair. It didn't turn out half bad," Stull said.Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, barbershops and salons were not cutting hair. Stull saw an opportunity and set up his own shop in his grandparents’ garage."I had people from little kids all the way up to age 60. I had grown adults coming in," Stull said. "My grandparents would walk out and see some of these people that were coming to me and ask, 'How are you even getting these people in here?"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024265337.jpeg" alt="Barber Remy Stull giving one of his clients a haircut inside his grandparents' garage. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra" />
 <figcaption>Barber Remy Stull giving one of his clients a haircut inside his grandparents' garage. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769024711902.jpeg" alt="Remy Stull saw an opportunity to set up his own shop in his grandparents’ garage after the COVID-19 pandemic closed barbershops and salons. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra" />
 <figcaption>Remy Stull saw an opportunity to set up his own shop in his grandparents’ garage after the COVID-19 pandemic closed barbershops and salons. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra</figcaption>
 </figure>Stull said his barbershop grew rapidly through word of mouth and social media marketing. As demand surged, with as many as 30 clients on weekends, he raised prices to help slow the pace.During this period, Stull was still in school and attending sports practices. However, he sustained multiple injuries, followed by the difficult decision of choosing between college football scholarships and paying for barber school.Stull attended a Paul Mitchell-affiliated barber school in Wichita before returning to cut hair at Fade Factory under Vazquez, beginning around July 2023 after graduating.Today, Stull averages about 35 to 40 haircuts per week, opting to cut fewer clients at a higher price point."I don't want to be standing there all day long doing haircuts," he said. "It's given me the opportunity to have more freedom, whether that's going to teach classes or engulfing myself in something else."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769028840638.jpeg" alt="After obtaining his barber license, Remy Stull worked as a door-to-door pest control salesperson for a short time before joining Fade Factory. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>After obtaining his barber license, Remy Stull worked as a door-to-door pest control salesperson for a short time before joining Fade Factory. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769031549615.jpeg" alt="Remy Stull's price listings for haircuts range from $90 to $110 for after-hours haircuts. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Remy Stull's price listings for haircuts range from $90 to $110 for after-hours haircuts. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Stull emphasizes the relationship-building side of barbering, citing the networking, conversations and doors that open through his clients."It's given me opportunities in every facet of life. If I need somebody for something, I can call someone for that because I know a guy," he said.Stull said he has traveled across the U.S. for barber expos and events, where he has met high-level figures in the industry, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@deepcutwithvicblends">VicBlends</a>, an entrepreneur and motivational speaker.In addition to barbering, Stull earns income through sponsorships and brand deals tied to his social media presence on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@remy_stull?lang=en">TikTok</a>, where he has over 118,000 followers, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rms_blendz/">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@THE_3S_POD/featured">YouTube</a>.<div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSiKeyzkYdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSiKeyzkYdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; 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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSiKeyzkYdN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Edwin Muller (@edwin_muller_)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>Stull said day trading has become his newest focus. He noted a steep learning curve but said he recently took a payout and hopes trading will become his primary source of income in the future."I want to get to a point where I'm cutting hair for fun and not for funds," he said.&nbsp;"I genuinely believe in the next five to 10 years, I will be standing on a stage in front of 1,000 people, being able to speak to them and give back."Stull has been teaching barbering classes and delivering business talks, often through JAG-K programs in schools across Kansas, such as Hays High and Russell High School.He added that students often reach out afterward to thank him for his speeches."A lot of these kids do come from environments where they might not have the advantages I now have. ... That's something that I strive for, being able to help these kids understand that they have influence and what they're going through now does not define who they are," Stull said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769029013527.jpeg" alt="Barber Remy Stull speaking to a class of students through the JAG-K program. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Barber Remy Stull speaking to a class of students through the JAG-K program. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@remy_stull/video/7580404257669664030" data-video-id="7580404257669664030" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;" > <section> <a target="_blank" title="@remy_stull" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@remy_stull?refer=embed">@remy_stull</a> I got an amazing opportunity to speak to some of the Russell classes and share my story!! speaking is something that has brought me a lot of opportunities and it’s also giving me a platform so therefore I can give back and talk two kids and tell them something that I wish I was told at that age!! that no matter what happens in your life, no matter how hard life gets, you can always achieve more than you ever thought you were capable of!!! <a target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - Remy Stull" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7580404280717249311?refer=embed">♬ original sound - Remy Stull</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div>A quote Stull often leaves students with is "Success's only stipulation is for you to make a choice. Nobody's gonna make that choice but you."Stull credited his grandparents, Zollinger, Vazquez, his girlfriend and many others with helping shape his life.Hays High has offered the JAG-K program for about a decade. The program was introduced to the Hays Middle School for the first time this year.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/88b12c95-ba26-4b96-8730-e5e8d6cf6619">SEE RELATED STORY: JAG-K program expands to Hays Middle School</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769029111186.jpeg" alt="Barber Remy Stull giving a haircut on stage at a Paul Mitchell-affiliated barber school. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra" />
 <figcaption>Barber Remy Stull giving a haircut on stage at a Paul Mitchell-affiliated barber school. Courtesy photo/Landon Viegra</figcaption>
 </figure>

