The Blessing of the Dream: A Published Author

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration by Dane Ladwig

Just a few weeks ago, I published my first book titled, Piercing the Veils of Death. To my surprise, my book received a warm welcome and earned exceptional reviews. Debut weekend over 500 copies of the paperback and Kindle sold through Amazon.com. Barnes and Noble contacted me to ask permission to place Piercing the Veils of Death on its shelves and make it available on the electronic Nook version. I was elated!

Yesterday, Amazon listed Piercing the Veils of Death in the category of New Releases in the UK as the #1 in Supernatural/Paranormal. Today, in the USA, Piercing the Veils of Death is listed at the #10 position following Anne Rice’s National Bestseller (in the #9 position) The Wolf Gift.

As an Independent Author, a successful first release is a dream come true. I would have never dreamed of making the A-list with such prolific writers as Anne Rice, and never in a million years would I have dreamed it would be possible within two weeks of releasing a book.

What is my secret? Hard work, determination and a devotion to presenting a unique idea! I spent nearly a year on the manuscript. I did not want to offer a fiction. Nor did I want to marry myself to a nonfiction. The idea of compiling a collection of unified experiences while still having the ability to present both a fictionalized anecdote along with including a compendium of quasi-memoirs and investigative research materials; all dealing with the human condition, that is what I was after – what turned me on!

It’s not all been a waltz on cloud nine! As an Independent, I am required to market my work. This equates to approximately 20-30 additional hours weekly in addition to the 40-50 a week I devote to my next writing project, Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitechapel Ripper: An Historic Inquisition. Between marketing, mailing, radio, newspaper and media, and the occasional lecture and book signing/presentation, there is little time left for “me time”. Thus, scheduling wisely and remaining flexible is necessary.

I would like to present my book, Piercing the Veils of Death. I set out in Piercing the Veils of Death to journey through several realms of the hereafter. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to pass through this life and have cognitive recall? To know where you are and who is in the room with you? Why are the Native American Indians “connected” to the Spirit realm? Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and the City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? Do our pets go to heaven? Have you ever witnessed a pet grieve at a gravesite? Are pets and animals connected to the great beyond?

The fictional story in chapter one follows Stephen Allendale as he travels through the ever-frightening corridor of death. Clinging to his lifelong love, his wife Tracy, find out why Stephen and Tracy refuse to let go of one another’s love.

Piercing the Veils of Death interviews an established college professor whom chooses to act as a channel for the deceased. There are numerous other interviews, such as with Chicago’s premier ghost tour company owner. Interviews with paranormal investigators and psychic/mediums will keep your attention as you find out facts about what makes people tick in the paranormal community and keeps them chasing after the most elusive of all beings — the spirits of the deceased.

Much more than a book on the paranormal, Piercing the Veils of Death leaves the reader with a deeper understanding of the afterlife, the supernatural, superstitions and what may await in the great beyond.

¯

The reviews posted to Amazon have been encouraging (all 5 star reviews):

“Piercing the Veils of Death by Dane Ladwig is comprised of several stories as it pertains to the supernatural and metaphysical experiences that the author has encountered over the years. It is one thing to read about fictitious accounts of apparitional events, but entirely another to read true cases related to the hereafter.

I was utterly captivated by the stories presented in this book and I found it fascinating as well as I felt it gave me reassurance that there is more after this life. This is not a ghost story book nor a religious book, but about everyday lives, miracles, the transformation from this life to the next, the knowledge that there is hope and everlasting life.

I enjoyed this book immensely and thank you for sharing your stories.” (Amazon’s Top 10 True Crime Author RJ Parker)

¯

“Piercing the Veils of Death is by far one of the best books I have ever read about the supernatural and matters involving death and the implications death have on the living. I expected your run-of-the-mill paranormal fantasy spookster tale of haunted houses and famous landmarks we are so accustomed to reading about, it was refreshing to read true-life chronicles and get a peak inside the minds of many paranormal investigators and celebrities. I simply loved the way the author opened his book with his very own introduction to the gruesome account of his first “education” of the dead in a funeral home, and then moved on in chapter one to a fictional story of a husband and wife who were so in love in life they couldn’t/wouldn’t let go even in death. It is superb! I am looking forward to telling every one of my friends about this book, then reading it again!

