Corruption R Us: A day after federal prosecutors warned District politicians last summer that they’d be caught if they broke the law, then-D.C. Councilmember Michael Brown allegedly took the first of what would be $55,000 in bribes from undercover FBI agents. Oops. At least Brown managed to lose his seat before facing federal felony charges; “Former Councilmember Charged” is a marginally less depressing headline than “Councilmember Charged.” But alas, the DCWithoutIndictment.com counter still had to be reset. -5

Rain, Rain, Go Away: Look out the window. Washington City Paper readers, meet Tropical Storm Andrea. Tropical Storm Andrea, meet Washington City Paper readers. The storm will be around all night. -2

Home Is Where the Hardware Is: The folks behind Frager’s Hardware aren’t just sitting and waiting for insurance money to help rebuild after Wednesday night’s catastrophic fire—they’re launching a pop-up store this weekend to sell home and garden products to loyal customers. The shop will set up in the same space that temporarily housed Eastern Market vendors after that Capitol Hill institution was also destroyed by flames. +3

By the Authority Vested in You: Marrying your friends in D.C. could soon be much easier, under a bill approved by a D.C. Council subcommittee Thursday. (Or rather, officiating at your friends’ weddings could be easier; how easy it is to marry your friend depends on your relationship with your friend.) The legislation would allow “temporary wedding officiants” to perform weddings, as opposed to current law, which requires would-be lay officiants to become certified as members of the clergy. You may now kiss the Council. +2

Yesterday’s Needle rating: 30 Today’s score: -2 Friday bonus: +2 Today’s Needle rating: 30