Shortcuts | Jan. 12, 2012

condensed local news about civic and cultural goings-on

V1 Staff |

THE CREAMERY TO BECOME ... ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY?

Downsville is home to a new assisted living facility. Owned and operated by sisters Dawn and Melissa Shoeder, the “Welcome Home Assisted Living” facility was purchased from the former Creamery Restaurant & Inn owners earlier this year. What was once a restaurant and inn has been transformed into an assisted living facility that hosts eight assisted living apartments. The facility is apparently full and a waiting list has already been started. The new property won’t be too different from its former use; however, the Shoeder sisters hope to open a restaurant on the premises by April.

UWEC HELPS CREATE WEB-BASED RESOURCE FOR LOCAL HOMELESS

Thanks to a group of students at UW-Eau Claire, information and resources for the local homeless population – and those seeking information on how to help them – are now available at a single website, ResourcesforHomeless.webs.com. Part of the student-run “We are Eau Claire” program, this website exists to make the local community aware of all the resources that are available to assist the homeless population in Eau Claire. From a concise listing of area food pantries to details on housing options, the website provides information on a variety of resources that may be sought after by those in need. The website is also intended to increase awareness on local homelessness and help create local partnerships, and includes updated listings of volunteer opportunities and even fundraising tips.

CVTC GETS GRANT TO HELP RETAIN, GRADUATE STUDENTS

Chippewa Valley Technical College recently received a $1.9 million grant from the Department of Education to focus on higher retention and graduation rates for students. This goal and grant will focus on better assessment of students to measure their readiness to succeed in their courses and fields. According to a CVTC press release, this will allow them to give students a “roadmap (success plan), and, if needed, someone to guide them to their future.” CVTC will be focusing on professional development of their staff to be able to identify students who need these support services, so both CVTC and the students can be as educationally effective as possible.