July 28, 2011: Gay Marriage Ends in Divorce

By April Lopez

As New York became the sixth and largest state to recognize same-sex marriage, hundreds of gay couples recited vows and happily raised their long-awaited marriage certificates on Sunday.

Meanwhile there were cheers and applause in the lobby of the Manhattan clerk's office as couples were given their white-and-blue wedding certificates.

Balloons could also be seen.

Some couples wore shimmering crowns while others wore matching kilts.

Women wore work boots and jeans and men wore dresses and skirts.

Harold Benks and Bruce Kopalov were the first couple to marry in Manhattan. They have been together for 5 years.

According to Kopalov, he just wanted to be respected as a man and to live a decent life.

During their wedding people were teary-eyed and they cheered the couple as the two men vowed to honor and cherish each other.

But after some time, everything turned sour.

During an interview, Benks said Kopalov turned into a huge bitch.

On the other hand, Kopalov said Benks harrassed him about his family and finances and he just did not stop nagging.

As other couples lined up for their wedding, there was also a line for divorces as it started to increase later in the day.

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