February 16, 2026—9-10---It’s YOUR Business—Show 51-09

From the Blackburn Studios in Downtown Sioux Falls---BECOME a Blackburn PROTECTED HOME----

LEARN MORE AT BLACKBURN BASEMENT REPAIR.com

   I’m Bill Zortman and WELCOME To It’s YOUR Business—Show—and YES some are calling it a day to observe a holiday---but for us we know the show must go on. ---We’ll give you some news from the Capital---those running for office---in 2026-----

   Yes the boys and girls in Pierre are observing today as a holiday---even though there is plenty of talk about what they want to get done before the end of the session---which moved into the 2nd half late last week----

    We got no’s from the Attorney General’s Office, the Governor’s OFFICE is terrible about returning calls----so we turn to one of those that does day yes------Casey Crabtree---

(((Taped Segment----Casey Crabtree)))))

-----we’ll talk more from Senator Crabtree in hour #2----and if we happen to get a call from another elected official (or two) we’ll include them before we close up shop at 10:59-----

9:16/00—KELO COMMERCIALS

9:18/00---Biz 2

--------------one of the topics we continue to pound hard is----the important of communities like the Sioux Metro Alliance 17 or so ---that work together---in the legislative session---and other topics. Tyler Torgeson----helps us with that----mayor—governor---Smithfield and downtown –could it be an Amtrak station to replace it downtown

((TAPED SEGMENT---Sioux Metro))))

   ------------interesting time of year---so why not talk about who’s running for Mayor-----

   That follows---FOX BUSINESS NEWS on the HALF HOUR

9:28/30---KELO Commercials

9:30/00---fox business news

9:32/15---Biz 3

  We know that Mayor Paul Ten Haken and the Governor are to be talking about some important doings for Sioux Falls----and we’ll let you know as quick as we hear from the two leaders----

  Speaking of leaders----Joe Batcheller

Joe Knows Leadership

With the Winter Olympics in full swing, I’m reminded of how much I loved watching the games as a kid. I dreamed that one day I’d represent the USA in downhill skiing—just like many other young skiers carving up the 180 vertical feet at Great Bear.

That dream never became reality for me, but it pushed me to be the best I could be on the slopes. Along the way, I picked up a few hard-earned lessons that later served me well as a leader—especially the day I found myself perched above a steep cliff on a mountain in Montana.

Read More

Affordability

Expand housing,

child care and  

transportation opportunities

Safety

Optimize emergency services. Enhance public safety, crime prevention & enforcement

Smart Growth

----talk to us more about why Joe Batcheller should be elected Mayor—

----------for those curious---where do you think Sioux Falls needs to be headed for the next Mayor”

---------------------Joe------------------

     You have some events coming up—to meet and greet the public—please share----

----------------------Joe------------------

9:44/00—KELO Commercials

9:45/30---Biz 4

    We may see another something new in South Dakota---pageants—designed for women who never thought pageantry was for them---if you ever said that’s not me—you’re exactly what they are

   Mark and Charlene Jones are with us to explain---

   Why South Dakota America Pageants "We're bringing something completely new to South Dakota – pageants designed for women who never thought pageantry was for them. If you've ever said 'that's not me,' you're exactly who we're looking for."

Pageantry is Changing "The pageant industry is evolving, and we're at the forefront of that change. We're not looking for perfection – we're looking for normal women with real stories and causes they're passionate about advocating for. It's about polished authenticity. You can be completely yourself and still shine on stage."

Personal Growth and Transformation "This journey is about personal growth – finding the woman you want to be and never knew you could be. It's about discovering strengths you didn't know you had, developing confidence in your voice, and stepping into a version of yourself that's been waiting to emerge."

The Fearlessly Authentic Difference "Our tagline is 'Fearlessly Authentic: Celebrate the Courage to be YOU!' We're not looking for cookie-cutter perfection. We want real women with real stories – whether you're a rancher, a teacher, a mom juggling three jobs, or someone who's overcome incredible obstacles."

Service Before Spotlight "This isn't about vanity or competition for competition's sake. It's about women who are already making a difference in their communities getting a platform to amplify their impact. Service comes before the spotlight."

Support and Coaching "Our contestants get coaching and preparation through The Pageant Launchpad YouTube channel, launching January 6, 2026. We're committed to supporting our women every step of the way – from interview prep to stage presence to developing their platform for advocacy."

Meet the Directors

Charlene Jones, "I bring 15 years of pageant competition experience to this role, but my background is anything but traditional. I've been a professional bull rider, walked New York Fashion Week, and hold a master’s degree in criminal justice with a 4.0 GPA. I've worked in juvenile rehabilitation and built a successful legal services company. I know what it's like to not fit the mold – and that's exactly why I created this organization. I'm also an author and host of The Pageant Launchpad YouTube channel. I believe my years of pageantry as a contestant, sponsor, coach, and now director, provides me the ability to facilitate a safe space for women to begin a new journey that translates to the world we live in."

Mark Jones, Co-Director "Mark and I work together to bring this vision to life, combining operational excellence with a commitment to authenticity and service.  With a strong background in military operations and business, Mark brings an unwavering commitment to detail and integrity to the role of State Director. He is a Retired Non-Commissioned Officer from the United States Army and Entrepreneur.  As State Director for the Mrs. South Dakota America Pageants, Mark is focused on providing an unforgettable experience for the women of South Dakota through pageantry.  He is honored to contribute to an event that celebrates the exceptional women of South Dakota.

----------we’ll get you ready for more fireworks in our 10:00 hour---Smithfield moving—and could there be a change with the Railroads—

9:56/00—KELO Commercials

9:57/30---Biz 5

   As you have been hearing this morning----Smithfield will be on the move-----we have talked about it in this hour—and we’ll hear more in the 10:00 hour----

   What is this all about-----and how will it affect Sioux Falls—and perhaps 17 area communities----

   Rock Report coming up as well---and we’ll check with Tree and one of our climatologists---about one of the nicest days of February

------------our time is up—thank you for yours-----