August 14, 2002 - Bayport, NY
Police, Firefighters contribute to new and expanded Through the Ashes

Crusade Fine Arts has added an additional eight pages to his 9/11 benefit book Shi - Through the Ashes, expanding the comic from its original 24 page format to 32. In addition to the original Shi story, the new pages will the heartfelt first-hand recollections of firefighters, police and ironworkers accompanied by illustrations by Shi creator and publisher Billy Tucci. As an added bonus, an insert poster by acclaimed illustrator and Barry Orkin of his painting Perseverance.

Perseverance was recently showcased along side Billy's Through the Ashes cover at New York City's Society of Illustrators 9/11 Benefit Exhibit.

Focusing mainly on the reflections and heroics of his fellow Long Islanders, Tucci explained the reason for the books expansion, "The original concept of Through the Ashes had our heroine Ana Ishikawa as a witness to the terrible attacks on the World Trade Center. Many of my friends were there that day, and participated in the rescue and recovery efforts for weeks afterward. Some are actually still there."

Also included will be a memorial to our fallen heroes, including Petty Officer Michael Noeth, who was killed in the attack on the Pentagon.

It was through these experiences that Tucci believed the book should be more than just a Shi story. "These are the true stories of September 11th, and I didn't feel that the book would be complete without them. These are the true heroes."

Shi ­ Through the Ashes has already pre-sold over 13,000 copies and will ship in mid March. The book will still retain its $2.99 price tag and all profits will benefit the Uniformed Firefighters Association Widows and Children's Fund.

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About Crusade Fine Arts

Media Contacts: Deborah Tucci
Crusade Fine Arts Ltd.