Published September 23, 2011

Dear Editor:

Henry Dubroff’s recent column, “Looking past the gloom for a way forward,” struck a chord. You nailed it with the discussion of the pervasive negative attitude we have confronted over the past three to four years.

Needless to say, our little real estate investment firm has been similarly battered by falling rents, vacancies, financing issues, etc.

That being said, we count our blessings to be in coastal Ventura County, along the Highway 101 corridor. Despite the gloom and doom we have experienced, things do seem to be turning around. Vacancies are down, rents are stabilizing for commercial and increasing for apartments and more people are looking for business opportunities.

In addition to the specifics you cite in your commentary, we are beginning to see more young college grads starting to seek their careers in the region. The location of multiple universities along the corridor, including CSU Channel Islands near our offices, also gives us hope and confidence in a bright future.

Brain power is king today; capital not as much.

Part of the key to business and personal satisfaction is to not focus attention on the day-to-day, hour-by-hour news of the moment.

I think that such a routine clouds the head and depresses the soul.

I suggest that more time should be focused reflecting on the troubles and turmoil that have been surmounted in the past, rather than obsessing over the negative news of the moment and the message of the upending of the business world as we know it.

Those who can see beyond today, have faith in the future, and act accordingly, will enjoy a satisfying journey.

— Jim Ludwig, KL Associates, Camarillo