Bryant The Chandler-Brownsboro Statesman has named Paul Bryant of Vicksburg, Miss., editor.

Bryant, 33, is a 15-year veteran of the newspaper industry, having worked for small and large newspapers across the South. He's been recognized by the Louisiana Press Association for political coverage and investigative reporting and photojournalism, and by the Mississippi Press Association for features writing.

He has spent much of the past six years as editor of weekly and small daily newspapers in Mississippi and Louisiana.

"We feel very fortunate to get Paul at the Statesman," Publisher Bill Woodall said. "Because Don had done such a good job for us here, we wanted to be very careful with his replacement. We think he'll fit in nicely with the Chandler and Brownsboro communities."

Bryant began his career covering high-school sports for the Vicksburg Evening Post. He was a sports writer and assistant sports editor for the next six years before becoming a news reporter.

He's also worked as publisher, senior reporter, photographer, and advertising manager. "I've done just about everything in this busin ess," Bryant said. "I've tried to start other careers, but this is where my heart is. My family has a newspaper background and, like many newspaper people, I have ink running through my veins. I no longer try to imagine doing anything else."

Bryant also said he's excited to make Texas his new home and that he's eager to earn the trust of readers, advertisers, and others who look to the Statesman to be a leader in this community.

"In the short time I've been here, the people have been very good to me. They've been understanding through the staff changes. I appreciate that, and I look forward to working with everyone to make the Statesman an even better newspaper. We don't ever want to stop improving. "

Woodall agreed.

"With Loyd handling sports and some news and Paul taking the lead, this promises to be a great time for this newspaper."

Bryant and his wife, Mary, have two daughters.