Wichita Festivals announces Riverfest's next Windwagon Smith
After one final speech with the title, Joe Johnson lifted his sword and passed it off to Todd Johnson. The sword completed the ensemble - including the black admiral's hat and red coat - that marked Todd Johnson as the next Windwagon Smith of the Wichita Riverfest.
"It's just a great honor, and one I never expected," Todd Johnson said. "I am just so pleased and honored that I have that opportunity."
Todd Johnson has been a Wichita Festivals, Inc. board member since 2008. He has been on the operations committee since 1997, and a Wagonmaster for 13 years.
On Wednesday, he climbed aboard the Windwagon for the ceremonial cannon blast.
"The history of that Windwagon is something special," Johnson said. "It was kind of a neat deal to crawl up on top of that thing and enjoy that. Come parade night, I'll be up there. I'm looking forward to that, too.
"I've seen that a lot of times and never thought it would be me."
Johnson becomes Admiral Windwagon Smith XL. In his role, he will visit local hospitals, speak to civic organizations and host Riverfest events.
"It's the biggest party this city throws. I love a party - I always want to be a part of the biggest party," he said.
Johnson's family moved to Wichita in 1973. He is a graduate of Wichita Southeast High School and Wichita State University. Johnson is a sales manager at Protection 1 Security Solutions.
Riverfest runs May 31 through June 8. Events include the Sundown Parade, the Koch Twilight Pops Concert and the Riverfest Beach Party.
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