Cutting his own path: How a young Hays barber turned setbacks into success

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school district has posted land adjacent to the former Hays Middle School for sale.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/909a410b-bf64-406d-a98b-01417d221495">The school board approved the sale of the land at its Dec. 15 meeting.</a>

The lot includes&nbsp;7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. Bids will be accepted through a sealed-bid process, and the district will retain the right to refuse any bid.

The school board has asked bidders to include their plans for the land, along with a development timeline.

The board approved adding a student support specialist position at Felten Elementary for the 2026-27 school year.

The former middle school is being remodeled into a new four-section elementary school. Wilson Elementary School is set to close at the end of this school year, and Wilson students will move to the new elementary school in the fall.

O'Loughlin Elementary School already has a student support specialist, and Roosevelt Elementary School has an assistant principal who serves a similar function.

The board reelected Curt Vajnar as president and elected Ruth Ruder as vice president of the board.

The board also approved policy changes recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.

However, the board delayed a vote on a&nbsp;$66,520 annual contract with Glassman Corp for a HVAC preventive maintenance service agreement for&nbsp;O'Loughlin, Roosevelt and Hays Middle schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768942504046.jpeg" alt="The Hays USD 489 school district is selling&nbsp;7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school district is selling&nbsp;7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school district has posted land adjacent to the former Hays Middle School for sale.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/909a410b-bf64-406d-a98b-01417d221495">The school board approved the sale of the land at its Dec. 15 meeting.</a>The lot includes&nbsp;7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. Bids will be accepted through a sealed-bid process, and the district will retain the right to refuse any bid.The school board has asked bidders to include their plans for the land, along with a development timeline.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768942621479.png" alt="The Hays USD 489 school district is selling 7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. Hays USD 489" />
 <figcaption>The Hays USD 489 school district is selling 7.23 acres of land north of the former Hays Middle School football field. Hays USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>Support staffThe board approved adding a student support specialist position at Felten Elementary for the 2026-27 school year.The former middle school is being remodeled into a new four-section elementary school. Wilson Elementary School is set to close at the end of this school year, and Wilson students will move to the new elementary school in the fall.O'Loughlin Elementary School already has a student support specialist, and Roosevelt Elementary School has an assistant principal who serves a similar function.Board leadershipThe board reelected Curt Vajnar as president and elected Ruth Ruder as vice president of the board.The board also approved policy changes recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards.However, the board delayed a vote on a&nbsp;$66,520 annual contract with Glassman Corp for a HVAC preventive maintenance service agreement for&nbsp;O'Loughlin, Roosevelt and Hays Middle schools.

Land next to former Hays Middle School up for sale

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kelcie-moseley-morris/">Kelcie Moseley-Morris</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

Two Missouri women who had abortions 50 years ago testified Tuesday to mental health effects they suffered from the procedure

KANSAS CITY — The first slate of witnesses from the Missouri Attorney General’s office in the fight to uphold statewide abortion regulations offered testimony that professionals and scientific studies have long disputed, including claims about mental health outcomes and abortion medication.&nbsp;

It’s the second week of a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/09/missouri-abortion-regulations-trial-access-trap-laws/">10-day bench trial&nbsp;</a>that will be decided by Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang. Missouri’s Planned Parenthood affiliates, along with the ACLU of Missouri, filed the lawsuit over Missouri’s few dozen&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/12/missouri-abortion-rights-trial-focuses-on-two-decades-of-state-restrictions/">Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers, or TRAP, laws,</a>&nbsp;claiming they are now unconstitutional under the state’s reproductive rights amendment approved by voters in 2024.

Advocates say those laws made abortion almost completely inaccessible in the years leading up to 2022, when a near-total ban was implemented across the state.&nbsp;

The state constitution now prohibits the state from denying, delaying or interfering with abortion access unless it demonstrates “a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”

A majority of the testimony on Tuesday focused on mental health, including two women who took the stand to talk about their own abortions more than 50 years ago.&nbsp;

Linda Raymond, who grew up in St. Louis, said she had an abortion when she was 18 after pressure from her mother, who she said was embarrassed and angry that her daughter had gotten pregnant. Raymond testified that her mother beat her when she discovered she was pregnant.

