WVAS Local News

The Alabama Department of Industrial Relations reports the state's unemployment rate is  7.4 percent.  That's up from 7.2 percent in April. 

Funerals  Held

Funerals for two of the victims of the Auburn shootings are scheduled for this afternoon.  The service for former Auburn University football player Ladarious Phillips will be held at Handley High School gymnasium in Roanoke.

The service for Demario Pitts will be held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Loachapoka.   

Skeletal Remains Found

Police are asking the public's help in identifying the skeletal remains of a young girl found in an Opelika mobile home community in January. 

The Opelika-Auburn News reports that authorities believe the girl was between 4- and 7-years old. 

Montgomery YouTube

The city of Montgomery has launched a promotional video and set-up a YouTube page to attract more young people to town.  The "New South, Downtown Montgomery" video highlights city life. 

UA Tuition Rises

Authorities say cuts in state funding have led University of Alabama System trustees to consider tuition increases for the fifth consecutive year. 

The Tuscaloosa News reports today that the full board of trustees is expected to approve hikes ranging from 7 to 8.6 for all three campuses.

Minority Businesses Council

A new group is being formed to promote minority-owned businesses in west Alabama.

The new group is meant to help with the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses.