Social Security Administration Needs Your Help Stopping Scammers

Tracie Eubank on June 9, 2023

June 9, 2023

The Social Security Administration and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) continued to raise public awareness about Social Security imposter scams during the fourth annual “Slam the Scam” Day on March 9. Social Security scams — where fraudsters pressure victims into making cash or gift card payments to fix alleged Social Security number problems or to avoid arrest— are an ongoing government imposter fraud scheme.


For several years, Social Security impersonation scams have been one of the most common government imposter scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Social Security has made concerted efforts to address this issue, through extensive outreach and investigative initiatives. These efforts have made a significant impact, reducing money reported lost to Social Security scams by 30 percent from 2021 to 2022.


“I am proud of the work we have done to combat Social Security imposter scams and raise public awareness,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the public and their critical benefits. We urge Americans to remain vigilant, do not give out personal information or money, and report any scam attempts.”

Scam Ps
Social Security Administration

For example, scammers pretend they are from Social Security in phone calls or emails and claim there is a problem with the person’s Social Security number. The scammer’s caller ID may be spoofed to look like a legitimate government number. Scammers may also send fake documents to pressure people into complying with demands for information or money. Other common tactics include citing “badge numbers” and using fraudulent Social Security letterhead to target individuals for payment or personal information.


Social Security will never tell you that your Social Security number is suspended; contact you to demand an immediate payment; threaten you with arrest; ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone; request gift cards or cash; or promise a Social Security benefit approval or increase in exchange for information or money.
Social Security employees do contact the public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record, or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, Social Security will typically mail a letter.


“Working with our law enforcement and private sector partners to inform consumers about scammers and their deceptive practices remains a priority for my office. Slamming the scam begins with consumers quickly taking a step to hang up the phone, or delete suspicious texts and emails, without responding to the scammers,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “That remains the easiest and most effective method to avoid falling prey to these vicious scams.”
To report a scam attempt, go to oig.ssa.gov.

Odd Dental Habits (Some Actually Work!)

Isaiah on June 8, 2023

Ancient Romans had some odd dental habits and practices when it came to dental care. For example, they would rub their teeth with a paste made of honey and ground pepper, believing that the combination could whiten their teeth. While modern dentistry has come a long way since then, there are still many unusual practices – some have even become very popular – that people use to this day that may or may not be effective.

Odd Dental Habits – Do They Work?

Does using baking soda as toothpaste work?

Baking soda has become a popular choice for people looking for a whiter smile without costly professional treatments. However, baking soda should only be used occasionally as a cleanser. Because of the abrasive texture, it can wear down enamel over time if used too often or incorrectly. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste is still the best option for keeping teeth clean and white naturally.

Does activated charcoal whiten teeth?

Like baking soda, activated charcoal is an abrasive scrub and can wear away the protective outer layer of your teeth. In fact, activated charcoal can make your teeth look yellower, not whiter. You could unintentionally scrub away your tooth’s enamel, revealing the dentin beneath.

Is swishing with coconut oil a substitute for flossing?

Another recent dental hygiene fad is swishing coconut oil – known as “pulling”. The belief is that the slippery oil will help remove debris left between teeth without having to floss. While coconut oil pulling has been reported to remedy a host of oral health problems, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and halitosis, it’s not a substitute for regular flossing, which dentists still deem essential for good oral health maintenance.

The best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy and your smile at its best is by brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating right, and visiting your dentist for twice-annual checkups, no odd dental habits are required! NCRGEA and AMBA can help you keep your mouth healthy and smile attractive! That’s why our Dental Plan provides coverage for twice annual cleanings, access for any dentist you want with bigger savings by staying in-network, and – best of all – NO WAITING PERIOD. Visit www.ambadentalvision.com/ncrgea or call 877-556-4578 to enroll today.

NCRGEA Begins a Lunch & Learn Series!

Tracie Eubank on June 7, 2023

June 7, 2023

Our Community Liaison, Deryl Fulmer, has heard from many NCRGEA members that they would like information on being Active & Engaged! We have launched a series of virtual Lunch & Learn events for 2023 with professional panelists who will cover many topics that will inspire and inform our members.

This June, our kickoff topic to the Lunch & Learn Series, “Aging Un-Lonely: Staying Socially Connected for your Health,” will be on the topic of the Loneliness Epidemic.

