Forum

Forum/cw1st/mark2nd California’s economy is expected to cool somewhat in 1999 as a result of declining corporate profits and shaky world financial markets. However, projections have underestimated the strength of the economy in recent quarters. The San Fernando Valley Business Journal asks: Are you optimistic or pessimistic about your business in the new year and why? Louise Marquez Manager and Marketing Director Panorama Mall I’m very optimistic because we’ve been through a period of time when we had no anchor. We brought in a new anchor and that’s Wal-Mart. It’s brought a good solid economic base. I’m very optimistic the economy will be very stable and overall we’ll be in a very good economic environment. Genaro Calzadillas Fleet Manager Hamer Toyota We’re expecting a great big huge year. Everybody is spending money. Most of the deals are either cash deals or leases. We had a great year last year and expect a better one this year. It’s already started out great. The first six days have been wonderful. Jonathan Weiss Regional Manager Marcus & Millichap I’m optimistic. People’s perceptions are positive and for the most part they’re right. Our Valley’s economy is diverse and very healthy and will withstand the ripple effects of the Asian crisis. Therese Williams Vice President, Office of the Chairman WellPoint Health Networks Inc. I would say that in terms of our business, I’m optimistic. We continue to see enrollment growth. That indicates there’s a good economic base underlying our business. In general, there has been consolidation in our industry, but I have not seen that this has impacted our area. I think, in general, the outlook is good for this year. Dan Hilburger Plant Manager Chevron U.S.A Inc. I guess I’m not optimistic because crude oil prices are the lowest they’ve been in years. Lorraine Trotter Recruiting Manager Robert Half We’re very optimistic about the new year, especially due to the fact that businesses are relocating (to the Valley). In our Westlake Village office we’ve had a really good flow of job orders. There are businesses closing, but there are a lot that are expanding and growing and relocating. Hilary Wade Training Manager New Horizons Computer Learning Center We’re very optimistic. We see nothing but positive growth. For our particular business, we see a lot of opportunity