Former ITODA President Honored

The Independent Turf & Ornamental Distributors Association (ITODA) recently honored Steve Dickinson, one of the first ITODA members and an active supporter of the organization, with an honorary membership. As Dickinson moves into retirement, this recognition thanks Dickinson for his service and means he will no longer have to pay dues to the organization. Dickinson is only the fourth person in the association’s history to receive this recognition.

ITODA President Chris Peterson made the surprise announcement during the President’s Dinner at the group’s 2005 fall meeting in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 19 to 22. “I’ve received many awards and citations during the years from ITODA and others, but receiving this honorary membership is like the Oscar of my career,” Dickinson said.

Dickinson is founder of Fenton, Mo.-based Supreme Turf Products and now serves as a consultant to the company’s sales team.

After joining ITODA at its first fall meeting in 1990, Dickinson made a habit of service to the organization. He was a member of the board of directors for 10 years and served as president from 1996 to 1998. He also served on various committees, including the membership and member benefits committees most recently.

Dickinson was first introduced to the golf industry through golf cart dealer Trax Vehicles where he worked as the service manager for four years and in sales for two years. In 1975, Dickinson was asked to open a branch location for Professional Turf Specialties, which had its main office in Bloomington, Ill. After eight years with Professional Turf Specialties, Dickinson founded Supreme Turf Products, a supplier of turf pesticides and accessories, in September 1983. Since then, the company has grown to add branches in Springfield, Mo., and Olathe, Kan. Supreme Turf Products was sold in January of this year to its manager David Shields.