by Alex Melnick
Arts & Life Editor

Spring break is almost here, y’all! I know it’s been a long, cold rainy winter but there are a few things happening this weekend that might be bright spots in a week horrifically marred by a freezing rain slush storm.

Friday

Firkin Fridays
Where: Saltine
When: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Price: Varies by beer

A firkin is a volume of beer (about a quarter of a barrel) that is aged naturally by its resident yeast, which is much more exciting than it sounds. Every final Friday of the month, Saltine procures firkins of rare beer. This month’s selection? White Pepper and Chinook Dry Hopped Saison from Yalobusha Brewing Co, from Water Valley, Mississippi. Saltine is a great spot for happy hour hangouts, or for a classy date. This restaurant is primarily an oyster bar but as of late has made a name for itself with its unique beer selections on tap, check it out.

Lucero & Ryan Bingham featuring Twin Forks
Where: Hal & Mal’s
When: 8 p.m.
Price: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $3 charge for everyone under 21

Dr. George Bey said he was very excited about this show, and that should be reason enough to go. He has good taste. Lucero is an excellent quintessential former punk folk band that has matured into an Americana band. They’re music your cool uncle listens to. The fun one, not the “cool” one who lives in a van. Your van uncle might listen to Twin Forks, however—that seems more likely since they’re from South Florida and formed by Dashboard Confessional’s lead singer Chris Carrabba.

Saturday
Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show
Where: Mississippi Trade Mart
When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: TBA

Pro tip: A fossil show is actually the coolest thing ever. It’s like going to the museum but everyone is slightly dirty looking and there is an incredible air of illegitimacy there that makes you feel like Indiana Jones as you roam the market. This is an adventure, grab a partner and do it.

Clothing Giveaway
Where: United Nations International Worship Center
When: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Price: Free

The United Nations International Worship Center gives away massive amounts of free clothes every month. Do you know someone who is in need of clothes this winter, or an organization you feel could benefit from a sudden windfall of clothing? It would be really cool to get up early on a Saturday and go collect some clothes for them, and deliver them. Let me know at melnias@millsaps.edu if there’s a cause that could use this clothing.