Here's 5 Things You Need To Know Today, Dec. 13

1. Check out Dean Street’s front room at 10:30 a.m. today for for $5. Bring the tykes and tots to hear stories, sing songs, and learn sign language. Dean Street is at 755 Dean St between Underhill Avenue and Vanderbilt Avenue. They’ve also got fresh baked yummies and coffee. By the way, they also have live music tonight at 8 p.m.

2. The brand new Cumbe Center for African and Diaspora Dance just had its soft opening. Check out the for December deals and stay tuned for a full article later today.

3. If you have any friends or family in New Jersey that got an emergency alert text from Verizon Monday afternoon, have no fear. Verizon announced that the emergency message was .

4. The is holding a meeting for prospective volunteers today at 7 p.m. at 85 South Oxford St between Fulton Street and Lafayette Avenue. According to the organization, "The Audre Lorde Project is a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Two Spirit, Trans and Gender Non Conforming People of Color center for community organizing, focusing on the New York City area. Through mobilization, education and capacity-building, we work for community wellness and progressive social and economic justice. Committed to struggling across differences, we seek to responsibly reflect, represent and serve our various communities." Call 718-596-0342 for more info if you’re interested.

5. All alternate side parking rules are in effect today.