5 Things You Need to Know Today: Stoop Sale for Japan, No Q Train, Salamander Hunt, St. Patrick's Parade, More

1. You need to do something for Japan. There's going to be an enormous bake/stoop sale today in Park Slope run by a bunch of Japanese moms where you can buy freshly baked oatmeal cookies, brownies, cup cakes and more (served with tea!) and tons of kid and baby stuff. Feel free to also drop off (early in the day) stuff for them to sell. All proceeds will go to  Japan Society Earthquake Relief Fund. Can make it? You can also donate directly to the fund here. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  568 9th St (bet. 8th Ave and Prospect Park West). 

2. You need to to get the kids (and yourself) to the park. What better enticement than salamanders! Did you know New York State is the salamander capitol of the world? Join the today at 11 a.m. at the Picnic House, West Drive and Third Street. Or, see our here.

3. You need to use your brain. Head to the ,  for a talk by author Walter Mosely, who will read from "The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey." 1:30 p.m. Free.

4. You need to get a little Irish. St. Patrick's day might be over, but the festivities are not. Head to Propsect Park West for the  It's the luck of the Irish! This annual parade will begin at 15th Street & Prospect Park West and march down 7th Avenue to Union Street. The event will be followed by a celebration at Holy Name Church at 245 Prospect Park West with live music,  and a  traditional corn beef and cabbage dinner. Parade begins at 1 p.m. 

5. You need to know if you have to move your car, and if your train is running. Yes and probably not. Alternate side is suspended today for Purim, but a lot good that does any of us. There is not another alternate side suspension until April 19-20 for Passover, according to the NYC DOT. As for trains, the 2 and 4 are running fine in the 'hood this weekend, but there's no Q train north of Prospect Park, click here for details.