​🌱Fed Funds Fix For Cross Border Pollution + Zoo's Red Panda Escapes

Welcome back, everyone! I'm here in your inbox today with a fresh copy of The Daily. Enjoy your coffee/tea, munch on that jelly donut, and read on to learn what's happening today in San Diego:

• Both Mexico and the U.S. federal government dedicated funds to eliminate cross border pollution.
• A red panda escaped from its habitat at the San Diego Zoo.
• Free rides will be available on North County Transit to celebrate Rosa Parks' birthday and transit equality day.

First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and cool.🌞 High: 58, Low: 40.

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

1. In late December, Congress approved funds for Border Water Infrastructure, with $100 million to pay for changes on both sides of the U.S-Mexico border. After a record number of beach closures, Imperial Beach residents are delighted to learn that federal help is finally on the way. Meanwhile, Mexico pledged $144 million to fix pumps, pipes and sewage treatment at facilities in Tijuana. San Diego officials appreciate Mexico’s partnership in alleviating the problem. (KPBS)
2. It was a red alert! Adira, a 2-year-old red panda, climbed a tree and out of her habitat at the San Diego Zoo early Sunday morning in front of stunned zoo visitors. Zoo employees were able to urge Adira to climb back into her habitat using recall methods that she is trained to understand. The process took many hours. No injuries to humans or animals were reported. (CBS News 8)
3. In 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus to white riders and move to the back of the bus. Her actions contributed to the civil rights movement. Now, North County Transit will offer free rides on Feb. 4 to commemorate Rosa Parks’ birthday and transit equality day, a day to ensure equitable access to public transportation for all. Free rides will be available on the Coaster, Breeze, Sprinter, Flex and Lift throughout the entire day. The free rides apply to NCTD only and does not include transfers to Metropolitan Transit System or AMTRAK Rail 2 Rail services. (Patch)
4. Celebrate good fortune this Lunar New Year on Saturday, Feb. 4 and Sunday, Feb. 5 at the San Diego Zoo. Join in fun activities scheduled for the whole family. Hang your wish for wildlife on the wishing tree. Pick up a red envelope with a gift inside, make a paper lantern, or your own pair of rabbit ears! Learn about the iconic red panda, snow leopard and sun bear from wildlife experts. Don't forget to snap a selfie with Bamboo Panda to commemorate your Lunar New Year celebration. (There San Diego)

Today in San Diego:

• Music and Motion — MountainView/Beckwourth Branch Library. (11:30 a.m.)
• Digital Literacy: Smartphone Series — San Diego Public Library/Central Library. (11:30 a.m.)
• Lunchtime Concert: Violist Diego Guerra — Mission Hills Branch Library. (Noon)
• Adult Social Scrabble — North Clairemont Branch Library. (1 p.m.)
• DO YOUR HOMEWORK @ THE LIBRARY — Malcolm X Library and Performing Arts Center. (3 p.m.)
• Storytime for All Ages — Carmel Valley Branch Library. (4 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Women's summit for SDPD officers: "'New year, New You?' That was the theme of the 11th Women’s Leadership Summit for SDPD officers and professional staff. Approximately 108 attendees learned about sleep disorders and the importance of sleep, especially in stressful work environments, nutrition, and tips for leading an overall healthy lifestyle." (San Diego Police Department via Facebook)
• Sugar and spice: "This is Chonk. He wasn't named that by accident, but please don't body shame him. He is the SWEETEST. Seriously. Take a pound of sugar, add two bottles of maple syrup then throw in a few candy bars and you still won’t be on this guy’s level." (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Put your trivia knowledge to the test: "Grab some friends and join us February 7th from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Storyhouse Spirits for some nerdy bar trivia with the San Diego Public Library! Put your trivia knowledge to the test and compete for prizes that go beyond mere bragging rights while enjoying the food, drinks, and cozy atmosphere of Storyhouse Spirits." (San Diego Central Library via Facebook)
• Get a personalized reading list: "Not sure what to read next? Let an SDPL librarian help you ignite your love of reading! 💛📗 All you have to do is fill out a quick form and you will receive a personalized list of author and title recommendations." (San Diego Central Library via Facebook)
• Nominate a person or project: "Time is running out to submit your nominations for this year's Create the Future Awards! Help us recognize the very best of Downtown San Diego by nominating the people, projects, and places that have positively impacted our community over the past year." (Downtown San Diego Partnership via Facebook)

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Events:

• How to Successfully Navigate the Divorce Process — Vesta San Diego, CA Hub. (Feb. 1)
• Clean & Safe Hiring Event. (Feb. 2)
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You're officially in the loop for today! I'll see you soon.

— Bettyann Pernice

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