Proactive

Health wise — The problem is health insurance. More specifically, the lack of health insurance. To address the problem, the state is engaging in a yearlong effort to “develop a plan that will result in health coverage for all Michigan residents.” Not to sound too cynical, but Proactive will believe that one when we see it. Still, we can hope. And we, like you, can at least try to make it happen by attending a town hall meeting exploring the issue of the uninsured and the underinsured that will take place 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 13, at Marygrove College’s Madame Cadillac Hall, 8425 W. McNichols Rd. (between Wyoming and Livernois). Who’s invited? Health care professionals, employers, the uninsured, the community at large, and, specifically, you. A light dinner will be served, but you get to chow down only if you RSVP. Discussions will cover questions about who should pay for providing health care, and how the lack of insurance affects our community. The event is sponsored by the Detroit Wayne County Health Authority, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, the UAW and the Michigan Department of Community Health. Call 313-874-7443, fax 313-874-5425 or e-mail dhallad1@hfhs.org.

Mixed bag — The Caleidoscope of Culture Awards annually honor southeastern Michigan businesses and organizations “that offer and support innovative initiatives that promote inclusion and help break down barriers based on factors such as race, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation and physical disabilities.” In other words, it’s a worthy event. This year’s awards ceremony takes place 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 13, at the Fairlane Club in Dearborn. Tickets are $100. Contact Brenda Moragne at 248-423-9205 ext. 222 or visit ntouchgroup.com.