"The Battle Creek community got a double dose of good news Wednesday as Kellogg Co. announced plans to expand its downtown research and development facility and representatives of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi presented an update on the tribe's long-delayed casino in Emmett Township.

Both projects are expected to get under way in 2008, helping to provide construction jobs and a boost to the area's economy.

Likewise, the benefits of the new FireKeepers Casino in Emmett Township will extend far beyond the estimated 770 construction jobs it will create and the approximate 1,200 people it will employ once it opens in 2009. The casino is expected to draw more than 3 million visitors a year, most from outside the area who will spend their money at area businesses.

Infrastructure improvements being put into place to accommodate the casino will help promote further development and job creation.

All of this is good news for the Battle Creek area as it looks ahead to the new year and the prospects for future growth. "

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Editorial: Kellogg, casino plans good news for local economy (The Battle Creek Enquirer 12/14)