Mayor Daniel M. Lightner

Boil Order

2009-09-14T15:54:00.002-05:00

Please be advised that, effective immediately, a boil order has been issued for portions of West Bell Street, North Clay Street, and West Bower Street. Specific addresses affected include:

104 West Belle Street
106 West Belle Street
108 West Belle Street
110 West Belle Street

104 North Clay Street
106 North Clay Street
109 North Clay Street

202 West Bower Street
205 West Bower Street
206 West Bower Street
212 West Bower Street
214 West Bower Street
216 West Bower Street

This boil order results from the relocation of a water main. The boil order will remain in effect until further notice. Again, this boil order only affects homes listed above.

Oreana Annual Community Picnic

2009-08-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

The Village of Oreana has scheduled its Annual Community Picnic on 5 September 2009. The Picnic will begin at 4p.m. with dinner catered by Great Boars of Fire served at 5 p.m. Dinner includes pulled pork, hot dogs, BBQ beans, potato salad, ice tea and lemonade. Table service is also furnished. We encourage that each family in attendance simply bring cupcakes or cookies to share.

New this year are some organized activities such as a free-throw contest, three point contest, washers / horseshoes, bean bag toss, ring toss, and possibly bingo. I would encourage all residents to join us for fun, food, and fellowship and contribute toward Oreana's sense of community. See you there!

Manufactured vs. Modular home construction

2009-08-13T22:14:00.003-05:00

Several residents have recently contacted me about a home construction project on View Circle. Residents in the area are concerned that Village officials would allow the construction / placement of a manufactured home in the area when the Oreana Code of Ordinances prohibits manufactured homes. I have been advised a large contingent of concerned residents will attend out next Village Board meeting to discuss the issue.

As has become standard practice, I will certainly allow residents to comment upon this issue during the Public Comment portion of the agenda. That time is set aside for residents to comment on matters being considered by the Board of Trustees or to voice their interest and concern about other topics of municipal interest. It will not, however, be conducted as a question and answer session nor will it be time for a two-party discussion. The Board of Trustees will listen to comments but will not respond to them at this time. I have arranged for Mr. Chuck Pridemore (Site Development Supervisor with Riley Homes, Inc.) to attend our meeting and he will be afforded the same opportunity. I should emphasize once again the public comment portion of the agenda is not a time for two-party discussion between residents and Board members or between residents and Mr. Pridemore. This is a very emotional issue for many current residents and it could quickly get out of hand so I will strictly enforce this policy. I will explain this at the meeting and remind everyone to speak one at a time and to do so respectfully.

That being said, I will briefly comment on the issue during the mayor's portion of the administrative reports section of the agenda. I will also announce my willingness to facilitate a discussion after our regularly scheduled meeting concludes. Mr. Pridemore with Riley Homes has agreed to remain after the meeting as well.

This issue does not require any official action to be taken by the Village Board of Trustees. The Board certainly needs to be educated about the issue but no action is required on their part. This issue fits squarely within the purview of the Village Clerk. It is the Clerk who, in Oreana, receives and processes applications for building permits. The Clerk requires the submittal of whatever information believed necessary to justify the issuance or denial of a building permit. It is obvious, due to the issuance of the building permit, the Clerk was satisfied that the proposed construction was acceptable. If the Clerk was not satisfied with the supporting information provided the Clerk should have rightfully denied the building permit. If the issuance of the building permit resulted from false information provided on the application for building permit, I believe the Clerk has the right to revoke said building permit independently of any Board action.

It seems to me this issue hinges on a manufactured home compared to a modular home. The Village of Oreana Code of Ordinances clearly prohibits the placement of a manufactured home anywhere inside Village limits unless the manufactured home is inside a designated mobile home park. There is no such prohibition concerning a modular home. Quite simply, if the home in question is a manufactured home the Village Clerk should immediately revoke the building permit. If the home in question is a modular home the construction should proceed with our blessing. Most individuals are not educated as to the distinction. The discussion I am willing to facilitate at the conclusion of our regularly scheduled Board meeting should focus on the distinction between a manufactured home and a modular home and which animal the home in question is.

I am expecting a long but productive meeting.

Sanitary Sewer Project Open Houses

2009-08-13T14:28:00.005-05:00

I am scheduling a series of open houses to present Oreana residents with information relative to the sanitary sewer construction project. The open houses are scheduled at the Whitmore / Oreana Community Center, 407 South View Street, Oreana, IL 62554 on the following dates and times:

Tuesday, 25 August 2009 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday, 27 August 2009 @ 6:30 pm
Saturday, 29 August 2009 @ 10:00 am

These meetings will be hosted as open houses where individuals may browse maps, pick up printed materials regarding the project, ask questions one-on-one, etc. There will not be a formal "presentation" as I would like the open houses to be "conversational" in nature. I will provide some coffee and cookies at the evening open houses and coffee and donuts at the Saturday morning open house.

Along with myself representing the Village of Oreana, I have invited representatives of the Sanitary District, Bainbridge Gee Milanski and Associated (engineers), Otto Baum (general contractor), Burdick Plumbing (force main and pump station contractor), and Luka Excavating (gravity sewer contractor) to assist in answering questions.

I would encourage all residents to make a concerted effort to attend. I have scheduled 3 open houses to accommodate as many schedules as possible.

OREANA Road Closure:

2009-08-13T14:25:00.004-05:00

To help ensure the health and safety of crews performing sanitary sewer construction work Lorraine / Clay Street will be closed from Bower Street to South Street (County Highway 20) beginning Monday, 17 August 2009 through Monday, 31 August 2009. Local traffic should utilize West Street as an alternative route.

2009 Oreana Summer Park Program

2009-05-13T06:53:00.001-05:00

Ok, many people have recently heard that the Oreana Summer Park Program was cancelled.

This is simply not true. At a specially scheduled meeting on 12 May 2009, the Oreana Village Board of Trustees approved the funding by a vote of 4-2 (Trustees Ballard, Fogerson, Hiser and Lewis voted in favor of the program while Trustees Johnson and Ward voted against it). A tentative schedule of activities for the month of June is (or will be) posted on www.LightnerForMayor.com for easy access.

A flyer will be coming home this week with your child detailing some of our fun events.

Yes, we will be bringing back the art lessons for all of you moms that enjoyed those so much. We also are having 4-H come out and do an awesome mini camp on two Mondays (June 15th and June 22nd) for a mere $3.00 per session. Girl Scouts will be out on Wednesdays with Fun Summer Safety. Preschool Story Hour will be on that day as well. we are excited that all of these special presentations are coming to us! As always, we also have a few field trips planned. White t-shirts with the Park Program logo will be available later in the month to tye dye!

Sign ups will be starting this Saturday, May 16 from 1-3pm at the Oreana Library. If you have any questions please call 468-2658 (my home number) or email me through the website. We look forward to seeing you at the park this year!

2009 Consolidated Election Results

2009-04-08T11:40:00.001-05:00

Let's spend a little time analyzing the results from yesterday's consolidated election. What results surprised you and, more importantly, why did the result surprise you? You should feel free to comment on any contested race but I will focus my comments on the Oreana mayoral contest. Let's start by announcing the results and then looking at some math behind the numbers:

Daniel M. Lightner 178 (67.4%)

Steven Ryan 86 (32.6%)

A total of 267 ballots were cast in this race, but 178 votes for Lightner plus 86 votes for Ryan equals 264 total votes.

What happened? It's officially called an undervote. An undervote is when a voter chooses neither candidate in a particular race. This happened 3 times in this contest...3 voters could / did not choose between Lightner and Ryan. I have a few theories, based upon private conversations I had prior to the election, explaining the identity of these three voters. Those conversations will remain private however.

This also happened in the Village of Oreana Clerk's race this year. Even though only one candidate was running for the position and a win was guaranteed, 56 voters chose not to cast a vote in that contest. Anyway, A voter can theoretically cast a blank ballot without voting for any candidate whatsoever. The official voting records maintained by the Macon County Clerk will still show the individual voted in an election, but obviously no votes would be added to any candidate's tally.

Back to the 267 ballots cast within the Village of Oreana. This translates into a 43.3% voter turnout as there were 617 registered and eligible voters. This a great turnout for a consolidated election. Typically consolidated elections run around 20-30%. We should all be proud of ourselves for exercising our right to vote!

Election Day is Here!

2009-04-07T10:23:00.013-05:00

Well, today is election day. It represents an end of our campaigns and the beginning of our community's future. I appreciate the efforts some of you have made on my behalf this election cycle. I am also hopeful that some of you who do not support me continue to be active in our community. I suggest that participation is not only a right, but is the duty of all residents.

I hope you take it upon yourself to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open from 6 am to 7 pm today in Oreana Park.

In the 2005 election cycle, a total of 125 votes were cast for the position of Village of Oreana Mayor. In the 2001 election cycle, a total of 289 votes were cast for the position of Village of Oreana Mayor. Let's see how today's election compares...(Keep in mind the following updates regarding the number of ballots cast includes those ballots for the Village of Oreana election AND the Whitmore Township election as the polling places were combined several years ago.)..

My mistake...these votes include the number of ballots cast for the Village of Oreana election only, not the Whitmore Township election as I previously stated....

UPDATE #1: 9:30 am - sources say that 63 ballots have been cast.

UPDATE #2: 10:30 am - sources say that 91 ballots have been cast.

UPDATE #3: 12:30 pm - sources say that 147 ballots have been cast.

UPDATE #4: 5:30 pm - sources say that 249 ballots have been cast.

UPDATE #5: 7:00 pm - sources say that 295 paper ballots have been cast.

Get Out and Vote!

2009-03-31T10:56:00.000-05:00

I wanted to first thank you for the support you have given my re-election campaign thus far. I also wanted to let you know where I stand and what I am thinking at this point. I am getting excited and a little nervous at the same time. Most people I speak to during the campaign state that I have nothing to worry about. That is a little comforting but also a little worrisome. It is comforting to know that I have so much support. It is worrisome because this could indicate complacency on the part of some supporters. They may not feel the need to go vote on April 7, 2009.

There is approximately one week left before the April 7, 2009 municipal elections. ONE WEEK!!! I wanted to encourage you to call some of your friends and neighbors who live in Oreana to let them know you support Lightner for Mayor. Tell them that voting on April 7, 2009 is IMPORTANT. Let them know that elections are not about websites, not about postcard mailings, and not about yard signs. ELECTIONS ARE ABOUT VOTING!!! We can put up as many yard signs as we want, but only your vote and the votes of your friends and neighbors can elect Lightner to a third term. This is extremely basic but extremely important.

