From the editor: Feeling thankful for people doing good in our community

You’ve probably noticed that telling inspirational stories is a highlight of our reimagined Sunday StarNews.

Since we launched in December, we’ve featured numerous nonprofits and people overcoming obstacles. While these stories can be heart-wrenching, they are also heartwarming.

Today’s story is both. Thanks to Welcome Home Angel for bringing smiles to the faces of the two sisters featured. I hope you’ll take a few minutes each week to read these stories that showcase kindness and goodwill in our community.

More:Wilmington sisters get rooms fit for royalty thanks to Welcome Home Angel

I’ve also been fascinated to read the weekly stories looking at how places in the Cape Fear region got their names. I won’t spoil it for you, but today’s story on Castle Hayne is particularly interesting.

Finally, I want to point you toward today’s Q&A with local news editor Owen Hassell. He tells his career journey through songs.

Q&A with Owen Hassell:Finding the right tune as a news editor in Wilmington

I admit that I spent more time than I probably should have thinking about what song best fits Owen and his role at the StarNews.

I landed on “Eye of the Tiger.” One line in particular stands out: “Just a man and his will to survive.”

That’s how I’d describe Owen and his passion for serving readers. Owen has played a vital role in the StarNews’ success in recent years.

Our industry is changing rapidly, and Owen has been dedicated, hard-working and focused on moving us forward. He clearly cares about seeing the newspaper industry survive, and he’s definitely rolling with the punches.

So this seemed like a good time to publicly say thank you.

Sherry Jones is the executive editor of the StarNews. You can reach her at sjones1@gannett.com.