Area residents offer mixed reactions to issue, outcome

Several believe the measure will pass eventually.
By SARAH POULTON
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Area residents were about as split as the U.S. Senate on a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage.
Michael Ricciardi, 62, of Boardman predicted Wednesday that the amendment will never pass and suggested President Bush be impeached for supporting it.
John Ray, 34, of Youngstown said he believes there are bigger issues in the world and Congress is wasting its time with issues like this.
"I don't agree with it," Ray said. "I don't think it hurts a damn thing, and it's not their business."
Lyn Hemmingi, 55, of Austintown also believes the government is stepping on citizens' toes with the amendment effort.
"It's ridiculous," Hemmingi said. "It's a waste of time. I wouldn't be surprised if it passes in the future, but I hope not."
Dennis Lebio, 54, also of Austintown, said, "It's ridiculous because it's just a wedge issue. It's really not one of the most important things going on in the country now."
Undecided
While some area residents are up in arms over this issue, others are letting it go in one ear and out the other.
Margaret Yarb, 70, of Youngstown and Colin Chambers, 18, of Boardman don't have strong feelings on the matter but agree that it doesn't have to split the country.
"I don't think it's necessary," Yarb said. "I don't have strong feelings either way. It doesn't have to be this way, but I think this amendment will pass, eventually."
Chambers doesn't think it will ever be recognized in the Constitution.
"This is a tough one," he said. "I have my own opinion, and I'm not exactly against it. I guess they [gays] should have those rights."
Moral concerns
Others, though, are worried about the country's morals and values.
Joann Miller, 61, of Girard doesn't see any immediate need for an amendment like this but has her own idea on the subject.
"I still feel that marriage is between a man and a woman," Miller said. "I don't always back Bush in decisions, but I agree with this one. I feel that everyone can have their own sexual preferences, but marriage vows are between a man and a woman."
Paul Horacek, 56, of Austintown echoed her feelings.
"I agree with the proposal," Horacek said. "I do agree with freedom of choice if it's left in the closet, but I don't agree with [gay] marriage."
Judy Brewer, 64, of Liberty said she believes the amendment will pass because people will eventually get annoyed with the issue and stand up for what they believe in.
"It should be banned," Brewer said. "It's not right. We've got to have some morals here, and unless you stand for something, you'll fall for anything."