The question of whether the San Fernando Valley should have its own agency to promote tourism has heated up again. The Valley Industry and Commerce Association has asked the city of Los Angeles to ante up funding for the San Fernando Valley Visitors and Convention Bureau. And a number of Valley groups are working aggressively to set up fundraising programs for the bureau. With many ideas to promote tourism under consideration, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal asks: If you were a tourist, why would you want to come to the San Fernando Valley? Larry Hazzard (PIX) Senior vice president Carter-Burgess If I were a tourist the primary reason I would come to the Valley is to be close to Universal Studios. Hotel accommodations are cheaper than in downtown hotels and at Disneyland. It is also easier to come into the Burbank airport than LAX. Plus it is much easier to get to places like Santa Barbara if you are staying in the Valley. Harry Smith (PIX) Vice president general manager Ray-Art Studios Well, there are a lot of reasons to stay in the San Fernando Valley. There are some major tourist attractions here like Universal Studios. Tourists can stay at the Hilton and Sheraton, which are great hotels. CityWalk is also a great attraction to the Valley. If someone is staying on this side of the hill they will be closer to Magic Mountain as well. Warner Brothers has a tour for out-of-town guests that is a great attraction. There is lots to do in the Valley as a tourist. Fred Boyer (PIX) Chief financial officer Software Dynamics Inc. It is closer to the city sights like the Getty Museum and Universal Studios and Hollywood. It is also convenient to such places like Santa Barbara and Malibu. It’s more convenient than staying downtown or on the Westside. It is definitely more convenient to more opportunities. Steve Michelson Owner Michelson’s Food Service It is a great location to get to any part of Southern California. There are some great areas. Universal CityWalk, Burbank and Ventura Boulevard are all great places to visit. The Valley is a really convenient area to be in if you want to go to other places. The Valley has everything that you need. Michael Stavino Michael’s Epicurean Inc. Universal Studios is a major attraction. I would want to tour the studios and then go to some clubs in the Valley. I think the Valley can be okay if you are a tourist. When I came out here from New York I visited Universal and the studios. It can be great for families. Councilman Michael Feuer (PIX) Fifth District It has a friendly atmosphere. It is close to studios. It is affordable and safe. It has marvelous hotels. There is easy access to a wide range of beautiful attractions. What else could you want?