Kudos to a literary masterpiece!” (Denise M. Pacini)

¯

“Having never purchased an E-book before, I’m glad this was my first, since I couldn’t seem to put it down. Sadly, I was late for a few things because I wouldn’t stop reading in time to go. Mr Ladwig has a fantastic way with words that draws you in, holds your attention and grips very tight. The descriptive & informative nature with which he tells a story, or shares knowledge is one of the best I’ve found. If you’re looking for a book that educates you, enthralls you, and at times, entertains you, THIS is that book. Thank You for a very good read!!” (DEstlock)

¯

“I really enjoyed this book, as it’s one of a kind its supernatural/paranormal genre. He’s a wonderful storyteller. I can’t wait to read more from this author!” (Samantha M. Jones)

¯

“Amazing story teller and fantastic stories. Had to finish it in one sitting, I can’t wait for his next book. He has such a wonderful feel for the subject.” (Silverhawk319)

¯        ¯        ¯

I hope you purchase a copy of my book and enjoy the journey. Currently Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble have Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration on sale for $7.00 (paperback) and $3.99 (Kindle and Nook).

A portion of the proceeds of the sale are donated to Noonan’s Syndrome Research.

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration is available free of charge to all enlisted military personnel who have given freely to protect my rights as an American!

Premier Weekend: New Indie Author’s Book Sales Skyrocket!

Over 500 copies sold opening weekend (1/25 – 1/27/2013).

I had not expected what was to come. I researched what I should envision as a first book by an Indie Author. The numbers ranged between 100 copies and typically 250 copies sold to friends and family — most claimed that is what I should expect in the first month!

My first published book, Piercing the Veils of Death:A Paranormal Exploration, now available in paperback and on Kindle eBook format on Amazon.com, has sailed past all sales predictions in its opening weekend. Is this attributed to the hard work and dedication of an authors relentless pursuit of success or is the reception a fluke? Perhaps the answer could be found in the reception and response of my peers.

“I started this book by Dane Ladwig last night and read until 5am. Fantastic book!!! So pleased to see that in just one day, my brother Dane has already notched two places in the Top 100 genres. This is going to be a bestseller. Grab a copy today.”  ~ True Crime Author RJ Parker

“Hi all, Check out a new book by Dane Ladwig called Piercing the Veils of Death. In Chapter 13 you will find an interview of TnT Paranormal. Can’t wait to get my copy to read it.” ~ Tracey Tanner of TnT Paranormal

“Can’t wait to get my hands on Piercing the Veils of Death, Dane Ladwig’s brand new book.” ~ Author Jeff Mudgett

“Rarely in all the years I have worked in the realms of death have I met someone so full of life while so closely attuned to the depths of darkness. I cannot wait to read it. You should get it right now.” ~ Ursula Bielski owner of Chicago’s #1 ghost tour company — Chicago Haunting’s Ghost Tours 

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration, is much more than I had ever imagined. It delves into the supernatural, the superstitious and the religious implications and quandaries, which we have struggled with for centuries. How do Native American Indians  relate to the Spirit world? Do pets go to heaven? What is the difference between an “angry sprit” and a demon? These and many more questions are answered.

There are three parts to Piercing the Veils of Death. The first is the Apologue, in this chapter follow Stephen Allendale as he takes us through a journey into the hereafter. Only his love for his life-long friend and wife Tracy can help Stephen accept the truth — his death.

The second portion are several true accounts of apparitional visits and psychic interventions as related by a Native American Indian, a clairvoyant, and research by the author in such historical places as Salem, MA. Lexington, MA. and New Orleans, LA. Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and The City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? The interesting answers are in Piercing the Veils of Death.

Want to read an excerpt or get a little more info on what the book is about, visit my website at http://www.daneladwig.com.

The paperback and the electronic eBook Kindle format can be purchased at Amazon by clicking the image below!

