Oct 22

Oct 22 Thrower and Kelly promoted as Magic Mile Media prepares for next chapter

Magic Mile Media, the parent company of Neuse News and NC Political News, has announced two leadership promotions as it moves into what CEO BJ Murphy called “an exciting new season” for the organization.

Aleatha Thrower / Photo by Brandon Potter

Aleatha Thrower has been named vice president of Magic Mile Media, and Kristy Kelly has been promoted to managing editor of Neuse News.

Thrower, the company’s first full-time employee, joined Magic Mile Media more than seven years ago. She will now help oversee Neuse News, NC Political News, and three additional team members while continuing to lead the company’s social media division.

Murphy said Thrower’s impact has been instrumental to the company’s growth. “The moment I met her, I immediately canceled the other two interviews,” he said. “She has an amazing talent for understanding people and their motivations, which helps us strike the right tone in both news and business. She’s not a yes person—she challenges me and our team every day. Our clients love her, and our team respects her.”

Thrower said she is excited to continue building on the company’s momentum. “It’s an honor to step into this role and continue building on the momentum we’ve created at Magic Mile Media,” she said. “Our team’s talent and drive excites me for our future. We’ve accomplished so much already, but we’re just getting started.”

Kelly, who joined Neuse News in March 2019 as a freelance reporter, has since served as assistant publisher and now steps into the managing editor role. In that position, she will oversee daily newsroom operations, including public notices, obituaries, community submissions, and original reporting.

“Kristy’s steady growth reflects not just hard work but a deep understanding of our mission and community,” Murphy said. “Her creativity, curiosity, and care for people make her the perfect person to lead the editorial desk and oversee the day-to-day decisions of our news operation.”

Kelly said her approach to journalism has always been shaped by the community Neuse News serves. “This community raised me as a journalist,” she said. “Every story, every photo, every late-night headline comes from wanting people here to feel seen and informed. I’m grateful for the chance to help shape the future of Neuse News alongside such a dedicated and talented team.”

Murphy said both promotions reflect the company’s long-term vision as it grows beyond its original footprint. “When we started Magic Mile Media in 2016, I could have never imagined the success our small team would achieve,” he said. “Nearly nine years later, we’re stepping into an exciting new season with new projects, bigger visioning, improved systems, and potential acquisitions on the horizon. These changes will allow me to step away from the day-to-day operations of Neuse News while ensuring we have the right team in place who will continue being accurate first, then fast.”

He added that the promotions strengthen every part of the organization. “Our clients, readers, partners, and friends will all benefit from what’s ahead.”

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