It pays to live in Alaska.

Alaska's residents began receiving $3,269 handouts from the state Friday. It's almost enough to make you consider moving to Alaska. Heck, even small-town mayor can be a good career move there.

A few ideas for Alaskans or others who are flush with cash:

Take a vacation. One person's recession is another's golden opportunity. There are plenty of travel deals to be had to tourist traps such as Orlando and Las Vegas.

Mickey at Disney World or Bambi at Cheetah's will be equally happy to help redistribute your money.

Spend a weekend at the beach. Volunteers are needed to pick up trash on the southwest Washington oceanfront. Bring your own chains and orange jumpsuits. Taser-wielding guards will be provided.


Go to a Huskies game. A few seats are available for today's football clash against Oklahoma.

The UW is a 20-point underdog, and it'll be a real blast if the Dawgs pull off the upset. But don't celebrate with any displays of emotion. You don't want the refs penalizing you 15 yards on the way back to your car.