I read the story about more payouts for Alaskan residents in Sept. 6 Bismarck Tribune and I couldn't help but think, with a bit of planning, North Dakota could be doing the same in a few short years. The article stated every eligible man women and child will receive $2,069 from the states oil royalty program and an additional $1,200 from the treasury to off-set soaring fuel prices.

As North Dakota officials talk of budget surpluses and the great economic condition of our state due to the expanded oil industry, it might be wise to save some of that money generated by the oil extraction tax and perhaps we can be one of the fortunate lower 48 states where every man, women and child gets this kind of payback. My family would receive $8,276. Now that would be real property tax relief, real income tax relief and outstanding college assistance or fuel assistance for the hardship I might face this winter.

The more I hear and read about our neighbors to the great north, the more I believe Measure 1 will get my yes vote.