Closed-Off Culture: The Smithsonian, unable to afford guards because of sequestration, could start closing off exhibits. -3

Tax Transparency: At last night’s Washington City Paper D.C. Council debate, the candidates were challenged to release their tax returns. Today, Elissa Silverman published hers. +1

Dried Up: This won’t surprise anyone who was here during the winter, but Washington had a serious snow drought. -2

Vigilante Justice: A Virginia man punched out a fleeing suspect…then disappeared as quickly as his punch had swung into the alleged criminal’s face. +1

Monday’s Needle rating: 74 Today’s score: +3 Today’s Needle rating: 77