The nurse and doctors at the Planned Parenthood she went to in 1976 didn’t inform her about the risks or potential complications of abortion, she said, or about the alternatives of adoption or parenting.

“If I had those things in front of me, I would have reconsidered,” Raymond said. “I would have pushed back on my mother.”

Since then, Raymond has become an anti-abortion activist, testifying that she has prayed outside of a Planned Parenthood Great Rivers clinic and tries to talk to people going inside.&nbsp;

“I don’t want other women and families to make the choice that I ultimately made,” she said.

One of the laws at issue requires patients to be given a copy of Missouri’s informed consent booklet prior to an abortion — a<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/families/womenshealth/pregnancyassistance/pdf/Mo.InformedConsentBooklet-Revisedpgs.12-15August2019jkOGCReviewed.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;26-page pamphlet</a>&nbsp;that begins with a statement that human life begins at conception and “abortion will terminate the life of a separate, unique, living human being.”&nbsp;

It also includes information about fetal pain beginning at 16 weeks or earlier, even though the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that a multitude of studies have established that fetuses cannot feel pain until<a href="https://www.acog.org/advocacy/facts-are-important/gestational-development-capacity-for-pain" target="_blank">&nbsp;closer to viability</a>, around 24 weeks of pregnancy.

The law also mandates a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and the procedure, when a doctor or other qualified professional must inform the patient of the “immediate and long-term medical risks to her and possible adverse psychological effects associated with the abortion.”&nbsp;

Attorneys for the state have previously emphasized the need for a “reflection period” for women before they move forward with an abortion. Those who testified for Planned Parenthood last week said it put a huge burden on patients, especially those who had to take time off work, arrange child care or travel long distances to get to the clinic.&nbsp;

Having a wanted abortion isn’t linked to mental health issues, but being denied a wanted abortion is, according to the<a href="https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/09/news-facts-abortion-mental-health" target="_blank">&nbsp;American Psychological Institute.</a>&nbsp;Dr. Daniel Grossman, who was called to testify last week by Planned Parenthood’s attorneys, told the court he regularly reviews literature on abortion and mental health and hasn’t seen any evidence of abortion increasing the risk of mental health problems.

But more recent studies, like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ansirh.org/research/ongoing/turnaway-study" target="_blank">Turnaway Study,</a>&nbsp;paint a better reality, he said. That study, led by one of Grossman’s colleagues at University of California San Francisco, where he serves as ​​director of Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, focused on 1,000 women who sought abortions between 2008 and 2010 years, and then followed them for five years after they either received an abortion or were unable to get one, including because of state laws banning or limiting abortion.

This study, Grossman testified, found anxiety rates were higher among women who had just been denied abortions. But after five years, he said, there was no difference in the mental health of the groups who had abortions versus those turned away. Grossman is also a liaison to Planned Parenthood’s National Medical Committee.

According to Missouri public records, post-abortion complication reports from 2018 to 2022 show no patients with a diagnosable psychiatric condition listed as a complication.

Stephanie Jacobson, who was a Missouri resident until about four years ago, had an abortion when she was 16 in 1978, and another when she was 18. Jacobson went on to have five children, but testified Tuesday that the abortions “ravaged” her and left her with depression and anxiety that lingered until she went through an abortion recovery program less than a decade ago.

Now Jacobson is a coach for an abortion recovery hotline, though she said that has exacerbated her mental health issues.&nbsp;

During her testimony, she recounted one “intense” call from a woman who was panicked and screaming after having a medication abortion at home. Jacobson said while she was trying to talk the woman through what she could do with the fetal remains that were sitting on a cloth on the counter, the woman said her cat started eating them.

Attorneys for the plaintiff immediately objected to Jacobson’s testimony as hearsay, and Zhang agreed to strike it from the record. However, the state opted to bring Jacobson back to the stand later in the afternoon to tell the same story again with more detail “on proffer,” which means it won’t be considered as evidence in this trial but could be considered on appeal.

The state also called Dr. Monique Wubbenhorst, who practiced as an OBGYN for more than 30 years but has never performed an abortion and is against abortion in all circumstances except to save the pregnant patient’s life. Her testimony included many of the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/19/abortion-safety-missouri-amendment-trial-jackson-county/">same arguments</a>&nbsp;that were already discussed in the first week of the trial, such as the safety of medication abortion.

