A New Chapter for The Bee: Building Something Special in Silsbee

By Dennis Phillips

If you’re reading this before June 2, 2025, you’re really on the ball.

I’m writing this column for two reasons: first, I needed placeholder text while setting up the new website for The Silsbee Bee. Second, I figured if I’m going to add filler content, it might as well be something real—not just meaningless lorem ipsum.

Truthfully, I’m excited. And a little nervous. But not scared.

I’m not originally from Hardin County—my wife Veronica is, born and raised in Batson—but I am from a small Texas town, so I understand the heart and grit of rural communities. From time to time, that perspective will shape what I write here. Sometimes I’ll also share the funny, occasionally embarrassing things I get myself into. I’m far from perfect—only the good Lord gets that title. I’m just a guy in the newspaper business trying to do right by the people we serve.

Taking the helm of The Silsbee Bee has me working tirelessly on two fronts: getting the paper in shape and remodeling my wife’s new home. I’ll save the home renovation stories for another day (spoiler: I’m better at newspapers than DIY). But I’m pouring everything I have into making this paper shine again.

The Bee isn’t broken—but like many small-town papers across Texas, it’s been a bit adrift. It just needs direction, a steady hand, and a whole lot of heart. The community involvement is here. The journalism is solid. The ads look sharp. And the staff? They love this paper.

“This isn’t going to be easy—but nothing worthwhile ever is,” I’ve told myself. “What it will be is fun.” I love this industry. I love preserving hometown newspapers. And I’m genuinely excited to work with the people of Hardin County to restore The Silsbee Bee to its rightful place—as the voice of the community.

Now, if you’re reading this, you also know I don’t officially own the Bee yet. That happens June 1, and I believe it’s going to be a great day—not just for my company, but for the newspaper, and most of all, for the people of Hardin County.

So, buckle up. And if you found this post early, congratulations—refresh the site once in a while and you’ll get a front-row seat as we build something special together.

Talk soon.