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This is Fred Ball, Zions Bank, speaking on business.
I don't know how many times I have said those words over the past 13 years, but I do know that today will be the last time I say them. Speaking on Business has been an important and most enjoyable part of my life, but circumstances now make it appropriate that I turn the pleasure of hosting the program to someone else.
Speaking on Business has featured more than 2,500 businesses over the years. You have heard about companies with hundreds of employees and millions of dollars in annual revenue. You have also been introduced to sole-proprietors with one employee working out of his garage or basement. We have talked about companies now under the direction of a fourth generation of ownership and companies just emerging from the incubator stage. I hope all of the stories were of interest and of some value.
I loved the opportunity to travel so I could visit and interview many of the program's subjects. I have been in shops, stores, factories, restaurants, fields and many business locations. I marvel at the entrepreneurial spirit of the people in our area. Frequently I would get in my car after a visit and interview and say to myself, "Gee, why didn't I think of that?"
I'm grateful to the many business owners who have allowed us to highlight them on the program. I'm most appreciative to you listeners who have made the program popular. I valued your emails, phone calls, letters and input regarding possible businesses to feature and suggestions to improve the program. I'm appreciative of the fine staff members who so ably assisted me in preparing Speaking on Business. Mostly, I want to express deep appreciation to Scott Anderson, president of Zions Bank, for giving me the opportunity to join the staff of this exceptional organization. I have enjoyed my 14 plus years as an employee and can never adequately express the joy and satisfaction this relationship has provided.
So.. it is time for me to say "goodbye and thank you."
Hello. I'm Scott Anderson, president and CEO of Zions Bank, and it's my privilege to pay tribute to Fred Ball - the "voice of Utah business" for more than 20 years. Today, Fred turns the reigns of Speaking on Business over to another, but as he does so, we'd like to honor him - and thank him - for his many years of service to Zions Bank, his support of hundreds of businesses throughout the Intermountain West, and his tireless commitment to our community.
However, Fred's support of Utah's business community has extended far beyond his radio broadcasts. Over the years, he has served in various capacities on many organizations too numerous to name. But his accomplishments can be seen in the recognition he's received, including several prestigious awards from local, national and international organizations.
While Fred's service to so many has been great, perhaps the most important service he has been involved with has been with his own family. Married to his sweetheart, Joyce, for 56 years, they are the parents of four daughters and grandparents to 18, with the first great grandchild expected shortly.
It is with great pleasure that we at Zions Bank, along with hundreds of local businesses, honor a man who has tirelessly served our community, making our world and our lives a little better because of our association with him.
Thank you, Fred, for your friendship and long-standing support of Utah's business community.
