Sunshine Firecracker
Bio
Sunshine Firecracker is Dr. Jennifer Gayle Sappington, J.D., an investigative journalist exposing the Ephrata Enterprise. This UB Law alumna and NWU member uses legal analysis to track the Gerlach case and Lancaster County corruption.
Stories (102)
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Blaze of Glory: Sunshine Firecracker's Reflection on the Struggles of Homelessness
Imagine waking up in the morning, and before you even open your eyes, you're reminded of where you are—not in a bed, not even in a house, but outside. The ground beneath you is cold, the coat you've been using as a pillow is thin, and your body aches from another night spent sleeping on the earth. This is the reality for far too many people—people who don’t know where they’re going tomorrow, because surviving today is already hard enough.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Beat
Nova Rockafeller’s “Hey You”: A Battle Cry of Identity, Rebirth, and Reclaiming Your Damn Life
Nova Rockafeller’s track "Hey You" is a raw, unapologetic middle finger to societal norms, inner demons, and anything—or anyone—that’s ever tried to box her in. It’s more than just a song. It’s a battle cry for anyone who’s clawed their way out of personal hell, reshaped their identity, and learned to fight their own reflection. In this post, we’re diving headfirst into the lyrics and unpacking the powerful themes that punch through every line like a one-two combo from a prizefighter.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Beat
The Quiet Destroyer: Why the Covert Narcissist Is the Most Dangerous of All
Most of us are taught to watch out for the loud, arrogant narcissist—the one who dominates every room and demands the spotlight. We see the storm coming. But what about the quiet, unassuming person who seems so humble and supportive, yet leaves us feeling confused, anxious, and constantly questioning our own sanity? This is the world of the covert narcissist, and their danger lies not in the storm, but in the subtle, creeping fog that erodes our reality.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
How Narcissists Weaponize the Legal System
Narcissistic abuse is a form of emotional and psychological manipulation that often goes unnoticed, even by its victims. It is insidious, pervasive, and, in many cases, escalates into more overt forms of control and harm. One of the most disturbing manifestations of narcissistic abuse is when narcissists weaponize legal systems, particularly the police and courts, to further their manipulation and control over their victims. This article explores the dynamics of narcissistic abuse, how narcissists use the legal system as a weapon, and what victims can do to protect themselves.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
When There’s No Light at the End of the Tunnel
Growing up, we’re taught to believe that every difficult journey will eventually lead to a happy ending. That no matter how long and dark the tunnel may seem, there will always be a light shining at the end, waiting to guide us out. And maybe that’s true for some people. But for those of us who have endured the pain of a toxic, narcissistic mother, the reality is much different.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Covert Narcissists and Legal System Exploitation:
When it comes to narcissists, their need for control knows no bounds. Most people associate narcissistic behavior with personal relationships—romantic partners, friends, or family members—but covert narcissists often take their manipulation to a whole new level: the legal system. And if there’s one thing a covert narcissist loves more than playing the victim, it’s exploiting the rules in their favor.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
The Traits of Narcissistic Parents
Narcissistic parents can have a profound effect on their children, shaping not only their childhoods but their entire lives. Narcissism, characterized by an excessive need for admiration, a lack of empathy, and a sense of entitlement, can manifest in many damaging behaviors when exhibited by a parent. These traits, while difficult to recognize from the inside, create environments that stifle the emotional growth of children, fostering long-term psychological effects.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Flying Monkeys:
When it comes to narcissistic abuse, the term "flying monkeys" may seem like an odd phrase at first glance, but it perfectly encapsulates one of the most insidious tactics narcissists use to maintain control over their victims. Borrowed from The Wizard of Oz, where the Wicked Witch of the West commands a fleet of flying monkeys to do her bidding, the term now applies to people the narcissist manipulates to further their agenda. Flying monkeys carry out the narcissist’s dirty work by spreading lies, defending them, and attacking the narcissist's target. This tactic not only keeps the narcissist’s hands clean but also amplifies their manipulation, leaving the victim isolated, overwhelmed, and even more vulnerable.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Local Government Oversight in Ephrata, PA
In Ephrata, Pennsylvania, a small borough tucked away in Lancaster County, the need for local government oversight has never been more pressing. As the town evolves, its growth and challenges reveal a stark divide between the interests of the well-off and the struggles of its most vulnerable residents. Whether it's issues of homelessness, the lack of affordable housing, or a borough council seemingly more aligned with the town’s elites, effective oversight is crucial in ensuring that Ephrata remains a community for everyone—not just the privileged few.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in The Swamp
Signs of Gaslighting:
Gaslighting is one of the most subtle and insidious forms of emotional manipulation. It’s a tactic used by individuals—often narcissists—to make their victim doubt their own reality, perceptions, and sanity. Over time, gaslighting can leave the victim feeling confused, powerless, and isolated, unsure of what is real and what isn’t. The term comes from the 1944 film Gaslight, in which a husband manipulates his wife into believing she’s losing her mind by subtly altering their environment and insisting she’s imagining the changes.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Smear Campaigning:
Smear campaigning is one of the most underhanded tactics narcissists use to tear down their victims. Unlike overt aggression, this method is subtle, calculated, and often goes unnoticed until the damage is done. Whether you're leaving a toxic relationship, setting boundaries, or simply standing up for yourself, a narcissist’s smear campaign is designed to paint you as the villain while they play the victim. This insidious form of character assassination can be devastating, leaving you isolated, socially alienated, and questioning your reality.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Covert Narcissists and False Claims:
In the world of covert narcissism, manipulation is an art form. While overt narcissists may aggressively seek attention and control in obvious ways, covert narcissists are far more subtle, wielding deceit and misdirection like a scalpel rather than a hammer. One of the most chilling tactics in their playbook is the use of **false claims** to manipulate the legal system, particularly in cases involving divorce, child custody, or even workplace disputes.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
