Every January, the City of Bluff hosts a hot air balloon festival, attracting pilots from across the country to fly over the red rocks of Cedar Mesa. As one ballooner put it, “flying a balloon is more of a zen form of aviation. Whatever nature gives you – you have to work with it.” Today on the news, we float in the skies and learn more about this unique pastime.

// And later – the Weekly News Reel! The Times-Independent’s Doug McMurdo discusses a proposed bill that could hit public services, initial approvals of four alternative dwelling overlay properties, and a profile on Grand’s school district business administrator. The Moab Sun News’ Alison Harford talks about a new youth equestrian club, upcoming figure model sessions for local artists, and the jazzy Winterlude festival.

// Photo: Hot air balloons dotted the skies over Bluff, Utah this January. KZMU/Emily Arntsen

// Weekly News Reel Mentions:

// The Times-Independent: Lyman bill could sink economic diversification, hit public services

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/lyman-bill-could-sink-economic-diversification-hit-public-services/

// The Times-Independent: Lyman connects TRT rollback to state

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/lyman-connects-trt-rollback-to-state-audit/

// The Times-Independent: Commission gives initial thumbs-up

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commission-gives-initial-thumbs-up-to-4-ado-apps/

// The Times-Independent: School district loses business administrator following tragedy

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/school-district-loses-business-administrator-following-tragedy/

// Moab Sun News: Saddle up with Red Rock N’ Blue

https://moabsunnews.com/2023/01/19/saddle-up-with-red-rock-n-blue/

// Moab Sun News: Hone your drawing skills at community figure model sessions

https://moabsunnews.com/2023/01/19/community-figure-model-sessions/

// Moab Sun News: Q&A with jazz musician Alison Shearer

https://moabsunnews.com/2023/01/19/q-a-alison-shearer/

// Moab Sun News: 2023 Winterlude brings jazz to Moab

https://moabsunnews.com/2023/01/19/2023-winterlude/