FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): A long-time staple of the Johnny Appleseed Festival is missing from this years event. According to the News-Sentinel, the actor who portrayed Appleseed won't be there.

After about 30 years , Scott Mertz, who embodied John Chapman has been replaced by a new actor. Mertz first started in 1979. He says he was told this summer the festival was going a different direction.

The role is now filled by Steve McPhail, a history teacher who has appeared at other events as Chapman.

Festival takes continues until 6 p.m. today and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday in Johnny Appleseed Park, behind Memorial Coliseum.

Find out more at  http://www.johnnyappleseedfest.com/