Hi, Barbie. Mattel released its first Barbie doll with autism this week, and Southeastern University Link program alumna Aarushi Pratap stars in the ad as a Barbie Role Model, along with Madison Marilla of “Love on the Spectrum.”
Pratap is a fashion designer + autistic advocate. As an SEU student, she interned at Top Buttons and contributed to the 2022 Special Olympics logo. Since graduating, she’s showcased her signature eclectic fashion designs at New York Fashion Week.
The new Barbie doll, developed in partnership with the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, is now available.
All levels of runners, joggers, and walkers are welcome to register for this scenic lakeside race. Proceeds from the race benefit Common Ground Playground, an inclusive play space providing fun experiences for children of all abilities.
$1 million. That’s how much Polk County will spend to improve drainage on Lake Seward, a major flood site during Hurricane Milton in 2024. The project will include a new stormwater pipeline from Lake Seward to Banana Lake, set to be installed by the 2027 hurricane season. (The Ledger)
Outdoors
The Lovers’ Oak is getting some love of its own, with city crews trimming its branches for safety today and tomorrow. The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department says the historic tree by Lake Morton “is currently in good condition with minimal decay.” You love to see it.
Environment
If you’ve noticed many algal blooms in local lakes over the last few years, you’re not alone. Polk County has contracted GISJane LLC to forecast when harmful algae will peak using aerial images of waterways. Pro tip: Check for algal blooms on the state’s tracking dashboard. (The Ledger)
Opening
A new place for plants is opening post-haste. Flowerpot & Co. will open its doors at 4688 Cleveland Heights Blvd. on Saturday, Jan. 24, and it’s already blooming with beautiful foliage — take a peek inside.
Edu
Wahneta Elementary got an out-of-this-world visit during its Space Day event: Aymette Medina Jorge. Not only is Medina Jorge a former PCPS teacher, but she also became the first Puerto Rican woman to visit space last year as a crew member on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket.
Closing
The Coleman-Bush Building will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 20-Saturday, Jan. 24 for maintenance — find another place for community while you wait.
Holiday
Big news for “The Lorax” fans. Tomorrow is Florida Arbor Day, but the deals start today at The Nectary. Through Saturday, shop in person for 25% off native trees. Bonus: The first 20 customers will receive a free Southern red cedar.
Featured Deal
For a limited time, you can subscribe to Lakeland Sun’s weekly print newspaper for $39 a year. Snag the deal before it expires at the end of the month by calling 863-533-4183 or purchasing online.*
Wellness
Interested in a THC or CBD journey in 2026? Women-owned and operated brand TribeTokes is offering 15% off with code DRYJAN15, plus a free CBD/CBG tincture when you spend $40. Try pineapple THC gummies or mini THCA prerolls for some California sober fun during dry January.†*
Category
Resolution Roundup
🍹 Dry January feeling a little...dry?
If you prefer to let the pros do the pouring, tap below for our list of mocktail spots. | Photo by LALtoday
We’re halfway through the month, and many are kicking alcohol while taking the Dry January challenge. If those same old drinks are falling flat, try this recipe for a buzz-free shrub mocktail from Andrew Chenoweth, Kitchen Manager at Catapult. It starts with making a fruit syrup:
Combine an equal weight of cut fruit and sugar of choice in a sealable container.
Seal the container and let it sit in the fridge for 72 hours.
Using a fine mesh strainer, separate the syrup from the solids.
Bottle the syrup for use.
Combine 1 ounce of your fruit syrup with 1/4 ounce of your vinegar of choice (feel free to adjust to taste). Top it with about 3 ounces of club soda and serve over ice in a rocks glass.
⛳ This men’s fleece-lined quarter zip is the perfect base layer.
⛳ A pair of windproof and waterproof pushcart mitts to keep your hands warm + dry.
⛳ These men’s thermal golf pants that deliver lightweight insulation for under $50.
⛳ A handy golf cart heater that can run for almost six hours.
⛳ Bonus: If your course is closed for the season, this 4.8-star rated indoor golf simulator is calling your name.
Here’s my signature mocktail recipe called The Connor Special: ginger ale with a splash of cranberry juice + a squeeze of lime. Is it catching on? No. But is it delicious? Yes.
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