Burnt Body Found Near Mendota

Sheriff’s deputies made a grizzly discovery this morning in Ophir Township.  Deputies say they found the body of 18-year old Brandon Kleinvehn of South Barrington near a small creek.  He apparently set himself on fire.

Kleinvehn was reported missing last night and a missing person investigation was started by South Barrington Police.

Thompson named IVCC board chairman

A man that used to be the superintendent of Bureau Valley Schools is the new Illinois Valley Community College Board chairman.

Dennis Thompson was picked for the seat Tuesday. He replaces David Wilcoxson who lost his seat after last month’s election.

Paula Endress was chosen to be the vice chairman and David Mallery was chosen as the board secretary.

The newest members of the board, Melissa Olivero and Leslie Englehaupt were also sworn in.

Two reappointed to La Salle School Board

Even though two members of the La Salle Elementary Board didn’t run for re-election last month, they’ll remain on the board.

Board members John Duncan and Jerry Savage were appointed to two-year terms Tuesday night. Duncan and Savage both had been board members up until about 40 minutes before being appointed. The board received letters before the election from Savage and Duncan and newcomer Sue Arbisi.

Board President Brian Waitkus thanked Arbisi for showing interest.

The only members who ran for re-election last month were Colby Sawin and Hank Senica. They were sworn in last night.

Waitkus remains the board president and Charlie Faletti remains the vice president. Cindy Gedraitis remains the secretary.

Economy impacting plans for Riverfest

Riverfest will be back in Ottawa this year but it’s going to be a scaled down version.

Commissioner Wayne Eichelkraut says due to the economy, the budget for Riverfest is a third of what it was last year.  Instead of having main stage bands for five nights, this year’s Riverfest will have only three nights of music.  And Eichelkraut says the bands will be regional acts.  He also says the Illinois Licensed Beverage Association won’t be putting on a concert around Riverfest like they did last year with Night Ranger and Air Supply.

Riverfest starts with the annual “Welcomeburger” on July 29^th.