We are always pleased when an opportunity to note our communities’ rich contributions to the arts presents itself.

We’ve frequently praised how Frances Tipton Hunter and Severin Roesen put Williamsport on the historical map of American art.

Now, we are pleased that Howie Noel has cemented Williamsport’s standing in the visual arts in contemporary times.

Noel, as was reported in this past weekend’s edition of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette, is drawing the nationally syndicated Dick Tracy comic strip, also found each day in your Williamsport Sun-Gazette.

Noel shared his story of hard work and perseverance with our communities, and noted that the support of his parents and family was instrumental in his pursuit of his dreams.

“I had that positive reinforcement that I wish everyone could have.” Noel said. “I got lucky there.”

We certainly hope families can take that observation to heart and can endeavor to support the aspirations of their children. As you can see on our comics page, it makes a profound difference.

We are happy to celebrate Howie Noel’s successes and we hope his words can inspire young and old alike: “If you just keep working and do something that remains true to who you are, good things will happen.”