🌱Leaders Meet In DC To Secure Funds + 'Graypril' Gloomy Skies

Good morning, everyone! Sip that cappuccino/herbal tea, crunch on that chocolate cannoli, and read on to find out what's happening today in San Diego:

• Officials meet in D.C. to secure funds for infrastructure.
• Now, a new expression: "Graypril" fits the gloomy SD skies this April.
• City will conduct an inventory of street trees to create a new urban forest.

But first, today's weather:

Partly sunny.⛅ High: 65, Low: 50.

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Here are the top stories today in San Diego:

1. This week, members of the San Diego's City Council, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, the mayors of San Diego and Imperial Beach, leaders from Caltrans and executives from the Port of San Diego traveled to Washington, D.C. to lobby for federal funding for San Diego. Among other issues, representatives discussed how to best complete the applications for funding from the Inflation Reduction Act. (NBC San Diego)
2. May Gray and June Gloom are now preceded by April "Graypril." Named for the gray and gloomy skies superimposing themselves over our county, blocking our sunshine, this San Diego weather is the new normal this spring. To find out what's causing all this cloud cover, click here.
3. With trees lining the sides of local streets, their branches gracefully meeting above the roadway, a new shady environment, cooler temperatures, and a more livable community can be enjoyed. The City of San Diego is now conducting a study and inventory of street trees to grow an urban forest that will offset heat in high-density neighborhoods. Like the idea? Citizens who qualify can obtain an Arbor Day tree through the Free Tree SD program. (San Diego Community Newspaper Group)
4. After falling 100 feet into a ravine on Sunday, “Dobby” is finally back home. Witnesses at the scene of the Sunday accident used helmet padding and a shirt to create a tourniquet to stop the horse’s bleeding. An equine vet said the 8-year-old horse has a 60-70% chance of survival. His family is praying for the best. To donate to Dobby's medical expenses, click here. (CBS8 News)

Today in San Diego:

• Online Volunteer Orientation - ElderHelp of San Diego (9:00 AM)
• Sing & Sign Toddler Storytime - Point Loma Branch Library (10:00 AM)
• Watercolor Wednesday for Adults - Oak Park Branch Library (10:30 AM)
• Outdoor Toddler Storytime - Allied Gardens/Benjamin Branch Library (10:30 AM)
• LEGO Preschool Storytime with Mr. Victor - Malcolm X Library and Performing Arts Center (11:00 AM)
• Can America Become One Nation Again? - CECRB (1:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Calling all camera buffs: "Calling all beginning and intermediate camera enthusiasts who are interested in learning more about their camera functions! Wednesday April 26, join Sandy Zelasko of Sandra Lee Photography as she instructs you on camera settings for different situations, auto focus choices, all about exposure, creative controls, photography rules, histograms and more. Click the link to learn more and register!" (San Diego Botanic Garden via Facebook)
• Promoting inclusivity: "Last week, we had the privilege of participating in a community meeting with our LGBTQI+ community members. We're committed to fostering stronger relationships, building trust, and promoting inclusivity for everyone in our city." (San Diego Police Department via Facebook)
• Drop-off recycling: "Old tax files piling up? Safely recycle sensitive documents for free at the Miramar Recycling Center April 19 through April 25 from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Sunday, no appointments necessary). This drop-off service is open to City of San Diego residents only, and one banker's box per resident is permitted. Learn more: bit.ly/3GBqLpx"
• Volunteer with Parks & Recs: "🎉 We are recognizing the work done by volunteers who give their time and skills to help others during National Volunteer Week. Thank you, City volunteers! 🙌🏼 Are you interested in volunteering? Parks and Rec. have rewarding opportunities available now. https://bit.ly/3GEeukg"
• Volunteer to help those with disabilities: "April 17-21 is #NationalVolunteerWeek! Volunteers are critical to helping us achieve our mission of supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities. Join us as we show our appreciation for our volunteers here at The Arc and across the world!" (The Arc of San Diego via Facebook)

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You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you around!

— Bettyann Pernice

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