Business owners voice fears to pols

Billed as a chance for San Fernando Valley political and business leaders to address common issues, Thursday's annual VICA luncheon focused on concerns about the impact of the nation's weakening economy on the local business climate. Julia M. Scott in the Daily News.

During the fast-paced Q and A session at Beverly Garland's Holiday Inn, many business owners worried about the potential ripple effect of layoffs at Amgen in Thousand Oaks, credit troubles at Countrywide in Calabasas, and the roller-coaster stock market.

The fate of AmeriTel in Northridge is tied to the health of the local economy as the company installs and upgrades telecommunications systems for area businesses, owner Scott Murphy said.

"If they cut back from fear, then we lose," Murphy told the 250 participants at the Valley Industry and Commerce Association luncheon.