It is no secret that the number of older adults age 65 and older is growing, and many are socially isolated and regularly feel lonely. In this session, you will:

Lunch and Learn June28

    • learn the difference between social isolation and loneliness

    • understand the health implications

    • get tips to combat these health concerns, as older adults are at a higher risk for physical and mental health declines, including dementia and heart disease

Please join us Wednesday, June 28 from 12:30 to 1:30pm for this enlightening conversation with panelists Dr. Megan Smith, UNC-Charlotte, Rebecca Freeman, NC Department of Adult and Aging Services and Dr. Cheryl Greenberg, AARP, to learn more about this growing concern and find out how to age un-lonely and healthy.

This is a virtual event via Zoom. Registration by Friday | June 23 is required. Registration is now closed. Please watch our calendar for future events!

If you have any questions, please email Deryl@NCRGEA.com or phone 919.834.4652.

Five Common Myths About Eye Health

Isaiah on June 7, 2023

As we age, the risks for vision loss from eye disease increase. Unfortunately, many people rely on outdated conventional wisdom or random online searches to get answers to important eye-related health issues. Here are five common eye health misconceptions and the answers you need to help protect your vision and prevent vision loss.

Eye Health Myths

#1: You only need an eye exam if you feel pain.

Fact: Most eye diseases, like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), have no early warning signs or symptoms. By the time a change in vision is noticed, the damage can be irreversible. Regardless of symptoms, regular eye exams are essential in protecting sight.

#2: Computer screens will ruin your eyesight.

Fact: While it is true long hours spent in front of computer and phone screens can cause eyes to feel tired and strained for a variety of reasons, including the tendency to blink less frequently. But thorough research and data prove that computer, tablet, and phone screens are not responsible for any permanent damage to vision.

#3: All sunglasses are the same.

Fact: Ultraviolet rays can increase your risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Since UV damage is cumulative, you should always protect from the sun. Make sure sunglasses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and wear them whenever you’re outdoors. To provide additional protection from UV damage, you can also wear a hat and stay in the shade as well.

#4: Vision loss is an inevitable result of aging.

Fact: If you catch eye disease early and take steps to protect your vision, vision loss and many diseases can be prevented. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes staying active, getting proper nutrition, and practicing other smart habits will help protect your vision as you age.

#5: If you got your eyes screened when you got new glasses or contacts, you don’t need an eye exam.

Keeping your eyes as healthy as possible requires regular checkups with an ophthalmologist – a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. Eye exams for new glasses only check your prescription. Only a dilated eye exam will reveal the entire eye and detect signs of eye disease. Even if you recently got a new prescription for glasses or contacts, you might still need a dilated eye exam.

Taking proper care of our eyes is essential to preserve good vision and healthy eyes as we age.
That’s why the Vision Plan from NCRGEA and AMBA is so important. The plan provides comprehensive coverage with low copays for important services, including coverage for a WellVision exam every 12 months, as well as big savings on eyewear, contacts, and lenses. Sign up now at www.AMBAdentalvision.com/NCRGEA or call 866-979-0497.

Source: https://preventblindness.org/common-eye-myths/

Boost Your Thinking Power: Tips to Keep an Older Brain​ Wiser

Isaiah on June 4, 2023

As we get older, both physical and mental health are equally important to maintain quality of life. Boosting your brain power can help you stay sharp and engaged and keep your cognitive skills and memory sharp. Three of the most effective ways to keep your mental health strong are by practicing mental exercises, maintaining relationships and friendships, and eating right. These factors can provide significant benefits to staying mentally fit for your entire life. Best of all, all three can be rewarding, social, and fun!

Boost Your Brain Power with Memory Exercises

Brain games such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku provide excellent mental stimulation while helping boost concentration levels and strengthen memory and problem-solving skills. Mnemonic devices are a great way to exercise your memory. Mnemonics use word association, visuals, and other techniques to help remember information. For instance, the mnemonic device “Every Good Boy Does Fine” can be used to remember the lines of a musical staff (EGBDF).

Reading is a great way to captivate your imagination, stay up to date on current events, and learn new things. Whether you’re reading a genre of fiction, news articles, or poetry, reading is proven to improve your mental capacity and strengthen your memory skills. Additionally, reading aloud has been shown to increase cognitive ability by providing additional stimulation for both auditory and visual processing pathways in the brain.

Learning new skills or re-engaging a past passion are excellent ways to engage your cognitive skills. Whether it’s studying a language, playing chess, or playing a musical instrument, engaging in activities that require mental effort can be highly beneficial.

Staying Social Raises Cognitive Skills

Regular physical activity has also been proven to help improve brain function and reduce the risk of mental disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. So why not do it with friends? Getting together with friends can play an invaluable role in keeping your brain power strong. By going to the gym or for outdoor activities like walking or bike riding together you get to be social and proactive for your brain health.

