Michael Faltum: Obama Comes Out

I had just hit SEND on an email to my editor containing yesterday’s article regarding North Carolina’s decision to pass Amendment 1, a ban on same-sex marriage, when the news hit my desk… President Obama supports same-sex marriage.  I read it twice for good measure… President Obama supports same-sex marriage!

Special Report ~ President Obama Supports Marriage Equality (Photo by Caroyln Kaster for AP)

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Michael Faltum: Carolina In My Mind

On Tuesday, voters in North Carolina overwhelmingly passed Amendment 1 by 61 percent.  Amendment 1 redundantly defined marriage as only between a man and a woman.  I use the word “redundantly” here because North Carolina already has a ban on same-sex marriage but opponents of marriage equality pushed for the amendment in order to close any remaining loopholes.  In addition, the “marriage-plus” portion of the amendment extends this ban to same-sex civil unions and could possibly prevent government offices from providing domestic partnerships benefits to their employees.

#EqualLoveEqualRights (Photo from www.nonais.org)

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FOOD FRIDAY: Cooking With Chocolate

I’m sure no one needs to read another article about the luxurious seduction that is chocolate.  None of us want to read conflicting research studies touting the benefits or harmful effects chocolate has on one’s diet.  I sure don’t.  But what I do want to write about is other uses for chocolate.  Specifically, chocolate used in sauces for savory dishes.

Cocoa Powder (Photo from www.eathynutrition.com)

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Michael Faltum: Modern Day Gag Rule

When facing something you don’t like the absolute worst advice someone could give you is to ignore it and it’ll go away.  Unfortunately, these words rarely ring true.  Once ignored, the issue generally festers causing more effort in the long-run to resolve it.  It’s best to face it, deal with it and let the cards fall where they may.  It’s a valuable life lesson and one I incorporate into my daily routine.

Love is Not About Gender (Photo from www.fccsantacruz.org)

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MONEY MONDAY: Michael Faltum ~ Marriage Means More than Love

Most everyone discusses the benefits of marriage in terms of love and companionship, but seldom do they bring up the legal rights and benefits marriage provides a husband and wife.  These benefits offer couples the security and peace of mind needed when life takes a turn for the worse.  Employment assistance, military benefits, tax benefits, estate planning and medical benefits are all included with an American marriage.

Marriage Means More Than Love (Photo from www.equalitymarriage.blogspot.com)

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Michael Faltum: Teach a Man to Fish…

This past weekend, I hosted an Easter brunch for nearly 40 guests, and I’m very happy to say it went off without a hitch.  The food was plentiful, the champagne flowed freely and the spectrum of individuals who make up my friends melded nicely into a cohesive group laughing and chatting the afternoon away.  Put simply, it was a perfect day.

Easter Brunch (Photo by Michael Faltum)

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Michael Faltum: Some Progress on DOMA & Some Idiots on LGBT

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine (R) approved language for an amendment that would overturn the state’s 2004 constitutional amendment restricting marriage to one man and one woman.  The new amendment would alter the laws to define marriage as the union of two consenting adults.  In order for the amendment to appear on the ballot, the Freedom to Marry Coalition needs to gather the required 385,253 valid signatures.  The group is looking to obtain these signatures by November 2013, but they can count on one heck of a battle throughout the way.  Opponents of marriage equality are already planning to counter any such efforts, and pledged to defeat such a measure.

Same-Sex Civil Union (Photo from www.unitedfamiliesinternational.wordpress.com)

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Michael Faltum: 4th Annual Gay & Lesbian Wedding Expo

Sunday, March 25th, marked the 4th time the Rainbow Wedding Network hosted a gay and lesbian wedding expo in Chicago.  Held at the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza, this expo featured a variety of vendors looking to provide LGBT couples options for their upcoming nuptials.

www.rainbowweddingnetwork.com

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Michael Faltum: Better Weather = Better Me

Spring in Chicago has arrived but, with this weather, it almost feels like summer cut to the front of the line!  Yet, there’s something to be said about living in an amazing city when the weather breaks.  It’s as if the world comes alive and lets everyone know they’re still here.  The pure energy emanating from the joggers, bikers and especially the nightlife here makes trudging through the long, winter months worth it.

Love Famers Markets! (Photo from www.greenermiami.com)

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Michael Faltum: Catching Up

It’s been a while since I’ve written an article, but trust me when I say it wasn’t for lack of something to say.  Here’s the good news… my boyfriend and I moved in together!!!  We’ve spent the past month cleaning, packing and storing all the things we could do without in order to share a space.  We’re both excited and relieved we no longer have to travel back and forth between homes.  It just makes life easier.

Moving On Up! (Photo from www.careercast.com)

So… what did I miss?

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