As I previously stated I never take elections for granted and I always campaign like I am 5 points behind in the polls. I will continue to personally ask residents for their support because I do not want to wake up the day after the election feeling as if I should have done more to get people to the polls. I'm certain that you don't either. Please take a few moments this week to phone your friends and neighbors about your support for Lightner for Mayor and the importance of voting.

Thank you once again...see you at the polls on April 7, 2009!

Signs of Progress?

2009-03-23T13:22:00.001-05:00

Yes, the pun is intended. Last week I noticed that my opponent moved several of his signs out of the right-of-way. I thought that maybe, just maybe, he took it upon himself to learn the regulations concerning rights-of-way. I was hopeful.

Upon further investigation, however, he did not educate himself. He simply found a few private land owners willing to place one of his sings in their yard. Several other signs remain in the public road right-of-way. I was disappointed.

I guess I should consider this minor development to be progress?

Oreana Sewer System Bid Opening

2009-03-23T13:21:00.000-05:00

As I stated in a previous post, the date and time of bid opening for the Oreana Sewer Collection System has been delayed. This delay gives the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency time to establish their interanl rules and proceedures for using the federal stimulus dollars. Oreana will realize an overall 25% decrease in the amount of debt incurred to construct this sanitary sewer system. That amounts to approximately $1 million!

The date and time for bid opening is now 10:00 A.M. on May 6, 2009.

My Opponent Supports Me!

2009-03-17T15:59:00.005-05:00

Interesting. My opponent mails a flier to Oreana residents in which he introduces himself and lists a few issues he would like to address if elected. This is, in general, a good idea. I have also sent a few mailings listing the accomplishments of the Lightner administration. His flier is interesting, though, because he seems to support everything the Lightner administration is already accomplishing. He lists no new issues or ideas. The flier states he would like to work on

-growth of the village,

-cost to taxpayers,

-drinking water upgrades,

-city sewer upgrades,

-law enforcement upgrades,

-street and city appearance upgrades.

So, if I understand this correctly, my opponent supports me? I'm OK with that.

Unaware or Arrogant?

2009-03-11T15:33:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, 11 March 2009

It apparently did not work. My opponent put up more campaign signs yesterday. Several of those newly placed signs are in the right-of-way as were his previous signs. Some of his previous signs have been moved away from the road just a bit but are still in the right-of-way.

I will give my opponent the benefit of the doubt because it is my nature. I don't think he is arrogant enough to publicly and purposefully do what he knows to be wrong. I believe my opponent is unaware as to what a right-of-way is and the regulations concerning them. Either way, however, it frightens me that an individual who is unaware of the law or arrogant enough to defy it wants to become our Mayor!

Talk amongst yourselves.

Signs, Signs, Everywhere Signs!

2009-03-09T15:22:00.000-05:00

Sunday, 9 March 2009

I had a nice conversation with my opponent this afternoon regarding the placement of his campaign signs. I advised him that several, but not all, of his signs appear to be placed on public road right-of-way and should be moved. Campaign signs should only be placed on private property.

I believe that placing campaign signs on public road right-of-way shows a lack of respect for public safety. As I stated in a previous Diary entry, those signs can interfere with a driver's field of vision. To quote an Oreana resident who has complained to me about this issue:

“My guess is that he's done it out of "ignorance of the law" rather than purposely. Either way, it is a (1) safety issue and (2) a precedent that I don't want to see started in the village -- candidates loading up their signs on ground which should not (and can not) be used for campaigning.”

I agree 100%. The difficulty in addressing this issue is that I, as a sitting Mayor who is currently seeking re-election, will undoubtedly appear as if I am picking on my opponent.

If I make him remove his signs from public right-of-way the argument could be made that I am using my position as Mayor to disadvantage his campaign. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, that allegation could only be true if I placed my signs in the right-of-way while prohibiting my opponent from doing the same. I will remind everyone that my signs are placed on private property with permission of the landowner.

We'll see if he chooses to move them or not. I think he will.

this just in...sewer update - 27 February 2009

2009-02-27T14:15:00.001-06:00

Bid opening for the Oreana Sewer project is being delayed for 60 days. Contrary to what your initial reaction may be this is great news. If we delay the project by 60 days we will receive a 25% grant from the federal stimulus package! That's right, 25% grant!

This means the cost of the project is reduced and the amount of debt repayment rolled into our monthly user charges can be reduced as well. More explanation will be forthcomming as details emerge...stay tuned.

Campaign Signs & Safe Driving

2009-02-24T16:05:00.001-06:00

LightnerForMayor yard signs were distributed a few days ago. Out of respect for traffic safety and property rights Every sign is placed on private property with permission of the landowner. I do not / will not place my signs too close to the road as this can interfere with a driver's field of vision. Besides, in all reality, campaign signs can be seen just as easily when placed in a front yard.

Happy and safe motoring to you all.

2009LFM Collectible Wooden Nickel

2009-02-24T15:01:00.008-06:00

I have a limited number of collectible 2009 LightnerForMayor campaign wooden nickels (1 ½ inch diameter) available for purchase. You will receive one collectible 2009 LightnerForMayor campaign wooden nickel for every $5 donated through www.LightnerForMayor.com until April 7, 2009.

The collectible 2009 LightnerForMayor campaign wooden nickels feature a round version of my campaign logo on both sides. Side one lists “OREANA, IL” and side two lists “APRIL 7, 2009” through the center of the logo.

You must provide your home mailing address and phone number so that I may deliver or have them delivered to you. First come, first served. Limited quantities available.

7 April 2009 consolidated election predictions / races to watch?

2009-02-23T13:34:00.005-06:00

By commenting on this post you can predict election results and comment on races you believe to be interesting.

Please be sure to keep you comments clean and focused on the positive. Personal attacks on any of the candidates will be deleted. I will be the sole person determining what constitutes a personal attack. If this becomes a problem I will simply turn off the option to leave anonymous comments. Consider yourself warned.

Below are the positions and candidates as I understand them:

Argenta Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Deena L. Bowman, Incumbent

Argenta Trustee (Vote for Three)

Larry Slemp, Incumbent

Brad Rissler, Incumbent

No Candidate

Blue Mound Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Jerry Reichert, Incumbent

Kenny Ervin

Blue Mound Village Clerk (Vote for One)

No Candidate

Blue Mound Trustee (Vote for Three)

Phil Crackel, Incumbent

Carol Jones, Incumbent

Ron Aten

Scott Hays

Danny Spiker

Edwin Weybright Jr.

Forsyth Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Harold “Hap” Gilbert, Incumbent

Bob Rasho

Forsyth Trustee (Vote for Three)

Marilyn Johnson, Incumbent

Ellen Baker

Steve Hubbard

Eric Morr

Vidya Morisetty

Harristown Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Rose Marie Ross, Incumbent

Gordon Schrishuhn

Cissy Trusner

Harristown Clerk (Vote for One)

Penny Allen, Incumbent

Harristown Treasurer (Vote for One)

Charlotte Long, Incumbent

Janice Wright

Harristown Trustee (Vote for Three)

Walter Walker, Incumbent

Lorraine Roberts, Incumbent

W. Cody Endrizzi

Long Creek Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Michael R. Bruce, Incumbent

Cheryl A. Smith

Long Creek Trustee (Vote for Three)

Jeanne Robinson, Incumbent

Nancy Benton, Incumbent

Glenn L. Calhoun

Macon Mayor (Vote for One)

Tom Collins

City Clerk (Vote for One)

Pam Windell, Incumbent

City Treasurer (Vote for One)

Dale Tomlinson, Incumbent

City Alderman (Vote for One)

Frank Dunmire, Incumbent

City Alderman (Vote for Three)

Cecil Damery, Incumbent

Phil Tomlinson, Incumbent

Greg Smith, Incumbent

Jeanne Hill

Maroa Mayor (Vote for One)

Ted L. Agee, Incumbent

Maroa City Clerk (Vote for One)

Angela Sarver, Incumbent

Maroa City Treasurer (Vote for One)

Michele Modro-Peters

Maroa Ward One Alderman (Vote for One)

Ronald S. Runyen

Vincent L. Sims

Maroa Ward Two Alderman (Vote for One)

James Ryan Wilkey, Incumbent

Maroa Ward Three Alderman (Vote for One)

Tamara Larson, Incumbent

Mount Zion Trustee (Vote for Three)

Rick Bright, Incumbent

Donna Scales, Incumbent

Dean Otta

Niantic Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Bobby Embrey

Niantic Village Clerk (Vote for One)

Brenda Bailey, Incumbent

Kelly Iberson

Niantic Trustee (Vote for Three)

Joe Turner, Incumbent

Dave Rogers, Incumbent

Brian Wilhelm, Incumbent

Tyler Lyons

Oreana Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Daniel M. Lightner, Incumbent

Steve Ryan

Oreana Village Clerk (Vote for One)

Dawn Johnson, Incumbent

Oreana Trustee (Vote for Three)

Randy Johnson, Incumbent

Loren Hiser, Incumbent

Julia Ballard, Incumbent

Warrensburg Mayor (Village President), (Vote for One)

Leland Hackl, Incumbent

Tom Werren

Stephen Mills

Warrensburg Trustee (Vote for Three)

Paul Kelley, Incumbent

Frank Musick , Incumbent

Matthew Sliney

Jeannie Riddle

Douglas Fisher

Cynthia Trentz

Schlemiel, Schlimazel...

2009-02-23T12:44:00.003-06:00

hasenpfeffer incorporated! I can't wait to analyze the election results after the April 7, 2009 consolidated elections. Which candidate(s) if any, including myself, was a schlemiel (habitual bungler) whose campaign self-destructed? Which candidate(s) if any, including myself, was a schlimazel (generally unlucky person) who ran a good campaign but did not poll well enough?

This post applies to the municipal elections in Oreana, Argenta, Blue Mound, Decatur, Forsyth, Harristown, Long Creek, Macon, Maroa, Mt. Zion, Niantic, and Warrensburg. Pre-election comments predicting the schlemiels and schlimazels are encouraged.

Mayor Lightner seeks 3rd Term!

2009-02-20T10:25:00.000-06:00

To learn more, please visit:

www.LightnerForMayor.com

Sanitary Sewer Update - 19 February 2009

2009-02-19T13:14:00.000-06:00

In response to a question posted elsewhere on lightner.blogspot.com I offer the following post regarding the construction of a sanitary sewer system in Oreana.

