Five Things You Need to Know: Give Blood and Get Fit

1. You need to give blood. Mayor Bloomberg announced a series of emergency blood drives, urging New Yorkers to donate blood in the wake of Hurricane Irene. Drop by one of the city's six Level 1 Trauma Centers in the New York, including one located at Kings County Hospital.

2. You need to get up early and get fit. Will "The Bad Boy Trainer" Crandall is offering up his physical fitness know-how today for a free community appreciation boot camp at 521 Dean St from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

3. You need to get zen. The Vajradhara Meditation Center's weekly series of special meditations is being held at 235 Saint Marks Ave. from 7:30 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $5.

4. You need to know what grows in Brooklyn. Check out the Brooklyn Botnic Garden's "Native New Yokers" exhibit for tips on growing, identifying—and even eating—indigenous flora.

5. You need to bring your own. The Islands, Zaytoons and Maya Taqueria all allow you to bring along your libation of choice. Better yet, all three have outdoor seating...now that it's safe to be outside again.