News reports about protests during the upcoming Democratic National Convention are growing increasingly worrisome. Last week, a federal judge voided the city’s proposed buffer zone around Staples Center that was intended to enhance security; meanwhile, activists have already set up a large training camp in Malibu to teach the finer points of public protest. So the Business Journal asks:

Are you worried about civil unrest during the Democratic National Convention?

Mark Shoemaker

Vice President/Practice Leader

Marsh Technology Group

I’m not necessarily as concerned with terrorism and civil unrest as I am with getting in and out of the office each day. We have daily appointments that require us to leave the office frequently. (Convention-related congestion) has the potential to really make our job difficult. I suppose that telecommuting can alleviate it somewhat. My main concern is not safety, but rather the impact this may have on my daily life and my ability to get around the city.

Debra Widden

Office Manager

Signature Investments Inc.

I haven’t really thought about it much, but I guess there could be problems. You know, the world has become so violent and (violence) seems to be so many people’s response when they don’t agree with something. I mean, now things happen even when there is no controversy. Violent situations have occurred when people are just celebrating something, so you never know. Living in the city, though, I am always concerned about things like that. My personal safety is of the utmost importance to me.

Donald Ward

Financial Advisor

Ward Financial Services

I don’t really think there is anything to be concerned about. The media always put people on edge by asking people if they anticipate something bad happening at an event like this. My philosophy is not to live in fear or worry about what might happen. Life is too short to worry all the time. If the worst should occur, then we would have to deal with it. There is nothing we can do to prevent something from happening. All we can do is be prepared to handle it.

Jackie Edwards

Receptionist

Community Financial Resource

We are so far away from it, as far as our business is concerned, because we are located at King and Figueroa. I feel that the disruption would not come this far (south). I don’t really have any concerns. I think it should go in a smooth manner this time.

Frank H. Boone

Partner

Boone & Associates

I think there is definitely something to be concerned about. Look what happened after the Lakers won the championship. You can never predict how people are going to behave. One minute everything is fine, and the next thing you know, everything is out of control. But I have confidence in our law enforcement officials. I think it will be fine.

Timothy Fahringer

Managing Director

Kerlin Capital Group

Didn’t we have a problem in Seattle? Naturally, there is always a concern when there has been a problem before, but given the level of awareness that we now have after the Lakers championship (sparked small-scale rioting), I feel that our people are going to be ready, so I am less concerned.