Wubbenhorst’s testimony will conclude Wednesday morning, and the trial is expected to end on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769022321846.png" alt=" Connie Gerling, with 40 Days for Life, prays outside the Columbia Planned Parenthood clinic on March 3, 2025 as the clinic restarted procedural abortions for the first time in years. A sign beside her reads: "We Care. We can Help" (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Connie Gerling, with 40 Days for Life, prays outside the Columbia Planned Parenthood clinic on March 3, 2025 as the clinic restarted procedural abortions for the first time in years. A sign beside her reads: "We Care. We can Help" (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kelcie-moseley-morris/">Kelcie Moseley-Morris</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Two Missouri women who had abortions 50 years ago testified Tuesday to mental health effects they suffered from the procedure</h2>KANSAS CITY — The first slate of witnesses from the Missouri Attorney General’s office in the fight to uphold statewide abortion regulations offered testimony that professionals and scientific studies have long disputed, including claims about mental health outcomes and abortion medication.&nbsp;It’s the second week of a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/09/missouri-abortion-regulations-trial-access-trap-laws/">10-day bench trial&nbsp;</a>that will be decided by Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang. Missouri’s Planned Parenthood affiliates, along with the ACLU of Missouri, filed the lawsuit over Missouri’s few dozen&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/12/missouri-abortion-rights-trial-focuses-on-two-decades-of-state-restrictions/">Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers, or TRAP, laws,</a>&nbsp;claiming they are now unconstitutional under the state’s reproductive rights amendment approved by voters in 2024.Advocates say those laws made abortion almost completely inaccessible in the years leading up to 2022, when a near-total ban was implemented across the state.&nbsp;The state constitution now prohibits the state from denying, delaying or interfering with abortion access unless it demonstrates “a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”A majority of the testimony on Tuesday focused on mental health, including two women who took the stand to talk about their own abortions more than 50 years ago.&nbsp;Linda Raymond, who grew up in St. Louis, said she had an abortion when she was 18 after pressure from her mother, who she said was embarrassed and angry that her daughter had gotten pregnant. Raymond testified that her mother beat her when she discovered she was pregnant.The nurse and doctors at the Planned Parenthood she went to in 1976 didn’t inform her about the risks or potential complications of abortion, she said, or about the alternatives of adoption or parenting.“If I had those things in front of me, I would have reconsidered,” Raymond said. “I would have pushed back on my mother.”Since then, Raymond has become an anti-abortion activist, testifying that she has prayed outside of a Planned Parenthood Great Rivers clinic and tries to talk to people going inside.&nbsp;“I don’t want other women and families to make the choice that I ultimately made,” she said.One of the laws at issue requires patients to be given a copy of Missouri’s informed consent booklet prior to an abortion — a<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/families/womenshealth/pregnancyassistance/pdf/Mo.InformedConsentBooklet-Revisedpgs.12-15August2019jkOGCReviewed.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;26-page pamphlet</a>&nbsp;that begins with a statement that human life begins at conception and “abortion will terminate the life of a separate, unique, living human being.”&nbsp;It also includes information about fetal pain beginning at 16 weeks or earlier, even though the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that a multitude of studies have established that fetuses cannot feel pain until<a href="https://www.acog.org/advocacy/facts-are-important/gestational-development-capacity-for-pain" target="_blank">&nbsp;closer to viability</a>, around 24 weeks of pregnancy.The law also mandates a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and the procedure, when a doctor or other qualified professional must inform the patient of the “immediate and long-term medical risks to her and possible adverse psychological effects associated with the abortion.”&nbsp;Attorneys for the state have previously emphasized the need for a “reflection period” for women before they move forward with an abortion. Those who testified for Planned Parenthood last week said it put a huge burden on patients, especially those who had to take time off work, arrange child care or travel long distances to get to the clinic.&nbsp;Having a wanted abortion isn’t linked to mental health issues, but being denied a wanted abortion is, according to the<a href="https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/09/news-facts-abortion-mental-health" target="_blank">&nbsp;American Psychological Institute.</a>&nbsp;Dr. Daniel Grossman, who was called to testify last week by Planned Parenthood’s attorneys, told the court he regularly reviews literature on abortion and mental health and hasn’t seen any evidence of abortion increasing the risk of mental health problems.But more recent studies, like the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ansirh.org/research/ongoing/turnaway-study" target="_blank">Turnaway Study,</a>&nbsp;paint a better reality, he said. That study, led by one of Grossman’s colleagues at University of California San Francisco, where he serves as ​​director of Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health, focused on 1,000 women who sought abortions between 2008 and 2010 years, and then followed them for five years after they either received an abortion or were unable to get one, including because of state laws banning or limiting abortion.This study, Grossman testified, found anxiety rates were higher among women who had just been denied abortions. But after five years, he said, there was no difference in the mental health of the groups who had abortions versus those turned away. Grossman is also a liaison to Planned Parenthood’s National Medical Committee.According to Missouri public records, post-abortion complication reports from 2018 to 2022 show no patients with a diagnosable psychiatric condition listed as a complication.Stephanie Jacobson, who was a Missouri resident until about four years ago, had an abortion when she was 16 in 1978, and another when she was 18. Jacobson went on to have five children, but testified Tuesday that the abortions “ravaged” her and left her with depression and anxiety that lingered until she went through an abortion recovery program less than a decade ago.Now Jacobson is a coach for an abortion recovery hotline, though she said that has exacerbated her mental health issues.&nbsp;During her testimony, she recounted one “intense” call from a woman who was panicked and screaming after having a medication abortion at home. Jacobson said while she was trying to talk the woman through what she could do with the fetal remains that were sitting on a cloth on the counter, the woman said her cat started eating them.Attorneys for the plaintiff immediately objected to Jacobson’s testimony as hearsay, and Zhang agreed to strike it from the record. However, the state opted to bring Jacobson back to the stand later in the afternoon to tell the same story again with more detail “on proffer,” which means it won’t be considered as evidence in this trial but could be considered on appeal.The state also called Dr. Monique Wubbenhorst, who practiced as an OBGYN for more than 30 years but has never performed an abortion and is against abortion in all circumstances except to save the pregnant patient’s life. Her testimony included many of the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/19/abortion-safety-missouri-amendment-trial-jackson-county/">same arguments</a>&nbsp;that were already discussed in the first week of the trial, such as the safety of medication abortion.Wubbenhorst’s testimony will conclude Wednesday morning, and the trial is expected to end on Monday.

