This recession stuff is tough. Anything from paying for a house to paying your exorbitant bar tab is a struggle. And starting your own business? Most of the time we'd say, "fo-get-a-boutit." But after this weekend you might actually stand a chance. Starting Friday, local tech-savvy entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit Saint Martin's University for the annual Startup Weekend Olympia. Here, all you tech-savvy types will get a chance to pitch ideas to investors and like-minded individuals. With a little bit of luck, your idea could turn into a credible business venture, flipping the recession a big middle finger in the process.

[Saint Martin's University, registration $99, 5300 Pacific Ave. SE, Lacey, http://olympia.startupweekend.org/]