My District: Is Home to Superman.

• Author: Mathios, Ben
• Position: Metropolis, Illinois

Mathios, Ben

"My District" gives NCSL members a chance to talk about life in the places they represent, from high-profile events to the fun facts only locals know.

Welcome to Metropolis, Ill., recognized in 1972 by DC Comics as the hometown of the legendary Superman. Located in the state's southern tip, about 230 miles southeast of the capital Springfield, this town of 6,500 takes its superhero status seriously.

Although a multimillion dollar, 1,000-acre amusement park never materialized, the Superman Celebration every June attracts thousands of diehard fans of the Man of Steel and DC Comics. The event features actors and writers from the many Superman movies and television series and centers on a 15-foot-tall statue of Superman, a roughly 6-foot replica of "girl reporter" Lois Lane and the expansive Super Museum.

We caught up with Sen. Dale Fowler (R) and Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R), who represent Metropolis, to ask about the importance of the world's greatest superhero to their districts.

Have you ever been to the Superman Celebration? What's it like?

Fowler: I have attended numerous Superman festivals. It is an amazing event that draws thousands of tourists from several states each year. It brings great excitement to the area as people honor one of the most famous superheroes in American history.

Windhorst: My family attends the Superman Celebration every year. It's a community festival that brings in thousands from all over the United States and around the world, including celebrities who have appeared in Superman movies and television shows. In addition to the celebrities, there is a real-life Superman, many Superman-themed events, vendors and carnival rides. The weekend is a lot of fun for the whole family. I attended as a child and have taken my own children every year to enjoy the festivities and have their picture taken at the Superman statue.

What does it mean to you and your district to be home to the most powerful yet magnanimous superhero?

Fowler: Superman is one of the most recognizable superheroes ever. Tourists not only visit the city of Metropolis during the Superman festival but throughout the entire year, providing a great economic boost to the city and the southern Illinois region as a whole. Along with the famous giant Superman statue, there is also a museum for enthusiasts to enjoy.

Windhorst: Prior to my election as a state representative, I served as county prosecutor, and my office in the courthouse overlooked the...