A big, green superhero was seen around Niagara Falls today. Well, he wasn't green today.
Lou Ferrigno - of "The Incredible Hulk" fame - made stops on this side of the border and to the north, as the Niagara Falls Comic Con prepared to open this afternoon. Ferrigno visited the Harry F. Abate Elementary School, on the U.S. side of the border, to give a pep talk on bullying and take photos with the students.
Having lost 80 percent of his hearing as a child because of a series of ear infections, the superhero actor knows something about being bullied. It pushed him into bodybuilding, which eventually made him the perfect choice to play the Incredible Hulk and roles in other movies and television shows.
Ferrigno also stopped at the Niagara Falls Police Department, where he was sworn in as an honorary police officer. Niagara Regional Police Services honored the super-actor as an honorary constable.
"In partnership with our Canadian brothers and sisters, we are pleased to recognize Lou Ferrigno for his anti-bullying efforts," said Carlton Cain, deputy superintendent of the Niagara Falls Police Department. "Lou, in his unwavering efforts to combat bullying, uses his time to speak with children all over the world."
"Too few are the opportunities for us to recognize individuals who take it upon themselves, private citizens, to support and promote the good work of law enforcement," added Sgt. Rich Gadreau of Niagara Regional Police Services. "Lou Ferrigno promotes law enforcement wherever he goes and, for his efforts, we are most appreciative."
Ferrigno does real police work, like criminal investigations and weapons training. "My father was a NYPD lieutenant in Brooklyn, so to be recognized in Niagara Falls, NY and Ontario is a true honor," he said.
For three days at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, ON, fans of comics and the popular arts will be able to meet their favorite celebrities and creators, experience the latest and greatest games and toys and, basically, immerse themselves in the culture.