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Dane+Ladwig

Dane Ladwig’s website:http://www.daneladwig.com/

The Day Has Finally Arrived! My Book Has Been Released…

Nearly a year to the date from when I began research, my dream is realized. My book, Piercing the Veils of Death is now available in paperback and on Kindle eBook format on Amazon.

Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration is much more than I had ever imagined. It delves into the supernatural, the superstitious and the religious implications and quandaries, which we have struggled with for centuries. How do Native American Indians  relate to the Spirit world? Do pets go to heaven? What is the difference between an “angry sprit” and a demon? These and many more questions are answered.

There are three parts to Piercing the Veils of Death. The first is the Apologue, in this chapter follow Stephen Allendale as he takes us through a journey into the hereafter. Only his love for his life-long friend and wife Tracy, can help Stephen accept the truth.

The second portion are several true accounts of apparitional visits and psychic interventions as related by a Native American Indian, a clairvoyant, and research by the author in such historical places as Salem, MA. Lexington, MA. and New Orleans, LA. Do you know the difference between The City of the Dead in Cairo, Egypt and The City of the Dead in New Orleans, LA? The answers are in Piercing the Veils of Death.

The paperback and the electronic eBook Kindle format can be purchased at Amazon (Click image below)

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Dane+Ladwig

Dane Ladwig’s website:http://www.daneladwig.com/

Dreamer ~ My Life in Retrospect

When I was a kid my mom would constantly yell at me, “Stop taking the family radio apart. Do you know what’ll happen if your dad finds out you took that thing apart again?” He never found out because I would put it back together before he would get home, and the wild thing is… the radio always worked when I reassembled it. I have always been a dreamer.

In grade school I was the one who never paid attention and always starred out the window. By the time I made it to Junior High School I became bored and resorted to the role of class clown and hallway bully. I never did my homework and I got bad grades, not because I didn’t know the stuff, but because I “didn’t pay attention”. Somehow I just knew the stuff they were teaching me in class and felt it was a waste of time. I was always interested in things like history and science. One year I entered the school’s Science Fair, I won second place, really ticked off the kids who studied. I have always been a dreamer.

The odds have always been against me. I dropped out of school well before graduation, so I lacked formal education. Based on the way my life was going, everyone was convinced I was headed for the morgue or the penitentiary. I came from a broken home and I lived on the streets. I was about to become another statistic on societies least favored citizens list. I resorted to everything negative and bad, and when I say everything, I do mean everything. When I was a kid, not a day passed by when I did not wish to depart this world; I imagined the next existence as a much nicer place. I have always been a dreamer.

As an adult I have worn many hats. I decided to take control of my education and I have been to Technical School for automobile mechanics, Theology training at a Bible College, and a private College for English and Philosophy degrees. I have worked in many fields along they way, but the ones which stand out in my life as the best and most rewarding were automobile mechanic, construction, a security guard protecting celebrities, working with Homeland Security on Presidential detail, working for a National Football Team, and now spending my life as an author. I have always been a dreamer.

I have met some really incredible and influential people in my lifetime; sports figures, actors, musicians, dignitaries and Heads of State from across the globe. The most inspiring of these people I have had the pleasure of knowing are some of the least famous; they are people stricken and inflicted with disabling conditions who refuse to allow life to dictate unacceptable terms — they are my hero’s and heroin’s. Like them, I too have a disability and I refuse to give in and accept nothingness as an existence. I have always been a dreamer.

I couldn’t tell you when the exact turning point was in my life, perhaps it was more of a culmination and a sort of process. Truth be told, I don’t think I would change a single thing about my life; every day and every nuance of my life made me who I am today. I harbor no bitterness, no resentments, only vague memories of a person I once was — a person I no longer recognize. I suppose, if I think about it real hard, the one constant has always been… I have always been a dreamer!

 

Dane Ladwig

 

http://www.daneladwig.com

Writing ~ Hemingway ~ Profanity ~ the Apostle Peter

I have read a great deal of Hemingway in my days. I recall the Hemingway book that turned me on to his writing, Old Man and the Sea. I recall hearing Hemingway say once in regards to this classic masterpiece, “The first draft of anything is shit!” I don’t think I would ever classify anything Hemingway wrote, even if it were his moniker on a used tissue as “shit”. That is because I respect the man’s work. The one thing I can attest, with Hemingway, when he was convicted of a thought, he always spoke his mind with no regard to fear of repercussion. Why should he be afraid?

