HURON – Eight women have been nominated by their communities to be honored at the Spirit of Dakota’s 32nd anniversary celebration and awards banquet in Huron. 

They are Kay Ainslie, Philip; Marlys Davis, Parker; Bonnie Fuller, Lead; Dr. Patti Giebink, Sioux Falls; Maxine Johnson, Vermillion; Barbara Rilling, Onida; Harriet Swedlund, Brookings; and Beverly Stabber Warne, Rapid City. 

South Dakota’s premier woman’s award will be presented Saturday at the Huron Event Center.

The winner will be chosen by a statewide commission of first lady Linda Daugaard, Pierre; Tona Rozum, chair, Mitchell; Glenna Fouberg, Aberdeen; Julie Garreau, Eagle Butte; Jean Hunhoff, Yankton; Suzette Kirby, Sioux Falls; Marsha Sumpter, Kadoka; Ginger Thomson, Brookings; Judy Trzynka, Watertown; and Bev Wright, Turton. 

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 eight women will be given distinguished recognition throughout the many activities planned including Tea in the Afternoon in the country home of Rodney and Beckie Freeman, an art show open to the public in the lobby of the Huron Event Center from 4-7 p.m., a 5:30 p.m. social and a 6:30 p.m. banquet.

The winner receives an individually created framed bronze oval with the pioneer woman sculpted by South Dakota Artist Laureate Dale Lamphere and modeled after his 9-foot sculpture that stands outside the Crossroads Hotel. 

Tickets for the banquet may be purchased at the Huron Chamber Office: 605-352-0000 or 1-800-487-6673.