Two companies are offering Hoosiers health insurance, Ambetter and Care Source. They don't ask about any pre-existing conditions and you may get a subsidy. They ask only two questions: do you smoke and how old are you. Plus you get a free medical exam and many other preventative benefits.

If you don't have health insurance, enroll today at www.healthcare.gov. (Yes, this is ObamaCare and yes, you need health insurance.)

Rail advocates will gather November 19, 2018, to organize to preserve the 51-mile regional rail corridor (aka the Nickel Plate or State Fair tracks). Contact me for details or join Save the Nickel Plate on Facebook. At a meeting held by the City of Fishers on October 30, organizers protested the City's plan to allow only trail use (not rail and trail use).

Did you know a study is underway to look at better use of the White River? The same firm that did the beleaguered Broad Ripple Park study (which recommended closing the outdoor pool in the Park despite protests) is now looking at better use of the White River. Three public forums were held recently (although none in Broad Ripple). I am hearing great things are coming. My friend Norma wants a pedestrian bridge over the White River to connect Holliday Park with Broad Ripple. Holliday Park is apparently looking at canoe or kayak rentals. How about a swimming beach? From the White River website:

The White River Vision Plan is a joint effort between the City of Indianapolis and Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. in partnership with Visit Indy's philanthropic arm, Tourism Tomorrow, Inc. to develop a comprehensive and coordinated regional, community-driven plan to enhance 58 miles of the White River in Marion and Hamilton counties. The goal of the vision plan is to create an accessible, recreational, and cultural environment that encourages a unique sense of place for the community as a whole.

Visit their website, mywhiteriver.com for details.

Starved Rock State Park is a three-hour drive from Broad Ripple and is about an hour north of Bloomington, Illinois off I-39 at Ogelsby. The spectacular park features sandstone bluffs, rare plants, canyons, waterfalls, and more. Best of all is the historic lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. It is a gem and features a huge fireplace. It is perfect for an overnight stay and their historic lodge also has a great buffet including the best fried chicken ever.

Featuring 18 canyons and 13 miles of hiking trails with ancient sandstone bluffs overlooking the Illinois River Valley, there is much to do any time of year.

They also have 8 waterfalls, ice falls, and ice climbing. The area was settled by the French in the 1600s which explains the French flags.

Did I mention wine tasting at the nearby wineries? Yes, Virginia, you are in Illinois. Are you up for amazing?

Details at emjoylasallecounty.com, For lodge reservations call 815 667 4211.

Veterans Art Day will be held Saturday, November 10, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 3: 30 p.m. at the Indianapolis Art Center. The event is for veterans and members of the Armed Forces (active and retired). To register, go to indplsartcenter.org/veteransartday or call 317 255 2464.

Mark your calendar for these additional upcoming Art Center events:

Winter Fest: Pop-Ups - December 1, 2018 - Pop-Up classes including fused glass snow flakes, hand-printed greeting cards, and more, from 11 am to 1 pm, followed by a family fun hour from 1 to 2 pm with games, hot cocoa, food and music.

Winter Fest: Winter Art Sale - December 1, 2018 (10 am-Noon) & December 2 (Noon-4 pm) - The 2018 Winter Fest is a NEW take on a classic Art Center event. The galleries will be transformed into an indoor artisan sale the whole weekend where you can buy handmade holiday gifts from Indianapolis Art Center artists!

81st Annual Student Show: The Annual Student Show starts December 14, 2018 with an opening reception on December 14, 6-9 pm. The 81st Annual Student Show exhibition is the largest juried exhibition of work made by the students.

The recent "Pints for Half Pints" fund raiser held recently was a benefit for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math education in midtown schools.

The Broad Ripple Kiwanis Club sponsored the event for the seventh year in a row. Last year, funds went to such things as biology supplies for Shortridge High School and two sponsorships to enable choir students from Broad Ripple Magnet High School to perform at Carnegie Hall.

Thanksgiving Day-Drumstick Dash. Both 4.6 mile and 2.75 mile courses are available. The fun starts at 9 a.m. Details at drumstickdash.org including the Broad Ripple route.

November 29-30, 2018, December 1, 2018, December 8 - Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Christmas Tree Sale, Holiday plant sale. Santa arrives on December 1 with entertainment. ISBVI is at 75th and Westfield Boulevard.