Thursday, October 1, 2026
South Texas News, Inc., has expanded well beyond its namesake by acquiring “The Hood County News” from the Hyde Media Group. The acquisition increases the total number of newspapers operated by the company in Texas to eleven, reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive local journalism.
Albert Reynolds, owner of Texas-based South Texas News, shared his thoughts on the expansion.
“We are excited to expand into North Central Texas. With papers in Brenham, Beeville, Rockport, Portland and others, we specialize in community newspapers throughout Texas. Our vision for the future is to elevate local journalism by integrating modern technology and community-driven content. We are dedicated to ensuring that ‘The Hood County News’ not only continues its 140-year tradition of excellence but also evolves to meet the growing needs of our readers. We believe that a strong local newspaper is the heartbeat of the community, and we are here to keep that heart beating strongly.”
With the leadership of experienced South Texas News Inc. publisher Dennis Wade, “The Hood County News” is set to benefit. Wade expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are delighted to add ‘The Hood County News’ to our group of community newspapers. This addition strengthens our position as one of the leading community newspaper groups in Texas.”
“The Hood County News” will retain its original name but will undergo some operational changes to align with South Texas News’ structure. However, there are no changes planned for the deadlines, delivery dates or once-weekly frequency of the newspaper.
The purchase changes ownership of the newspaper and magazine business, but leaves the building and commercial printing press in Hyde’s hands; the printing operation has by now expanded to 35 newspapers, spanning from New Boston to Lampasas to Graham, according to outgoing publisher Sam Houston.
Houston is stepping down as publisher but will continue writing his column at the new owners’ invitation. Hyde said Houston’s desire to step out of the publisher’s role helped drive the decision to sell.
A New Mexico brokerage hired by Hyde and Houston last year connected the parties, Hyde said. He purchased “The Hood County News” Aug. 13, 2020, and said finding a buyer committed to continuing publication was a priority.
Reynolds added: “This is an exciting development for South Texas News. The acquisition of ‘The Hood County News’ was made seamless thanks to the cooperation of the previous owner, Paul Hyde, and Publisher Sam Houston. Working with Sam and his team has been a pleasure.”
