LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- An orchid propagation company headquartered in Germany plans to invest about $5 million to build a facility in Kalamazoo.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder announced the investment Friday during a weeklong trade trip to Germany and Italy.

The 30,000-square-foot Kalamazoo laboratory and climatic chambers operation will be the first outside Germany for Lippstadt-based Hark Orchids L.P. The 104-year-old, family-owned company deals in hybridization, cultivation and propagation of orchids.

The Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Southwest Michigan First supported the project with $750,000 in grants.

Snyder plans to return from his European trade trip Saturday.

From: http://www.kazoochamber.com/

U.S. Senior Senator from Michigan and Chairman of the Armed Services Committee ,Carl Levin, will serve as a guest keynote presenter at the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Connection Series event from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on March 12 at the Girl Scouts Building, 601 W. Maple St.

This event provides Chamber members and the business community an opportunity to receive an update from the sitting Chair of the Armed Services Committee, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force and Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. Levin will provide an update on current issues in Washington D.C., as well as status on legislation relevant to the area. This event is an opportunity for the business community to engage in discussion with Senator Levin, while networking with other members of the community.