Ford Kiene Named 2015 Howard Palmer Award Winner

City Beverages CEO Ford Kiene was honored with the Howard Palmer Award, the FCSports’ highest service honor, at the 2015 Member Celebration. 

Kiene becomes the 26th recipient of the award, presented during the annual Florida Citrus Sports Member Celebration held at Full Sail University’s ‘Full Sail Live’ venue. The Member Celebration, presented by BMO Harris Bank and Florida Hospital, signifies the beginning of the 2015-16 Florida Citrus Sports (FCSports) season with the induction of new leadership and presentation of member awards to those who have dedicated time and effort to the organization. The highest honor of the night went to Kiene, a lifelong advocate of sports, arts and culture whose leadership through the years played a vital role in gaining support for the newly reconstructed Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. He also served as president of the organization in 2007-08.

“People do not realize it, and he would probably like to keep it that way, but Ford Kiene was one of the drivers locally when it came to keeping the stadium message at the forefront,” said FCSports CEO Steve Hogan. “Without his help and support, I am not sure where we would be. He is also the type of member who is just always there to give of himself in any way that benefits Central Florida and Florida Citrus Sports.”

The prestigious Howard Palmer Award is a tribute to the FCSports member who continually strives to make significant contributions to the organization and its efforts without regard for personal recognition. Presented since the 1989-90 season, the annual award recognizes a “lifetime” of service to FCSports. Past honorees include such Orlando notables as Bill Dymond, Harvey Massey and last year’s honoree, Paul Kennedy.