The Florida Turfgrass Association FTGA awarded Gregory Pheneger with the 2012 FTGA Wreath of Grass Award. This award is the FTGA’s highest honor and pays tribute to individuals who have shown outstanding service to the FTGA and to the turfgrass industry. The awards were presented during the 60th Annual Conference and Show Prayer Breakfast & Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. Pheneger’s award was presented by longtime friend and FTGA Director, Ralph Dain. Dain stated, “I owe my professional successes to the early career examples provided by Greg. Since those initial interactions, not only has he influenced me in my professional life, but we have developed a lifelong friendship that I value. I know that Greg is considered by many of our colleagues as a leader and trusted resource in our industry. For his continued contributions, he was honored as the 2012 recipient of the FTGA Wreath of Grass Award, and for me, it was a privilege to present my best friend and mentor with the highest honor bestowed by the FTGA!”
Pheneger has been the Golf Course Manager at John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, Fla. since 1993. He is a member of the FGCSA and TCGCSA and has served as president of both Associations. In 2007, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the FGCSA. He is also a member of the GCSA and has served on the Government Relations Committee since 2006. Prior to joining the staff at John’s Island, he was the Director of Golf Course Maintenance at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens. Past President Darren Davis said, “I can unequivocally attest that Greg is an extremely deserving recipient of the association’s highest honor. He is an extremely dedicated golf course superintendent, association volunteer, industry spokesperson and equally important an excellent father and husband. Greg works tirelessly and continuously demonstrates both personal and professional dedication to Florida’s turfgrass industry. I commend the current FTGA board of directors for their decision to honor Greg. I know that he was humbled and appreciative.”
