By Carol Anders Correspondent
PLYMOUTH — Residents here are more than optimistic about the changes that they hope will happen with  newly elected President Barack Obama in the White House.
Gathering at Opie’s in Plymouth Tuesday to watch the inauguration, former Plymouth Mayor Jim Yeazel said, “This is the greatest thing that’s happened in the United States.”
He said he expects Obama to restore faith in the country to those around the world and at home. Yeazel said, “We’ve got too much to lose.”

Michelle Livinghouse said, “He (Obama) is already bringing the country together. He is bringing hope to so many people. I hope that he will start to turn the economy around and bring the troops home in a reasonable period of time.”
Rick Huff shared the sentiments of Livinghouse: “I’d like to see him bring the war to a successful conclusion. I’d also like to see him improve the economy for the average person – the working person and the small farmer.”
“I want to see some of the things that he promised in his campaign come true,” said Marsha Balmer. She said she is especially concerned with the war since her son and daughter-in-law are serving in the Air Force.
Larry Balmer stressed his trust in the abilities of Obama saying, “President Obama is going to galvanize the country into becoming what it once was — bringing respect and dignity. I think with his leadership we can get that back. He can bring the prosperity and wholeness that we haven’t experienced for a long time.”
Balmer added, “Obama will be the ‘lightning rod’ for change and rebirth for the United States.”
Cindy Rash says Obama will be a powerful force. Rash said, “I believe that he can make a unified stand that our country is strong. He will tell the world.”
Referring to promises made during the presidential campaign, Dr. Ron Liechty said, “I hope he will complete the things that his campaign stood for – these will make a difference. If he is successful, we will be successful.”
When asked what priority he hoped that Obama will be able to complete in his role as president, local Pastor Dean Fager said, “To get the economy under control. That’s going to take all of his administration.”