5 Things: Ashes, Jazz, Dunham Base

1. Receive the ashes: For those who observe Christian holidays, today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Various local churches will be offering a holiday mass schedule and inviting parishioners to receive ashes on their forehead made from burned palm leaves as a reminder of one's own mortality. From now until the night before Easter, many adherents will practice self-denial and give up an indulgence in their lives. For tips on what you may or may not want to deny yourself during Lent, read neighbor Laura Eng's latest blog entry.

2. Listen to music: Hear Forge The Bell + Katie Mullins + Kelli Scarr at The Way Station. Don’t miss these three singers/songwriters perform, starting at 9 p.m.

3. Learn how to dance: Go to Benjamin Banneker Academy SBH Health Center for Afro Caribbean Dance Class. You will learn the Dunham base technique.

4. Jazz it up: Don’t miss a great Pre-Valentines Day Jazz Performance at House of Art. Donald Smith and Tulivu-Donna Cumberbatch will explore the many facets of love, righteousness, forgiveness, patience, compassion and sensuality thru song.

5. You don’t need to move your car: In observance of Ash Wednesday, alternate side parking is suspended today.