That brings me to my next realization. As I look in retrospect over the past year, I consider my writing and how I walk on eggs and tiptoe around words just to protect an image — so as not to be perceived as offensive or distasteful.

Well, today is the day I say bullshit to that! I realize if I set a precedent, I must adhere to such guidelines and not sway from such things as form, style and basic mechanics. However, if I have to be ever so careful not to offend that I water down the words or the content of my composition, I feel I am doing more harm than good.

Really, in a nutshell, what does this all mean? For starters, cursing. I have been a huge proponent against profanity. However, I have come to accept some texts are enhanced by placing the dialogue in factual account and rapport we could believe to have occurred. Case in point. It is a little past closing time, 2:20 AM. An armed robbery is in progress at the local corner liquor store. The offender, armed with a sawed-off shotgun forces his way into the rear entrance of the store while the store clerk tidies up the days affairs. Before the clerk has a chance to react, the armed robber has the shotgun pointed in the clerks face. The armed robber would not politely say, “Hello store clerk, please give me your money and then if it wouldn’t be too much of an inconvenience could you get on the floor.” No! The clerk would laugh hysterically while dialing the authorities. The conversation would most likely follow something such as,

“Get your hands up motherfucker… get ‘em up in the fucking air now! Don’t touch a fucking thing unless I tell you to do something. You fucking understand motherfucker? DO YOU? Now… Give me the fucking money and make it quick. You so much as twitch a fucking eyebrow I’ll waste your fuckin’ sorry ass. Now… get on the floor bitch! NOW. I said move motherfucker if you want to stay alive. Stay on the floor for five minutes or I will put another asshole right between your motherfucking eyes. You fuckin’ understand me bitch?”

Which scenario is more impactful and believable? I agree! Perhaps Hemingway was on to something very basic, but very pertinent to writing when he decided not to compromise.

As an ordained Chaplain, I must say my conscience has wrestled with the dilemma of omitting or allowing profanity in my writing. Any person who has studied the scriptures knows Jesus’ disciple Peter began swearing as he denied Jesus (Matt 26: 69-74). Throughout the scripture, Peter struggled with cursing. That does not excuse me, that is only to point out that even the highest of ordained men (and women) struggle with profanity and cursing and I doubt it is a mortal sin carrying with it the sentence of eternal doom in Hell’s kitchen.

The point is, we make a big fuss out of the most irrelevant and insignificant matters. Here’s a thought (it would behoove radical religious fanatics such as Westboro Baptist Church members to heed this advice). If you are offended, do not read the material or listen to the discussion or watch the program, it’s that damned simple! It does not take a rocket scientist to figure out, when you attack a writer, a producer, or a group of people for his/her/or their beliefs… YOU have the problem.

I think that was Hemingway’s strongest message; I’ll speak my mind honestly and truthfully, attack me, I’ll laugh, because I am not the one bothered by what I said, you are. I believe that is what he alluded to when he addressed the issue of profanity and writing, “I’ve tried to reduce profanity, but I’ve reduced so much profanity when writing the book that I’m afraid not much could come out. Perhaps we will have to consider it simply as a profane book and hope that the next book will be less profane or perhaps more sacred.”

While drafting a manuscript I always try to recall Hemingway’s ideals, which is why most of what I write makes it to the recycle bin. Like Hemingway, “I write one page of masterpiece to ninety-one pages of shit. I try to put the shit in the wastebasket.” With that in mind, I think I will actually save this article for print.

If you have enjoyed this article please check out Dane Ladwig’s website at: http://www.daneladwig.com

Two Steps Back, One Step Forward ~ Time to Move On: A New Manuscript…

In a manner of speaking, I am taking a leap of faith. Despite having run into a roadblock on my current manuscript; the publisher and I are at an impasse, they wish for me to divide the project into two books and I feel I have constructed a single cohesive manuscript for the readers and not one which to line the coffers of the publisher or my own pockets, I have decided to begin working on my next project. In respects to my current manuscript, for those people I interviewed and the people awaiting the release of my book, do not fear, I will still pursue a viable publishing avenue, I have just adopted the attitude; I am sure in time, what will be — will be.