The Village Board continues to deliberate over some details and has not yet officially made decisions on several fronts. The latest proposal made by the Health and Zoning Committee included the following details:

-hookup to the sanitary sewer system be mandatory for every residence;

-a tapping fee (hookup fee) of $1200 will be charged to every residence hooking up after 120 days of the sewer being made available;

-the $1200 tapping fee will be waived completely if the residence hooks up before the expiration of that 120 day period.

These recommendations were considered by the full village board on 17 February 2009 and referred back to the committee for more work. The full board wanted to see:

-hookup to the sanitary sewer system be mandatory for every residence;

-a minimal tapping fee charged if hooked up within the 120 day period;

-a fee greater than $1200 if hooked up after the expiration of the 120 day period;

-a different fee schedule for residences within Oreana and residences lying outside the Village limits (this will encourage property owners to annex prior to development of any subdivision).

I will schedule a public meeting as soon as possible after the village Board makes a few decisions. I don't want to appear before a large gathering of residents unless I have some answers to these questions.

While the village board continues to debate these issues I can only comment on the schedule for construction. Basically, the project has been advertised and bids will be opened on March 11, 2009. A contractor will be selected by the Sanitary District of Decatur on March 18, 2009. We expect the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to approve the award of contract in May. The contractor is tentatively scheduled to begin construction in May 2009 and complete construction within a 380 day period, or July of 2010. When construction is complete the Village will send notice to every residence that the 120 day period mentioned above begins.

Everyone will be SEVERELY inconvenienced. Every street (with the exception of the newly constructed county highway 20) will be torn up, almost every front yard will be torn up, and almost every back yard will be torn up. Garbage service, mail delivery, and school bus routes will be disrupted. We will also have the issue of emergency access to homes by police and fire. It's going to be a GREAT CHALLENGE, but one that I believe is worth the longer term benefit. This project, when complete, will be of incredible benefit to our community.

Valentine's Day Sweetheart Dinner

2009-02-02T11:01:00.001-06:00

The Argenta-Oreana High School Choir is hosting a Valentine's Day dinner on February 14, 2009. Dinner (Chicken Cordon Bleu) begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Argenta-Oreana High School cafeteria in Argetna. Tickets are $25.00 per couple or $12.50 per individual. Please contact members of the Argenta-Oreana High School Choir or Mrs. RaeAnn DeSutter for advance tickets.

Forsyth Chili Cookoff

2009-01-17T16:41:00.001-06:00

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Lego creation

2009-01-10T10:48:00.000-06:00

My son is a huge Lego fan, so i decided to make my own creation with him this morning...introducing my Emergency Artic Cargo Transport Vehicle...

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Festival of lights - Michigan Avenue

2008-11-22T19:48:00.000-06:00

The festival of lights was today on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. One word..COOL.

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Veterens' Day Observance

2008-11-11T11:04:00.003-06:00

Today is Veterans' Day and I will be attending an observance ceremony at the Argenta-Oreana Elementary School. The School invites area veterans and local officials to the gymnasium for a flag ceremony performed by the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, a short performance of some kind by the band and chorus, and short remarks by the Elementary School Principal. I've attended the past few years.

This is a great opportunity to express our gratitude to those who have honorably served our county. It also helps the school age children apply faces they recognize to the sometimes difficult to understand concept of a veteran.

Happy Veterans' Day.

Cub Scouts Space Derby

2008-11-08T15:01:00.001-06:00

Today was the local Cub Scouts Space Derby. This is my son's rocket that we built this past week. It flew fairly well. The Troop had some serious problems with the track and could not finish the single elimination tournament.

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Candidate signs

2008-11-06T12:55:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: In response to the comment submitted asking if the candidate signs were placed 100 feet or more from the main door of the building...

The red line is a 100 foot circle around the main door of the Whitmore Oreana Community Center. After reviewing this photo and the ones below, you can estimate the signs to be approximately 102 or 103 feet away.

Additionally, these matters are enforcable by the Poll Watchers provided at the polling place by both political parties. I'm not sure if anyone raised this "electioneering" concern to those poll watchers or not. If the issue was raised, the poll watchers apparently had no concern.

I have received a few compkaints about the size and location of campaign signs this past Tuesday. Personally, I do not have any concerns woth what I saw...

Comments, reactions?

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

2008-11-04T11:00:00.001-06:00

Here are my election results predictions for Macon County as a whole. This is not necessarily how I voted and this is limited to Macon County results only:

Turnout: 80%

ConCon: No 58%

President: Obama 62%

Senate: Durbin 75%

18th Congressional: Schock 53%

51st Senate: Watson 95%

101st Representative: Flider 99%

State's Attorney: Ahola 97%

Circuit Clerk: Trusner 55%

Recorder: Eaton 70%

Coroner: Day 99%

Auditor: Stockwell 98%

County Board District 7 (full 4 year term): Yoder 94%

County Board District 7 (2 year unexpired term): Greenfield 53%

This is definitely a Democratic year.

Predictions in Whitmore 1 (Oreana)

2008-11-04T10:35:00.004-06:00

Here are my election results predictions for the Whitmore 1 precinct (Village of Oreana). This is not necessarily how I voted, it is not my final prediction for the races, it is limited to Oreana results only:

Turnout: 85%

ConCon: No 70%
President: Obama 57%
Senate: Durbin 73%
18th Congressional: Schock 60%
51st Senate: Watson 96%
101st Representative: Flider 98%
State's Attorney: Ahola 97%
Circuit Clerk: Trusner 54%
Recorder: Eaton 73%
Coroner: Day 99%
Auditor: Stockwell 98%
County Board District 7 (full 4 year term): Yoder 94%
County Board District 7 (2 year unexpired term): Spent 57%

Electronic Ballot

2008-11-04T10:30:00.002-06:00

OK, I just returned home from voting in the Whitmore / Oreana Community Center. This polling place combines Whitmore 1 and Whitmore 4 precincts (all of Whitmore Township). The Whitmore 1 precinct emcompasses all of Oreana and Whitmore 4 emcompasses the rest of Whitmore Township. I chose to cast my ballot on the electronic voting machine and did so with no problems whatsoever.

Turnout seems heavy witha continual stream of voters arriving and departing. There was no waiting to use a paper vallot. I waited approximately 10 minutes to use the electronic voting machine. Casting my ballot took about 2 minutes once I put my card in the machine. Simple.

Village picnic update

2008-10-18T18:48:00.000-05:00

My initial estimate is 40-50 in attendance. Good time had by all...several people have already left doe to cool temperatures.

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Village picnic

2008-10-18T13:13:00.001-05:00

Today is the annual village picnic. I am expecting the attendance to be down this year due to colder weather and family obligations. We start at 4 ang eat at 5. I will post again later with an update.

Daniel M. Lightner
sent from MotoQ

Oreana Park Program News

2008-06-20T17:37:00.001-05:00

Prairie Festival Parade
June 21 is the date for the Parade in Argenta. Line-up will be in the High School parking lot at 11:20 and everyone is asked to wear their 2008 Park t-shirts. Pick-up will be as soon as the parade is done in the high school parking lot.

Pla-Mor Bowling
Just a reminder that all children planning to go bowling on Monday need to have a sack lunch to eat since we are leaving at 12:30 from the park.

Scovill Zoo Trip Rescheduled
We are planning to go to the zoo on June 25^th so Girl Scouts and Children's Story Hour will be moved to the 26^th. We will leave from the park at 9:30 and all children need to have a sack lunch.

Water Day
Our annual fun day is scheduled for June 27^th. As in the past we will have the Fire Department spraying water, wading pools and other water activities. Remember swim suit, towel and sunscreen for this day. The park is providing hot dogs and drinks for the meal and we would like children who's last name begins with A-M to bring a dessert and N-Z to bring chips to share.

Thank you for allowing your children to participate in the 2008 Village of Oreana Summer Park Program We hope that everyone has had an enjoyable experience.

Code Revision - Section 27-6-3 Open Burning

2008-02-25T09:31:00.002-06:00

The Village of Oreana Health and Zoning Committee has been discussing revisions to Oreana Code Section 27-6-3 dealing with open burning of landscape waste. At their February meeting, the Board of Trustees adopted the following revisions. Changes were minor. Underlined text was added to the Code and struck-through text was deleted. No changes were made to the type of materials you are permitted to burn. Of particular interest is paragraph D which deals with the moisture content of the landscape waste. An open flame should help eliminate all the smoldering, smoking, slow burning fires which irritate certain health conditions like asthma.

27-6-3 RESTRICTIONS ON BURNING OF LANDSCAPE WASTE. The open burning of landscape waste shall be permitted only on the following conditions:

(A) Landscape waste shall be burned on the premises on which such waste is generated; and

(B) Landscape waste shall be burned only when atmospheric conditions shall readily dissipate contaminants; and,

(C) Landscape waste ~~may~~ shall be burned only ~~if such burning does not create a visibility hazard on roadways, walkways, or railroad tracks~~ when the burning does not become or create a safety hazard; and,

(D) Landscape waste shall have a moisture content sufficiently low enough to allow an open and visible flame to burn; and

(DE) Open burning of landscape waste may only take place during daylight hours with a person over eighteen (18) years of age in attendance during the entire period of burning; and,

(EF) No open burning of landscape waste shall be permitted on any streets or roadways; and,

(FG) No open burning shall occur during periods of time when the Mayor or the Village Board have determined that atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous and dangerous.

Primary Election Day

2008-02-05T16:27:00.000-06:00

OK...today is primary election day in Illinois. I was the 63rd person voting today in Whitmore 1&4 consolidated polling place. That was at 8 am this morning. Obviously I will encourage all individuals eligible to vote to exercise that right.

I am particularly interested in the Presidential race, several county wide races, and a few county board district races. Results can be found online by clicking here: Election results.

Post your predictions and or reactions to results in the comments section.

Contact the Mayor

2007-12-13T19:24:00.000-06:00

The "Contact the Mayor" section to the right-hand side of this page is now working correctly...I think. Give it a try!

Illinois Municipal League Annual Conference 2007

2007-12-13T09:00:00.000-06:00

As published in the November issue of the Illinois Municipal Review, the Magazine of the Municipalities (a publication of the Illinois Municipal League), here I am moderating a discussion of municipalities under 5000 population...

