Comic Book "Wichita Man" Grows In Popularity, Guides Young Men

October 27, 2009

by Cliff Judy (WICHITA, Kan.)

Wichita has its own superhero trying to help young men make good decisions. The comic book series "Wichita Man" is gaining in popularity.

Wichita Man's Website

Wichita pastor Reuben Eckels says he wanted a new way to connect with at-risk youth, and his son suggested he start a comic book series. "Wichita Man," a picture comic, features a superhero who deals with social problems like domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, and gang issues.

More than 50 businesses and schools now carry the comic book. Eckels says he hopes the comic leads young people away from bad decisions, but still helps those who need it.

"We all make mistakes, but there are ways to find help for whatever issues that you're in," says Eckels. "There are people around the city who are ready to help you."

The story of Wichita Man is of a city council member who vowed to fight the city's social problems like violent gangs. On a rainy night, the council member is confronted by gang members angry at his message. During a fight, the council member and the lead gangster "O.G." fall into a vat of liquid, lightning strikes the pair, and their superpowers are born. Arch-enemies are also born as Wichita Man decides to use his powers for good, while O.G. continues to do wrong.

Eyewitness News managed to track down the real Wichita Man featured in the pages of the comic. He agreed to an interview on the condition we of course not reveal his true identity.

"Hopefully, he can get a reality check," Wichita Man says of young readers. "I'm hoping the message they get is just positive. Stay in school, get your education."

Eckels also says the magazine, which features Wichita sites and organizations young people can turn to, shows one person won't change the city.

"It is about community," says Eckels. "Showing that one man even with all his superpowers can't overcome all these issues. We need the whole community to come out and to work together."

"Wichita Man" has been so successful that Eckels says he is currently working on comic book projects for other cities.

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