You could say I have been working on my new project for 40+ years. As a teenager, I was obsessed with the Whitechapel murders of Jack the Ripper. I was one of those kids who fantasized about being “Sherlock Holmes” and busting the caped fiend. All my life I have studied every facet and nuance of the Ripper murders from the many erroneous theories to the bizarre and the seemingly feasible.

Jack the Ripper stalks the streets of London’s East End ~ the Whitechapel district.

Sure, I know what you are thinking. Many people have written endless accounts of Ripper hype, what makes you so different? Well, for starters, I have invested a lifetime sifting through that muck you have grown tired of (truth be told, so have I). I have a solid grasp of the modus operandi the Ripper operated under. To further push the envelope, I am taking each “suspect”, past and present, and I am conducting an inductive analysis and then looking at each victim through the lens of the murderer(s).

In addition, I will inspect the prospect of known serial killers at the time of the Ripper murders and compare notes, including modus operandi, motive, whether they could have stalked the streets of London during the slayings, and Scotland Yard case file reports. Could the Ripper have been a doctor, one who has become famous throughout history due to his own murderous rampage — a serial killer believed to have brought great shame upon the World’s Colombian Exposition Fair? Could the Ripper have been none other than a scorned wife of a respected surgeon? Did the monarchy hide evidence, which would have revealed the true identity of the Ripper?

Could Dr. H. H . Holmes, Chicago’s diabolic serial killer, be behind the Jack the Ripper slayings?

I plan to bring these questions into light and offer unequaled inexhaustible summaries to these age old quandaries, which have stifled America, England and the world for much too long.

All too often writers offer opinionated propaganda to generate interest and sales. Frankly, if you are disinterested in the subject I figure you will not read my book, thus, I have an obligation to produce a book I would find interesting and one I would enjoy reading.

I look forward to the journey and hope to serve you well as you anticipate the release of my new endeavor, and as well, the release of my current manuscript, I look forward to your much-appreciated interest.

This Has Been a… View From My Loft

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:

http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                 http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *

Post Election Results: To Friend or Defriend?

Another Presidential debacle (race) has come and gone. I am proud to say, I did go to the polls and cast my vote. Unfortunately, there was little to sway my vote in the way of choosing the “best” candidate. Based on the pre-election campaign advertisement and media coverage, we were left with not much more than smear campaign tactics and rhetoric.

I was amazed at the numbers of people who publically displayed their grievances and persuasion of political party on Facebook and other forums. To be honest it was embarrassing and appalling. Name calling, bias, and threats have no place in our constitution and should never play a role in a political campaign or an election.

Our government has been created on principles of freedom to choose. The bedrock of our country is the willingness to accept one another in spite of difference. I witnessed disgruntled business owners, upset their candidate was not elected into office, disgracing our nation by flying an American flag at half staff upside down. If they had half a clue they would realize by doing so, through their ignorance and intolerance they are indicating to other countries, to nations worldwide, that the United States has been defeated and is surrendering its soil to all nations worldwide, and we are, at war and defeated. Talk about treason!

In addition, I had many friends defend their right not to vote by attacking those who vote. Listen, if you choose not to exercise your constitutional right to vote, so be it, but don’t condemn those who choose to be American. The argument that you don’t want to be responsible for putting the wrong person in office is in the least the weakest argument you could make. If both candidates are so “wrong” and you are so right, why are you not pro-active and on the ballot. I’ll tell you why, because you are weak, you are looking for someone to blame for the “wrong”, and you are the first to complain (and the loudest). You’re despicable!

There were many friends, or so-called friends, who actually argued so ferociously they defriended one another over political points of view. I began to wonder if political points of view or religious points of view were something people considered when they became friends. Are differences not tolerated? Perhaps these so-called friends offered little in the way of friendship and more in the way of hindrance. Are we not judged by our appearances, our circle of friends? If I choose to hang with a band of automatic weapon wielding drug lords or a group of PhD’s, by association and appearance I am perceived on my level of association with the people I hang with. As far as I am concerned, you can keep your bigotry and racism, your superficial fake friendship and I assure you, I will lose no sleep if you defriend me!

