Comic-book heroes artist out to help terrorist victims

Jace Radke

Monday, Dec. 10, 2001 | 9:42 a.m.

Over the past 25 years John Romita Jr. has chronicled the adventures of such Marvel Comics mainstays as the Hulk, the X-Men and Spiderman.

Now the artist is using those characters to help the country's real-life heroes.

Romita, a native of New York City, will be appearing at two Las Vegas comic book stores Saturday to collect donations for the New York Firefighter's Widows Fund.

November's issue of "Amazing Spiderman," which Romita drew, focuses on the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center. It points out that even in a world with super-powered protectors, the true heroes are firefighters, police and emergency workers.

"I didn't really think there was anything I could do, but I'm really proud of Issue 36 of Spiderman," Romita said. "I hope the store signings do some good. Every little bit helps."

Romita will be drawing original artwork at Tim Boal's two Comic Oasis stores on Saturday. The proceeds from the work will go toward the widows fund.

"It's a chance for us to help out the real heroes," Boal said. "We'll probably sell the art for a $5 to $10 donation."

Romita is scheduled to be at the store at 4250 S. Rainbow Blvd. from 11 a.m to 1 p.m., and at the store at 3121 N. Rainbow from 3 to 5 p.m., Boal said.

City of Las Vegas firefighters are scheduled to be at the signing at the North Rainbow store, department spokesman Tim Szymanski said.

"We always make every effort to help with charity events," Szymanski said. "We'll try to have an engine out there, but the firefighters will be on duty and may have to leave if there is a fire."

Romita is not the only comic book professional to come to the aid of the various Sept. 11 charity funds. More than 20 artists have contributed to a magazine-size book of art called "Heroes."

"Heroes," which is also published by Marvel, features art of firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel and residents inspired by the acts of heroism on Sept. 11. More than 250,000 of the books are already in circulation. All of the $3.50 cover price goes toward the Twin Towers Fund.

"We've been getting a lot of requests for both 'Heroes' and 'Amazing Spiderman' No. 36," Boal said. "We've actually had some calls from military people who are interested in seeing the books."