"I introduced a similar bill last year seeking to prevent an automatic pay raise for members from taking effect this year," said Mr. Mitchell, who for 28 years taught American government and economics in high school. "Unfortunately ... last year's bill failed to reach the floor."

Each member is now receiving $169,300, a $4,100 increase from last year.

Money in teaching

The Washington Post Co. has raised its annual dividend 5 percent to $8.60 a share, according to Editor & Publisher, which notes that the publisher of The Washington Post newspaper now refers to itself as an "education and media company."

The Post's "education unit generates most of its overall revenue," reveals the trade magazine. The Post owns Kaplan Inc., which holds classes and provides material to help students prepare for standardized tests.

And why are so many Washington men ducking into DC Coast before lunch is even served?

It's the men-only Cupid's Cooking School, discloses spokeswoman Simone Rathle, who says the restaurant "has been packing them in."

Starting at 11 a.m., DC Coast chefs teach men how to prepare a gourmet four-course Valentine's Day dinner, including wine pairings.