By Sally C. Pipes
President Obama’s healthcare overhaul created 23 state-based insurance companies. So far, 12 of them have collapsed. Nine closed up shop this fall alone. The reason? These government-backed insurers — known as Consumer Operated and Oriented Plans — took their “nonprofit” status a bit too seriously and went bankrupt. The CO-OP scheme is proving to be one of the most misguided parts of the entire Obamacare project. Insurers have lost billions of taxpayer dollars and left more than 740,000 people scrambling to find health coverage. And the situation will only grow worse.
Obamacare established CO-OPs to provide exchange enrollees with low-cost insurance. The idea was that CO-OPs — unconcerned with maximizing profits — would offer exceptionally cheap plans and put competitive pressure on insurers to lower their prices.
Things haven’t exactly gone according to plan.
The problem is that these CO-OPs have been taking in less money in premiums than they’re paying out in benefits. Over the first half of this year, Obamacare’s CO-OPs lost nearly $200 million — despite $2.4 billion in loans from the federal government. Today, all but one of the 23 CO-OPs have lost money.
The mounting financial pressure has forced many to simply shut down. A few weeks ago, the Kentucky Health Cooperative collapsed. At the time, it had the second highest enrollment among all the CO-OPs in the country and had enrolled 75 percent of the patients on Kentucky’s exchange. But it was running a “medical loss” ratio of 158 percent, meaning that it was paying out $1.58 for every dollar it received in premiums. Despite receiving $146.5 million in taxpayer-financed loans, the Kentucky Health Cooperative was deep in the red.
Likewise, Iowa’s CoOportunity Heath liquidated in January and forced its 120,000 enrollees to find new coverage. Colorado HealthOP and Oregon’s Health Republic, which together covered nearly 100,000 people, have also recently gone under.
The government was supposed to provide a financial backstop for the CO-OPs. Obamacare empowered federal authorities to reimburse CO-OPs for their losses. However, officials ultimately decided that they would only cover about 12 percent of claims, so the CO-OPs have been left to eat 88 cents out of every dollar in losses. But the failure of the CO-OP system isn’t surprising.
Several states have rejected the system because of cash flow issues. Vermont denied licensing for a proposed CO-OP because its managers did “not show sufficient evidence that it will be able to sustain solvency, repay its federal loans and gain enrollment.”
As the CO-OPs have collapsed, the traditional insurance industry has rapidly consolidated. The top three national insurers — Anthem, Aetna, and UnitedHealth — have all been on acquisition sprees, buying up smaller competitors like Cigna and Humana. And their rolls have swelled as CO-OP patients come back onto the private insurance market.
This consolidation has been expedited by the expansive array of new controls on pricing and benefits that Obamacare places on insurers. Large firms are best situated to handle this burden. They have the resources and technical expertise to appropriately adjust their offerings. Small and mid-sized insurers don’t. So, in order to survive, they’ve been selling themselves to larger operations.
The Obamacare CO-OP system is a failure, especially for patients. And it’s costing American taxpayers billions of dollars — and counting.
Sally C. Pipes is President, CEO, and Thomas W. Smith Fellow in Health Care Policy at the Pacific Research Institute. Her latest book is The Cure for Obamacare (Encounter 2013). Her next book, The Way Out of Obamacare (Encounter), will be released in December.
23 days to go! Every year people panic to find the perfect gift. We at T2C have been collecting idea’s all year long to bring you the perfect gift guide at all price levels. When you’re at the end of your rope trying to find the perfect Christmas present this year, come to this guide for some great suggestions.
If someone is in pain what better gift is relief? Get relief from chronic pain with the help of Mode’s natural nano CBD products, you can also get relief from anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders.
I personally tried the CBD Gummies For Sleep ($44.95). I am a person whose brain never shuts off. I also was having pain, that was walking me up. I took one and woke up the next day feeling rested, relaxed and ready to start my day. These include CBD, melatonin, Valerian Root, PassionFlower, L-Theanine, Chamomile and GABA.
