Woodland Hills : Business Expo ’96 to Showcase Valley Firms

Dozens of local merchants are expected at a trade show Thursday in Woodland Hills, part of an annual showcase of San Fernando Valley businesses.

Business Expo ’96 will feature displays from at least 65 participants, said Julie Russell, executive director of the Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce, which is co-hosting the event with the Encino Chamber of Commerce.

Scheduled from noon to 7 p.m. at the Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard St., the event is free to the public. Free parking is available at the hotel.

Russell said that 1,500 people are expected at this year’s event, based on past attendance. Many people are usually drawn by the free business seminars offered at each expo.

At 2 p.m., attorney Jay Sherman will discuss methods of collecting business debts. At 3:30 p.m., Ike Krieger will offer tips on effective communication. At 5 p.m., Eric Phelpps of GTE will offer a layman’s look at the Internet and ways people can use the global computer network to help their business.

“He really can help guide you through it and tell you whether you even need to be on the Internet yet,” Russell said.

For more information, call (818) 906-1951.