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Doomsday Eve: It looks like Congress couldn’t get its act together to avert a government shutdown. President Barack Obama criticized Republicans, calling this the “height of irresponsibility.” -15
Well Fed: A handy round-up of all the government shutdown food and drink specials. +3
Marital Problems: The shutdown would cancel all weddings scheduled on the National Mall. -5
Harried Dilemmas: The Caps’ Karl Alzner wanted to grow a beard, but his coaches weren’t into that, so he grew a mustache instead. +2
Friday’s Needle rating: 78 Today’s score: -15Needle rating: 63