🌱 Medicine Shortage Amid 'Tripledemic' + AI-ML Tech Breakthroughs

Good morning, San Diego! I'm here in your inbox with news of what's happening in our town today. Warm up with some coffee/tea, munch on your pastry, and let's get started:

• What to do if you cannot find over-the-counter medicines for your kids
• San Diego is now a major leader in AI and ML
• Stores hurt by an increase in shoplifting

But first, today's weather:

Sunshine and cool.🌞 High: 60, Low: 41.

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

1. It's frustrating and scary. Parents with sick kids are having difficulty finding the Tylenol and Motrin their kids need during this "tripledemic." The pill forms of these meds can still be found at local stores. It's the liquid versions used to medicate babies and young children that are scarce. Doctors recommend that parents treat their kids at home with honey, lemon and other soothing ingredients. For babies with fevers, parents will need to consult with their child's doctor. (CBS News 8)
2. San Diego has found its niche. With cutting-edge research institutions and companies, San Diego is a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). It has a large number of federal contracts, patents, startups, and an expert talent pool, focused on enhancing human health through AI and ML. San Diego now has an opportunity to treat life-threatening diseases with precision medicine. (San Diego Metropolitan)
3. The past year has seen a huge increase in shoplifting in San Diego stores. However, retailers are finding new ways to prevent theft. Many items, such as protein and collagen powders, eye drops, whitening strips, electric toothbrushes and Oil-of-Olay creams are now stocked in lockboxes. Stores are joining with law enforcement, legislators, community partners and retail trade associations to stop organized retail crime. Stores are supporting the INFORM Consumers Act in order to prevent criminals from selling stolen goods on online marketplaces. (CBS News 8)
4. It's truly a sight to behold. The festival of trees and lights at Noah Homes’ Annual Enchanted Village, a nonprofit in Spring Valley, brings joy to its visitors, while helping people with developmental disabilities. Visitors will view a million dazzling lights, beautifully lit trees, magical cottages and more. There will be live entertainment, as well as an opportunity to take a photo with Santa. Purchase tickets for the Dec. 16 – 22 events at www.EnchantedVillage.org. (Patch)

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Today in San Diego:

• Mind-Body Fitness for Older Adults — Riford/La Jolla Branch Library. (11:30 a.m.)
• Uncovering the Secret City — San Diego History Center. (Noon)
• Toddler Storytime — Riford/La Jolla Branch Library. (Noon)
• Fun and Games for Seniors — Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center. (12:30 p.m.)
• Kamishibai StoryBox Theatre — Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center. (3 p.m.)
• Japanese Kite Making — Skyline Hills Branch Library. (4 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Adoption fees waived: "Calling all animal lovers! Adoption fees are waived for the first 100 adult pets, and just $25 for every adult pet after the first 100, thanks to San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria! We have nearly 700 adoptable pets who can't wait to find new homes — and one might be your perfect match!" (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Rehoming a pet: "We know there are many circumstances that may prevent loving pet owners from keeping their companions — including inflation and housing insecurity — and we're here to help families who have to make the difficult decision to rehome a pet." (San Diego Humane Society via Facebook)
• Holiday vibes: "Feel holly & jolly, not only because of the cocktails, but because of the festive vibes at these kitschy holiday pop-ups! 🥰 Which are you planning on visiting this season?" (Visit San Diego via Facebook)
• Holidaybowl: "Who else is excited for the San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl on Dec. 28? Are you rooting for North Carolina or Oregon? Let us know in the comments below and get your tickets to join the action at holidaybowl.com. 📷: San Diego" (Downtown San Diego Partnership via Facebook)
• Toys for hospitalized babies: "Special, special delivery!!! Personal toy delivery by @frankhyundaisd for our Santa’s workshop opening this week. We are inviting parents to our office to select Toys for their hospitalized baby and siblings. You can support us by dropping off a toy(s)at Frank Hyundai or sending/delivering to our office in Kearny Mesa." (Miracle Babies via Facebook)

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• San Diego's Largest Networking Event. (Jan. 11)
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• Open House 12/10/2022 1/4 (Details)
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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Tuesday. I'll be 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