This past academic year has been nothing short of trying for Illinois’ state universities, which rely heavily on the state for funding.

Two members of the Southern Illinois baseball team have been selected to play in the 2016 Northwoods League Major League Dreams Showcase, the school's website reported.

Carterville Streets/Sidewalks Committee will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2.

Carterville Public Safety/Insurance Committee will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2.

Carterville Parks/Cemetery Committee will meet at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2.

Dale Fowler, Republican candidate for State Senate in District 59 – Southern Illinois, recently called for increased protections for police officers, firefighters and other first responders with his “Blue Lives Matter” legislation proposal in Springfield.

Zach Richards' fall schedule includes a trip to Turkey.

Benton City Council recently conducted a special meeting to hire a full-time employee.

City HEBenton City Council hires temp full-time police officer at recent special meeting.

Illinois DCFS Instituional Review Board reviews new proposals at recent meeting.

Illinois State Fire Advisory Commission discusses task force formation at recent meeting.

IL State Fair Advisory Board met recently and heard staff reports.

Harrisburg Public Library District Board reviews plans for a new building at a recent meeting.

Vienna City Council considers appointment to library board at its meeting this week.

West Frankfort Public Library Board holds special meeting to discuss negative Facebook post.

The Illinois Lottery and Gov. Bruce Rauner released a Request for Proposal (RFP) on July 28 seeking a new private management partner that will share the lottery’s goals.

Hamilton Public Library Board discusses 'sponsor a book' program at recent meeting.

IL Interagency Committee on Pesticides reviews legislative proposals at recent meeting.

Illinois DCFS Instituional Review Board considers several new proposals at recent meeting.

IL Statewide Foster Care Advisory Council discusses pending legislation at recent meeting.