This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.

I love fudge. I have a preference for light fudge with walnuts. When I heard that Zion Park Gift and Deli in Springdale made the world's best fudge, I just had to judge the truth of that claim.

Byron and Myrlene Stansfield have owned the deli since 1997, and each of their children has contributed unique talents to make the family-owned business a success. Myrlene and her daughter Kari make 14 different kinds of fudge. Each batch takes three hours to make and produces 72 pounds of delicious fudge. "What makes your fudge so great?" I asked. Myrlene explained that they use only the finest ingredients and always use real heavy cream and butter.

The oldest daughter, Stephanie Chamberlain, stays busy at the candy-making section, turning out other delectable confections including homemade caramels, turtles and chocolate, caramel-coated pretzels. The deli also offers 24 flavors of Russell's Ice Cream.

While we visited, people lined up for the famous sandwiches made with real homemade bread. When you arrive, you receive a long slip of paper that looks like the old cash register tapes. You check off your preferred choice of bread type, toppings, cheese, vegetables and meat.

The large gift shop offers a wide variety of special gifts and souvenirs. Year-round, the shop sells Christmas ornaments and bells created by a local artist. I also saw Western art, stuffed animals, pottery, wall décor, cards, clothing items, and many other fun and eclectic items. The family's youngest daughter, Brittany, is knowledgeable in Native American jewelry, and their only son, Shawn, is always busy helping his father with the family's outdoor clothing store. Not only does the Stansfield family enjoy working together, they treat each employee and customer as part of their family as well.

So was the fudge as good as I had heard? Yep! I loved it!

For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.

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