ZION PONDEROSA RESORT

Chris: This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.

Fred: And this is Fred Ball for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.

Chris: For the next several programs we're doing a special feature in honor of Fred's 80th birthday at the end of this week. We're co-hosting each of the programs. We had a chance to meet with Zion Ponderosa Resort.

Chris: This 5,000 acre resort offers great food, lodging and recreation opportunities. You can come here to enjoy horseback riding, biking, swimming or hiking. Be sure to check out the climbing wall, zip line and spa on site. There's even a kids camp and camp fire activities. Access to the park is convenient since all seven of the major Zion National Park hikes originate on the Zion Ponderosa Resort property. Owner Steve Neeleman says they have a shuttle service.

Fred: This year the Neeleman family is celebrating their 50th anniversary of having the land the Zion Ponderosa Resort is on in their family. And, believe it or not, Steve's father, Gary Neeleman, discovered the property in a want ad while living in Los Angeles. They came to visit and bought all 5,000 acres. It was a ranch until about 20 years ago when they turned it into a resort.

Chris: They snagged head chef, Francis Vanderstappen (van-derr-stay-pen), from another resort and couldn't be more pleased with everything she offers. This includes delicious rib-eye and chicken fried steak, which she says is the best in the state.

Fred: Zion Ponderosa Resort is open from March through November, although Steve says the best times to come are the shoulder months in spring and fall. They host around 50,000 guests every year everyone from family reunions to church groups and corporate retreats.

Chris: The Zion Ponderosa Resort is a true Utah gem.

Chris: For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave,

Fred: and I'm Fred Ball

Chris: We're speaking on business.

Zion Ponderosa Resort Twin Knolls Road Zion National Park, UT www.zionponderosa.com