Sept. 28: Five Things You Need to Know Today

1. "Remembered Places" columnist Patrick Conti embarked on a dendrochronoligical expedition to the recently cut down scarlet oak tree along Douglaston Parkway. Read about his discoveries .

2. will discuss Fiscal Year 2013 budget priorities for northeast Queens during its next meeting on Oct. 3.

3. Check back later for this week's Great Escape.

4. The MTA officially launches cell service today in six Manhattan subway stations. Read more from Gothamist here.

5. Today's weather is expected to be cloudy and gray, with highs in the low 70s.