Our weekday morning column, 5 Things You Need to Know, provides you with information that can help you plan your day and give you some fodder for water cooler conversations.

1. The new trash program starts next week, and residents have been asking questions. The city, on its Facebook page, has answered some of them. For example: one resident asked if he could get a second container. Officials noted they would be unable to provide a second solid waste cart, as the goal is to increase recycling. Howeer, additional recycling carts are available.

2. Here's a reminder that all non-essential outdoor water use is prohibited until further notice. For a more detailed explanation of what constitutes "non-essential," see the city's website.

3. You only have until Monday to get in your nominations for the categories we've selected for Readers' Choice 2012. Today, we have a question for all of you vegetarians and vegans out there. Where do you go for vegetarian/vegan food? 

4. The Solomon Pond Mall has advertised on its Facebook page an opportunity to get rewards if you go to the mall tomorrow or Sunday. To be eligible, you need to download the Shopkick app. For more information, see the mall's Facebook page.

5. On this day in history, in 1933, the American League won the first All-Star Baseball game, 5-2.