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Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast

Grocery cards, gas money, golf lessons: Medicare Advantage plans stretch limits

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Show Notes

CTL Script/ Top Stories of Jan 2nd 

Publish Date: December 30th

Henssler :15 

From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast 

 

Today is Tuesday, January 2nd and Happy 55th Birthday to actor Cuba Gooding Jr.

*** 01.02.24 - BIRTHDAY - CUBA GOODING JR***

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia. 

  1. Grocery cards, gas money, golf lessons: Medicare Advantage plans stretch limits
  2. Clear Subscribers Face Longer Wait Times Than TSA Precheck, Highlighting New Challenges in Air Travel Industry
  3. Running Red Lights in Georgia Could Cost You up to $1,000, Warns State Law Enforcement

Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets to discuss Superfoods.

 

We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!

 

Commercial: CU of GA

 

STORY 1: Medicare

Medicare Advantage plans continue to draw in elderly enrollees by offering appealing incentives such as grocery cards and even golf lessons. Supporters of these incentives argue that they foster healthier lifestyles, whereas critics express concerns that they may serve as a facade for less-than-stellar coverage. These incentives have become a significant factor in the promotion of these plans. Despite the conclusion of the open enrollment period, beneficiaries have another opportunity from January 1st to March 31st to switch their plans. This discussion delves into the intricate web of insurance options available to seniors, cautioning them to stay focused on the essential aspects of their plans amidst the allure of these perks. It also tackles the issue of measuring the effectiveness of these incentives in enhancing health outcomes, a task which presents its own set of challenges. In 2023, more than half (51%) of eligible Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, according to Kaiser Family Foundation. Furthermore, nearly a quarter of these plans offer financial assistance for food and produce, as reported by Axios.

STORY 2: Clear

The air travel industry is facing a new challenge that's affecting even those who've paid for convenience. Travelers who've subscribed to Clear, an annual $189 private program designed to expedite airport security checks via biometric identity verification, are finding themselves in line behind members of the less expensive TSA Precheck program, which costs $78 for five years. A surge in enrollment for both programs, combined with the introduction of more time-consuming 3-D luggage scanning machines and overall staffing shortages at airports, has resulted in longer wait times. Unfortunately, this means that Clear, despite its advanced technology, can sometimes be slower than TSA Precheck. Travelers are now left navigating a complex choice about which security line to choose, making their airport experience less streamlined than they'd hoped. This latest challenge highlights the ongoing issues in the aviation industry as it grapples with adapting to new technologies, increasing passenger numbers, and managing operational logistics.

STORY 3: Red Lights

In Georgia, even if a red light is taking too long to turn green, drivers must not run it. Disobeying this rule is considered a misdemeanor and can result in a fine. A maximum $70 fine applies if caught on camera, but fines can increase to $158 if pulled over without previous points on the license. Repeated violations can lead to a $1,000 fine and three points added to the license. If a traffic light is malfunctioning, it should be treated as a flashing red or yellow light, and drivers should proceed safely. A completely broken traffic light should be treated as a four-way stop. Drivers are advised to report malfunctioning lights to the city or the police department's non-emergency line.

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Back in a moment 

Break: DRAKE – ESOG

 

STORY 4: Senior Facilities

A significant change is looming over Georgia's assisted living and personal care homes. State officials are contemplating a rollback of staffing requirements, a move which has sparked apprehension among advocates for the elderly who worry about potential safety compromises. This comes after Rep. Sharon Cooper addressed neglect and abuse issues in 2020, leading to an increase in staffing levels. Yet, the Georgia Senior Living Association is now advocating for a relaxation of these requirements. The proposed changes include a reduction in staff numbers in memory care units, a move that critics argue could negatively affect the quality of care provided. It's a pivotal time for the senior care sector in Georgia, as these decisions could significantly impact the lives of those residing in these facilities.

STORY 5: Streaming Prices

Major alterations are on the horizon for Amazon Prime Video, starting January 29th. Brace yourself for the introduction of commercials during your beloved TV shows and films as Amazon Prime Video follows in the footsteps of other streaming platforms by offering different subscription levels. Prime members will have the option to select an ad-free tier priced at $2.99 per month in the U.S., ensuring a seamless streaming experience. This move comes as Disney recently increased their ad-free Disney+ subscription rate to $13.99/month, while Netflix's ad-free plan stands at $15.49/month. However, Amazon reassures us that there will be no amendments to the Prime membership cost in the upcoming year.

Commercial: HELLER LAW – INGLES 8

STORY 6: INGLES - LEAH

And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on Superfoods.

STORY 7: LEAH INTERVIEW

We’ll have closing comments after this. 

 

COMMERCIAL: Henssler 60 

 

SIGN OFF –  

Thanks again for listening to today’s Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast. . If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, the Gwinnett Daily Post, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast. Get more on these stories and other great content at tribune ledger news.com. Giving you important information about our community and telling great stories are what we do.  

 

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