Mo. leans on disputed mental health claims in defense of strict abortion laws

The <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival</a> announced on Facebook Tuesday that Jackson Dean will be one of its headliners for this year's festival, July 1-3.

Hays, let’s get a little wild!

We are thrilled to announce our first headliner for Wild West Festival 2026! Bringing that gritty, outlaw country sound to the stage, Jackson Dean is headlining Thursday night, July 2!

Mark your calendars and get ready to sing along under the stars. You do not want to miss this show!

Keep your eyes peeled, we’re announcing his special guests tomorrow and Thursday!

You can also follow the festival on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769015461969.jpeg" alt="Wild West Festival" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Festival</figcaption>
 </figure>The <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival</a> announced on Facebook Tuesday that Jackson Dean will be one of its headliners for this year's festival, July 1-3.The Facebook post said:Hays, let’s get a little wild! We are thrilled to announce our first headliner for Wild West Festival 2026! Bringing that gritty, outlaw country sound to the stage, Jackson Dean is headlining Thursday night, July 2! Mark your calendars and get ready to sing along under the stars. You do not want to miss this show! Keep your eyes peeled, we’re announcing his special guests tomorrow and Thursday! You can also follow the festival on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">Facebook</a>.

Wild West Festival announces 1st headliner for 2026

The Hays City Commission will hear updates on the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell on Thursday.

John Braun, project manager, will talk about the progress of the wellfield and pipeline work.&nbsp;Chris Smith, property manager, will provide an update on the property development, and Toby Dougherty, city manager, will discuss the latest regulatory progress.

In other business, Kim Rupp, finance director, will present recommended revisions to the&nbsp;Comprehensive Financial Management Policy.

During last week's work session, Rupp suggested&nbsp;updates, including setting a $3 million cap on the balance of the budget&nbsp;stabilization reserve fund.

"History has proven the city’s budgeted unreserved fund balance, commission capital reserve and budget stabilization reserve have been sufficient to fund unforeseen emergency needs," Rupp said.

Other changes would include some clarifying terminology, deleting obsolete sections, providing language for the earlier switch to a Kansas Municipal Audit and Accounting Guide audit, minor formatting and edits.

The complete Jan. 22 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01222026-1592">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays City Commission will hear updates on the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell on Thursday.John Braun, project manager, will talk about the progress of the wellfield and pipeline work.&nbsp;Chris Smith, property manager, will provide an update on the property development, and Toby Dougherty, city manager, will discuss the latest regulatory progress.In other business, Kim Rupp, finance director, will present recommended revisions to the&nbsp;Comprehensive Financial Management Policy.During last week's work session, Rupp suggested&nbsp;updates, including setting a $3 million cap on the balance of the budget&nbsp;stabilization reserve fund."History has proven the city’s budgeted unreserved fund balance, commission capital reserve and budget stabilization reserve have been sufficient to fund unforeseen emergency needs," Rupp said.Other changes would include some clarifying terminology, deleting obsolete sections, providing language for the earlier switch to a Kansas Municipal Audit and Accounting Guide audit, minor formatting and edits.The last update was in December 2021.The complete Jan. 22 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01222026-1592">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays City Commission to hear R9 water project updates Thursday

Fort Hays State University's Tebo Library opened its doors to students, faculty and staff with a soft opening on Tuesday.

