Just because there are thousands of people near and around a place of business doesn’t exactly mean there’s going to be any record sales.

Take in point Pet Central, a small, but respected pet store on Madison Avenue in New York City. Walk just a few steps from the business, and there were thousands of people outside the front door.

But for these thousands of people, pet food was the last thing on anybody’s mind.

“No one has come in yet,” said Andreas Salgado, store employee. “People aren’t able to come in.”

On March 20, a year after President George W. Bush declared war on Iraq, more than 60,000 people gathered on and around Madison Avenue in Manhattan to protest the war. Last year, there were several spurts of erratic behavior and dozens were arrested. A handful of police officials were injured as well.

This year’s protest, however, was much more peaceful. Four arrests were made during the day. Several hundred police officers were on hand to keep the march running smoothly. And, with a peaceful day, protesters were able to voice their opinions.

“I think it’s an inspiration to see all the participation,” said Max Kuo, 24-year-old volunteer with United For Peace, one of the largest organizations that made a presence during the day.

Kuo spent the afternoon collecting signatures for people interested in staying in touch and up to date with the organization.

“I’m here to keep the information circulating,” he said.

Anne Hayes, New York City resident, brought her two children to the protest. The Hayes family was in the middle of Madison Avenue 30 minutes before the march began.

“I think it’s important to set an example for my children,” Hayes said. “Their voice counts too.”

Her children are 5 and 8 years old and were some of the youngest protesters on the street.

“I wanted to show the kids that it’s important to show your opinion,” Hayes said.

Francis, Hayes’ 8-year-old son, was holding an anti-war sign.

“We don’t want war so people won’t die,” Francis said.

Judi Chang, staff employee with A.N.S.W.E.R, which stands for Act Now, Stop War, End Racism, was out on Madison Avenue preparing for the march at 7 a.m.

She set up a booth with shirts, hats and buttons to sell and raise money for her organization.

“As an American, I care what happens to our brothers and sisters around the world,” Chang said.

Chang said helping to organizes the protest took a lot of work but thought the time was well spent. She’s just hoping to make a difference.

“Our main goal is to bring people together and get them out on the street and work together,” Chang said.