A woman called and asked about a house that was across the street from a house some friends of hers had rented that summer. She inquired, “Do you know what rental agency rents that house?” (Without the address not a lot could be done.) The visitor center staff mentioned that the rental might instead be a second home. The woman replied that she was sure it was a rental as the people staying there looked like tourists. The visitor center staff did NOT ask, “How can you tell between a tourist and someone who has a second home?”
A man called in and verified he was calling the Chamber of Commerce and then asked, “Where can I go for pan-handling?” The Information Specialist, trying to figure out what he meant, responded, “Gambling?”
“No, pan-handling.” repeated the visitor. Still confused, “Gold panning?”
“No, pan-handling. I was told the Chamber of Commerce would have that answer.”
Some answers come easy. Try these actual questions.
“Where are the other white sand dunes besides White Sands National Park?”
“What time of year is the best time to come to Ruidoso for snowboarding?”
“What altitude does a deer become an elk?” (This one comes around at least once a year.)
“It’s been a while since I was in N.M. Can you turn right on a red light?”
“Do you have any condoms for rent?” (The staff figured out she meant “condo.”)
The Visitor Center staff hopes your job is also filled with challenging questions, enlightening answers and laughter.
Written by Shannon Miller, Information Specialist, Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center.