LABJ FORUM: Coping With Fear
As the United States remains on high alert for the possibility of terrorist attacks, as intelligence reports continue to suggest that hundreds of Al Qaeda operatives are already in the United States planning potentially deadly assaults. This, coupled with the growing prospect of war with Iraq, has heightened public anxiety to levels not seen since the weeks after Sept. 11, 2001. So the Business Journal asks:
Given the threat of terrorism and the possibility of war, are you afraid?
Jennifer M. Gonzalez
Account Supervisor
Suarez/Frommer & Associates
Afraid, no. Concerned, yes. I truly think that going into a war with Iraq will only augment the U.S. chances of being the target of a new terrorist attack sooner rather than later. I came to this country three years ago craving a sense of safety. It turns out that the world has changed since then, and the U.S. is in the front line of a questionable war.
Todd Voelker
National Sales Manager
Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau
Certainly. I’m much more alert and aware of my surroundings. However I haven’t, nor do I plan to, disrupt my normal routine.
Jason Weathers
Food and beverage manager
McCormick & Schmick’s
To be honest with you, it does make me a bit nervous. You never know what’s going to happen. But it’s kind of got me more into work.
Kris Davis
Managing Director
Marsh Inc. Insurance
Afraid, no. More aware of the possibility of war and terrorists attacks, absolutely. And that’s probably because I can’t get away from it, we constantly hear about it in the news. But I’m really not afraid and no more concerned than I was following the attacks on Sept. 11.
Sarah Bradshaw
Council Deputy
City of West Hollywood
Yes, I am. It kind of reminds me of the riots when you saw military people on the corner when that happens you know all is not right. Also, as a civil servant I’m more aware of how threadbare the safety net is, and the budget cutbacks are not going to help if there is a true emergency. It really is scary.
Christi M. Clark
Area Vice President
Post Paseo Colorado Apartments
No, I don’t find myself afraid. I find myself more alert to my surroundings, more in tune with my environment, and I’m spending more time with my family. Although I have concerns about terrorism and war, I cope with it by continuing to live my life in the way I always have. I actually have a trip planned to D.C. and New York in March.
Maria Avdalas
President
Number One Home Remodeling Center
It really hasn’t affected me. It’s more of an annoyance because we really haven’t had to deal with the threat of war in years. But it is hurting us economically. People are really concerned about going to war or the possibility of losing their jobs. So they are more cautious about spending money. They’re either spending smaller amounts or choosing to hold off on projects to see how things go. We’re also taking a hit because of rising gas prices since so much of our business is based on transportation.