Even routine conversations and discussions keep your attention strong and raise your critical thinking abilities. Even as simple a thing as meeting up for a coffee, going to sporting events, or catching a movie together not only strengthens your relationships with others, but you also strengthen your brain power at the same time!

Eating Right – A Smart Way to Stay Smart

The expression “you are what you eat” is especially true as we get older. Researchers have found that eating nutritious foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids have significant benefits for mental acuity. On the other hand, fried food, food high in trans-fats, or foods that are high in sugar and sodium can have a debilitating effect on brain function. These foods can even reduce the size of your brain and lead to a stroke!

Eating right can be a way to discover new foods, explore new cuisines, and – you guessed it – a great reason to get together with friends. Trying new restaurants and recipes together is a simple and fun way to get together!

These are all excellent ways to keep your brain strong. But sometimes a time comes when extra support – whether due to mental or physical needs – becomes necessary. That’s why the Long-Term Care plan from NCRGEA and AMBA is a smart investment. Members choose the daily benefit amount, elimination period, and benefit period that best suits their needs. This customizable policy could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars and protect your life savings for you and your loved ones. Sign up for a plan today by calling AMBA at 866-979-0497 or click to request a free Benefits Review.

Source: https://chicagointernalcleansing.com/8-foods-that-destroy-our-intelligence/

Celebrate Father’s Day with This Month’s Recipe: Bacon and Ranch Cajun Baby Cheeseburgers

Isaiah on May 31, 2023

Father’s Day is a great time to gather the whole family and enjoy a great backyard get-together. And a recipe with a fresh spin on the traditional cheeseburger is something the whole family will enjoy!

These delicious – and adorable – mini-cheeseburgers pull out all the stops for Dad with crisp-cooked bacon, homemade Cajun seasoning and a creamy, ranch dressing drizzle. Pair these burgers with your favorite sides and drinks and celebrate a great time!

Ingredients

Cajun Seasoning
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. dried oregano

Burgers
1 pound lean ground beef (for a heart-healthy recipe, swap ground turkey)
1 tsp. Cajun Seasoning
1 tsp. Tabasco
2 slices pepper Jack cheese
1 tsp. minced garlic
2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
8 mini hamburger buns or dinner rolls, split
1/4 c. prepared ranch dressing
16 arugula leaves or lettuce of choice
8 Roma tomato slices
4 crisp-cooked bacon slices (or turkey bacon!)

Directions

1) Place all Cajun seasonings in a bowl and mix.

2) Place beef, seasoning, hot sauce and garlic in a large bowl and mix. Form the mixture into 8 equal-size patties.

3)  Pour oil into a large skillet over medium heat. In batches, place patties in hot skillet and cook until browned, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

4) Quarter the two slices of cheese to make 8 slices and place a slice on top of each burger to melt.

5) Place rolls, split side down, in same skillet and cook until toasted, about 1 minute.

6) Spread the dressing onto the insides of the warm toasted rolls. Layer bottom roll with the lettuce of your choice (arugula is our favorite!), a burger, a tomato slice and a bacon slice cut in half. Close with top roll. 7) These burgers are tall – so be sure to place a pick in each to hold them together.

Makes 8 servings.

Summer Fun…For Less…Thanks to AMBA Discounts 

Isaiah on May 31, 2023

Need a new outfit for a beach getaway? Want to save money on scrumptious treats for get-togethers with family and friends? Looking for the perfect west coast trip? AMBA Discounts has got you covered. We’re here to help make your cherished summer days with loved ones even better.

Tuhkana Swimwear

Tuhkana makes easy to wear, eye-catching suits with an elegant twist. Their sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics fuse timeless designs, modern fits, and comfortable materials. Every collection is thoughtfully selected for unique style that can still be easily matched with other pieces. You don’t need 10 new bikinis every summer – but you can have 10 different new styles by picking a few new pieces.

AMBA Discounts offer: 25% off entire purchase online.

Sift Dessert Bar

Sift Dessert bar won Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and is your dessert destination for gifting, treating, and celebrating. Sift is known for creating delicious innovations, like macaron flavors like Birthday Cake with vanilla and raspberry filling, Salted Caramel, and Churro; and gourmet cupcakes like almond cake with blueberry-tequila filling or raspberry cake topped with Champagne buttercream. These confections are made daily. They have three locations in California and ship delightful dessert gift boxes nationwide. 

