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Longtime Midland Reporter-Telegram Editor Reflects on Mentor's Powerful Advice
Trevor Hawes departs the paper after years of service, remembering the four words that guided his journalism career.
Mar. 10, 2026 at 9:35pm
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Trevor Hawes, the former editorial director of the Midland Reporter-Telegram, is departing the newspaper after years of service. In his farewell, Hawes reflects on the profound impact of his mentor, legendary journalist Ed Todd, and the four words Todd shared that changed Hawes' life: "Keep the rascals honest." Hawes discusses how this advice encapsulates the core mission of journalism - to pursue facts, hold people accountable, and ensure an informed society essential for a well-functioning democracy.
Why it matters
Hawes' departure marks the end of an era at the Midland Reporter-Telegram, a newspaper that has served as the community's paper of record for nearly a century. His reflections on the enduring importance of quality journalism, as exemplified by his mentor Ed Todd, underscore the vital role the media plays in preserving democratic values and principles, even as the industry faces increasing challenges in the digital age.
The details
Hawes first met Ed Todd, a legendary Midland journalist, when he joined the Reporter-Telegram as a copy editor in 2010. Todd, known for his distinctive appearance and poetic writing style, had long since retired but continued to contribute stories about the unsung heroes of the Midland community. During their many conversations, Todd imparted the four words that would profoundly shape Hawes' approach to journalism: "Keep the rascals honest." This advice encapsulated the core mission of journalism - to pursue facts, hold people accountable, and ensure an informed society. Hawes carried this ethos with him as he rose to become the editorial director, and he has now passed the torch to the next generation of journalists at the Reporter-Telegram, urging readers to adopt a similar mindset of skepticism and verification.
- Hawes first met Ed Todd in 2010 when he joined the Midland Reporter-Telegram as a copy editor.
- Todd had long since retired from the newspaper by the time Hawes arrived, but he continued to contribute stories until his passing in 2018.
- Hawes returned to the Reporter-Telegram as its new editor in 2024.
The players
Trevor Hawes
The former editorial director of the Midland Reporter-Telegram, who is now departing the newspaper for a new opportunity.
Ed Todd
A legendary journalist who worked at the Midland Reporter-Telegram for over 40 years, known for his distinctive appearance, poetic writing style, and mentorship of younger reporters like Hawes.
Midland Reporter-Telegram
A community newspaper that has served as the paper of record in Midland, Texas for nearly a century.
What they’re saying
“Keep the rascals honest.”
— Ed Todd, Legendary Midland journalist
The takeaway
Hawes' farewell underscores the enduring importance of quality journalism in upholding democratic values and principles, even as the industry faces mounting challenges. His reflections on the profound impact of his mentor, Ed Todd, and the timeless advice to "keep the rascals honest" serve as a reminder that the pursuit of truth and accountability remains the cornerstone of a well-informed society.