This was a great opportunity to meet elected officials from "bretheren" municipalies throughout Illinois with populations under 5000. I was also able to share my experiences, learn from their experiences, and to brainstorm when looking for solutions to common problems.

phenocopy - Hannah's Word of the Day

2007-10-09T10:29:00.000-05:00

phe·no·cop·y

n. pl. phe·no·cop·ies

An environmentally induced, nonhereditary variation in an organism, closely resembling a genetically determined trait.

Understanding property tax rates in Oreana

2007-10-04T13:32:00.000-05:00

A taxpayer whose home has a fair market value of $200,000.00 would pay approximately $399.99 in property tax to the Village of Oreana.

Understanding Your Property Tax Bill

The amount of your property tax bill is an aggregate amount based on a combination of a county tax rate, a township tax rate, a school district tax rate, a municipal tax rate (if a taxpayer lives within the boundaries of an incorporated municipality), and rates for any special districts such as fire, sanitary, etc., which service the area. In Illinois the tax rate is generally expressed in terms of dollars per hundred dollars of assessed valuation.

For most residential property in Oreana the Township Assessor estimates the fair market value of your property then develops an assessed value based on 33.33% of that fair market value. The assessed value of your property is then multiplied by the aggregate tax rate to calculate your annual tax bill. The aggregate tax rate within the Village of Oreana is $7.87314 per $100.00 of assessed valuation. This aggregate rate includes the following taxing bodies:

Taxing District		Tax Rate
County Health & Mental Health		0.23207
Macon County Conservation District		0.10561
Macon County Cooperative Extension		0.02589
Macon County		0.94028
Argenta-Oreana Fire Protection District		0.35218
Richland Community College		0.38678
Argenta-Oreana Public Library District		0.25698
Whitmore-Oreana Multi-Township Assessment District		0.03855
Whitmore Park District		0.03807
Whitmore Cemetery		0.02144
Whitmore Township		0.64636
Argenta-Oreana School District		4.22905
Village of Oreana		0.59988
Mahomet Aquifer W A		0.00000
		7.87314

Notice the Village of Oreana only levies a tax of $0.59988 per $100.00 of assessed valuation. (The City of Decatur levies $1.24176, the Village of Argenta levies $1.11403, the Village of Forsyth levies $0.37428, The Village of Warrensburg levies $1.06422, the City of Maroa levies $1.31864, the Village of Mount Zion levies $0.78795, the Village of Niantic levies $0.65059, the Village of Blue Mound levies $0.82513, the City of Macon levies $0.70875). The rest of your tax payment is owed to and received by the other taxing bodies listed. A taxpayer whose home hass a fair market value of $200,000.00 (or an assessed value of $66,660.00) would have , based on this rate, a tax bill of $5,248.24. Only $399.99 of this total tax bill is received by the Village of Oreana. In comparison, $2819.10 is received by the Argenta – Oreana School District.

Please visit http://www.iltax.com/Publications/LocalGovernment/PTAX1004.pdf for more information on the calculation of property taxes in Illinois.

Media Mention - Chicago Tribune Budget Override Hearings

2007-10-02T08:54:00.000-05:00

Budget duel catches some in crossfire

By Jeffrey Meitrodt, Tribune staff reporter. Tribune staff reporter Erika Slife contributed to this report

October 1, 2007

SPRINGFIELD - The mayor of Oreana was angry. A local lawmaker had promised him $750,000 for a water pipeline, but the money later was trimmed out of the budget by Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who described such spending as "pork" that needed to be jettisoned to make way for his broad expansion of health care.

Mayor Dan Lightner told a packed meeting room in Decatur that the spending was anything but frivolous, that the pipeline would bring water to his village from nearby Forsyth, enabling his tiny central Illinois community to grow without having to invest in a costly waste-treatment system.

"Pork? No," Lightner said. "This makes sense for our taxpayers."

Two weeks later, at a forum in Springfield, the budget message was different. State bureaucrats and labor leaders told the audience in a crowded conference room that what Illinois needs now is the governor's $25 billion public works program, not more bickering over budget cuts. Their key example: a $10 million medical training center in Springfield that could save lives. They implored residents to call their representatives and urge them to vote for the capital plan in the House.

"Legislators have to make that judgment: Is their dislike more important than the critical human and physical needs of the state?" said Judy Erwin, executive director of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

In towns large and small across Illinois, a political battle is being waged between two of the state's most powerful Democrats.

The governor and House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago), who have been fighting for months over the state budget, have sent their troops to town halls, civic centers and high school auditoriums to make one last pitch for their competing visions of how the state should spend its money this fiscal year.

Back to Springfield

At stake is the governor's $25 billion construction plan, which would be the largest in state history, and $463 million in so-called pork and special-interest spending. The governor cut that money out of the 2008 budget over the protests of Madigan and other lawmakers who believe they know best when it comes to doling out cash for small infrastructure projects and other local initiatives.

The skirmishing could come to a head this week, when lawmakers return to Springfield to take up the budget, new casinos, a mass-transit bailout for the Chicago area and other major issues as the fall veto session convenes a month early. It's just one more sign that business is anything but usual this year at the state Capitol, where lawmakers wonder if this year's record-setting session will ever end.

"I am embarrassed by it all," said Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock). "This isn't about public policy. It is all about egos at this point."

The dueling roadshows began Sept. 12, about three weeks after Blagojevich's budget cuts. The governor derided much of the spending but aimed his cuts at House Democrats and Senate Republicans, whom the governor blamed for blocking large parts of his agenda this year. Largely spared were Senate Democrats allied with Blagojevich.

To counter the governor's attacks, Madigan organized 19 bipartisan public hearings throughout the state at which he said "victims of the cuts" would testify about the harm done to their communities by the governor's "savage" vetoes.

The first hearing took place in Decatur, where more than 100 people showed up for a four-hour budget presentation. The emotional high point of the evening came when Kerry Jennings, who was born with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, spoke about the prospect of losing his $60,000-a-year job as advocacy coordinator for the Statewide Independent Living Council of Illinois.

Jennings said he is also worried about the governor's cuts to the personal assistance program, which has made it possible for him to live on his own for 17 years. He said the cuts mean he will be without help at least one day a week.

"Does that mean I have to decide whether I will take a shower or whether I should get out of bed that day?" asked Jennings, 36. "That's not right."

At another forum in Flossmoor, Brendan McCormick, executive director of Good Shepherd Center for Exceptional Children, said he is disappointed when he hears Blagojevich say the cuts represent less than 1 percent of the state's roughly $60 billion budget.

"He doesn't seem to understand that while this amount may seem insignificant to him, it means a lot to the people of the south suburbs," McCormick said.

Representatives from the governor's office attended most of the hearings and handed out fliers defending his vetoes.

Madigan spokesman Steve Brown said the hearings will culminate Monday in a rare committee-of-the-whole meeting in the House. Brown said the hearings have been critical to building political support for an override of the governor's budget vetoes, but a House vote could be meaningless because Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) has vowed not to allow a vote on a budget override.

Meanwhile, Blagojevich is trying to pressure Madigan into calling a vote on his public works program, which passed the Senate last month. The governor and his Senate allies held several news conferences last week to promote the six-year plan, which depends on local, state and federal dollars, and another one is scheduled for Monday in Elgin.

At each event, state officials have compiled lists of projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars that would be completed locally if the program gets approved by the House. In Urbana, that list included $114 million for the University of Illinois, including $60 million to build a home for what would reportedly be the world's fastest computer.

"It is time to put differences aside and come together to pass a capital bill that will create thousands of jobs, make our infrastructure more sound and safe and support business and commerce in our state," said Deputy Gov. Louanner Peters.

On the outside

While governors often use such tactics to build support for their programs, it's unusual for lawmakers to respond in kind, political experts said.

"Normally, legislative leaders work on the inside," said Kent Redfield, a political science professor at the University of Illinois at Springfield. "Both sides are trying to gain some advantage and build coalitions that will allow them to win. But we've gotten to a point where I'm not sure what winning is anymore."

----------

reciprocate - Hannah's Word of the Day

2007-09-28T12:52:00.001-05:00

re·cip·ro·cate

v. re·cip·ro·cat·ed, re·cip·ro·cat·ing, re·cip·ro·cates

1. To give or take mutually; interchange.
2. To show, feel, or give in response or return.

v.intr.

1. To move back and forth alternately.
2. To give and take something mutually.
3. To make a return for something given or done.
4. To be complementary or equivalent.

Increased Traffic Enforcment Efforts

2007-09-25T20:22:00.000-05:00

In response to residents' concerns the Oreana Village Board has recently debated ways in which to control speeding and increase police presence in the Village. I wanted to inform you of recent decisions made by the Board so that upcoming changes do not come as a surprise to you.

At their August meeting the Oreana Village Board determined a greater law enforcement presence was needed during the overnight hours. They authorized me to hire an additional law enforcement officer to work those specific hours. Our newest officer began work this month. The Village Board has also asked that our officers concentrate on moving violations for the next few months. In particular our officers have been directed to more strictly enforce our local speed limits. The posted speed limit on local roads, including County Highway 20, is 30 miles per hour...slow down.

At their September meeting the Oreana Village Board passed an ordinance declaring two intersections along South View Street to be four-way stop intersections. Traffic on South View Street previously did not stop in either direction. You will now notice stop signs installed where South View Street intersects with Rayjon Drive (southern end of View Circle) and where South View Street intersects with East View Street (northern end of View Circle). Northbound and southbound traffic on South View Street is now required to stop at these intersections. Please be watchful for children in these areas as they will be expecting you to obey these new signs.

At your service,
Daniel M. Lightner, Mayor

tarantula - Hannah's Word of the Day

2007-09-19T16:20:00.000-05:00

SYLLABICATION: ta·ran·tu·la

PRONUNCIATION: t-rnch-l

NOUN: Inflected forms: pl. ta·ran·tu·las or tarantu·lae (-l)

1. Any of various large, hairy, chiefly tropical spiders of the family Theraphosidae, capable of inflicting a painful but not seriously poisonous bite. 2. A large wolf spider (Lycosa tarentula) of southern Europe, once thought to cause tarantism.

ETYMOLOGY: Medieval Latin, from Old Italian tarantola, after Taranto.

Revised Budget Override Testimony

2007-09-12T10:57:00.000-05:00

After much deliberation concerning the budget veto override hearings, I decided to escalate my remarks just a bit. Here is the actual text of my testimony...

Introduction

My name is Daniel Lightner. I am the Mayor of the Village of Oreana. I would first like to recognize Speaker Madigan’s leadership in calling for these regional hearings on budget veto overrides. Representative Flider, Representative Mitchell, Senator Watson - I appreciate your efforts in organizing and hosting today’s event. It is a pleasure to participate.

