SUMMARY: Sixteen-year-old Abby Turner of Mobile, Alabama, is spreading kindness through her nonprofit, Bright Boxes, by sending care packages to deployed U.S. troops. Inspired by her desire to make a difference, Abby and her family manage every aspect of the project from home—designing logos, organizing supplies, and packing boxes with items like socks, sunscreen, and Chapstick. So far, 96 packages have been shipped through Operation Support Our Troops America. Abby is now expanding her efforts to create 50 boxes for patients at the Ronald McDonald House. Her mission is to bring relief, inspiration, and hope to as many people as possible.

A Mobile County teen is making a difference in her community, one care package at a time.

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SUMMARY: Alabama’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs through Sunday, allowing families to purchase specific items tax-free. Eligible items include clothing under $100 (boots, diapers, jackets, jeans, uniforms), school supplies under $50 (binders, crayons, glue, pens, pencils), computers under $750, and books under $30. This tax break helps lower-income families save money, as they typically spend a larger portion of their income on school supplies. The holiday provides temporary relief from sales tax, making back-to-school shopping more affordable. A complete list of eligible items is available on the Alabama Department of Revenue website and WVTM 13’s site.

Alabama’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday returns: Which items are eligible

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SUMMARY: Friends and loved ones of Autumn Strickland, the woman tragically abducted and killed in May, are honoring her vibrant spirit and generous heart. Known for her bold energy, love of horses, and deep loyalty, Autumn was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She cherished time at the barn, helping others, and expressing love openly—even during her school years. Her two-year-old daughter Aspen survives her, while her son Lane passed away at age five. Friends remember Autumn’s fearless, compassionate nature and are committed to keeping her memory alive, especially for Aspen, hoping she will grow up knowing her mother’s love and strength.

Childhood and lifelong friends of Autumn Strickland spoke exclusively to News 19 about how they want her memory to live on …

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