In this episode of Law Matters, host Sherry and guest LtCol Hal Kempfer discuss a range of pressing geopolitical issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the complexities of U.S. relations with Mexico and Venezuela, and the implications of the Epstein files on political figures. They explore the challenges of intelligence sharing among allies, the influence of drug cartels in Mexico, and the strategic importance of maintaining relationships with countries like Saudi Arabia despite their controversial actions. The conversation highlights the intricate balance of geopolitics and the realities of international relations.

• Law Matters aims to give law enforcement a voice.
• Ukraine is receiving international support through frozen Russian assets.
• Intelligence sharing among allies is crucial but complicated.
• Mexico's drug cartels pose significant challenges for U.S. relations.
• Venezuela's political instability affects regional dynamics.
• The U.S. has a strategic interest in maintaining relations with Saudi Arabia.
• The Epstein files may reveal connections to powerful political figures.
• Geopolitical realities often require uncomfortable alliances.
• The situation in Ukraine is evolving, with European nations stepping up support.
• Drug trafficking is a dangerous occupation with significant consequences.

In this conversation, Sherry and Denise Ybarra delve into the complexities of Medicare and health insurance, emphasizing the importance of understanding various plans, the role of insurance agents, and the need for annual reviews. They discuss the challenges consumers face, including the risk of fraud and the necessity of staying informed about changes in policies. The conversation highlights the differences between Medicare and Medicaid, the significance of personalized service from local agents, and the evolving landscape of health insurance benefits.

• Denise Ybarra has been in the insurance industry since 2014, motivated by her grandmother's confusion with coverage.
• Insurance agents provide essential support and advocacy for clients navigating complex health insurance options.
• Annual reviews of health insurance plans are crucial as benefits can change yearly.
• Consumers should be cautious about sharing personal information and be aware of potential fraud.
• Understanding the differences between Medicare and Medicaid is important for consumers seeking assistance.
• The Medicare landscape is evolving, with new policies and options emerging regularly.
• Personalized service from local insurance agents can significantly impact consumer satisfaction and understanding.
• Consumers should actively engage with their insurance agents to ensure they are getting the best coverage for their needs.
• The importance of preventive care and staying informed about health services is emphasized throughout the conversation.
• Insurance agents should be knowledgeable, patient, and transparent in their dealings with clients.

Marc Barnes, Owner of Coper Caynon Tax Service explains the new rules, how long they will last, and how you need to prepare for this years tax season before it's too late. 

The conversation with Beth Goulden delves into the complexities of sexual offenses committed by juveniles, particularly focusing on the implications of age on accountability and public awareness regarding offender registration. The speakers discuss a specific case that raises questions about who should be tracked and the societal responsibilities surrounding these issues.

• The age of the offender significantly impacts registration laws.
• There are cases where serious offenses do not require registration due to the offender's age.
• Public awareness of juvenile offenders is a contentious issue.
• The conversation highlights the need for a discussion on accountability for young offenders.
• There is a disparity in how different offenses are treated legally based on the age of the perpetrator.
• The emotional response to cases of juvenile offenders can be intense and complex.
• The legal system's approach to juvenile offenders can lead to public safety concerns.
• The speakers advocate for a reevaluation of registration laws for young offenders.
• There is a need for more transparency regarding juvenile offenders in the community.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of discussing these sensitive topics openly.

In this episode of Law Matters, host Sherry engages with Mike Vigil, former head of International Operations for the DEA, to discuss pressing issues surrounding law enforcement, political accountability, and international relations. The conversation delves into the complexities of the situation in Venezuela, the implications of healthcare policies, the ongoing investigation into the Epstein files, and the role of the Supreme Court in political corruption. Vigil emphasizes the importance of public awareness and voter engagement, while also addressing the challenges of drug policy and law enforcement in the U.S. and abroad.

• Law Matters aims to give law enforcement a voice.
• Venezuela's political situation is complex and dangerous.
• The U.S. Constitution requires Congress to declare war.
• The Epstein files reveal significant political connections.
• There is a need for term limits in the Supreme Court.
• Voter engagement is crucial for democracy.
• The U.S. is losing vital intelligence in international relations.
• Public cooperation with law enforcement is essential.
• The drug crisis is a demand-driven issue.
• The U.S. has lost credibility in its foreign policy.

