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Beaver Creek native among Ten Outstanding Young South Dakotans

Annually the South Dakota Junior Chamber of Commerce selects and honors Ten Outstanding Young South Dakotans. The award spotlights outstanding individuals who use their talents to their fullest potential.

Nominated by the Hartford Jaycees, Patty Reker Toben, formerly of Beaver Creek, is among the 2000 award recipients.

Patricia lives with her husband, Brad, in Brandon. She grew up in Beaver Creek with her parents, Dale and Nyla Reker, and her brother, Troy.

Patricia graduated from the University of South Dakota with a bachelorÕs degree in music education and has been bringing music into the lives of children for the past seven years.

"I am pretty excited. It is an honor," Patty said when contacted. "I am dedicated to students' needs."

She has worked in the West Central School System where for the last two years she has directed 168 students in elementary and middle school band.

Patty gives freely of her time to help young children become their best, as both musicians and community members, through private lessons and church-related activities.

The students she touches take pride in their achievements as ensembles and celebrate victories as individuals.

"I find nothing more satisfying than knowing that I'm teaching children expression, as well as organization and accountability, through music," Patty writes. "Watching them grow and mature is wonderful, and there is nothing I would rather do with my life!"

Patricia is a member of the Augustana University Community Band. In the past she has performed in the South Dakota Symphony, Sioux Falls Municipal Band, Sioux City Symphony, Sioux City Municipal Band, Yankton Area Summer Band, Vermillion Arts Council Summer Musical and Bloomington Community Band.

The award ceremony will be from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, at the Roncalli Center on Mount Marty Campus, Yankton. To order tickets or for more information call 605-256-6246 or 605-996-6308.

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