The library invited community members to tour the former Forsyth library on Tuesday after significant renovations.

Although students have already started using its new spaces for homework, finishing touches are still underway, with many bookshelves remaining empty.

The building includes more study rooms, a new welcome desk, a concessions area and a lot more natural lighting.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc79b258-58e6-4354-885f-1865f7cf8c5d">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU announces seven-figure gift to campus library</a>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fWr45GK442A?si=1EzrwmvMpHAjVN2L" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University's Tebo Library opened its doors to students, faculty and staff with a soft opening on Tuesday.The library invited community members to tour the former Forsyth library on Tuesday after significant renovations.Although students have already started using its new spaces for homework, finishing touches are still underway, with many bookshelves remaining empty.The building includes more study rooms, a new welcome desk, a concessions area and a lot more natural lighting.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/fc79b258-58e6-4354-885f-1865f7cf8c5d">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU announces seven-figure gift to campus library</a>

Fort Hays State University's Tebo Library welcomes students back

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. military forces boarded and took control of a seventh oil tanker connected with Venezuela on Tuesday as part of the Trump administration's broader efforts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-venezuela-oil-tanker-77f2c1441dda8217b37f9e38c3ae9131">to take control</a>&nbsp;of the South American country's oil.

U.S. Southern Command said in a social media post that U.S. forces apprehended the Motor Vessel Sagitta “without incident” and that the tanker was operating in defiance of President Donald Trump’s "established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.”

The military command did not say whether the U.S. Coast Guard took control of the tanker as has been the case&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-sanctioned-oil-tanker-seized-a415e247fca429b00b9fbcf6b6cd90a5">in prior seizures</a>. Both the Pentagon and Southern Command said they had nothing to add when asked for more details.

The Sagitta is a Liberian-flagged tanker and its registration says it is owned and managed by a company in Hong Kong. The ship last transmitted its location more than two months ago when exiting the Baltic Sea in northern Europe.

The tanker was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department under an executive order related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The post from U.S. Southern Command indicated the ship had taken oil from Venezuela. It said the capture of the tanker “demonstrates our resolve to ensure that the only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully.”

The military command posted what appeared to be aerial footage of the Sagitta sailing on the ocean, but unlike in prior videos the clip did not show U.S. forces flying toward it in helicopters or landing on the deck of the ship.

Since the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-us-maduro-what-to-know-a57528ff315a7f70ed51a1721f5e0bc2">ouster of Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;in a surprise nighttime raid on Jan. 3, the Trump administration has set out to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuela’s oil products.

Officials in Trump’s Republican administration have made it clear they see seizing the tankers as a way to generate cash as they seek to rebuild Venezuela’s battered oil industry and restore its economy.

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-oil-chevron-exxonmobil-conocophillips-0e0619a991e92fd546504f1a613161e7">met with executives from oil companies</a>&nbsp;nearly two weeks ago to discuss his goal of investing $100 billion in Venezuela to repair and upgrade its oil production and distribution. He said at the time that the U.S. expected to sell at least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-trump-democrats-9d16138866bebdc2644eb009c6326066">30 million to 50 million barrels</a>&nbsp;of Venezuelan oil.

Trump told reporters on Tuesday that the U.S. already has taken 50 million barrels of oil out of Venezuela.

“We’ve got millions of barrels of oil left,” he said at the White House. “We’re selling it on the open market. We’re bringing down oil prices incredibly.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">The first tanker was seized</a>&nbsp;off the coast of Venezuela on Dec. 10. Most of the other tankers also have been captured in the waters near Venezuela, with the exception of the Bella 1, which was captured in the North Atlantic.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-venezuela-oil-tanker-77f2c1441dda8217b37f9e38c3ae9131">The Bella 1 had been cruising</a>&nbsp;across the Atlantic and nearing the Caribbean when on Dec. 15 it abruptly turned and headed north, toward Europe. The ship was ultimately captured on Jan. 7.