Ladies and gentlemen, my demeanor is one of civility and decorum. I do not enjoy giving public criticism any more than I enjoy receiving public criticism. I can not, however, sit quietly and allow my community or yours to play midwife to the Governor's ill-conceived budgetary vetoes. The Governor's veto pen would have better served my community, the community groups represented here this evening, and the entire State of Illinois had it remained in his desk drawer.

Body

The budget document passed by both houses and sent to the Governor included funding for two projects affecting the Village of Oreana. One project was sponsored by a House Democrat and one was sponsored by a Senate Republican. The Governor considered these projects “pork” and vetoed both. I do not share the Governor's viewpoint. These projects affect economic development, residential growth, and quality of life issues in Oreana.

Representative Flider was kind enough to include $25,000 in the budget document to resurface the parking lot in our Village park. This project was included as Article 565, Section 128, Page 971, Lines 6-10. This park is not only utilized by Oreana residents but also visitors from neighboring communities and unincorporated portions of Macon County. Quality recreational opportunities ranks high among factors considered by families when relocating. If Oreana can not continue improving our community park we will find ourselves at a competitive disadvantage when courting residential growth. Pork? No. Representative Flider understands this concept and I commend his determination to assist Oreana thrive.

Senator Watson was kind enough to include $750,000 in the budget document for costs associated with the purchase of bulk water from the Village of Forsyth and to construct a pipeline between the Village of Oreana and the Village of Forsyth. This project was included as Article 600, Section 570, Page 1159, Lines 6-12. Oreana and Forsyth have actively pursued this project for approximately four years and we are now in the design phase and are securing easements for construction. Oreana can produce enough drinking water for its existing population. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, however, will not allow Oreana to increase the amount produced until we are capable of properly disposing of the waste generated by the treatment process. Oreana's growth potential is effectively frozen by this restriction. Purchasing water from Forsyth presents an economical alternative and will encourage the residential and business growth we seek. Oreana would relieve itself of the regulatory headaches the EPA imposes on us for water treatment. This project will also allow both communities to benefit from an economy of scale. In simple terms, as the total number of gallons produced by a regional water treatment plant increases the treatment cost per gallon decreases. That makes sense for our taxpayers. Pork? No. Senator Watson understands the economic development, residential growth, and quality of life issues of this project and I also commend his determination to assist Oreana thrive.

Conclusion

While my testimony relates specifically to projects affecting the Village of Oreana, my words can be easily extrapolated and applied to the majority of projects vetoed. I urge all members of our State Legislature, in particular Senate President Jones, to support efforts to override the Governor's budgetary vetoes. I hope my testimony today contributes to the debate surrounding those efforts. Thank you for hearing my testimony. It has been an honor to appear before you.

At your service,
Daniel M. Lightner, Mayor

Budget Override Hearings

2007-09-06T18:32:00.000-05:00

The Illinois House of Representatives has scheduled 19 regional hearings on budget overrides. I have accepted an invitation by Representative Bob Flider (D-101) and Senator Frank Watson (R-51) to participate in the budget override hearing on 12 September 2007 at the Decatur City Council Chambers. Oreana had funding for two projects included in the budget. Governor Blagojevich considered these projects to be pork and vetoed them. Both projects, if you ask me, deal with the quality of life in Oreana.

The first project was parking lot resurfacing in the village park. Representative Flider included $25,000 in the budget to blacktop the parking lot and connect the two ends of our walking track with a 4' wide sidewalk.

The second project dealt with Oreana purchasing water from Forsyth. Senator Watson included $750,000 in the budget to construct the water pipeline connecting the Village of Forsyth with Oreana.

After I testify, I will post the transcript of my testimony. So here's my question. What would you like for me to tell the Governor during my testimony?

Sanitary Sewer Update

2007-08-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

See the "Sanitary Sewer" link under the Current Topics section for a recent update.

State of Illinois & Intergovernmental Water Purchase

2007-08-23T09:29:00.001-05:00

*Update...Governor files veto message today including this project.

Many of you have noticed the recent H&R article stating the Governor intends to veto "pork" from the budget document passed by the Legislature. Included in that "pork" is Section 570 (page 1159, line 13):

"$750,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary...for a grant to the Village of Oreana for all costs associated with the purchase of bulk water from the City of Forsyth and to construct a pipeline between the Village of Oreana and the City of Forsyth."

Senator Frank Watson was kind enough to insert this grant into the budget to assist our community purchase water from Forsyth. What I want to make clear in this post is that $750,000 grant is IN ADDITIION to the $250,000 STAG grant Congressman LaHood placed in the federal budget. The Village of Oreana Board of Trustees made the decision to purchase water from Forsyth prior to the $750,000 state budget line item.

The Governor's veto should have no impact on our project. We still intend to construct the pipeline between our communities and, in fact, are in the process of negotiating easements to do so.

Having said that, I will also suggest the $750,000 state budget line item would make the project MUCH more financially tolerable to Oreana's pocketbook. I urge residents to make two phone calls: (1) call Senator Watson (217-782-5755) to thank him for including this in the budget and to ask for his assistance in keeping it there, and (2) call the Governor's office (312-814-2121 Chicago, 217-782-6830 Springfield) and urge him to reconsider his threatened veto.

New Blog Section - Kid's Games

2007-05-29T20:45:00.000-05:00

See the new blog section on the right side...Kid's Games.

ENJOY!!

Mobile Office hours with Congressman Ray LaHood

2007-05-21T10:38:00.000-05:00

Mayor Daniel M. Lightner is hosting mobile office hours with Congressman Ray LaHood from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. on 1 June 2007. Oreana residents are encouraged to meet with Congressman Ray LaHood in Mayor Lightner’s office at 407 South View Street, Oreana, Illinois to discuss any federal issue of interest.

From Congressman LaHood's website:

“Ray...has always placed a great emphasis on the constituent service needs of the citizens of the 18th District. Some people need help in dealing with a Federal agency, to track down a medal that should have been awarded to a veteran, to help deal with the IRS, or to assist people going through the immigration process. Possibly a person is looking to start a small business and is looking for loan information from the Small Business Administration or is traveling to Washington, D.C. and is interested in tour information. Or maybe it is a local town which is pulling together to fund a new sewer system, roadway, or community center.”

A Soldier's Moment Speech - 12 May 2007

2007-05-12T15:24:00.001-05:00

I would like to thank Benjamen von Behren (Millikin University Sophomore), Anthywon Taylor (Youth Workshop Ministries), Millikin President Zemke and several others for organizing and hosting “A Soldier's Moment”...an event designed to salute our armed forces. My name is Daniel Lightner. I am the Mayor of Oreana, Illinois and it is a privilege to participate in today's ceremony.

I would like to touch on three aspects of today's events. First, I will speak of Decatur and Central Illinois' long and distinguished tradition of honoring the Armed Forces. Second, I will mention today's ceremony. Lastly, I will challenge each and every one here today to continue this tradition.

Since 1868 Central Illinois, and Decatur in particular, occupied a distinguished place in history for honoring those who serve in the armed forces. There was a man born February 9, 1826 in Jackson County, Illinois in what is now Murphysboro. He served in both the Illinois state legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives in the 1850’s. At the outbreak of the Civil War, he resigned his seat to join the Union army. He retired from the army in 1865 and returned to Congress two years later. John A. Logan founded the Grand Army of the Republic (an organization of Union veterans) in Decatur, Illinois, on April 6, 1866. He issued his General Orders #11 to establish May 30, 1868 as the first nationally organized Memorial Day (called Decoration Day at the time). These are John Logan’s words:

“The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country…and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet church-yard in the land. Let us, then, at the time appointed gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with the choicest flowers of spring-time; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor.”

He went on to serve in the U.S. Senate for 13 years in the 1870’s and 1880’s. He was also the Republican vice-presidential candidate in 1884. John A. Logan was a true public servant.

A more recent tradition, Armed Forces Day, was announced on August 31, 1949 by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson. The celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under the Department of Defense. In an excerpt from the Presidential Proclamation of February 27, 1950 President Truman stated:

“Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.”

Benjamen von Behren is a sophomore at Millikin University. He comes from a military family and has seen the sacrifice required of a member of the Armed Forces first-hand. I believe this is partly what prompted him to organize today's festivities. Ben, where are you? Would you please join me for a moment? I would like to present this Mayoral Proclamation in recognition of the efforts you put forth to organize this event.

We cannot truly understand the liberties we enjoy as Americans until we actively participate in advancing those freedoms. I want to challenge you to do exactly that – advance the freedoms for which our soldiers have sacrificed. You can do that by serving in the Armed Forces. You can demonstrate your appreciation by supporting a national or international organization that embraces and promotes our freedoms. Support a local community group that shelters the homeless. Volunteer with an area food pantry. Establish your own neighborhood organization to promote shared community values. Attend meetings of your local government - municipality, township, or county.

The members of our Armed Forces have always been, and they remain today, committed to something larger than themselves. They understand sacrifice for the greater good. They understand the price of freedom. They perform the highest form of public service and are an integral part of our everyday lives.

Today we honor those who originally fought to secure the liberties we now enjoy. Today we honor those who defend those freedoms. The men and women of the Armed Forces dedicate their lives to their God, to their country, to their convictions, and ultimately to you and I. Let today’s service honor their sacrifice, and let us remain thankful every day we enjoy the freedoms for which they fought.

Thank you.

A Soldier's Moment

2007-05-08T17:22:00.000-05:00

I have accepted an invitation to speak this saturday (12 May 2007) at an event honoring our armed forces . The event is titled "A Soldier's Moment" and will be held in the Millikin Campus Quad. I will be one of many speakers during the ceremony.

God bless our troops.

Rumored Resignations in Argenta

2007-05-08T17:16:00.000-05:00

I hear that the Argenta Mayor and Clerk resigned at last evening's village board meeting effective immediately. More details and commentary to come...

New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music

2007-04-27T12:50:00.000-05:00

Sat., May 5, 1:30 p.m. @ Rock Spring's Nature Center

Join us for the grand opening of the New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music educational display located in the Rock Spring's Nature Center’s north wing exhibit hall. Nationally acclaimed folk musician and songwriter Chris Vallillo, who makes the people and places of “unmetropolitan” America come to life in song, will perform. This exciting Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition can be viewed from May 5 through June 16. New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and the Illinois Humanities Councils.

