Act Now: Snow Machines Are Standing By

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin lost no time getting down to work upon her return to gubernatorial duties, despite the distractions of having to cook meals for television reporters interviewing her. Job One: counteracting the effects of plummeting oil prices on state coffers.

A die-hard Democrat in town got this note last week from the governor:

"Dear Neighbor," it began. "As Governor of Alaska, I am pleased to tell you about a very special offer: now you can receive an official Alaska travel guide -- absolutely FREE."

Lest you elite East Coast types start guffawing about how this must be some cheapo flier, Palin quickly notes: "This isn't some skimpy brochure -- this is a full-color publication, as bold and exciting as Alaska."

"Just imagine: Watchable wildlife," she writes, as opposed to wildlife that you can't watch, "fishing, clamming" and, of course, "hunting." Hunting by air is not mentioned. There's also "a dog sled ride, Eskimo blanket toss, panning for gold . . . and discovering our Alaska Native and Russian cultural roots." Vladimir Putin rears his head from time to time, so maybe you'll get a lucky peek.

You need the guide, Palin notes, so "you'll learn about our comfortable weather," which these days may not be as cold as you thought it was.

There's a card you can mail back -- no postage necessary -- to get the guide. It includes a little questionnaire about when you might go to Alaska, whether you have children at home, your age and education level, and how you might want to travel. (If you check the box next to "Cruise ship" and go with a political group, Palin might even invite you to the governor's mansion for dinner.)

There are boxes for you to check on what you'd like to do in Alaska. No option for drilling or for visiting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge -- but surely arrangements can be made.

"Please write today," Palin urges, "we've run out of copies in the past."

Scalpers Beware

Any lawmakers or congressional aides thinking of making a few bucks by selling their inaugural tickets had better think twice, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office warned last week.

It's clearly against the rules and may even be against federal law. The notice said:

Members and Congressional employees are reminded that tickets for the inaugural ceremonies at the U.S. Capitol are being distributed for official purposes only, and the tickets may not be sold to the public.