Gerald Knight — whose family was one of Howell’s original melon farmers — has been named the grand marshal of this year’s Howell Melon Festival Parade. His father, Stanley Knight, began growing the melons on his farm in the 1920s, and his right-hand man on the farm is his nephew, Doug Dryer.
“The Melon Festival Committee is honored to present Gerald Knight as the Grand Marshal for this year’s Melon Parade,” said Jordan Jones, recreation manager of speical events for the Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority. “The 62nd Melon Festival is going back to its roots and there is no better way to do that than by honoring one of the original Melon Farmers.”
Howell City Manager Erv Suida agrees.
“The Howell Melon Festival is a wonderful tradition celebrating our agricultural community,” Suida said. “It is only fitting that one of the original melon farmers serve as our Grand Marshal for this year’s parade. We sincerely thank Mr. Knight and his family, as well as the agricultural community, for all they have contributed and continue to contribute.”
The Howell Melon Festival was founded in 1960 by Dr. Louis (Pat) May, a local physician and melon grower. This year will mark the 62nd annual Howell Melon Festival.