Annual Clean Up Day

2007-04-24T13:09:00.000-05:00

I have scheduled Oreana's annual clean up day for 19 May 2007. Unlimited amounts of Residential Waste will be collected at the curb. Acceptable items must be placed at the curb by 6 am.

The following items will not be collected: Yard Waste, large automotive parts, concrete, gravel, dirt, tires or any type, batteries, paint products, insecticides, oil, antifreeze, toxic or hazardous products or items, Special Wastes as defined by the Illinois Pollution Control and waste from the construction or demolition of structures.
Happy Cleaning!

Maria Lightner for A-O School Board

2007-04-17T18:00:00.000-05:00

My name is Maria (Oldweiler) Lightner and I am seeking election to the Argenta-Oreana School Board. I have served on the Argenta-Oreana Board of Education since December 2006 and have worked cooperatively with the current board members, our Superintendent, teachers, and parents to make sound decisions for our District. I am encouraged by the positive changes that I have been a part of during my tenure on the Board. If elected, I will work to ensure each student becomes a productive, responsible and successful member of society.

I currently reside in Oreana with my husband, Dan, and our two children Hannah and Matthew. Dan and I both attended small town schools and want the same for our children. That is why we are happy to call Oreana home. It is also why I chose to become involved in the community. My community activities include: Argenta Oreana Board of Education, Argenta Oreana Library Board Treasurer, Oreana Summer Park Program, Oreana SHARE, Elder at the Oreana Christian Church, Brownie Leader, and school volunteer.

To help me continue my work towards excellence in our schools I am asking for your support. Please vote for Maria Lightner on April 17th.

H&R Editoral - Low Voter Turnout

2007-04-17T06:13:00.000-05:00

Lowest voter turnout, yet highest impact

By the H&REditorial Staff

Lowest voter turnout, yet highest impact

Experience tells us that a lot of you won't be voting today.

That's too bad. Although the local elections don't have the glitz and glamour that a lot of state and national elections have, this election will affect you in a very important area: your pocketbook.

Depending on where you live, you can go to the polls today and elect school board members, community college board members, library and fire protection district trustees and city council members. Those boards control millions of tax dollars. More than any other body, these boards decide whether your property taxes go up or down and how the money that's collected gets spent.

Of course, Illinois doesn't make following these elections easy. The state has the most units of government in the nation, a fact that means there are a lot of boards that hold elections. Keeping track of who is running and which units cover your area can be daunting.

But that's the system we have, and it's important to participate.

Unfortunately, that doesn't happen. Macon County Clerk Steve Bean, who will administer today's election in Macon County, said some voters are even jumping the gun to next year's presidential election.

"We've already got people thinking they're going to elect the president of the United States," Bean said. "People are coming in saying, 'I want to vote for Obama' or 'I want to vote for McCain' or Rudy or whoever."

Bean emphasizes that these local elections are often where the tax dollars meet the road.

"For an election that has the lowest turnout, these are the governments that are closest to the people, that really serve them every day. They make up the biggest hunk of the tax bill."

Despite that fact, today's election most likely will have a lower turnout than any of the other elections. Voters literally will stay away in droves.

There are some important races. The Decatur City Council has six candidates vying for three positions, and there are several candidates running for spots on the Richland Community College Board of Trustees. Those are just two examples. Many local school boards have races that are crowded with candidates.

Running as a local candidate isn't easy. There is no party structure to help out; most of these candidates raise a few dollars, plant their own yard signs and do their own campaigning. It's truly grass-roots democracy.

Except not enough voters participate.

We'd encourage all of you to stop the low turnout trend today. Get out and vote in the local races.

American Prairie Festival Breakfast Fundraiser

2007-04-12T12:48:00.001-05:00

The American Prairie Festival will be sponsoring a fundraising "all-you-can eat" breakfast 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 21 in Friends Creek Community Building, Argenta.

Cost for adults is $5; children 6 to 12 , $3; younger that 5, free. Proceeds will help fund the 2007 American Prairie Festival.

Boil Order Lifted

2007-04-11T15:36:00.000-05:00

The boil order issued yesterday for Burgess Street and Prairie Street has been lifted.

Boil Order for Burgess and Prairie Streets

2007-04-09T11:02:00.000-05:00

Effective immediately...a boil order has been issued for residents on Burgess Street and Prairie Street. This is a result of a water main repairs which are ongoing. Repairs are expected to be complete later today. The boil order will remain in effect until further notice. Again, this only affects homes on Burgess Street and Prairie Street.

Changes to blog layout

2007-04-09T09:13:00.000-05:00

I have added a "Community Calendar" to the sidebar of the page. Click on a day to see the agenda change...click on a specific event to see details. Also browse the newly revised "drop down" menus on the right side of this page. I repackaged the old links into a streamlined format. I also added a new section for "Local Business" links.

Let me know what you think.

Responses to Candidate Survey

2007-04-07T17:00:00.000-05:00

Steve Ryan - This is the only response I received on time.

How long have you lived in Oreana?

41 years minus the time I was in the military.

What are the basic responsibilities of municipal government?

To give the people of the town the needs they deserve such as clean water. Provide safety for their familes and property, to keep roads in good shape.

What is the role of a Trustee in performing those responsibilities?

To listen to the voice of the people and other board members and vote for what he or she feels would be best for the people.

What are the three most important issues facing Oreana other than sanitary sewers, drinking water, and stormwater drainage (these issues are already being addressed)?

1) safety of our family and property

2) careful regulated growth of the town

3) taxes

Explain your ideas to address the three issues you listed?

1) The current village board doesnt seem to think safety of our children is important. I intend to corporate argenta and Oreana into one police department. Growth means more traffic and I am for growth but lets not forget safety.

2) I would like to see Oreana grow but I think at a reasonable rate in a reasonable time.

3) Taxes will always be here and they will always go up before going down. Let's put them to better use and make improvements in our town.

What do you believe is Oreana's biggest challenge? Opportunity?

Proper water and sanitary sewers is going to be our biggest challenge now that we are going to receive it the challenge has just began.

Our opportunity is growth.

List your current and previous government experience, if any.

I was a leader in the military for over 5 years and was in charge of my soldiers and meeting orders from above command.

List your current and previous community service/volunteer experience, if any.

I have been a coach in the A-O youth league for 3 years and I am currently the secretary of the A-O youth league board.

What sets you apart from other candidates seeking election?

I have been in charge of millions of dollars worth of equipment and more importantly in charge of personel. I have worked and been in many different cultures and can relate to all of them.

Please make any additional comments you feel necessary.

I am a firm believer that the government works for the people and I know that sometimes everyone will not be satisfied with certain out comes but ceing open minded to all ideals will certainly help and thats what I plan to be. Oreana is a great town and we should keep it that way. There are many ways we can improve our town and I hope I get the chance to do that. Safety is a major concern of mine and I hipe it is for everyone else. I am also for growth but with that comes more traffic which means bigger risk of accidents, speeding, and more road improvements. I also think the town needs better upkeep. We can make it look better and more pleasing to people.

David Ward - This response was submitted after the deadline.

How long have you lived in Oreana?

30 years.

What are the basic responsibilities of municipal government?

To listen to the people. Make responsible choices based on what is best for the town and its residents. To find ways to improve our town and to keep our town a community of togetherness.

What is the role of a Trustee in performing those responsibilities?

To find the best possible solutions to the problems that arise. To search for the best updates for our town. To keep our town growing strong but in a pace that's acceptable.

What are the three most important issues facing Oreana other than sanitary sewers, drinking water, and stormwater drainage (these issues are already being addressed)?

1) encouraging more businesses.

2) keeping Decatur from taking over Oreana with its growth & resivoirs

3) steadily improving town togetherness

Explain your ideas to address the three issues you listed?

1) Possible tax incentives, more networking, show what Oreana has to offer. Possibility of attending business Expo's to be able to show what Oreana has to offer.

2) Attending more outskirting meetings, informing town of upcoming meetings of the plans Decatur has of moving this way with the Resivoir and staying up to date on anything concerning Oreana or our outlying area.

3) To plan community functions such as the town picnics & block parties. To help you get to know your neighbors.

What do you believe is Oreana's biggest challenge? Opportunity?

Keeping our town cleaned up. Staying on top of the way our town is being represented. The biggest opportunity is bringing in just the right amount of businesses for a small town as well as small town growth with out over doing it.

List your current and previous government experience, if any.

Presently a trustee.

List your current and previous community service/volunteer experience, if any.

Served on town picnic committee 3 yrs, American Prairie Festival 7 yrs, helped plan summer park program 3 yrs, Cub Scout leader 5 yrs, hold annual block party 5 yrs, helped on library construction committee, Decatur Celebration 6 yrs, classroom volunteer at school 10 yrs.

What sets you apart from other candidates seeking election?

I have 4 years experience. I am here for the people.

Please make any additional comments you feel necessary.

I feel our town has the opportunity to expand and still keep our small town atmosphere. I would like to add some other things for the kids. We have a nice park but I feel we could expand on it a little for the kids.

Opposable thumbs

2007-04-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

I try to get my picture taken with famous people whenever I have the chance...I couldn't get a signature, though. No opposable thumbs!

Google's April Fool's joke?

2007-04-02T10:36:00.000-05:00

Did anyone else notice this April Fool's joke from Google? Pretty funny stuff!

Oreana for Obama (March 31 Kickoff Event)

2007-03-26T12:14:00.000-05:00

On March 31st at 3:00 p.m. (Central Standard Time), Barack Obama will be speaking to a small group gathered in the home of an Iowa family. It will be a candid discussion about the challenges facing us today and how we can work together to change America. I am asking current supporters, and those interested in learning more about Barack Obama, to join in this discussion by gathering in the Oreana Library and watch this live webcast. We will also view a special DVD message from Barack Obama that is provided for this event.

My event will begin at 2:30. Reservations will be limited to the first 50 responses. Make reservation by sending me an email or Click here to respond.

Meet the Candidates Forum

2007-03-19T14:59:00.000-05:00

I am interested in hosting a "meet the candidates forum" the week before the 17 april 2007 election. I think this will be a structured, but informal, event where candidates can introduce themselves and explain why they are interested in serving on the Board of Trustees. I really don't expect large numbers of residents to attend, but I think it's important to offer the chance.

More later...

