Meet Bryleigh Middleton: The Mountain Advocate’s Newest Staff Writer Looks to Learn, Connect, and Tell Stories That Matter

The Mountain Advocate has welcomed a new voice to its newsroom. Bryleigh Middleton, originally from Harlan, Kentucky, and most recently from Lee County, Virginia, has joined the paper as a staff writer. She brings with her a natural passion for writing and a curiosity about her new community.

“Writing has always been something I find enjoyable, and it comes to me very easily,” Middleton said. “I also chose to be involved with the newspaper specifically because I am new to Barbourville and I wanted to learn more about the area itself and getting involved, since I plan to be here for a while.”

Middleton moved to Barbourville with her boyfriend, Tanner, and two cats, Bynx and Tangi, drawn by the chance to be closer to family, transfer to a new university, and explore new opportunities. “I needed change!” she said.

Publisher Charles Myrick said Middleton’s arrival signals a continued commitment to strong community journalism.

“I am excited to have Bryleigh on board, and look forward to watching her sprout her wings as a journalist,” Myrick said. “I see great things in her and I can’t wait for the community to get to know and trust her. As we continue to build on our great staff here, we look forward to continuing to expand our coverage of everything vital to our community.”

As she settles into her new role, Middleton is especially looking forward to covering stories that highlight local flavor and fun. “New restaurants or fun and exciting places for families, or just people in general,” she said. “Also, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t excited to cover a few crimes.”

Middleton understands that trust is essential in journalism, especially as a newcomer. “By always being kind, patient and not putting words in anyone’s mouth — facts and differing opinions are key,” she said when asked how she plans to build relationships in the community.

She also hopes to bring more attention to the creative spirit of the area. “I hope to cover lots of artistic events or people and places. Art is really important to me,” she said.

Middleton says that telling stories from rural Appalachia requires understanding how tightly connected small towns can be. “I believe in such rural parts or small towns, it’s important to focus on how decisions or events are brought about to satisfy or celebrate the whole community,” she said. “It may be more interesting to see it from a ‘we celebrate everyone!’ point of view.”

When asked about the kinds of local issues she hopes to cover more deeply, Middleton highlighted both economic and environmental concerns — with a personal interest in the latter. “I believe both economic and environmental issues are equally as important, but I do understand the environment a bit more easily,” she said. “With that being said, I would love to cover or suggest some events that help or appreciate the environment, and speak with individuals within the DEP (Department for Environmental Protection), as well as locals.”

Middleton has already started reporting, and one assignment has stood out in particular. “My favorite thing so far has probably been the Corbin groundbreaking,” she said, referencing the expansion of the Corbin Center. “It was a very lively event with kind people, interesting topics and of course, great food. The expansion sounds so great and I cannot wait to follow up!”

As she continues to find her footing and build connections in Barbourville, Middleton is focused on listening closely and telling stories that reflect the voices of the people around her — just as any good reporter would.