Windows 7: Users not seeing recent items on start menu

I'm configuring Windows 7 Enterprise for my office. I've gone through and installed all the programs. I then do the deal where I log in locally and copy my profile and make it the Default profile.

Anyway, when I log in using my profile (Domain Admin) no problems!
When i log in as a typical user (without admin rights) I don't see anything on the left side of the start menu (recent programs). I open Word, Excel, etc. but nothing is ever added to the recent\favorite program list.

I'm guessing it's a permissions issue but I can't seem to figure it out. Can someone help me out? Thanks!

Have a look at the answer given by Compumech on page 1 of this link :
Program Icons Missing in All Programs Menu

According to the replier, the key is to cut the programs down to 70.
Apparently it works for a few users in that thread. Please continue reading past page 1.

Don't hold me to it if this does not work.

I think that link relates to not having any programs showing up under the All Programs side of things. My issue is on the left side - the recently opened. Also, by the way I have confirmed that I have the "Recent Items" checkbox checked in the Customize start menu.

Oh. I mis-read the post.

Try this....
Right click at an open space of taskbar > Properties > Start Menu tab > under Privacy heading, is there a checkmark on " Store and display recently opened programs in the Start menu " ?
If not, check it > OK

Does that help at all.

Yes both checkboxes are checked.

Have you tried creating another user account same as the one you have trouble with, and see if the same problem persists ?

Are you clearning temps/history from browser and computer? Clearning temps can cause this issue.

Yes, actually I do clear out the temps & history. Yesterday I set up a laptop and didn't clear out anything (left me with a 375mb profile but I figured, what the heck if it works), but I got the same thing. Blank listing on the left hand side.

Hmmm... try this:

Recent Items - Turn On or Off