• Eleven outstanding women have been nominated by their communities to be honored at the Spirit of Dakota's 27^th Anniversary Celebration and Award Banquet.  They are Patricia Baird, Custer; Gayle Bussell, Huron; Bonnie Blue Carr, Spearfish; Arlis Doeden, Groton; Marianne Freng, Huron; DiAnn Kothe, Sioux Falls; Susan Lynn Purintun, DeSmet; Rhea Smith, Lantry; Paula Vogelgesang, Wanblee, Luetta Werner, Marion; and Dr. Cecelia Wittmayer, Howard.
• South Dakota's premier woman's award will be presented Saturday, October 5th

at the Huron Event Center.
• The winner will be chosen by an eleven person state-wide commission of First Lady Linda Daugaard, Pierre; Bette Poppen, Chair, DeSmet; Suzette Kirby, Sioux Falls; Rep. TonaRozum, Mitchell; Julie Garreau, Eagle Butte; Glenna Fouberg, Aberdeen, Sen. Jean Hunhoff, Yankton; Marsha Sumpter, Kadoka; Bev Wright, Turton; and Ginger Thomson, Brookings.
• The award is given to a woman who has demonstrated vision, courage and strength of character in the development of her family, community and/or state.
• All 11 women will be given distinguished recognition throughout the many activities planned including the tea in the afternoon in the historic home of Brian and Roz Crabb, an art show open to the public in the lobby of the Huron Event Center from 2- 7pm, a 5:30 social and 6:30 banquet.
• The winner receives an individually created award plaque which holds a framed bronze oval with the pioneer woman sculpted by Dale Lamphere and modeled after his nine foot sculpture that stands outside the Crossroads Hotel.