We know D.C. Get our free newsletter to stay in the know.
Gratuitous:The Public Option, a new brewpub on Rhode Island Ave. NE opening later this year, will not accept tips and will instead pay its staff a wage of at least $15 an hour. If a patron leaves extra money, the staff will donate it to a charity. +4
Reality Bites: The star of TLC’s Cake Boss is reportedly looking to open a shop in or around the District. Between this and the DC Cupcakes reality show, D.C.’s baked goods scene is about to get even more real. +1
Spring Freeze: Excited for March 20, the first day of spring? First you’ll have to survive at least one more snowstorm. It looks like snow is coming Sunday night, and about two to four inches are expected before the snowstorm ends Monday evening. -4
Better Late Than Never: The International Olympic Committee announced Friday that Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom, who played in the Olympics for Sweden, will receive his silver medal after being suspended for the gold-medal game at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. The reason? He tested positive for elevated levels of pseudoephedrine, a substance banned by the IOC and World Anti-Doping Federation, which was found in his allergy medication. +3
Yesterday’s Needle rating: 55 Today’s score: +4 Friday Bonus: +2 Today’s Needle rating: 61