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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
I recently played golf at Thanksgiving Point. It had been sometime since I had visited this beautiful facility in Lehi.
Alan and Karen Ashton have truly developed a wonderful retreat for the people of Utah and our out-of-state visitors. The Ashtons wanted to do something that could show their gratitude for the "blessings" they have received. The property is very unlike a typical for-profit entertainment center. Thanksgiving Point was meant as a gift to the community for the purposes of education and renewal of both mind and spirit. Thanksgiving Point is an appropriate name for this more than 750 acres of former dairy farm land in Utah County.
I was awestruck as I took the opportunity to rediscover the spectacular gardens. I think many people still believe the small gardens interspersed around the restaurant and retail complex are the focal point of the advertised greenery, not realizing that the main garden attraction comprising 55 acres is actually located a mile away from the main buildings.
Mike L. Washburn, the president and CEO, told me of all the exciting things going on at Thanksgiving Point. Holiday season 2003 will mark the inaugural of Holiday Lights at Thanksgiving Point, a themed drive-through holiday light display that is sure to become a family tradition for the community. The Dinosaur Museum is still a major attraction and of course the Johnny Miller Golf Course is becoming world-renowned.
Mike has many plans to emphasize the educational and cultural aspects of the center, and do more to leverage its nonprofit status by developing partnerships and sponsorships with local companies. Look for the launch of a membership program that will provide families added value and benefits at Thanksgiving Point.
Even though the golf course completely humbled me, I had a wonderful day as I re-discovered Thanksgiving Point.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
