Photo by eschweik

Good morning, Washington, and happy President’s Day! Yesterday’s apparent winter storm was something of a bust for the District — we didn’t get much of anything, and with the weather looking to climb into the mid-40s today, nothing would really stay on the ground anyhow. Fear not, though — most everyone in the area has the day off anyhow, so go ahead and enjoy another day of spring-like weather.

Virginia Senate to Debate Personhood Bill This Week: A bill that would grant a fertilized egg much the same rights as a person in Virginia will be debated by the Senate this week, reports WTOP. The bill was passed by the House last week, much to the chagrin of pro-choice activists that warn of any number of unintended consequences that could follow.

Violent Crime in D.C. Up Significantly: Murders might be down, but violent crime is up — way up — in 2012. The Washington Times reported yesterday that violent crimes have increased 40 percent as compared to the same period last year, and robberies with guns are twice what they were in 2011. All told, robberies seem to be the biggest problem — they’re up 55 percent across the city, and make up the majority of crime jumps in some of the city’s tonier neighborhoods. The biggest increase in violent crime in January was registered in the First District, which includes Capitol Hill. There, violent crime jumped 69 percent as compared to the same period in 2011.

Jack Johnson Goes to Prison: Former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson reported to a North Carolina prison over the weekend, starting what will be a seven year sentence for engaging in corruption and extortion while in office, writes WJLA. Johnson’s wife Leslie was similarly sentenced to jail time for her role in the sordid affair, though she’ll only be serving one year and one day. Fun fact: the North Carolina prison where Johnson will serve his time is also home to Bernie Madoff.

Briefly Noted: Women’s body found in C&O Canal in Georgetown … Northern Virginia looking for extra space for public school students … With new lease on RFK, D.C. United keeps up fight for new stadium … Two women participate in Kalorama robbery … Maryland work zone cameras catch over 1 million.

This Day in DCist: On this day in 2011, D.C. Council Chair Kwame Brown was outed for having requested the infamous “fully loaded” SUV and we looked back at the Holt House. In 2010, DCist went curling.