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. military forces boarded and took control of a seventh oil tanker connected with Venezuela on Tuesday as part of the Trump administration's broader efforts&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-venezuela-oil-tanker-77f2c1441dda8217b37f9e38c3ae9131">to take control</a>&nbsp;of the South American country's oil.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpSouthernSpear?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpSouthernSpear</a>, the <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofWar</a> is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere in partnership with <a href="https://twitter.com/USCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCG</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DHSgov</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheJusticeDept</a>. This morning, U.S. military forces, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, apprehended… <a href="https://t.co/UPADtiw681">pic.twitter.com/UPADtiw681</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2013718812424630376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>U.S. Southern Command said in a social media post that U.S. forces apprehended the Motor Vessel Sagitta “without incident” and that the tanker was operating in defiance of President Donald Trump’s "established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.”The military command did not say whether the U.S. Coast Guard took control of the tanker as has been the case&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-sanctioned-oil-tanker-seized-a415e247fca429b00b9fbcf6b6cd90a5">in prior seizures</a>. Both the Pentagon and Southern Command said they had nothing to add when asked for more details.The Sagitta is a Liberian-flagged tanker and its registration says it is owned and managed by a company in Hong Kong. The ship last transmitted its location more than two months ago when exiting the Baltic Sea in northern Europe.The tanker was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department under an executive order related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.The post from U.S. Southern Command indicated the ship had taken oil from Venezuela. It said the capture of the tanker “demonstrates our resolve to ensure that the only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully.”The military command posted what appeared to be aerial footage of the Sagitta sailing on the ocean, but unlike in prior videos the clip did not show U.S. forces flying toward it in helicopters or landing on the deck of the ship.Since the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-us-maduro-what-to-know-a57528ff315a7f70ed51a1721f5e0bc2">ouster of Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;in a surprise nighttime raid on Jan. 3, the Trump administration has set out to control the production, refining and global distribution of Venezuela’s oil products.Officials in Trump’s Republican administration have made it clear they see seizing the tankers as a way to generate cash as they seek to rebuild Venezuela’s battered oil industry and restore its economy.Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-oil-chevron-exxonmobil-conocophillips-0e0619a991e92fd546504f1a613161e7">met with executives from oil companies</a>&nbsp;nearly two weeks ago to discuss his goal of investing $100 billion in Venezuela to repair and upgrade its oil production and distribution. He said at the time that the U.S. expected to sell at least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-trump-democrats-9d16138866bebdc2644eb009c6326066">30 million to 50 million barrels</a>&nbsp;of Venezuelan oil.Trump told reporters on Tuesday that the U.S. already has taken 50 million barrels of oil out of Venezuela.“We’ve got millions of barrels of oil left,” he said at the White House. “We’re selling it on the open market. We’re bringing down oil prices incredibly.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">The first tanker was seized</a>&nbsp;off the coast of Venezuela on Dec. 10. Most of the other tankers also have been captured in the waters near Venezuela, with the exception of the Bella 1, which was captured in the North Atlantic.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-venezuela-oil-tanker-77f2c1441dda8217b37f9e38c3ae9131">The Bella 1 had been cruising</a>&nbsp;across the Atlantic and nearing the Caribbean when on Dec. 15 it abruptly turned and headed north, toward Europe. The ship was ultimately captured on Jan. 7.

🎥 US forces seize another oil tanker linked to Venezuela 

The Hays High School principal told the Hays school board Monday night that a new ban on cell phone use at the school is increasing student interactions with each other and in the classroom.

Students are allowed to bring cell phones to school, but they can't have them out and use them during the school day. If they are seen using the phones, they are sent to the office.

HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said the outcomes from the cell phone ban have been positive, and the high school staff would like to continue the policy.

Henderson said students have become more compliant with the policy throughout the school year.

The students were warned about having their phones out at the beginning of the fall semester. As the semester progressed, staff began sending students to the office for having phones out.

With firmer enforcement, the number of violations has dropped from 129 in October to 25 so far this month, Henderson said.

A recent survey of 57 teachers indicated that the absence of cell phones has increased student engagement.

Hederson shared the following survey results: • 89.5% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones has increased student engagement. • 86% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones has increased class participation • 93% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones increased student-to-student interaction • 87.7%&nbsp;said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones increased student-to-teacher interaction

Henderson offered some general comments from staff, including:

"It's refreshing to see students talking with each other."

"Students are actively participating more than before. There is less cheating and sharing of work between students."

"I love how kids talk to each other now. I do miss kids using their phones for academic reasons, though. I used them more than I thought I would."

Henderson also shared some anecdotal comments from students.

They say they understand it's good for them, but it doesn't necessarily mean they like or appreciate the policy, he said.

Many students welcomed the restriction as a means of slowing down their addiction, Henderson said.

Students take note of when teachers/staff are on their phones, he said.

Henderson said the most common excuse staff hear when students violate the policy is, “I was texting my mom or dad."

Board member Ruth Ruder said her daughter, a senior at Hays High, doesn't always appreciate the policy.

"I tell her those are the rules, and that's what we're going to do," she said.

Board member Derek Yarmer asked if any correlation had been made between the cell phone ban and an increase in academic performance.

Henderson said he did not have that data, but staff would look more closely at it after state testing this spring.

Board President Curt Vajnar asked if discipline referrals had decreased since the policy was implemented.

