WHITEHOUSE, Texas (July 5, 2025) — For the first time since the Tri County Leader shut down in 2018, Whitehouse once again has a consistent hometown news source. The ETX Bell, a new community newspaper serving Whitehouse, Texas, launched earlier this year to bring back local reporting with a modern twist.
Founded in 2025, ETX Bell offers both print and digital editions and includes dedicated coverage for Whitehouse, Bullard, and Troup. The newspaper also covers nearby communities in southern Smith County, including Flint, Noonday, and parts of Cherokee County, while reporting on broader Smith County news and regional topics that impact East Texans.
Filling the gap left by the Tri County Leader
For decades, the Tri County Leader served as the voice of Whitehouse and surrounding towns, publishing weekly updates on local government, school activities, youth sports, obituaries, and community events. Its closure in 2018 left residents without a consistent local news outlet.
Since then, the Tyler Morning Telegraph has provided limited coverage of Whitehouse, but like many regional newspapers, its scope often extends too broadly to fully capture the day-to-day life of smaller communities.
A new hometown section for Whitehouse
ETX Bell is designed to bridge that gap with hyperlocal journalism. Within each issue, readers will find dedicated sections for Whitehouse, including city council coverage, Whitehouse ISD updates, feature stories on local residents, and announcements from churches, schools, and civic groups.
“We’re not here to replace other newspapers,” said founder Shawn Larson. “We want to give Whitehouse its own voice again—something focused on the community’s stories, issues, and accomplishments.”
Modern approach, local heart
While rooted in print journalism, ETX Bell also incorporates digital media, social platforms, and interactive community features. Readers can access stories online, submit local photos and announcements, and advertise both in print and on the web. The paper is currently published monthly, with plans to increase frequency as readership grows.
Serving more than one town, but focused on each
Though ETX Bell covers multiple cities, each town—including Whitehouse—has its own editorial space in the publication. That structure ensures residents get relevant, local coverage while still being informed about neighboring communities and regional developments.
Past and present newspapers in Whitehouse
Tri County Leader (closed 2018): The former weekly paper that long served Whitehouse and nearby towns.
Tyler Morning Telegraph: A regional daily that includes some Whitehouse coverage.
ETX Bell (launched 2025): A new publication featuring dedicated Whitehouse content and wider Smith County news.
Subscribe and support
ETX Bell is available by subscription or at select pickup locations in Whitehouse and surrounding areas. To subscribe, submit community content, or advertise, visit www.etxbell.com.
Conclusion: With the closure of the Tri County Leader, Whitehouse residents lost a vital local resource. Now, ETX Bell brings back that hometown focus—offering a dedicated newspaper for Whitehouse, Texas, with the depth, accessibility, and community spirit this growing city deserves.