If one person in a friendship can walk away from the relationship based on a difference of opinion over political likeness, it was a shallow friendship to begin with. Every person has a constitutional and moral right to have an opinion, even if that opinion differentiates from mine, and yes that includes the bigot and racist. I don’t have to like it, I don’t have to agree, and I can always walk away.

So I ask, why is it so important people control other people’s opinions? I can offer my opinion and if it is more sensible and intelligent then you have the alternative to accept or disregard, but not to force your opinion as the supreme authoritative final word. I get to make the choice! And yes, you get to make the choice.

To be American is to embrace change, difference and the freedom to choose. To be American is to do whatever it takes to elevate your country and its policy makers to new heights by holding them accountable and exercising your constitutional right to vote. To be American is to love this great country we call America.

If you are so inclined to be disgruntled with your government to committing treason, opposed to allowing individuality through difference of opinion, perhaps the country you desire to reside awaits on some third-world continent where you are welcome to hate America and live in the stone-age in a society full of bigotry and bias. However, I would warn you to educate yourself on the other country’s laws. Most other countries will not allow such behavior — they erase it!

Love America!

Learn More About Elections: http://brian-bigelow.blogspot.com/2012/11/elections.html

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:

http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                 http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *

Author Sue Julsen: Her Abduction and Abuse Live On Air ~

Author Sue Julsen

Author Sue Julsen has taken her memoirs and the nightmares which haunted her throughout her life to the pages of her novels. Enduring the captivity of kidnapping and a fiendish captor, Sue Julsen’s Bitter Memories, the title of her memoir telling the tale of her kidnapping and abuse, she “shares a heartfelt journey into the world of extreme child abuse [] and survival”.

Author Sue Julsen will illustrate for her audience the horrific account she endured and the transition of victory as she escaped her abusive abductor.

Join Author Sue Julsen on View From My Loft radio at 2:00 PM CST on Wednesday November 7, with host Dane Ladwig.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft/2012/11/07/join-author-sue-julsen-on-view-from-my-loft

Title’s by Author Sue Julsen

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:

http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                 http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *

Election Tuesday: Smear Campaigns & Politics

Since the turn of the twentieth century and the age of the Industrial Revolution most every political campaign has consisted to some degree to contain a smear objective. To capitalize by way of exposing your opponents flaws and inconsistencies in a sort of self-promotion of moral standards.

These days it is so out of hand it is appalling. Twist the truth to fit your objective no matter the consequences to your running mates, their careers or their families. Here  is a humorous idea; as a politician, tell me what you can do for me if elected, not what your opponent has not done or done wrong. After all, isn’t that what it is suppose to be about, what the person elected to office is capable of? If your only qualifications for successfully securing votes is your opponents short-comings, well, that says little of your qualifications except perhaps that you are conniving, desperate, and will go to any measure, except honesty and hard work, to secure a position in the White House.

“Well, he said this, and she said that and I must respond.” A “get even” attitude has no place in American politics, except perhaps in wartime decisions and even then it better be a darn good reason. Remember the childhood lesson on sticks and stones? Political campaign managers are really the bottom of the barrel these days.

When considering GOP operatives such as Nick Ayers, the youngest campaign manager to be assigned to a political campaign at the age of 28, when I consider life’s inexperience the young aspiring campaign manager brings to the table it is no wonder the smear campaign’s are so appealing to this young mind. He knows no other way. “Smear” is what he grew up with and what he learned throughout his short life. Ayers admits while growing up his political idol was and still is former President Bill Clinton perhaps the single most smeared name in Washington.

Left and right, republican and democrat constituents are polar opposite, we get that. These days, a refreshing difference would be truth and honesty, does it exist in Washington? Anywhere? Election day is upon us and once again we are faced with choosing the lesser of two evils, which for everyone we must decide individually what that means for us and live with our decision.

The cable television stations have been inundated with smear commercials and within days of the final results we will be gifted with a much deserved reprieve from the ache in our ears and the pains in our neck – television will return to normal.

