5 Things: Apply for Your Local Community Board

1. Get Shanghai-jacked! Only in Brooklyn could an Americana roots band be named after a delicious Chinese restaurant. (I still dream of their vegetarian wonton soup.) But now you don't have to schlep to Williamsburg to get a taste of the M Shanghai String Band & Friends. They are coming to you tonight at Jalopy Theater, 315 Columbia St.; 8:30 p.m. $10.

2. Help the community: The deadline to apply for your local community board (CB 12 if you're a Kensington resident, and CB 7 if you're in Windsor Terrace) is Feb. 28. Click here for more information on the role of the community board and how to apply.

3. Multitask at a hip market. Prefer shopping (and dancing!) in the dark? The Gowanus Nite Market returns this weekend with a slew of indie vendors, food, DJs and other fabulous treats. 540 President St., 7p.m. to midnight. (see flier attached to the gallery)

4. Keep up with the news: An officer in the 66th Precinct was assaulted by a man he was attempting to arrest. Read the full story here.

5. Move the car. Sorry folks, alternate side parking rules are in effect today. The next suspension isn't until Monday, Jan. 21 for MLK Day, according to the NYCDOT.