🌱 Homelessness Crisis + Holiday Safety + Rooftop Solar Rules Change

Good morning! It's me, Bettyann Pernice, your host of the San Diego Daily. Munch on those waffles and blueberries, sip that cup 'o joe/tea, and read on for what's happening today.

• Homelessness crisis worsens as number of homeless grows.
• The Fire Department shares ways to keep your holiday safe.
• Find out how rooftop solar rules are changing.

But first, today's weather:

Clouds giving way to sun.⛅ High: 63, Low: 42.

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

1. Last month, a record 1,706 homeless persons living on the streets downtown were counted on a single night. According to the latest data, 984 people became homeless, but only 625 people were housed. San Diegans are falling into homeless faster than the county can provide shelter. Meanwhile, evictions filings continue. (Voice of San Diego)
2. The Carlsbad Fire Departments has outlined a few tips for a safe holiday season. Fires often begin in fireplace/chimneys, so both should be inspected annually. Candles often cause fires, so don’t leave them burning if you leave the room. Keep kids and pets away from candles. Battery-operated flameless candles make a great substitute for real candles. These and other helpful tips are listed, courtesy of the fire department. (Patch)
3. The California Public Utilities Commission has approved a proposal to change the net energy metering rules for new rooftop solar panels. The new plan would reduce the credits for exporting surplus power to the grid. Utilities argue that the plan is fairer for low-income ratepayers. Solar companies warn that the plan could slow installations. The new plan will not impact existing rooftop solar customers. (Patch)

Today in San Diego

• “Deck the Cars” Cars & Coffee — San Diego Automotive Museum. (7:30 a.m.)
• Nutcracker Tea Party — Liberty Station. (11 a.m.)
• Spreckels Organ Society Hosts Festive Holiday Concerts — Balboa Park. (2 p.m.)
• Jungle Bells — San Diego Zoo. (3:30 p.m.)
• Hanukkah Celebration & Menorah Lighting 2022 — Liberty Station, San Diego. (5 p.m.)
• Coastal Roots Farm Hosts Fiddler on the Roof Sing-along — Coastal Roots Farm. (5 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Snuggle a puppy: "Agenda for the day: Step 1: Wake up. Step 2: Snuggle a puppy." (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Vaccine for rabbits: "We're hosting two vaccine clinics to help protect pet rabbits against Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2 (RHDV2). Appointments are still available, but going fast! You can bring your bunny to our El Cajon Campus this Mon., Dec. 19 ,11 a.m. - 1 p.m." (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Reducing hunger: "We're shredding hunger! The Cheese Rescue Program is a win/win for both hunger-relief organizations and our efforts to reduce food waste. Feeding America created this alternative sourcing model to provide a consistent supply of dairy (one of the most requested items at food banks) by using cheese that would otherwise go to waste." (Feeding San Diego via Facebook)
• Hats for the homeless: "Long-time supporters and representatives from East Clairemont Southern Baptist Church and Tabatha’s Ministry stopped by this week to donate 700 hats to benefit those experiencing homelessness! Every month, five women meet to lovingly knit and crochet hats for those who need extra warmth and comfort on the streets of San Diego each winter." (San Diego Rescue Mission via Facebook)
• Planting native trees: "This week, we invited more than 300 Ocean Knoll Elementary students to help us plant 100 native oak trees throughout the school’s neighboring Ocean Knoll Canyon in Encinitas 🌱. Made possible by @sdge’s Environmental Champions Grant, the Ocean Knoll Oak Restoration Planting Project allows members from our Science & Conservation and Education teams to work closely with students to plant the oaks while teaching them about the importance of native plants and habitats." (San Diego Botanic Garden via Facebook)
• Magazines at the library: "Hot Off the Press: Magazines! Check out the latest issue of your favorite magazine at sdcl.overdrive.com #magazines #thistheseason #SDCL" (San Diego County Library via Facebook)

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Events:

• Oak Gallery - Artist Holiday Reception Event (Dec. 18)
• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (Dec. 19)
• San Diego's Largest Networking Event (Jan. 11)
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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Sunday! I'll be in your inbox tomorrow with another update.

— Bettyann Pernice

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