There is also CBD Roll On for Back Pain 500mg ($49.99). This is a stick formed cream made of beneficial and organic plant extracts that will help relieve ease muscles, neck, joint, abdomen, and back. It also comes in 1000mg ($69.99)
Finally there is Nano CBD Tincture Isolate Spectrum 1500mg ($154.99). This helps relieve: Anxiety, stress, chronic pains, sleep disorders, and depression. Water soluble add it to your favorite food or drink and feel the effects of calmness.
24 days to go! Every year people panic to find the perfect gift. We at T2C have been collecting idea’s all year long to bring you the perfect gift guide at all price levels. When you’re at the end of your rope trying to find the perfect Christmas present this year, come to this guide for some great suggestions.
I am starting first with Chanukah which starts December 7th. Here are great little surprises and treats. First up are these festive Chocolate Dreidels ($14) are handmade with the finest chocolate, and filled with milk chocolate gold-foiled Gelt coins for a surprise inside that never disappoints. They make a great addition at any Chanukah celebration everyone will love! Each Dreidel contains 3 coins. Gluten Free. Kosher Certified.
Then there are the adorable Menorah Pops. At $4.95 its a sin not to indulge.
Menorah Pops $4.95
Their unique selection of Chocolate Gift Boxes, Towers and Gift Baskets stand out among New York’s discerning chocolate enthusiasts. We loved the box of 30 Chocolate Mini Presents at $25 these bite-sized solid premium milk chocolates wrapped in Italian foil are perfect for filling stockings or party favors. Gluten Free. Kosher Certified.
Li-Lac Chocolates are fresh, gourmet chocolate hand-crafted in small batches for exceptional quality and superior taste. They also come in dairy free, sugar free and Kosher certified making them perfect for the family. These chocolates are creamy, tasty and so delightfully sinful.
Handmade in Brooklyn, not only are you supporting a local business but freshness is guaranteed.
Li Lac Chocolates are now my go to chocolate place for gifts.
It was the holiday mixer that hit all the sweet notes.
Milk Bar founder Christina Tosi and Ziploc hosted a fun interactive holiday party at the New York City Milk Bar flagship location on November 29. Attendees at the special affair got to hear Christina’s tips and tricks for the holiday season, as well as see Ziploc’s latest innovation, the Stay Open Design bags.
“Ziploc bags have been a favorite tool of mine since I started baking because they are so versatile and easy to use. From rolling out and freezing dough to ensuring my baked goods always stays fresh, there’s no shortage of ways that I use Ziploc® at home and in our bakeries,” she said. “The new Ziploc® Stay Open Design bags help give me an extra set of hands in the kitchen. As soon as I tried them, I was immediately reminded of mixing puppy chow in a Ziploc® bag as a child, and I knew this would be another perfect collaboration.”
Teaming up for the release the bakery’s first-ever, limited-edition take on “puppy chow” dessert – Ziploc x Milk Bar Holiday Mix – is a perfect way to start December. Perfect for festive gatherings, hosting gifts, stocking stuffers, family road trips and long sessions on the couch watching holiday movies, the offering features popular holiday flavors, including corn square cereal, white chocolate, cookie butter, sprinkles, and sugar cookie pieces.
Each bag of the Ziploc® x Milk Bar Holiday Mix comes pre-packaged in a quart-size Ziploc® Stay Open Design storage bag. Ziploc®‘s latest innovation helps ensure the contents will stay fresh and easily snackable thanks to a cuffed opening and patented stand up bottom that keeps it upright and open for filling and sharing with confidence. For the month of December, pick up a bag at the New York City, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles Milk Bar stores for just $7, plus tax, while supplies last.
And, for anyone in NYC, starting December 1, you can also book the perfect holiday activity, a build-your-own holiday mix-making experience! Attendees will learn Christina Tosi’s tips and tricks with the Milk Bar expert bakers and walk away with a gallon-size bag of holiday mix gifting for their own enjoyment.
