Ear to the ground:

“I hope you don’t turn into an alcoholic now.”
“That’s so sweet you don’t already think I am one.”
– Recent Telegraph staffer’s discussion addressing concerns over our new location directly over the Ranch.

Lofty ideas

If you’ve got a knack for catchy slogans and a love for large inflatables, then the folks at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta want to talk to you.
For the third year in a row, the Balloon Fiesta is turning to the land-lubbing, neck-craning, glow-ogling masses to come up with a theme for the 2016 Balloon Fiesta (slated for early October next year.)
Last year, more than 1,000 submissions were entered for the 2015 Fiesta from countries around the world such as Spain, and even Thailand. The winning theme for this year’s Fiesta (Oct. 3-11) came from Beth Robinett, of Topeka, Kans., who gave us “Where Dreams Take Flight.”
Winners not only get to bask in the balloon glow of seeing their theme emblazoned on every T-shirt, souvenir and poster in the Greater Albuquerque area, but will also receive a balloon ride for two, access to the Gondola Club and official Fiesta schwag, customized with their winning theme.
Some Telegraph favorites include “All a Bunch of Basket Cases,” “Getting Off in Albuquerque” or “More Mass Ascensions Than the Vatican.” And don’t forget about the endless “hot air” and “getting high” references. The sky’s the limit, if you’ll pardon the pun (which also happens to be another good slogan.)
But now that your creative juices are off the ground, don’t delay. Deadline for submitting ideas is today. Five winners will be culled from the submissions and posted on the Balloon Fiesta “social channels” on May 15 for fans to cast their vote.
For more information, official rules or to submit your ideas, go to www.Contests.BalloonFiesta.com.

Own private Idaho

Looking to beat the crowds and the heat at Mesa Verde? The Park Service announced is has opened up Wetherill Mesa for the spring season with limited services. Visitors are invited to hike the trails or ride their bikes on the 5-mile Long House Loop Trail. However, Long House and Step House are not open for visitation until May 22.  “We’re experimenting this year with opening Wetherill Mesa with limited services,” Park Superintendent Cliff Spencer said. “We hope people will enjoy this quiet season on Wetherill Mesa before we change to our summer operation.”
Bicycles are not allowed on the 11-mile road to Wetherill Mesa, which begins near Far View Lodge. However, beginning at the Wetherill Mesa parking area, visitors may hike, ride or walk on the Long House Loop (leashed pets are also welcome.)
For more information, visit www.nps.gov/meve or call 970-529-4465.