Candidate Surveys revised and mailed

2007-03-19T14:44:00.000-05:00

The candidate surveys mentioned in a previous post have been revised and mailed to each candidate. Candidates interested in responding were given a post-mark deadline of 30 March 2007. Final questions asked in the survey were:

How long have you lived in Oreana?
What are the basic responsibilities of municipal government?
What is the role of a Trustee in performing those responsibilities?
What are the three most important issues facing Oreana other than sanitary sewers, drinking water, and stormwater drainage (these issues are already being addressed)?
Explain your ideas to address the three issues you listed.
What do you believe is Oreana's biggest challenge? Opportunity?
List your current and previous government experience, if any.List your current and previous community service/volunteer experience, if any.
What sets you apart from other candidates seeking election?
Please make any additional comments you feel necessary.

Let's wait and see how many candidates respond. So that no preference is given to any individual candidate, I will post responses (completely unedited) alphabetical by last name.

Electoral Board Ruling

2007-02-23T13:20:00.000-06:00

The Oreana municipal officers electoral board, by a vote of 2-1, ruled the petition of Tim Gibson invalid. State law (10 ILCS 5/10-3) requires that not less than 5% nor more than 8% of the number of persons who voted at the last regular election sign a candidate's petition. The number of persons voting in Oreana's last regular election was 145. That translates into a minimum of 8 signatures and a maximum of 12 signatures.

Mr. Gibson's petition contained a total of 8 signatures, two of which were ruled invalid. Mr. Gibson's petition is therefore invalid and his name will be removed from the ballot.

Snow Storm Summary

2007-02-20T12:13:00.000-06:00

This pretty well sums up the recent snow storm...

MUNICIPAL OFFICERS ELECTORAL BOARD – NOTICE OF HEARING

2007-02-16T21:03:00.000-06:00

Pursuant to the State of Illinois Election Code Section 5/10-10, the Oreana municipal officers electoral board hereby notifies interested parties it has received an objection to the Independent Candidate Petition for election to the office of Trustee within the Village of Oreana of Tim Gibson. The electoral board has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday, the 21^st day of February, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. in Courtroom 5C of the Macon County Courthouse to hear and pass upon said objections to the Independent Candidate Petition of Tim Gibson.

The electoral board shall have the power to administer oaths and to subpoena and examine witnesses. The chairman may issue subpoenas duces tecum requiring the production of such books, papers, records and documents as may be evidence of any matter under inquiry before the electoral board. The electoral board shall take up the question as to whether or not the independent Candidate Petition is in proper form, and whether or not it was filed within the time and under the conditions required by law, and whether or not it is the genuine Independent Candidate Petition which it purports to be. The electoral board shall decide whether or not the Independent Candidate Petition on file is valid or whether the objections thereto should be sustained. The decision of the electoral board shall be final subject to judicial review as provided in Section 10-10.1.

The electoral board must state its findings in writing and must state in writing which objections, if any, it has sustained. The electoral board will transmit a certified copy of its ruling, together with the original Independent Candidate Petition and the original objector's petition, to the officer with whom the Independent Candidate Petition, as objected to, was on file, and such officer shall abide by and comply with the ruling so made to all intents and purposes.

Mayor Daniel M. Lightner, Chairman

Snow Removal Update

2007-02-13T18:44:00.000-06:00

The Oreana Public Works Department focuses on safety and efficiency when clearing streets after a snowfall. The snow removal crew responds to streets affecting public safety first (near the fire station, municipal buildings, etc.). Residential streets will then be cleared as soon as possible. At this point in time, we are struggling to keep the streets clear. We can't plow because cars are stuck right in the middle of our streets, and cars are stuck in the middle of our streets because we can't keep up! Wow!

After clearing residential streets, our crew will assist the elderly, the Elementary School, and Churches clear driveways and parking lots. The Village asks that you remain patient and cooperate by removing vehicles from the street. On street parking is prohibited after a snowfall of two (2) inches or more until the street has been cleared. Parking is allowed only on the rocked shoulder areas of the 200 block of West Belle Street and the 200 block of West Bower Street. Violators will have their vehicle(s) towed at their expense.

Remember the following to make your shoveling efforts more successful this season. The plow will throw some snow toward your driveway so consider waiting until the streets are cleared. If you can’t wait, shovel your snow “downstream” in the direction of the snowplow to minimize the amount thrown back into your driveway. The University of Illinois Extension provides these safety precautions for handling snow at home:

If you are inactive and have a history of heart trouble, talk to your doctor before you take on the task of shoveling snow.
Avoid caffeine or nicotine before beginning. These are stimulants, which may increase your heart rate and cause your blood vessels to constrict. This places extra stress on the heart.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is just as big an issue in cold winter months as it is in the summer.
Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as needed.
Warm up your muscles before shoveling, by walking for a few minutes or marching in place. Stretch the muscles in your arms and legs, because warm muscles will work more efficiently and be less likely to be injured.
Pick the right shovel for you. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body.
Begin shoveling slowly to avoid placing a sudden demand on your heart. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.
Protect your back from injury by lifting correctly.
Stand with your feet about hip width for balance and keep the shovel close to your body. Bend from the knees (not the back) and tighten your stomach muscles as you lift the snow. Avoid twisting movements. If you need to move the snow to one side reposition your feet to face the direction the snow will be going.
Most importantly — listen to your body. Stop if you feel pain!

Please be careful this winter and be sure to allow extra travel time.

obama presidential announcement

2007-02-11T21:06:00.000-06:00

I was one of the 15,000 who braved the cold in Springfield yesterday to witness a historic event.

a gospel choir...

Debbie Ross singing the National Anthem...
Dick Durbin with the introduction...
...and the man of the hour, Senator Barack Obama!

Decisions, decisions

2007-02-09T19:44:00.000-06:00

I was informed today that Mark Daley, who currently serves as a Whitmore Township Trustee, will have a decision to make in the near future. It seems an individual can not hold both Township Trustee and Village Trustee positions. Good luck in making your decision, Mark.

Objection to Candidate's Petition

2007-02-09T19:29:00.000-06:00

Today we received an objection to the nominating petition of Tim Gibson. The objection seeks to remove Tim Gibson's name from the ballot by alleging an insufficient number of signatures of qualified, registered, and legal voters of the Village of Oreana.

The municipal electoral board that hears this objection is statutorily comprised of the Mayor, Municipal Clerk, and the senior-most Trustee. More later...

2007 Municipal Elections Candidate Survey

2007-02-08T21:14:00.000-06:00

I am sending this survey to each candidate seeking election to the Village Board of Trustees this April 17, 2007---

Congratulations on your decision to seek elected office within the Village of Oreana. I hope you will take a few moments to complete the following candidate survey. Completing this survey will help Oreana voters better understand your motivation for seeking and qualifications for holding an elected position on the Board of Trustees. Please return the survey by mail to the address above postmarked no later than March 5, 2007.

I will make your survey available to the public on my blog site (http://lightner.blogspot.com).

Name:

How long have you lived in Oreana?

What are the basic responsibilities of municipal government?

What is the role of a Trustee in performing those responsibilities?

What are the three most important issues facing Oreana?

Explain your ideas to address these three issues.

List your current and previous government experience, if any.

List your current and previous community service/volunteer experience, if any.

What sets you apart from other candidates seeking election?

Please make any additional comments you feel necessary.

Candidates seeking election

2007-02-06T20:20:00.000-06:00

There are seven individuals seeking election to three Oreana Trustee positions this April. They include, in the order they filed: Mark Daley, Tim Gibson, Perry Welker, Dave Ward, Scott Lewis, June Fogerson, and Steve Ryan. Oreana hasn't seen this much interest in many years and this could prove very interesting.

Clean-Up begins...

2007-01-06T12:20:00.000-06:00

Clean up began as State of Illinois trucks and Department of Corrections laborers arrived Friday morning. Word is they will return on Tuesday, 9 January 2007.

Community Relief Fund

2006-12-08T18:23:00.000-06:00

...from Brian Byers' website...

Our community has suffered a terrible blow. Many are just now getting basic services back into their lives. This devastation caused by a massive ice storm has left a path of broken trees, broken homes and broken lives. It’s time to stand together as a community. This coming Tuesday, December 12, WSOY, WAND TV and the Herald & Review will host a day long Community Relief Fund Drive to help those who need help most. We’ll be broadcasting live from the YMCA from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm and asking for the community to donate to the rebuilding efforts. Christmas is right around the corner and many of our fellow citizens are struggling to make it because of unexpected and enormous costs due to the storm. Let’s help everyone get back on his or her feet. We’ve supported families in New York, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Now the people who need our assistance are in our own back yard. Let’s start rebuilding together. Lending a helping hand at home. The Community Relief Fund, Tuesday December 12, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm live from the YMCA. Twelve hours of the true meaning of the Holiday Season. Please Give to the Community Relief Fund.

Limb Disposal Program

2006-12-08T17:57:00.000-06:00

The Village of Oreana Public Works department is assisting residents with branch and limb disposal. I am coordinating with the Macon County Highway Department, the Illinois Department of Transportation, and the Illinois Department of Corrections. Those entities are providing end loaders, dump trucks, and labor to assist in our clean up efforts. Work will begin Monday in Harristown, then move to Niantic, then Warrensburg. The plan (as of right now) is estimating crews to arrive in Oreana on Thursday, 14 December 2006 or Friday, 15 December 2006. Work could theoretically begin sooner, but I predict crews will be delayed a bit in coming to Oreana...possible Monday, 18 December 2006. Emerging details of this clean up effort will be made available from your local television station, the local newspaper, and at http://www.lightner.blogspot.com.

Public works employees can not perform work on private property so residents are responsible for placing downed limbs at the curb. Residents should begin as soon as possible. Limbs should be in lengths no longer than 8 feet. Do not place other materials near the curb and expect them to be taken. If residents prefer to dispose of their own debris they may take the limbs to the Macon County Compost facility located at 3520 North Bearsdale Road. Hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and they can be reached at 424-1626.

Strom Recovery Update - 6 December 2006

2006-12-06T19:23:00.000-06:00

AmerenIP crews arrived en masse yesterday and restored power to most Oreana residents. My electrical service was restored at approximately 6 pm. These crews deserve some praise. Not only did they perform their “electrical” work, but they also cut and removed downed limbs that were in the way and took down and replaced chain link fence that was on their utility easement. All this was done with smiles while working 18 hour shifts in freezing temperatures.

I attended a meeting today at the Macon County Highway Department to discuss branch and limb disposal efforts. The Illinois Department of Transportation is providing end loaders and dump trucks to assist in clean up efforts. The Illinois Department of Corrections is providing labor. I do not have an exact date or time when that work will begin in Oreana but efforts will start in the hardest hit areas of Macon County...likely the communities of Warrensburg and Harristown. Limb removal will only be attempted after it is confirmed there are no power lines down in your area.

