News
Transgender: Why Are We So Confused?
Posted by Dan Joyce on
Okay, let me start by saying this: I’m a Christian. My faith is important to me, but I also question some of the teachings within religion. However, there’s a new wave, a new generation of LGBTQ+ identity that’s left me seriously wondering what’s going on. Back in my day, we had men, women, and gay. It was pretty straightforward. Gay men and women had their own spaces, maybe a secret bar or something like a drag show or The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It wasn’t mainstream, but it wasn’t hard to understand either. But now? Now, things are getting confusing....
Nick's Burgers - Refusing to Serve: A Personal Account
Posted by Dan Joyce on
When I was living in Fullerton, I decided to treat myself to lunch at a local landmark, Nick's Burgers. Known for its delicious burgers at prices that beat DoorDash, it seemed like the perfect choice for a meal. But what was supposed to be a simple lunch turned into an unexpected and disappointing encounter. Not wanting caffeine that day, I approached the cashier and asked if I could fill my cup with water instead of soda. It seemed like a reasonable request, but what followed left a bitter taste in my mouth—far worse than any overcooked burger could. As I...
Did Sharon Quirk-Silva Kill Her Brother?
Posted by Dan Joyce on
The tragic tale of Sharon Quirk-Silva's brother is more than just a family story—it's a glaring example of how tough love, misguided alliances, and systemic failures in mental health care can lead to fatal consequences. Sharon, a public figure associated with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), might be seen as a champion for mental health. But behind the façade lies a more disturbing truth: NAMI is not a coalition of mentally ill individuals but rather a network of their families—often the very people responsible for perpetuating abuse under the guise of care. The Fatal Philosophy of Tough Love...
Bax Baxter - Cool or Clone?
Posted by Dan Joyce on
In the dynamic and often contentious world of local art scenes, figures like Stephan Baxter emerge as influential gatekeepers, shaping the cultural landscape with their decisions. Known for his punk rock liberal persona, Baxter holds considerable sway in Fullerton and Santa Ana, guiding the destinies of artists and their opportunities to exhibit. But what truly defines his role? Is he a "cool" visionary, bravely steering the local art world into new territories, or merely a "clone," adhering to well-worn paths dictated by commercial interests and personal prejudices? Stephan Baxter, who once positioned himself as a critic of local law enforcement...
Refusing The Hunger for Compassion - Sharon Quirk-Silva
Posted by Dan Joyce on
After trying to discuss mental health awareness three times with Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, I finally had enough. Each time I reached out, hoping for a meaningful conversation, I was met with indifference. Frustrated, I decided to make a statement by publicly asking to have my name removed from her petition. The very next day, Sharon arranged to meet me for lunch. But let's be clear, there was no lunch. We didn’t eat, and she wouldn’t even buy me a hamburger from the place next door. Instead, she launched into a tirade about bills and laws that were way over my...