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The Independent Turf and Ornamental Distributors Association (ITODA) has honored Steve Dickinson, one of the first ITODA members and an active supporter, with an honorary membership. He is just the fourth person in the association's history to receive this recognition. ITODA President Chris Petersen made the surprise announcement during the President's Dinner at the group's 2005 Fall Meeting in San Antonio, Texas (October 19-22). "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 Supreme Turf Products, Inc., headquartered in Fenton , MO and now serves as a consultant to the company's sales team. After joining ITODA at its first Fall Meeting in 1990, he made a habit of service to the organization. He was a member of the Board of Directors for 10 years and President from 1996 to 1998. He also served on various committees including most recently the Membership Committee and the Member Benefits Committee. Dickinson was first introduced to the golf industry through a golf car dealer, Trax Vehicles. He was employed as the service manager for four years and was in sales for two years. In 1975 he was asked to open a branch location for Professional Turf Specialties, which had their main office in Bloomington , IL . After eight years with Professional Turf Specialties, Steve founded Supreme Turf Products, Inc. in September 1983. It is a supplier of pesticides and accessories for turf grasses. Since the word "supreme" means "the ultimate," the company slogan became "The Ultimate in Personal Service and Product Knowledge." Supreme Turf Products attributes its success to solidly sticking to this motto, which has provided many repeat and loyal customers over the years, as well as record growth. In 1987 the first branch was opened in Springfield , MO followed by a branch in Olathe , KS in 1995 and Pekin , IL in 1996. In a 22-year period the company had grown to four locations and 13 employees. On January 1, 2005 Supreme Turf Products, Inc. was sold to David Shields who had been holding the position of manager. An additional branch has been added along with broadening the customer base in the other areas. ITODA is a national organization representing independently-owned businesses that sell to the turf and landscape industry, as well as the suppliers and manufacturers who sell to the distributors. ITODA's mission is to strengthen the independent distributors' marketing position in the golf course, lawn care, landscape and ornamental horticulture plant protection markets through education, training, and communication.