Exploding Evidence: Around the time that the ad hoc fireworks shows around District neighborhoods were reaching a crescendo last night, the D.C. Fire and EMS department tweeted out a plaintive message—remember, those things are illegal. And in fact, some of them are; authorities busted the dealers of about $10,000 worth of fireworks in two separate raids, netting 2,710 explosives. Still, people were shooting off fireworks on almost every block in the city (well, except maybe some of the leafier blocks in Ward 3), rivaling the display down on the Mall. Next year, we’re not sure officials should even bother trying to crack down. After all, who doesn’t love fireworks? +2

Tuned Up: Few bars in the city have drawn as loyal—or as diverse—a following over the years as the Tune Inn. So when the Capitol Hill favorite burned last month, its fans rallied. A fundraiser is now scheduled for employees, whose lost income while repairs are made won’t be covered by insurance, for July 15. It’ll be at the nearby American Legion hall, which for now, at least, is as close to the Tune Inn as you get. +1

Lama Landing: Most groups that come through D.C. for rallies or protests stick around for a few hours, then pack up and leave. But the Dalai Lama is, according to tradition, the 14th reincarnation of a holy man originally born in the 14th century, so perhaps his schedule moves more slowly. The former Tibetan head of state (who resigned recently to focus on his spiritual duties) will lead a 10-day kalachkra, a complex Buddhist peace ritual, in the District starting this week. Most of it will take place at the Verizon Center; no word on just how much chanting it will take to undo the bad karma of past monster truck rallies. +3

The Heat Is On: The next time someone tells you they don’t believe in global climate change, tell them you’ve got firsthand experience to the contrary. Last month was the third-hottest June on record in D.C., topped only by June 2010 and June 1943. Three of the hottest six Junes ever have come in the last four years. The city had 10 days at 90 or above during the month, which is more than average. But look at the bright side: Last June, 18 days—more than half the month—were that hot. -2

Friday’s Needle rating: 45 Today’s score: +4 Today’s Needle rating: 49