GLADSTONE — Don and Sherry Howes has been named grand marshals of this year’s annual Gladstone 4th of July Parade. Don and Sherry Howes and their three children Dan (Lish), Dave (Holly) and Laurie have been very active in the Gladstone community for years. All three children graduated from Gladstone Area Schools and as a family helped Don build a Little League program.

The Gladstone Little League gained statewide recognition in the 1980s and 1990s winning state championships in baseball (six) and softball. (10) Two Little League softball teams made the big stage playing in the world series.

The city in appreciation of all the work the Howes’ did, the city of Gladstone named the Little League field at the Bessie Sports Park the Howes Family field.

Today, after 50 years in Little League, Howes has retired and now enjoy going to the games to watch the ballplayers having fun while building up their character.