In this conversation, Sherry and Gina Jernukian discuss the critical work of Soul Survivor, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping survivors of sex trafficking. They explore the My Step resource program, the challenges faced by survivors, and the importance of community awareness and involvement in combating trafficking. The discussion also touches on the complexities of survivor support, the impact of branding, and the need for accountability in cases of abuse. Gina shares her journey into nonprofit work and the various fundraising efforts to support their mission.

• Soul Survivor, Inc. helps survivors of sex trafficking.
• The My Step program connects individuals with local resources.
• Branding is a common form of abuse among trafficking victims.
• Survivors often face significant challenges in transitioning to normal life.
• Community awareness is crucial in combating trafficking.
• Nonprofit work requires persistent fundraising efforts.
• Survivors may experience long-term psychological effects.
• Accountability for abusers is essential for justice.
• Collaboration with other agencies enhances support for survivors.
• Events and community involvement are vital for raising awareness.

Law Matters 'Nominate Your Favorite Veteran for a Day of Recognition' contest winner Jon Russas talks about his sevice and growing up in a miitary family.  

In this conversation, LtCol Hal Kempfer discusses various geopolitical issues, focusing on Venezuela's military presence, the threat of drug cartels, military operations in Mexico, the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and the situation in Nigeria regarding extremism and oil smuggling. He emphasizes the complexities of military strategy and national security in these regions, highlighting the challenges faced by the U.S. and its allies.

The U.S. has a significant military presence in Venezuela, but it's not enough for a full invasion.

• Maduro's regime is under pressure, with a bounty placed on him due to drug-related charges.
• Drug cartels are now classified as terrorist organizations, changing the rules of engagement.
• Military operations in Mexico face challenges due to cartel influence and corruption.
• Russia's military is suffering from personnel shortages and operational failures in Ukraine.
• Hamas is unlikely to disarm, complicating peace efforts in Gaza.
• Nigeria faces severe issues with Islamic extremism and oil smuggling, exacerbated by government corruption.
• The geopolitical landscape in South America is shifting, particularly regarding oil resources.
• The situation in Gaza is dire, with infrastructure destroyed and humanitarian needs unmet.
• Military strategies must adapt to the evolving nature of threats in these regions.

Beth Green's early activism began at a young age, influenced by her family's history and societal injustices.
She faced multiple arrests and expulsion from college due to her political beliefs and activism.
Beth's experiences in the anti-war movement shaped her understanding of social justice and activism.
She highlights the importance of inner revolution alongside external activism for societal change.
Beth emphasizes the need for economic and political equality in today's society.
Her work in the Wages for Housework campaign focused on the value of women's labor and rights.
Beth's experiences with discrimination in the movement led her to create a Marxist feminist group.
She reflects on the current political climate and the need for a new Declaration of Independence.
Beth believes in the power of peaceful protests and the importance of maintaining integrity in activism.
She advocates for a society that values all contributions equally, regardless of monetary worth.

In this conversation, Beth Green shares her remarkable journey as an activist, reflecting on her early political awakening, experiences with the FBI, and her expulsion from college due to her beliefs. She discusses her involvement in the anti-war movement, the challenges she faced as a woman in activism, and her commitment to social justice. Beth emphasizes the importance of inner revolution alongside external activism, advocating for economic and political equality. Her insights into the current political climate and the need for a new Declaration of Independence highlight her enduring passion for change and equality.

In this conversation, immigration attorney Mo Goldman discusses the complexities and challenges of immigration law, including the difficulties faced by individuals trying to navigate the legal system, the impact of recent policies on civil rights, and the blurring lines between criminality and immigration violations. He emphasizes the need for reform and accountability within the immigration system, as well as the role of Congress in addressing these issues. The conversation also touches on the implications of current enforcement practices on businesses and the broader community.

• There's a lot of push back from the immigration service.
• Delays in processing can be completely outrageous.
• Legal remedies exist for unreasonable government delays.
• Documentation is crucial for civil rights actions against law enforcement.
• The Supreme Court's decisions have enabled abuses in immigration enforcement.
• There's confusion between criminal and non-criminal violations in immigration.
• Immigration violations are primarily civil misdemeanors.
• Congress has failed to enact meaningful immigration reform.
• Businesses face penalties for hiring undocumented workers.
• Current immigration policies disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.