STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The familiar red, white and blue wrapper of Bazooka Bubble Gum has been a staple in American candy culture for over 75 years, and fans can meet the iconic Bazooka Joe character in person Friday, Sept. 18 at a Manhattan candy shop.

From 3 to 6 p.m. Friday at Economy Candy, 108 Rivington St., Bazooka Joe will greet fans as part of a celebration featuring the brand’s newest comic collection. Visitors can take photos with the character and receive samples of the new comics, which feature 12 all-star athletes including Jason Kelce, CC Sabathia and DK Metcalf.

Pete Bregman, the artist who illustrated the new series, will also be present at the event.

Bazooka gum first hit the market in 1947, created in Brooklyn after World War II sugar rationing ended. The bright pink gu

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