We spend way too much time on this webpage saying goodbye to great artists and writers of the early days of comics. So let's say Happy Birthday to two of 'em…
George Tuska is 91 years old today. George did his first known work in the comic form in 1939 as an assistant on the Scorchy Smith newspaper strip (which he later handled all by his lonesome) and for the Eisner-Iger shop. He's drawn thousands of comics in his day but is probably best remembered for his work on Lev Gleason's Crime Does Not Pay and for a long stint at Marvel drawing, among other comics, Iron Man. Stan Lee often referred to him as "Genial George Tuska" or "Gentleman George Tuska" and both those adjectives apply.
Paul Norris is 93 years old today. Paul started cartooning for the Dayton Daily News in 1937 and was drawing comic books by 1941. His most lasting contribution to the latter was as the co-creator of Aquaman. He later worked on a number of syndicated strips including Brick Bradford, which he wrote and drew from 1956 until it ended in 1987. I was delighted to write some of the comic books he also drew during that period (including Dynomutt) and to get to know this fine man.
George and Paul may not see this posting. I don't think either of them has Internet access and anyway, they'll probably be out partying 'til all hours. But I wanted to wish them well and to note how much entertainment they've provided over the years for so many.