Sarah Quintas - editor@mitchellnews.com
The Mitchell County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) named Kelly Jones as its new part-time Tourism Development Director. Jones, a UNC Charlotte alumna with a degree in Mass Communications, brings a rich tapestry of experience in sports journalism, event planning, and real estate to her new role. Her journey to this position reflects a deep-seated passion for Mitchell County and a diverse skill set.
Despite the challenges of being a part-time director, Jones remains optimistic, drawing from her extensive experience with the local chamber and regional collaborations.
“The biggest challenge is that it’s its own entity now, so it’s almost like we are starting from scratch, which is a little daunting,” Jones explains. However, she is confident about leveraging Mitchell County’s unique geographical features, such as its picturesque riverbank towns, to drive tourism.
Central to Jones’s strategy is integrating local businesses into the tourism fabric of the county.
“Local businesses are crucial for tourism. We wouldn’t be here without tourism. We know that tourism plays a vital role to our local businesses, and businesses play a vital role to our tourists,” Jones emphasizes. This mutual relationship forms the backbone of her approach to developing a thriving tourist economy.
In terms of marketing, Jones plans to implement data-driven campaigns, reflecting her sports background and a penchant for measurable outcomes. She views tourism as the gateway to attracting new businesses and entrepreneurs, inspired by the county’s scenic beauty and vibrant community.
Community engagement is another critical aspect of her strategy. Jones aims to make the National Tourism Week in May a significant event, with opportunities to gather valuable feedback that will shape future tourism projects.
Jones also sees great potential in weaving the rich lore and legends of Mitchell County into its tourism appeal. She believes in the power of storytelling to enhance the region’s cultural identity and attract visitors. Moreover, Jones identifies the need for better representation, recognizing the untapped opportunities for drawing tourists from the over 15 million annual Blue Ridge Parkway visitors.