Tom: Can you tell us a little bit about why you created the Rocketeer?

Stevens: I first created the Rocketeer in 1981 as a backup feature in another comic book. It was only solicited initially as "filler" material by the publisher (Pacific Comics), but I approached it as though I were doing a lead feature. Even if I had no idea what I was doing. It was pure seat-of-the-pants.

The concept came directly from childhood visions of rocketry and daring-do mixed with a fascination for the fairer sex, and an outright lust for all things of pre-war America. Basically, I wrote and drew it entirely for myself! And it was FUN. And, apparently that fun was infectious, because it was a hit with readers.

Kevin: What was it like the first time you met Bettie Page?

Stevens: It was shortly after the LA earthquake in 1994. I was called upon to act as her driver for the day. She'd apparently decided that it was time we met. It was that simple, really. But, obviously for me, a decisive moment in time that I'll never forget. Kismet.

Seeing her for the first time was an affirmation I'd waited twenty years for: it was REALLY her. Much older, and white-haired, but still her. We spent a full day getting to know each other, while driving from place to place, listening to big band music and talking about her tumultuous life and times. It was magical, and we became very close pals from that point on, I'm happy to say. She's a remarkable person and it's been a rare privilege to know her.