Chilling Commute:The cold weather made everyone’s commute a little more stressful today, but this woman’s was probably a little tenser than the average: She gave birth to a baby girl in her SUV near the Vienna Metro station. Good news is that mom and baby appear to be doing fine. +3

Back on Top: Mayor-for-life Marion Barry says he’s “at the zenith of [his] popularity.” +4

Drop Your Pants: It’s no surprise that area restaurants and bars are using the polar vortex as an opportunity to offer creative food and drink deals. But one Northern Virginia smoothie shop may be a little too attention-starved: Smoothie Cafe is offering a free 24-ounce smoothie to anyone wearing shorts. -3

Ice Trap: Don’t use the Bethesda Metro station escalator today. There’s a chance you could get hit by an icicle. -2

Yesterday’s Needle rating: 65 Today’s score: +2 Today’s Needle rating: 67