Alabama public affairs consultant Paul Shashy and businessman Thomas Harris have purchased Yellowhammer News and its related media affiliates. The affiliates include the YHN Radio Network; 256 Today News, which focuses on the Tennessee Valley; and Soul Grown, a lifestyle outlet that highlights and profiles the very best of Alabama.

The entities will operate under the newly formed umbrella of YHN Media Group LLC, with Ellis Terry appointed to serve as the news operation’s president. 

“The new ownership is committed to expanding and breathing new life into the Yellowhammer News brand while maintaining our tradition of accurate reporting in the areas of business, sports, and politics,” Terry said. “Yellowhammer News and its affiliates will continue sharing positive stories about our state, its people, and the qualities and beliefs that make Alabama such a special place to live, work, worship, and raise families.”

Shashy, a Montgomery native who lives in Birmingham, operates a well-respected political and public affairs firm with an impressive roster of clients. Before opening his own firm several years ago, Shashy was employed by Big Communications in Birmingham. 

Harris is president of Alabama Black Belt Adventures, a nonprofit entity that promotes hunting, fishing, and ecotourism activities throughout the state’s Black Belt region. He is the former president and CEO of Merchant Capital, one of the largest public finance firms in the nation.

Terry founded Soul Grown, which was acquired by Yellowhammer in 2021. He is the director of business development for Ingram and Associates, a real estate marketing and sales firm in Birmingham. He is also a real estate investor.

The new management will assume their responsibilities immediately. No interruption in service or content on any of the websites or media outlets will occur during the transition.