Friday night is the first Spoken Word Night at the new Greencup Books. I don’t think they care what you say as long as you’re willing to get up and say what you got to say. And I love the rules — “No judges, no grudges, just love and rockets.” Sign up starts at 7. FREE to listen and FREE to speak though they would appreciate donations for the drinks. The bookstore is located at 105 Richard Arrington Blvd. South.

Editor’s Note: Don‘t forget to check out Trav’s piece on the bookstore’s opening weekend from February…

You can also Come Out and Play Game Shows Friday night at 7. Release your inner Trebek, hone your rock, paper, scissors strategy and in general, have a good time and maybe win prizes. This FREE fun has a new location — Magic City Motor Scooters, 1305 2nd Ave. North, downtown Birmingham.

More after the jump!

I already get up with the sunrise. I don’t like it, but I do. However, this Saturday morning instead of falling asleep on the couch watching Dora, I’m going to go to the zoo. In fact, I’m going to go run at the Birmingham Zoo. Well, to be honest it will be more like a fast stroll. It’s the 3^rd Annual Zoo Run: Stampeding for Wild Elephants. And while this is a serious 5k for serious runners, if you want to stroll that’s cool. Just stick to the back of the line. Little ones can participate in the Cheetah Challenge (7-12 yrs), You Can Toucan (3-6 yrs) and Turtle Trot (0-2yrs). 5K registration is $30, kids pay $10. All fees benefit the International Elephant Foundation. After the race, you can enjoy breakfast and visit all the animals you didn’t see as you raced though the exhibits. Got someone that wants to cheer you on? They can get into the zoo for a special rate of $5. Current members still get in free. There are lots more details so click here.

This Sunday is Mother’s Day. And all you need to do is call your momma! I don’t care if you hate her, haven’t spoken in 10 years, think she loves your brother more than you. I don’t care. Call your momma. Take five seconds to say, thanks for having me. And if there are other womenfolk in your life that took the time to mold you into the man/woman you are today, call them too. If you yourself are helping raise the next generation, I tip my hat to you and all the good work you’re doing. Happy Mother’s Day to all!