🌱Congress Considers $63M Funding For SD County + Rig An Historic Ship

Good morning, everyone! It's Bettyann Pernice, your host of the San Diego Daily — here with what's happening in our community today. Sip that latte or Chai tea, nibble on that pumpkin bread, and read on:

• What $63 million federal funding would mean for San Diego County
• Love the sea and history? Become a volunteer and rig a Tall Ship!
• Make your plans to ring in the New Year 2023.

But first, today's weather:

A touch of morning rain.☔ High: 64, Low: 49.

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Here are four of the top stories today in San Diego:

1. More than $63 million in proposed federal funding will be appropriated to San Diego County — if the package passes both the House of Representatives and the Senate. About 22 projects would be funded across the county and would include community revitalization, research at UCSD, library expansion, a twin-engine firefighting helicopter, infrastructure projects and more. See what would be financed in your area. (10 News SanDiego)
2. If the sea calls to you, you might want to learn how to rig one of San Diego’s Tall Ships. Take classes in restoring, maintaining, and operating ships, such as the Star of India and other historic sailing vessels. Up to 150 volunteers are needed to attend classes, beginning with an orientation on Jan. 4. Want to join the program? Sign up online by Dec. 31. (Times of San Diego)
3. Make your plans today and ring in 2023 in style! Want a night out on the town? Prefer a more laid-back venue? Just want to order take-out and relax at home? Want something for the kids to enjoy? Check out the options here and celebrate your way — and have a happy New Year! (Patch)
4. Casa Blanca was a bland, beige structure in Bankers Hill before artist Sarah Stieber graced it with her kaleidoscope of colors. The apartment complex, constructed in the early 1900s, was designated a historic building. The current owners wanted to add some pizazz to the property and engaged the artist to create something in a rainbow of colors. Click here to see more of Stieber's art and designs. (CBS News 8)

Today in San Diego:

• Qi Gong: Recharging Body & Mind — Riford/La Jolla Branch Library. (9:30 a.m.)
• Red Cross Blood Drive — Carmel Mountain Ranch Library. (10 a.m.)
• Dance Pants Party — Mission Valley Library. (10:30 a.m.)
• Knitting and Crochet Circle — Carmel Valley Branch Library. (1 p.m.)
• Storytime with Write Out Loud — Weingart City Heights Library. (1 p.m.)
• Seaside Storytime at Scripps Park — Riford/La Jolla Branch Library. (4 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Dogs find homes and bring joy: ""If it wasn't for Max, the Grinch's heart wouldn't be just too small. It wouldn't exist at all." Our friends at Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Petfinder Foundation are helping deserving dogs find homes to fill with joy. If you're ready to #FindYourMax, we‘ve got the perfect boy!" (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Huskies here: "We've seen an increasing number of huskies, like Pierce here, enter our shelter over the past years. While we're careful to look at each animal individually, this popular breed does tend to have some specific needs that are helpful to know in order to set these gorgeous floofs up for success." (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Walk the Garden: "It's getting chilly out at the Garden, which in our opinion is the best time to walk the trails! 🍃 Time to bundle up and keep warm when exploring!" (San Diego Botanic Garden via Facebook)
• Download free books, audiobooks, and e-magazines: "End the year reading and help SDCL! We want to reach 4 million digital downloads before the end of the year and can only do with your help. Visit sdcl.org/elibrary to download free e-books, audiobooks, and e-magazines." (San Diego County Library via Facebook)
• New Clean & Safe app: "Now it’s easier than ever to report non-emergency maintenance and public safety concerns occurring Downtown through the new Clean & Safe app! Just download, describe your issue, snap a photo, and submit. The app is simple to use and keeps a record of your request so you can check the status and know when it has been completed." (Downtown San Diego Partnership via Facebook)

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Events:

• Crossing Over With Psychic Medium John Edward (Live)! (Jan. 21)
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You're officially in the loop for today! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with a new update.

— Bettyann Pernice

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming San Diego Daily? Contact me at sandiego@patch.com