RAIL COMES TO A HALT

Because Governor-elect Scott Walker refused to accept $1.2 billion in high speed rail funds, the giant chunk of change has migrated elsewhere. Since Ohio and Wisconsin elected Republican governors in November, their respective projects have been on thin ice. Walker had written to Obama, asking for permission to spend the money on repairs for already existing roads, but the funds have always been slated for one purpose only – high speed rail. Now there will be crucial gaps in the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative’s plan to connect nine Midwestern states via rail. Jim Doyle called the loss a “tragic moment” for Wisconsin.

CHANCELLOR MULLS MAKING UWEC SMOKE-FREE

UWEC might follow Stout’s footsteps in making campus tobacco-free. The ban would be imposed on all university-owned property. The University Senate met on Dec. 7 and narrowly voted in favor of the ban, 29-23. Earlier that week the Student Senate unanimously opposed the ban. Both decisions have been forwarded to the chancellor for consideration and a decision would take effect on Jan. 1. This news comes after a Student Health Services survey last year revealed 57 percent of students, 66 percent of faculty, and 64 percent of staff favor the ban. About 3,500 people responded to the survey, and 83 percent of them were non-smokers.

WARMING CENTER REOPENS IN TIME FOR WINTER

Everyone is complaining about the weather these days. But imagine being cold 24-7. For some residents, the cold is more than a minor inconvenience; it threatens their very existence. Thankfully the Warming Center, in its second year, opened again on Dec. 5. Over 40 homeless individuals were served last winter and with the new and improved space at 405 N. Farwell, that number is expected to increase this year. The Warming Center is open from 10pm to 6am and will stay open until March 15. In order to keep the center running, nearly 100 volunteers from the community are needed. If you wish to volunteer time or food email mary@valleybrookchurch.org.

STONE TREE CLOSES, HOPES TO BEGIN ANEW THIS SPRING

After 15 years as a bead, jewelry, and framing shop, Stone Tree will officially close its Water Street store on Christmas Eve. Co-owners Kathy and Lisa Seitz thank area residents for their support over the years, and ask them to cross their fingers for a rebirth at a different location in spring. In the meantime, they will continue to do custom framing and matting (e-mail StoneTree204@yahoo.com) as well as sell jewelry through WisconsinCommonMarket.com.