8-7-13: Aetna leaves the insurance exchange, State Senator E.J. Pipkin on his retirement, and Bronies in Baltimore

Summary: The Maryland Health Connection, the state’s online insurance marketplace, opens for business in less than eight weeks. Aetna has decided it won't be part of it. We ask two health journalists what that means for Marylanders looking for health insurance. Then-Republican E.J. Pipkin has served in the Maryland State Senate since 2003 as minority leader since 2011. Two days ago he announced his retirement--and an impending move to Texas. We talk with him about the career switch. And-The stampede of more than 6,000 My Little Pony lovers may have left Baltimore, but there is still much to learn about Brony culture. In this reported piece and essay, we learn how the animated series has impacted Bronies' real lives. Plus-the Maryland Morning culture calendar brings us treats for aesthetes!