5 Things You Need to Know Today: Jan. 31

1.  Want to start a new craft project but you're out of ideas?   Stop by French General, 2009 Riverside Drive,  from 11 am to 4 pm to check out the selections of textiles, notions, and jewelry kits or sign up for a class.  The store is only open two days a week, Monday and Saturday, so don't miss your chance.  For details and ideas, check out French General's website.  Need more inspiration?  Read Patch's crafty .

2.  , 2170 W Sunset Blvd., offers a 10 percent discount on cases of Merrick canned dog food or  a one-and-half pound bag of dry food today starting at 7 am.   Stop by the store and or call 213-484-6006 for more information.

3. Need to calm down a little now that the work week has begun?  De-stress this evening with a guided meditation at the House of Intuition, 2237 W Sunset Blvd.  Call 213-413-8300 to sign up for the 7:30 pm session or see the center's website to learn more.

4. Keep up with Los Angeles government  events and agendas with the city's online calendar.  Know where to go to get a free tree, city-supported daycare, or even minutes of the latest city council meeting.   The website is updated daily.

5.  Spring is fast approaching and thanks to all that rain, weeds have already started to dominate the landscape.  Get your yard in shape with a little help from the city.  Mulch can prevent weed growth, retain water, and beautify your landscaping.  Los Angeles offers free mulch  at locations through out the city, including nearby Elysian Valley.  See the Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation/Public Work's website for free mulch locations.   Bring your own shovels and containers and take as much as you need.