Friday, November 20, 2015

Contact: Jen Flood, Byrum & Fisk Communications, (517) 333-1606

BATTLE CREEK—In an effort to spruce up downtown vacant buildings ahead of this weekend’s holiday parade, the Calhoun County Land Bank, City of Battle Creek and Calhoun Area Career Center (CACC) are partnering to display student artwork throughout downtown. Four Calhoun County Land Bank buildings will participate as part of the project.

“We’re excited to partner with the Calhoun Area Career Center and City of Battle Creek to spruce up downtown ahead of the holiday season,” said Christine Schauer, Calhoun County Treasurer and Land Bank Board Chair. “This is just one way to highlight the potential of downtown buildings that we’re working to redevelop so we can improve downtown Battle Creek.”

Land Bank properties involved in the project include 119-121 W. Michigan, 64 W. Michigan and 17 W. Michigan. The Land Bank recently announced a purchase agreement with local developer 180Urban for three downtown Battle Creek buildings.

“We’re proud of our students for working so hard on this art project to spread holiday cheer for the parade and throughout the holiday season,” said Heidi LaGrow, Graphic Communications Technology Instructor with CACC. “This project is helping our students build skills they need to go on to careers.”

Digital versions of the artwork are available here. The art was designed by CACC students and depicts their areas of study, including printing, design, nursing, cooking and teaching.

“This year’s Holiday Parade will be especially bright thanks to the thoughtful work of local students,” said John Hart, Downtown Development Director with the City of Battle Creek. “Partnering with the Calhoun County Land Bank and local business owners, we’re able to show off downtown Battle Creek to kick off the official Holiday Shopping Season.”

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