Good morning, Auburn.

Kamtec Auto USA will invest $9.2 million in its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Auburn, planning to create 50 jobs over three years.

The company will start in a leased space before moving to a new building while partnering with Auburn University to source local talent.

20-year-old Auburn environmental engineering student James 'Weston' Higginbotham went missing in Japan on May 29 while vacationing with his family; Japanese police and local volunteers continue search operations and review CCTV footage as his family raises funds to cover search costs.

Gov. Kay Ivey proclaimed June as Strong Families Month to honor traditional family values in Alabama as it coincides with Father’s Day—critics say it counters long-standing Pride celebrations.

Auburn coach Steven Pearl said on Wednesday in Huntsville he does not favor the NCAA tournament expansion from 68 to 76 teams.

He warned the change may reduce the importance of the regular season while giving more mid-major teams a chance.

In high school football news, Alabama linebacker prospects are drawing attention statewide, with Auburn’s Isaac McNeil committing recently after helping Vigor build a tough defense last season.

Maplesville’s Nehemiah McCary led his team to a state playoff win on Nov. 28, 2025 while several top recruits await their next commitments.

Auburn’s Tigers will compete in a best-of-three College World Series series starting Saturday, June 20 in Omaha, and their advancing SEC play sets up a possible rivalry clash with Alabama if the bracket pairs them together as they chase their first national baseball title.

Auburn University confirmed the death of longtime sports broadcaster Paul Ellen (who helped build WEGL radio) yesterday; he hosted Auburn baseball and football broadcasts for over 30 years (starting at Haley Center) and was 75, the university said.

Auburn baseball is two wins away from the College World Series after surviving a tough regional with elimination games, and the Tigers will face Ole Miss in a best-of-three Super Regional today at Plainsman Park — coach Butch Thompson said the extra hardships have strengthened the team.