A Cut Above: The five-story rowhouse construction at 11th and V NW is a fitting tribute to D.C. real estate prices. +3

Get Paid: Maryland’s jobless rate is down, but the District’s still sits at 8.6 percent. -2

Rises of the Machine: The District is making big money on ATM transaction fees. +1

Thrifty Virginians: Arlington residents are crying foul over a $1 million bus stop. But if Arlingtonians are suddenly frugal, what will happen to the fabulous, $80 million Arlington aquadrome? -4

Thursday’s Needle rating: 85 Today’s score: -3 It’s Friday: +1 Today’s Needle rating: 83