It seemed a little weird on Wednesday not to be filing a tax return while at the same time checking the Betster’s bank account for that $1,200 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES Act, check. On the day we’re supposed to be searching for loose change under the cushions to pay our tax bills, the government gives us money.

Holy Bernie Sanders! The Betser isn’t sure if this largesse counts as socialism — no one can really define it anyway — or just our government taking care of us in a time of need. Yours truly isn’t going to quibble. We’ll happily take that help, even if our request was denied to have it paid out in gold bullion and delivered by drone to the Betster’s temporary office here at the Fortress of Solitude.

Joking aside, we know that this money will be greatly needed for many people who have been laid off, had hours cut or are looking at a dismal summer tourist season. Brothers and sisters, if you can spare a few Benjamins, how about passing it on those who can use it more. Here are some ideas:

• Get a take-out meal. Our restaurants and bars are hurting with the ban on dine-in service. They’re scraping by on orders to go. Check out our advertisers and treat yourself to something to go. Tip generously.

• Buy local. Many Homer businesses now have e-commerce sites where you can browse and buy and have stuff mailed to you or available for curbside pick-up. Keep those dollars flowing in town.

• Donate. The Homer Foundation and The Church on the Rock have set up funds to help out people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Seethe foundation website at www.homerfoundation.org/give-now and the church’s I Love Homer fund at www.ilovehomer.org.

You’ve got this, Betster persons. Take a deep breath, strap on the facemask, and embrace this temporary challenge with these Best Bets:

BEST KEEP IT CLEAN BET: Need to keep those kids busy and work on their art skills? Check out the Homer Council on the Arts poster contest to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. HCOA wants to hang some fun, colorful posters in key locations around town to remind everyone how they can help keep our community safe and healthy. The creator of the winning poster for each age group will win a variety of art supplies. For more information, visit http://www.homerart.org/calendar/2020/4/13/poster-contest.

BEST ROCK IT BET: Here’s another event from HCOA, the rock cairn at Mariner Park. Head to the park at the base of the Homer Spit and add to the art project. Follow these rules:

• Practice social distancing

• Monitor your pets

• Use only natural materials found on the beach

• Engage your creative spirit

• Enjoy the outdoors

Send photos of contributions to office@homerart.org.

BEST GET WORDY BET: If you’re more a word person, grab a pen and write a poem about your personal experiences, observations and inspiration through this global pandemic. HCOA also is hold a poetry contest on the theme “Fruits of Our Quarantine,” with poems about social distancing, connection/isolation, or whatever else has been on your mind as a result of COVID-19. Winning poems for each age group will be published in the Homer News and receive a $20 gift certificate to the Homer Bookstore. For more information, visit http://www.homerart.org/calendar/2020/4/13/quarantine-poetry-contest.

BEST TELL US BET: Have a virtual Best Bet you want to share in this time of craziness? Send events to news@homernews.com.

Artists David Pettibone and Austin Parkhill put up a temporary message appreciating health workers on the side of the new Homer Police Station facing Heath Street on Saturday, April 11, 2020, in Homer, Alaska. “It just seemed like a fitting thing to do, Pettibone said. “We all need these uplifting messages right now.” The artists received a 1%-for-art commission to install a larger mural featuring sandhill cranes in flight that will be installed later in May. (Photo by Michael Armstrong/Homer News)