However, for months following the election the papers, news, and radio talk shows will be analyzing and scrutinizing every move the elected official makes, then second guessing the country’s decision regarding the appointment of our fearless leader. And of course, if the elected official makes a mistake, not one person will admit to voting him in office.

Although Presidential elections are held every four years, we will not have to wait that long before we are hammered with local city mayoral elections.

I wonder what the candidates would do if not a single person showed up at the poles? I’m sure there would still be the smear campaigns, the millions of dollars (mis)spent on campaigns, and by default, one of the candidates would still “win”. But wouldn’t that be one hell of a societal statement?

America is in need of reform. She requires a government that thrives on the very things our country and constitution has been formed from. Our government needs a good old swift kick in the pants. What is democracy if it is based on lies, deception and an ever increasing cesspool of political debauchery driving her further into debt with every passing moment. America needs a backbone.

Well, shortly I’ll be off to the polls to vote for the candidate less likely to harm my beloved America, land of the capitalist and home of the opportunist!

This has been a… View From My Loft

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:

http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *

In the Path of a Ruthless Tempest: Hurricane Sandy

Hurricane Sandy prepares to make mainland coast.

Today many people across our great nation suffer as a result of natures forces. As the east coast continues its recovery efforts from Hurricane Sandy, millions are without the comforts of home as they were forced to evacuate. Shelters are overwhelmed and without electricity and heat. Meals will no doubt consist of non-perishables and perhaps the occasional barbecued delight when the weather permits.

North Wildwood, NJ is among the first to experience Hurricane Sandy

For us here in the Midwest, life is routine as we prepare for the upcoming trick-or-treaters. U.S. Navy ships continue to riffle through the still impending uncompromising high currents in search of victims lost at sea and throughout the Great Lakes.

Fire Rescue workers respond to trapped civilians in an apartment complex in Manhattan, the front of the apartment building was blown off by high winds (80 mph).

New York, still recovering from the emotional scars of past transgressions, must now heal from the devastation of mass flooding and multiple house fires. The New York Fire Department (NYFD) rapid response to multiple fires, trapped civilians, a crane dangling from a skyscraper, cars trapped by rising water in the many roadway tunnel systems, were compounded by gale force winds, continued downpours and relentless impending devastation.

Automobiles cram the flooding tunnels attempting to evacuate the impending hurricane.

New York and New Jersey received the brunt of Hurricane Sandy’s depredation; thus far, in total the borough of Queens had 80 homes destroyed by fire and many more to come in the future as a result of the 13′ record flooding. Throughout the east coast over 6 million are without power, and 17 deaths have been reported to be related to the hurricane. In addition, it is estimated there will be over $20 billion dollars in economic damages.

An exhausted Rescue worker at the site of one of the many destroyed homes in Queens, NY.

As the damage reports come in and the death toll rises, unfortunately those not living in the path of the hurricane’s wreckage will no doubt lose interest and concern over the devastation and ruins left behind. There were many other states affected to various degrees, however New York and New Jersey did get the worst of it. The states are (in alpha order); Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Vermont.

Rescue workers in Babylon, NY assist a woman from her flooded home where she had been stranded overnight.

Americans are known as a nation of resilient re-builders and over-comers of great obstacles. Below are a few of the resources assisting the east coast through this tragedy. Please feel free to make a tax-deductible contribution to help those who are displaced and in need of our help here at home. Even the smallest of donations goes a long way when left with nothing but survival!

Monetary Donations

The Red Cross Disaster Relief:  

Donations help the Red Cross provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to those affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy. To donate, people can visit http://www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to someone’s local Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Red Cross donations can be made here:

http://www.redcross.org/charitable-donations

The Salvation Army Disaster Relief:

https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/disaster

Blood donations:

http://www.redcrossblood.org/make-donation

www.uihealthcare.org/bloodcenter.

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on View From My Loft radio live at

Blog Talk Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/welcome-to-view-from-my-loft

Visit Dane Ladwig’s blog’s:

The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:

http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:                                                                http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” Dane Ladwig’s Facebook fan page:                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, Dane Ladwig is just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *