Remembering Jack Kirby: The Ventura County (Calif.) Star commemorates the 40th anniversary of Thousand Oaks by dipping into the files of the defunct Thousand Oaks News Chronicle for stories "on noteworthy individuals who helped form the community." Among them is the late Jack Kirby:

"In today's heightened patriotism, Kirby's presence is missed. Along with Joe Simon, he created the dashing, shield-bashing, red-white-and-blue-garbed Captain America.

"In April 1991 he saluted the 50th birthday of his famed comic book hero, saying Captain America lasted because of its classical content and patriotism.

"'Patriotism is an important part of the format; it gives it a lasting quality,' said Kirby, who lived the last quarter-century of his life in Thousand Oaks. 'You and I are going to be Americans forever and be proud of it.'

"During his lifelong career, the artist helped create numerous comic book heroes, including World War II's Boy Commandos, the Newsboy Legion and the Guardian, Thor, X-Man, Fantastic Four and the Incredible Hulk. That snazzy-looking costume Spiderman wears is a Jack Kirby creation.

"Kirby served as an infantryman in Gen. George S. Patton's Third Army during the war. He died at his home on Feb. 6, 1994. He was 76."