Shortcuts | April 2, 2009

V1 Staff |

RENOVATION PLANS SET FOR STOUT STUDENT CENTER
The Higher Education Subcommittee of the Wisconsin Building Commission is recommending an $18 million renovation of UW-Stout’s Memorial Student Center. The center, which hasn’t significantly remodeled in 24 years, was pushed through by a favorable student senate vote in 2008. Improvements include more space for student organizations, government,  newspaper, recreation, and entertainment. The bookstore, dining area, and lounges would become more architecturally modern. New stairs, entrances, and amenities and more natural lighting are also planned.

EAU CLAIRE GETS EVEN SAFER
Many things may be up in the Chippewa Valley, but crime isn’t one of them. According to the Eau Claire Police Department, the city’s overall crime rate in 2008 was the lowest in 30 years! Aggravated assault dropped 27 percent; 15 percent fewer commercial businesses are being burgled; and the number of stolen cars plummeted 40 percent. The only blips on the police’s radar in 2008 were violent crime (up 8.1 percent) and shoplifting. Who’s responsible for these safer statistics? Well, Police Chief Jerry Matysik wants to thank you. “We depend on all members of the community. We can’t do it alone.”

FILM INCENTIVES MAY SURVIVE
Gov. Doyle’s budget proposal will eliminate the film incentives introduced in 2008, replacing them with a grant program. The incentives were part of an economic development strategy aimed at drawing revenue and creating jobs. Rep. Tamara Grigsby recently presented a proposal to keep the incentives, emphasizing some changes. Grigsby is proposing to eliminate loopholes that allow out-of-state workers to claim larger credits, limit out-of-state wages, allow credit access to existing film and video companies, and tighten regulations. Grigsby’s proposal has gained support, and final decisions will be made by June 30.

NEW BAR & GRILL OPENS
Princeton Valley Golf Course recently opened a new restaurant, Yankee Jack’s. Not a golfer? Not a Yankee? Not an issue. “We want to cater to the entire community, so even if you don’t golf, you’ll feel welcome,” says the enthusiastic restaurant’s namesake, Jack Schulte. The flat screen TVs, music, deck seating, and outgoing staff give Yankee Jack’s its casual atmosphere. It offers a great beer selection, as well as burgers, salads, homemade pizzas, and nightly specials. Want something unique? Try the Crab Alfredo or Reuben pizzas. “The quality of the food and service is what we’re really focusing on,” Jack claims. “Stop by anytime!”