In response to the Sound Off “Homophobic Hicks,” I have lived in St. Lawrence County for over 35 years after relocating from the NYC metropolitan area of NJ. One of the first things I noticed about my new neighbors was the warmth and caring of the majority. I noticed there was a distinct lack of racism, acceptance of those who are different and true concern for those among us in need. I worked in a large organization where I met many gay and lesbian co-workers and I never saw or heard of homophobic behavior or attitudes directed toward any of those folks. Few of these folks ever tried to hide their sexual orientation and there was great love and respect for them as we considered ourselves family and these employees were family like the rest of us. There will always be a few who are insecure, ignorant and hurtful among us and some use religion to bolster their hatred of others. We need to remember these folks do not represent the majority of great people in our communities. It really sounds like anyone who calls us homophobic hicks has some issues of their own they need to be focusing on. Name-calling doesn’t heal wounds; it only deepens them.