Whether you’re observing Indigenous Peoples Day up in Berkeley or Native Americans Day in South Dakota or just plain-Jane Columbus Day everywhere else, happy that one.   We hope you have a paid day off and aren’t too frustrated by all the closures around town.  We weren’t really sure how to celebrate this one but, with a little digging, we discovered fry bread. It makes sense that Native American foods would be bum friendly. There’s a pretty disturbing history still making itself felt. We present this article on fry bread in the hopes of honoring one of the many peoples who make up our fair city.

The Loop may be off-air, but it left us with an important message: "you can't get mad at someone while you're eating fondue." While we won't put this to the test, we will whip up some delicious fondue. Cheese or chocolate, it's your call. Both rock. You may think that you don't have the requisite cookery, but we'll show you how to make do.

Recently, you have become expensive to live in. I feel like I have to spend a lot to get a lot while I'm trying to see the world, which goes against everything my momma taught me. I have decided to undermine your control over me with certain tricks so I can travel cheaply. Please don't take it personally.

Much love,

Baby Bum

Dear Cupid,

You suck, you heartless bum. No husband, no boyfriend, not even a decent one night stand this year. You know what? I'm done with you. This year, I'm Valentine-ing on my own. That's right, I'm taking MYSELF out for a hot date. And I'll bet I'm not the only one.

Pasta is the the poor man's very good friend. The number one reason for this is that pasta is cheap. At full price it won't break the bank and, on sale, it's downright affordable. Reasonably nutritious, it can be jazzed up, simply accented, or eaten straight up. Join us bums on a quick tour of some specially delicious pasta meal options.

No, it's not what you're thinking. We're talking about making soup in your kitchen. Delicious, nourishing, satisfying soup. Oh, did we mention it can be a pretty cost-effective type of meal? As the weather cools down (at least at night), fill your kitchen with the heady aroma of soup. Even if you're not super into cooking, don't worry...as long as you don't burn it too bad (cough, cough), it should fill you up just right. Start out with an easy soup. Though some people are turned off by its green thickness, this bum is a big fan of Split Pea Soup.

Life offers many occasions to celebrate, commiserate, or get toasty just because. Although the solo drink is sometimes appropriate, in general it's way more fun to drink with friends. We know footing the booze bill for a group can be expensive, so we're here to give you some pointers for doing it up bum-style.