'Excessive Heat Warning' in Effect Til 6 p.m.

Today is Friday, July 22. Here are five things you need to know today.

1. Well, it's still hot. So hot that the National Weather Service has issued an "excessive heat warning" -- in effect until today at 6 p.m. Temps could be as high as 100, and that nasty old heat index might register as high as 107. Ouch.

2. What might help? Ice cream. After a dip at the pool, or a walk along the harbor, you could stop at Emack & Bolio's in City Square. Or maybe there's another place you like to go? Boston.com put together a regional (as in New England-wide) roundup of the finest ice cream dealers. Did your favorite make the cut? 

3. Don't forget: You can swim a little later today. The Clougherty is open until 8. (Not 9, like other city pools, for lack of lighting.) But the indoor pool at the Community Center is open until 9. There are also cooling centers setup at the Community Center and the Golden Age Senior Center. Note: There will be no adult lap hour at the pool during the heat wave.

4. Hey, the USS Constitution is under new command. This Wednesday, Capt Tim Cooper handed over the reins in a ceremonial "Hail and Farewell" party to new Capt. Matt Bonner. Lots of great photos on the USS Constitution Facebook page.

5. The MBTA. Will it get worse before it gets better? Our columnist John Keith has . Take a look and weigh in. What improvements would you suggest for the transit system?