Henderson said he did not have that data either. However, he said the school's temperature was significantly lower.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768930840432.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays High School principal told the Hays school board Monday night that a new ban on cell phone use at the school is increasing student interactions with each other and in the classroom.Students are allowed to bring cell phones to school, but they can't have them out and use them during the school day. If they are seen using the phones, they are sent to the office.HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said the outcomes from the cell phone ban have been positive, and the high school staff would like to continue the policy.Henderson said students have become more compliant with the policy throughout the school year.The students were warned about having their phones out at the beginning of the fall semester. As the semester progressed, staff began sending students to the office for having phones out.With firmer enforcement, the number of violations has dropped from 129 in October to 25 so far this month, Henderson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768931118938.png" alt="Hays High School student violations since the policy was implemented at the beginning of the school year." />
 <figcaption>Hays High School student violations since the policy was implemented at the beginning of the school year.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768929892045.png" alt="Hays High School electronic device policy" />
 <figcaption>Hays High School electronic device policy</figcaption>
 </figure>A recent survey of 57 teachers indicated that the absence of cell phones has increased student engagement.Hederson shared the following survey results: • 89.5% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones has increased student engagement. • 86% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones has increased class participation • 93% said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones increased student-to-student interaction • 87.7%&nbsp;said they agreed or strongly agreed that the absence of cell phones increased student-to-teacher interactionHenderson offered some general comments from staff, including:"It's refreshing to see students talking with each other." "Students are actively participating more than before. There is less cheating and sharing of work between students.""I love how kids talk to each other now. I do miss kids using their phones for academic reasons, though. I used them more than I thought I would."Henderson also shared some anecdotal comments from students.They say they understand it's good for them, but it doesn't necessarily mean they like or appreciate the policy, he said.Many students welcomed the restriction as a means of slowing down their addiction, Henderson said.Students take note of when teachers/staff are on their phones, he said.Henderson said the most common excuse staff hear when students violate the policy is, “I was texting my mom or dad."Board member Ruth Ruder said her daughter, a senior at Hays High, doesn't always appreciate the policy."I tell her those are the rules, and that's what we're going to do," she said.Board member Derek Yarmer asked if any correlation had been made between the cell phone ban and an increase in academic performance.Henderson said he did not have that data, but staff would look more closely at it after state testing this spring.Board President Curt Vajnar asked if discipline referrals had decreased since the policy was implemented.Henderson said he did not have that data either. However, he said the school's temperature was significantly lower.

Hays High principal reports positive effects of cell phone ban

Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.

The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.

Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.

Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768943639729.png" alt=" Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights</h2>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.Tenured university faculty in the Board of Regents system would undergo performance assessments by a campus committee every five years. Those determined to be less than satisfactory would be placed on self-improvement plans. If a faculty member earned a second unsatisfactory annual review, the policy said, the individual would be subject to dismissal, reassignment or other personnel action.Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the post-tenure and workload policies would help administrators identify faculty falling short of standards and those exceeding those metrics. The goal was to make evaluation of faculty less subjective and to address consternation about the rigor of decisions about faculty appointments, he said.He expected few university faculty to fail to abide by new productivity standards because the “work they do is good.”“These are very important policies that are impactful. We want to make sure we get it right,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents.Johnston, a former president of Fort Scott Community College, said the final version of policies approved by the Board of Regents left the analysis of tenure review cases to university administrators because the state board didn’t have the expertise to make scholarly judgments. She said the Board of Regents would consider tenure appeals based on claims that due process rights were violated by university administrators.The Board of Regents voted unanimously at its January meeting to require the six universities to begin documenting and reporting faculty performance data that would be shared with legislators and others to enhance transparency and accountability in higher education.University reporting would include statistics on student credit hours produced, percentage of credit hours by full-time faculty, bachelor’s degrees awarded, student retention, faculty scholarship and faculty research funding. Information about the number of people granted and denied tenure and the number of faculty who left each university must be documented.Board of Regents member Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman, said he appreciated that the development of a systemwide faculty review policy involved considerable effort by the Board of Regents. He said there was an expectation among members of the Kansas Legislature that faculty workload policies would be rigorous. In the past two years, members of the Legislature raised the possibility of modifying tenure at the state universities.“The question I seem to get all the time, especially here in Topeka, is making sure I’m a good steward for the state’s funding for higher education,” he said.Under the Board of Regents policy, each university would craft faculty workload expectations that were “equitable, fair and balanced, and aligned with the unique needs of each department and the whole institution.” While all faculty would be assigned teaching loads, the policy said, exceptions would be permitted for clinical or research faculty, librarians and other personnel in noninstructional roles.The new systemwide policy was developed by Board of Regents’ staff, university administrators and faculty as well as state politicians. At least four drafts were circulated for review and comment during the past seven months.