Hewlett Packard is a family friend in these parts. I have a picture of my mom and dad sitting between the two founders back in the 50’s.

So, news of their unexpected positive earnings report yesterday was received with a bit of smugness here. The stock market rallied, the commentators were suddenly projecting that the tech sector may be a primary player in pulling us out of a recession.

Does Wall Street and the national media really “get” the mood and business culture in Silicon Valley? Often, what is happening in D.C. and N.Y. feels very far away. The pioneer spirit is alive and well here. This translates into stubbornness and determination to survive no matter what challenges appear before you. Bring ‘em on. It also translates into creativity, “nimbleness” and an ability to respond quickly to new conditions.

The legal market in the Bay Area is in the middle of rapidly redefining itself in a fundamental way. Probably for the better. In the last week requests for skilled attorneys are on the upswing here. We are getting a sense of the new playing field. Local offices are starting to write modified strategic plans in ink and calling recruiters to staff up.

Don’t let yourself get entirely bogged down by the national news. Keep an eye on the Bay Area. We are always full of surprises.