For those not located near a Milk Bar store, don’t worry! Milk Bar and Ziploc® are sharing the exclusive recipe for free on both of their websites – a wonderful opportunity for a festive home activity with friends and family. Ziploc® also created a one-stop shop, to easily find all the ingredients needed at Amazon, Target or Walmart, including Ziploc® Stay Open Design bags that allow for easily folding, filling, scooping and snacking.
Photos by AP for Ziploc®
In the world of wellness and alternative medicine, there is a growing interest in exploring new cannabinoids that offer a unique blend of benefits. One such compound that has been making waves in recent years is Delta-8 THC. And for those who prefer a tasty and convenient method of consumption, 25mg Delta 8 gummies have emerged as a delicious and effective choice. In this blog, we’ll delve into the wonders of 25mg Delta 8 gummies, discussing their benefits, safety, and how they can be a delightful way to elevate your wellness. So, whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or just curious about the potential of Delta 8, read on to satisfy your sweet tooth while discovering the magic of these gummies.
What Are 25mg Delta 8 Gummies?
Before we dive into the wonders of 25mg Delta 8 gummies, it’s important to understand what they are and where they come from. Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, but it is present in much smaller quantities compared to its more famous counterpart, Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 is considered a minor cannabinoid, but it has gained popularity due to its unique effects and potential wellness benefits.
Delta-8 THC is distinct from Delta-9 THC in terms of its chemical structure, which has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom instead of the ninth. This subtle difference results in milder psychoactive effects, making it a more accessible option for individuals who may experience unease or uneasiness when using Delta-9 THC.
25mg Delta 8 gummies are edibles infused with 25 milligrams of Delta-8 THC. These gummies are created through a careful extraction and infusion process that isolates Delta-8 from the cannabis plant and combines it with other ingredients to form a delicious, easy-to-dose treat. They come in various flavors and shapes, making them an enjoyable way to consume Delta-8 while avoiding the need to smoke or vape.
The Benefits of 25mg Delta 8 Gummies
Mild and Relaxing High
One of the primary reasons people are turning to 25mg Delta 8 gummies is the milder and more manageable high they offer. Unlike Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 tends to produce a more subtle, clear-headed euphoria. Users often report feeling relaxed and focused without the overwhelming intensity or apprehension that can be associated with Delta-9. This makes Delta-8 gummies a great choice for those who want to unwind without feeling overly intoxicated.
Pain and Uneasiness Relief
Delta-8 THC may have potential therapeutic benefits. Research is still in its early stages, but anecdotal reports suggest that Delta-8 gummies can help with pain relief, discomfort reduction, and the management of tension. Some users find that Delta-8 provides a soothing, calming effect without the sedative qualities of other cannabinoids.
Improved Appetite
Just like Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 can also stimulate appetite. For individuals dealing with appetite issues or undergoing medical treatments that affect their eating habits, 25mg Delta 8 gummies may provide a tasty solution to help increase food intake.
Convenient and Discreet
The convenience and discretion of gummies are a significant advantage. They can be enjoyed anywhere without drawing attention, making them a discreet choice for those who want to incorporate Delta-8 into their daily routine. Plus, the precise dosage of 25mg per gummy makes it easy to control and adjust your intake according to your needs.
No Harsh Smoke or Vapor
Smoking and vaping are common methods of consuming cannabis, but not everyone prefers these delivery methods. Delta-8 gummies offer a smoke-free and lung-friendly way to experience the effects of Delta-8 THC, which can be particularly appealing to individuals concerned about their respiratory health.
Long-Lasting Effects
When you consume Delta-8 in gummy form, the effects tend to last longer than when inhaled through smoking or vaping. This extended duration can be advantageous for those looking for sustained relief from symptoms or seeking to unwind over an extended period.
Safety and Legality of 25mg Delta 8 Gummies
As with any cannabinoid product, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and legality when considering 25mg Delta 8 gummies. These gummies should be sourced from reputable manufacturers and distributors to ensure product quality and compliance with local laws.
In the United States, the legality of Delta-8 THC is a bit of a gray area. It’s considered legal on a federal level due to the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, state laws regarding Delta-8 THC vary, so it’s essential to research and understand the regulations in your specific location.
