Discover Downtown Middlesboro recently hired a new director, Emily Ayers.

According to DDM representatives, Ayers has a strong background in local workforce development and training and a broad understanding of the area’s job market. She also works closely with organizations who can help develop and maintain a core group of volunteers for various projects. “She has experience with creating area maps, marketing and social media, website maintenance and other skills that make her uniquely qualified for the position,” they said.

“I am very excited that I have been entrusted with this opportunity to serve our community in the capacity as the new Discover Downtown Middlesboro director. It truly is a blessing to have lived in this area my entire life,” said Ayers.

“My family has deep roots here and I am proud to continue our tradition of doing all we can to help improve our home. With these deep roots, I consider it an honor to do what I have a passion for, which is serving others and making my community a great place to live. Since 2006, Discover Downtown Middlesboro has enlisted the service of many community members. I hope to continue what they have built thus far with a sincere appreciation of how vitally important my job is. I would like to thank the board of directors for their belief in me, and I am grateful for having such a great team to welcome me into this position. Starting off with a great team and strong partnerships really gives me a very positive first impression. Knowing that I have the support of the Bell County Tourism Office, Main Street Pineville and the Bell County Chamber as partners for many community events and opportunities is something I think any other new director would wish for,” she continued.

Jacob Roan of Main Street Pineville added, “I am excited to have the opportunity to work with Emily to revitalize our downtowns in Bell County. Emily is a hometown girl with a passion for Middlesboro that is unmatched by someone from afar. I look forward to working with her and strengthening the partnership between both Main Street communities as we strive for a better quality of life for all of Bell County.”

Some of the continuing goals of DDM include, but are not limited to, reaching all of the requirements that would make DDM a bona fide Main Street Kentucky Program, working with downtown businesses to target pertinent issues and areas of improvement, and beautify the downtown area with painting and general cleanup.