Residents are advised to place all tree limbs in piles by your curb as soon as possible. Debris should be in lengths no longer than 8 feet. Anything longer will not fit in the bucket of an end loader. Public works employees can not perform work on private property so residents are responsible for placing downed limbs at the curb. If residents would like to haul their own debris they may take the limbs to the Macon County Compost facility located at 3520 N. Bearsdale Road. Hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and they can be reached at 424-1626.

Electrical Service Restoration Process

2006-12-05T10:47:00.000-06:00

again, from the Ameren website...

In power outage situations, restoration crews focus on those repairs that will restore power to the greatest number of customers in the least amount of time. Typically, they begin with main lines (1)--those that can restore power to perhaps thousands of people. Then they move to primary lines that can affect hundreds (3); secondary lines that affect dozens (4); and finally to service drops (5) at individual homes. Here’s how the power flows from the a power plant to your house:

1. Electricity travels from the power plant over high-voltage transmission lines.

2. At a substation, the electricity’s voltage is lowered so that it can travel over the distribution system.

3. Main lines carry electricity to secondary lines.

4. Service lines carry electricity to neighborhoods.

5. Service drops carry electricity from pole-mounted transformers – which lower the voltage again – to your home.

Note that if a substation is damaged, all customers “downstream” from the substation may be affected. In addition, even when primary lines have been repaired, you may have a problem with your secondary line, your transformer or the service drop to your home that keeps you in the dark even when your neighbors’ lights are back on!

from the Ameren website

2006-12-05T10:45:00.000-06:00

What the Customer Is Responsible For…

The customer is responsible for removing and disposing of any fallen limbs and trees along with any other debris due to storm damage or Ameren’s power restoration efforts. Ameren storm restoration crews will trim and remove trees and branches only to the extent necessary to restore electrical service. Find more information on Trees & Your Service.

The customer owns the service entrance equipment on their home or business. See Maintaining Your Service and the illustration below for details.

Clean-Up Update

2006-12-05T10:35:00.000-06:00

The Village of Oreana Public Works Department will assist residents with branch and limb disposal. I am also in contact with the Macon County Highway Department who has offered assistance to area Villages. Clean up will be a very slow process so I ask that you will remain patient. Public works employees generally can not perform work on private property, so residents are responsible for placing downed limbs at the curb. Oreana Public Works crews, with the assistance of Macon County Highway crews, will then be able to cut the limbs into manageable pieces and transport them to a central location for disposal.

Again, I do not have an exact date or time when that work will begin, but residents should place the limbs at the curb as soon as possible.

Reminder about Warming Center

2006-12-05T10:16:00.000-06:00

The Whitmore / Oreana Community Center has been available as a warming center since Friday to those without heat. You may gain access to the building by leaving a message for the Oreana Public Works Department at 217.468.2112 or the Argenta–Oreana Fire Protection District non-emergency number at 217.468.2313. Always call 911 in the event of an emergency.

National Guard Troops in Oreana

2006-12-05T10:14:00.000-06:00

Illinois National Guard troops are scheduled to go door to door in Oreana today checking the health and welfare of residents who have been without electricity and heat for days. Two Humvees with approximately 8 Guard troops will be asking about heat, food, and medical supplies. I urge residents to make your needs known to these troops...they can and will assist.

Power Outage

2006-12-04T10:29:00.000-06:00

Like many of you, I have been without electrical and telephone service since the ice storm last Thursday. I apologize if you have been unable to reach me at home. I do check the answering machine at my municipal office (217.468.2476) several times per day, so feel free to leave a message. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this inconvenient and sometimes unsafe situation.

The Village of Oreana Public Works Department will assist residents with branch and limb disposal but we have not yet begun that work. I ask that you would be patient as all residents are in the same situation, including myself.

I have made the Whitmore / Oreana Community Center available as a warming center to those without power. You may gain access to the building by leaving a message for the Oreana Public Works Department at 217.468.2112 or the Argenta–Oreana Fire Protection District non-emergency number at 217.468.2313. Always call 911 in the event of an emergency.

If you need to know when AmerenIP will be performing specific repair work, please call their toll-free number listed on your power bill (1.800.755.7000). The AmerenIP website reports that 358 of 572 homes served by AmerenIP in the 62554 zip code (which includes Oreana and some surrounding areas) were without electricity as of 10:00 AM Monday, 4 December 2006. The Ameren website also offers the following tips to help during power outages:

If your electric service is interrupted, call Ameren. Switch off most lights and appliances to help prevent circuit overloading when your power is restored.
Keep a battery-powered radio or TV and flashlights available, along with a supply of fresh batteries.
Store drinking water, canned/no-cook food and a non-electric can opener.
Prevent pipes in outside walls from freezing by allowing water faucets to slightly drip.
Stay in one room, wear layers of clothing and wrap up in blankets.
When using an alternate heat source, follow instructions, use fire safeguards and ensure proper ventilation.
When outside, treat all downed or dangling wires as if they are energized electric lines. Stay away, warn others, and call Ameren to report the location.

Special Warning on Portable Generators: Portable electric generators can be deadly to those who use them and to utility workers if the devices are not installed properly.

The National Electric Code (NEC) requires that when anyone installs a portable electric generator, it must include a safety disconnect switch that will not allow the generator to feed power back into the utility lines.

Unless the facility is equipped with a disconnect to the main power lines, electricity could “backfeed” into the utility line. This could result in damage to a neighbor’s property or to the customer’s own equipment―or it could present unseen hazards to utility employees working on outside power lines.

Halloween @ Work

2006-10-31T10:32:00.000-06:00

With the upcoming elections and our budget cycle nearing its conclusion, this is a crazy time at the Macon County Office Building. People are on edge and I thought a Halloween costume might lighten things up a little. To my surprise, I found another County employee who is just a crazy as I am.

Louis Perez (Solid Waste Department) & Daniel M. Lightner (Planning & Zoning Department)

Catch - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-10-27T09:06:00.000-05:00

Pronunciation: 'kach, 'kech

Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): caught /'kot also 'kät/; catch·ing

Etymology: Middle English cacchen, from Anglo-French cacher, chacher, chacer to hunt, from Vulgar Latin *captiare, alteration of Latin captare to chase, frequentative of capere to take -- more at HEAVE

transitive verb
1 a : to capture or seize especially after pursuit b : to take or entangle in or as if in a snare c : DECEIVE d : to discover unexpectedly : FIND e : to check (oneself) suddenly or momentarily f : to become suddenly aware of
2 a : to take hold of : SEIZE b : to affect suddenly c : to grasp and hold on to (something in motion) d : to avail oneself of : TAKE <caught the first opportunity to leave> e : to obtain through effort : GET f : to overtake unexpectedly -- usually used in the passive g : to get entangled
3 : to become affected by: as a : CONTRACT b : to respond sympathetically to the point of being imbued with c : to be struck by d : to be subjected to : RECEIVE
4 a : to take in and retain b : FASTEN
5 : to take or get usually momentarily or quickly
6 a : OVERTAKE b : to get aboard in time
7 : to attract and hold : ARREST, ENGAGE
8 : to make contact with : STRIKE
9 a : to grasp by the senses or the mind b : to apprehend and fix by artistic means
10 a : SEE, WATCH b : to listen to
11 : to serve as a catcher for in baseball
12 : to meet with

Parthenocarpy - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-10-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

Pronunciation: 'pär-th&-nO-"kär-pEFunction: noun
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek parthenos virgin + karpos fruit -- more at HARVEST
: the production of fruits without fertilization parthenocarpy and without pollination
Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

Histology - Hannah's word of the day

2006-10-25T10:01:00.000-05:00

Histology (from the Greek ἱστός) is the study of tissue sectioned as a thin slice, using a microtome. It can be described as microscopic anatomy. Histology is an essential tool of biology.

jerboa - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-21T09:48:00.000-05:00

Any of various small nocturnal leaping rodents of the family Dipodidae of Asia and northern Africa, having long hind legs and a long tufted tail.

epistemic - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-21T09:46:00.000-05:00

adj.

Of, relating to, or involving knowledge; cognitive.

zoophilous - Hanna's Word of the Day

2006-04-21T09:45:00.000-05:00

adj. Botany

Pollinated by animals.

elliptical - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-21T09:43:00.000-05:00

adj.

1. Of, relating to, or having the shape of an ellipse.

2. Containing or characterized by ellipsis.

a. Of or relating to extreme economy of oral or written expression.

b. Marked by deliberate obscurity of style or expression.

mink - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-21T09:39:00.000-05:00

n. pl. mink or minks

1. Any of various semiaquatic carnivores of the genus Mustela, especially M. vison of North America, resembling the weasel and having short ears, a pointed snout, short legs, and partly webbed toes.

a. The soft thick lustrous fur of this animal.

b. A coat, stole, or hat made of the fur of this animal.

zither - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-07T11:03:00.000-05:00

A musical instrument composed of a flat sound box with about 30 to 40 strings stretched over it and played horizontally with the fingertips, a plectrum, or a bow, or set into vibration by the wind, as in the Aeolian harp.

zodiac - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-04-07T10:59:00.000-05:00

1. a. Astronomy A band of the celestial sphere extending about 8° to either side of the ecliptic that represents the path of the principal planets, the moon, and the sun.
b. In astrology, this band divided into 12 equal parts called signs, each 30° wide, bearing the name of a constellation for which it was originally named but with which it no longer coincides owing to the precession of the equinoxes.
c. A diagram or figure representing the zodiac.

2. A complete circuit; a circle.

folkway - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-03-29T13:32:00.000-06:00

A practice, custom, or belief shared by the members of a group as part of their common culture. Often used in the plural.

cannibalism - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-03-26T16:56:00.000-06:00

can·ni·bal
n.

A person who eats the flesh of other humans.
An animal that feeds on others of its own kind.

cannibalism n.
cannibalistic adj.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

Octopus - Hannah's Word of the Day

2006-03-24T11:15:00.000-06:00

n. pl. oc·to·pus·es or oc·to·pi

1. Any of numerous carnivorous marine mollusks of the genus Octopus or related genera, found worldwide. The octopus has a rounded soft body, eight tentacles with each bearing two rows of suckers, a large distinct head, and a strong beaklike mouth. Also called devilfish.

2. Something, such as a multinational corporation, that has many powerful, centrally controlled branches.