Good morning, Washington. It’s not a local story exactly, but since it surely affects a lot of people in this town we might as well mention this morning’s big non-Iranian news: President Obama is expected to announce the extension of benefits to federal employees’ same-sex partners. No word yet on whether those with partners of the opposite sex will be allowed to write off the diminished value of their marriages on this year’s taxes.

Va. Is Last To Ask For Roads Stimulus: Given all of the attention paid to traffic congestion in Northern Virginia, you’d think that the state might be a little speedier to apply for free government money for transportation projects. That’s not the case, though; as the Post reports, Virginia was dead last in line for stimulus money. Apparently the state’s insistence on collecting feedback from local governments and its threadbare, cash-strapped projects pipeline combined to delay the compilation of a list of things in need of funding. It doesn’t seem as though this will cost the state any money, although the work — and its economy-stimulating effects — will be delayed.

Fined For Flashing Lights: The Post brings a mostly-if-not-only-in-D.C. sort of story: Mark Zaid was fined $50 for flashing his headlights to thank a driver for doing the same in order to warn him of a speed trap. This bugged Zaid, so he challenged the fine. The ticketing officer didn’t show up, so the ticket was dismissed — but Zaid, a lawyer, isn’t satisfied, and is demanding an apology and says that if he doesn’t get one he’ll sue.

Briefly Noted: Water main break in Alexandria on Quaker Lane… Fatal shooting in Trinidad… D.C. Council asks feds to charge Holocaust Museum shooter (who apparently had some pretty creepy art in his home) with hate crime… Woodbridge bus driver charged in connection to killing of roommate, fellow bus driver… Councilman Harry Thomas, Jr. wants cameras on all MPD officers’ guns (like Doom!) (video)… Two decomposed bodies discovered near church, school in Hyattsville thanks to informant’s tip…

This Day In DCist: One year ago Olsson’s Penn Quarter store shut down and Fort Reno’s arsenic scare ended.

Image posted to DCist Photos by Flickr user cacophony76