AMBA Discounts offer: 15% off shipping orders and in-store pick-up.

Riviera Beach House

This hotel is the perfect boutique escape in Santa Barbara’s renowned Funk zone. It’s located in the heart of an incredible eclectic neighborhood and is just steps away from the beach. This lively city with small-town charm is just waiting for you to discover its artistic community and relax in breathtaking sunsets. The hotel’s guest rooms are designed with contemporary artistic sensibility.

AMBA Discounts offer: Save up to 20% off best available rates!

Explore a world of additional savings on clothing, entertainment, shopping, and car rentals by visiting www.passportcorporate.com.

More Men Are Being Diagnosed with Advanced Prostate Cancer

Isaiah on May 31, 2023

After more than 20 years of decline, cases of prostate cancer in men and the number of deaths from the disease are rising.

A recent report says that a 3% rise in the number of cases took place between 2014-2019. In terms of mortality, less than 27,000 men died from prostate cancer in 2014. In 2022, that number increased to approximately 34,500.

The increase is deeply concerning. As one of the authors of the report said, “On a yearly basis, 8,000 more men died. Essentially, that’s like 16 Boeing 747s crashing.”

Are Declines In Prostate Cancer Screenings To Blame?

Since 1994, screening tests for prostate cancer had been a standard part of annual exams for men over 55. But in 2008, officials recommended against screening for men 75 years old and up. The concern was that doctors were over-diagnosing as well as treating too many men whose prostate cancer might progress so slowly that the men would die of something else before the cancer advanced became a problem. Treatments could lead to potential side effects such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction. The guidance against prostate exams increased for all men in 2012.

The changed guidelines and reduced number of screenings may be responsible for the initial decrease in incidence. The findings of this new study suggest the worries among some doctors and researchers that many older men were not getting screened and are now being diagnosed with advanced cancer.

Researchers now believe that, while not going back to how pervasive screening had previously been (or going back to men with slow-growing cancers receiving treatments that adversely affected their quality of life), there might need to be a rebalancing to increase the current guidelines to reverse the new trend of more death and possibly more metastatic diseases at the time of diagnosis.

The good news is that there have been spectacular advances in treatments, even for many with advanced cancers. A Cancer policy from NCRGEA and AMBA helps protect you and your family in the case of a cancer diagnosis. Although the rates of successful treatment are better than ever, travel, care, and other out-of-pocket expenses are costly. This plan pays cash in one lump sum upon the first diagnosis of internal cancer or malignant melanoma. You can even add an optional Heart and Stroke rider to your policy. Learn more by requesting a Benefits Review at amba-review.com/NCRGEA or speak with a skilled AMBA representative by calling 866-615-4063.

 

Source: https://www.urologytimes.com/view/rates-of-advanced-prostate-cancer-are-on-the-rise-new-data-show

Congratulations Montrena Hadley: NCRGEA 2023 Lifetime Service Award Recipient

Tracie Eubank on May 30, 2023

May 24, 2023

Congratulations to the NCRGEA 2023 Lifetime Service Award recipient, Montrena Hadley, of District 4.  NCRGEA honored retired local government employee Montrena Hadley for her combined 30 years of service to the city of Mebane as Planning Director. Upon retirement in 2020, Hadley was elected the same year to the Mebane City Council and is currently serving as its first Black female member. 

NCRGEA Executive Director, Tim O’Connell, presented her with the award in front of more than 100 members and staff of the North Carolina General Assembly, pictured below in Image 1 on right.  The Association’s President of the Board of Directors, Mike Taylor, was also on hand to present the award, pictured below in Image 1 on left.  Montrena was nominated by District 4’s David Ray and it was the decision of the Board of Directors to select Montrena as this year’s recipient.

We had a great turnout for the Public Service Recognition and Advocacy Day May 24th at Bicentennial Plaza; over 400 attendees were at our lunch catered by Parker’s BBQ of Wilson, including a good portion of the legislators and their staff.

Having broadband issues? We can hear you!

Tracie Eubank on May 25, 2023

Tim O'Connell at broadband conference
photo: NCRGEA Executive Director Tim O'Connell and NC Secretary of Information Technology Jim Weaver

NCRGEA Executive Director Tim O’Connell attended the “Closing the Digital Divide Conference” with state and association leaders advocating for improved access to high-speed internet.  Expansion of broadband is an important legislative agenda item to our members for many reasons, including the expansion of telehealth opportunities.

Share your feedback with the state Broadband leaders by completing their Digital Equity survey.