“I feel they are effective. We are a democracy, and they give the general population a way to express themselves to their representatives. Without mass gatherings, it would show a lack of initiative and concern for the communities in which we live.”

— Aaron McClintock, technical support, Lawrence

“No, I don't. I think they turn off the people who turn the world.”

— Allen Tollefson, contractor/developer, Lecompton

“I think they can be. They certainly raise an eyebrow and get attention, so in that way they are effective. I think they can be the beginning in the process toward change.”

— Crystal Williamson, project manager, Topeka

“People notice them while they're there, but I don't know if they have any long-term effects. It sounds cynical, but I think they might be the case.”

— Nicole Sabatini, mom, Lawrence