For the safest and most reliable experience, always purchase Delta-8 gummies from reputable companies that provide lab-tested products. These lab tests confirm the cannabinoid content and ensure that the gummies are free from harmful contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents. You can find a wide range of high-quality Delta-8 gummies and related products on Stirling CBD Oil’s website, which is a trusted source for all your cannabinoid needs.
How to Use 25mg Delta 8 Gummies Safely and Effectively
If you decide to try 25mg Delta 8 gummies, here are some tips on using them safely and effectively:
Start Low and Go Slow: Delta-8 can affect individuals differently, so it’s a good practice to begin with a low dose, especially if you are new to cannabinoids. You can always increase your dosage gradually if you feel it’s necessary.
Wait Patiently: The effects of Delta-8 gummies may take some time to kick in, typically around 45 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. Avoid taking additional gummies too quickly, as it’s easy to overdo it when you’re not feeling the effects immediately.
Stay Hydrated: Like with any edible product, it’s important to drink water to stay hydrated, especially if you experience dry mouth, a common side effect.
Consume Responsibly: Never drive or operate heavy machinery after consuming Delta-8 gummies, and avoid mixing them with alcohol or other substances.
Store Properly: Keep your gummies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their quality and potency.
Choosing the Right 25mg Delta 8 Gummies
Not all Delta-8 gummies are created equal, and the quality of your gummies can greatly impact your experience. When looking for the right Delta-8 gummies, consider the following factors:
Source: Ensure that the Delta-8 THC used in the gummies is derived from high-quality hemp plants. Organic sources are preferred for a cleaner product.
Ingredients: Read the ingredient list to make sure you’re comfortable with what’s included in the gummies. Natural flavorings and sweeteners are a plus.
Third-Party Testing: Only purchase from brands that provide third-party lab testing results for their products. This confirms the cannabinoid content and safety of the gummies.
Variety: Choose gummies that suit your preferences in terms of flavor and shape. Many manufacturers offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes.
To explore a selection of high-quality 25mg Delta 8 gummies and other cannabinoid products, visit Stirling CBD Oil’s website. Stirling CBD Oil is a reputable source known for its commitment to quality and transparency, making it a safe choice for all your Delta-8 needs.
25mg Delta 8 gummies are a delightful and convenient way to experience the unique effects of Delta-8 THC. These gummies offer a mild and relaxing high, potential wellness benefits, and a discreet, smoke-free method of consumption. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety and legality when incorporating Delta-8 gummies into your wellness routine. Always choose reputable sources and start with a low dose to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.
If you’re ready to explore the world of Delta-8 gummies, visit Stirling CBD Oil’s website for a wide selection of high-quality cannabinoid products. From gummies to oils and more, you can find the perfect solution to satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate your wellness journey. Don’t wait to experience the wonders of 25mg Delta 8 gummies – take the first step towards a more relaxed and enjoyable way to unwind and enhance your well-being.
C. B. Cebulski, Editor-in-Chief of Marvel Comics, and The LEGO Group Senior Graphic Designer Mark Tranter will be at the Fifth Ave LEGO Store this Friday, December 1st from 5pm-6pm signing the Avengers Tower set—the most iconic building in the Avengers Universe, with 5,201 pieces and an all-star cast of 31 figures.
The Avengers Tower, formerly known as Stark Tower, was a high-rise building complex located in Manhattan. Constructed by Tony Stark, the tower was powered by an Arc Reactor that made it capable of running itself for over a year. The top ten floors housed the research and development initiatives.
Following the dissolution of S.H.I.E.L.D., Stark Tower became the main headquarters of the Avengers. However, after the Ultron Offensive, Stark refurbished a Stark Industries warehouse upstate into the Avengers Compound to use as their primary base while Avengers Tower was repurposed for Stark Industries’ use. In the aftermath of the Avengers Civil War, Stark sold the tower and moved all of its equipment to the Avengers Compound.
By 2024, the tower, under its new ownership, had gone through extensive construction and renovation.
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