A 14-year-old from Ahwatukee has launched an uplifting initiative aimed at bringing comfort and happiness to teenage girls undergoing difficult times. Her project, named G.I.R.L.S. Glow Up, involves assembling and distributing over 500 care packages filled with comforting items like blankets, skincare products, journals, and face masks. With a fundraising goal of $25,000, she hopes to deliver these thoughtful kits to hospitalized teens by next summer. Partnering with the Armer Foundation, she is seeking support through donations, sponsorships, volunteer efforts, and an online wishlist to expand her outreach.
Teenager Sparks Joy Through Thoughtful Campaign
In the vibrant community of Ahwatukee, Arizona, a young force of compassion is making waves. This inspiring story unfolds as Hannah Small, a 14-year-old with a big heart, initiates G.I.R.L.S. Glow Up—a campaign designed to uplift hospitalized girls. Each backpack filled with carefully selected self-care items reflects her dedication to spreading positivity. Her dream is to prepare more than 500 packages by the coming summer, each carrying a message of hope and encouragement. Driven by a deep sense of empathy, Hannah finds joy in knowing that her efforts bring comfort to others during challenging moments. To amplify her mission, she has joined hands with the Armer Foundation, which supports her vision by mobilizing resources and volunteers. Those interested can contribute by donating, sponsoring, or selecting items from the campaign’s Amazon wishlist.
What began as a personal desire to help has now blossomed into a community-driven movement focused on kindness and connection. The initiative highlights how one individual's idea can spark a wave of generosity and goodwill.
The travel and tourism sector has ramped up its political engagement in 2025, channeling millions through federal PACs to support candidates and party committees across the ideological spectrum. As revealed by Skift’s review of FEC filings, major players including hotel associations, airlines, and travel advocacy groups are leveraging campaign contributions to amplify their policy influence on Capitol Hill.
While direct corporate donations to federal campaigns remain prohibited, industry leaders sponsor PACs funded largely by executives and leadership, which then distribute funds to congressional candidates, party committees, and leadership PACs. Contributions often reflect strategic alignment with lawmakers who hold sway over transportation, infrastructure, and regulatory policies critical to the sector. Notably, most organizations maintain bipartisan giving strategies, though some lean more heavily toward Republican recipients over time.
Beyond financial commitments, many companies and trade groups articulate clear policy rationales for their contributions, emphasizing support for candidates who align with industry priorities such as aviation modernization, hospitality workforce development, and international travel facilitation. Despite differing contribution totals, from Alaska Air Group’s modest $37,000 to Boeing’s nearly $1 million outlay, the overarching goal remains consistent: shaping a legislative environment favorable to business growth and innovation.
In an era where public policy increasingly intersects with corporate strategy, the travel industry's political investments underscore the importance of proactive civic engagement. By supporting diverse candidates and building bridges across the aisle, these organizations not only protect their interests but also contribute to a more dynamic and inclusive political discourse that benefits both the economy and the traveling public.
In a recent federal court proceeding, Andrew Philip Derr, a 22-year-old from Fredrick, Maryland, admitted his involvement in a series of crimes that included two convenience store heists and financial misconduct in Iowa. Earlier, in January 2024, he was found responsible for the robbery at Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust.
Derr confessed to attacking Casey’s General Store in Robins on December 27, 2023, followed by another incident at a Kum & Go location in Cedar Rapids on New Year's Day 2024. Authorities claim he concealed the origins of the stolen money by depositing it into his bank account back home. During the investigation, a note reading “Catch me if you can” was discovered in his apartment after law enforcement tried to apprehend him. Eventually, he turned himself in to the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana on January 12, 2024.
The consequences of Derr’s actions could be severe, with potential penalties including up to six decades behind bars, a $1 million fine, and post-release supervision for three years. He is also expected to return the unlawfully acquired funds and compensate those affected. The final sentencing decision will rest with Chief Judge C.J. Williams, who will make a ruling once a detailed pre-sentencing report is completed.
This case highlights the importance of justice and accountability, reminding us that while individuals may try to evade responsibility, the legal system remains steadfast in its pursuit of fairness. It serves as a reminder that choices have consequences, and that turning one's life around often begins with taking responsibility for past actions.