Berman to Speak at VICA Meeting

Rep. Howard Berman (D-Mission Hills) will discuss the importance of “fast-track” legislation to the American economy and its impact on future international trade agreements at Thursday’s meeting of the Valley Industry and Commerce Assn.

VICA officials said one of the goals of the meeting is to actually define what “fast-track” means--giving the president of the United States the ability to develop trade agreements that would ideally create opportunities for American businesses in world markets.

In recent years, “fast-track” has served as a sort of political catch phrase, but most voters are not clear on its true definition, said a spokesman for the organization.

“I think there are a lot of misunderstandings as far as what fast-track really means,” said Alan Unger, co-chairman of the VICA federal issue committee. “What I hope people will get out of [the meeting] is a better understanding of fast-track legislation.”

Unger said VICA and Congressman Berman support the legislation that would empower the president to negotiate trade agreements quickly.

“We’re in a global economy and we have to be able to compete in it and that means acting fast,” Unger said.

The cost of the meeting is $17, which includes lunch. Reservations, which should be made at least two days in advance, may be made by calling (818) 888-2228.

The meeting will run from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard St. in Woodland Hills.

VICA was founded in 1949 to promote area businesses and encourage the economic vitality and growth of the greater San Fernando Valley region.