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Jul 9 2013

Why True-Crime? Why Write About Serial Killers?

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I have been asked repeatedly, “Why do you choose to write about serial killers, why not something else, something a bit less gruesome and more eclectic?” Well, they don’t all say that. Most say, “Aren’t you afraid?” And some say, “Of all the things you could write about, why whacko’s?”

Societies rejects and the underbelly of humanity is what intrigues me. Why shouldn’t it, I have a family history acquainted with these type of monsters… sort of.

When I was a young lad, I recall stories of the boogeyman of London, Jack the Ripper. I have cousins living in London and I always wondered… How could they live somewhere a fiendish murderer, the most twisted of all, has lurked the streets and might come back to seek revenge? I was a child then. I had no concept that the Ripper was dead, or an enigma. I figured he could shape-shift, and come and go as he pleased, sort of the Grim Reaper of the UK.

I began a lifelong journey of researching Jack. Then I moved on to the next twisted psychopath. In the mid-1960s, Richard Speck captured the attention of the world with his proclivity toward torturing, committing rape, then murdering eight female students at South Chicago Community Hospital. I lived a mere 24 minute car ride from the scene of the murders. When I was a child, the thought of living so close to the scene was scary.

It was in the late 1960s when, like the rest of America, I was suspended in a state of catatonic shock when Charles Manson and the Manson Family brutally committed acts of murder in California’s elite neighborhoods where only the rich and famous, the “untouchables” of society, met their fateful ends.

In the late ‘70s, David Berkowitz, the “Son of Sam”, killed eight innocent victim claiming his dog instructed him to kill and the dog was, “possessed by demons.” Not to mention growing up in the era with Ted Kaczynski the “Uni-Bomber” whose rampage lasted 3 decades, ‘70s-‘90’s. Ed Gein’s trial in 1968. The Zodiac Killer. Ted Bundy in the 1970s who confessed to over 30 murders. Gary Ridgeway “The Green River Killer” who confessed to murdering 49 women in Washington between 1982 and 1998. The cannibalistic nature of Jeffrey Dahmer. John Wayne Gacy, the “Killer Clown” again, lived less than three miles from where I resided, and the list could go on forever.

These demented serial killers all played a significant role in my life when I was growing up. I can tell you where I was, and what I was doing, when the verdict came in on Ed Gein, on Jeffery Dahmer, Gacy and the rest of the killer crew. But the ones closest to me, the killers and incidents that influenced my life the most, where those closest to my family.

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My Uncle, Frank Smith, worked for Hughes Aircraft Corporation in the 1960s. He lived in Los Angeles and Hollywood, and was close friends to many Hollywood celebrities. One day he vanished. He was an amateur photographer. He dropped off his roll of film at the neighborhood photo shop and that was the last he was ever heard from. His car was parked in front of the store. His film was on the sidewalk. His keys were even lying beside the car, but he vanished and was never heard from or seen again. His paycheck from Hughes Aircraft Corporation dated the prior week was never cashed.

Then there was the day my coworker, my brother-in-laws nephew (not sure how he would be related to me, but we always referred to him as my nephew, and family none the less), noticed a book I was reading, the memoirs of “Bambi” Bembenek, who was a Milwaukee, WI, police officer. Bambi was convicted of killing her husband and taking the authorities on a chase across America and into Canada. It turns out, “Bambi” is my nephew’s cousin, again not sure how that translates to my relationship, but too close for comfort!

The most recent is the connection, in 2012, is to the killer cop, Drew Peterson. Peterson a Police Sergeant in Bolingbrook, IL, was found guilty of murdering his third wife Kathleen “Kitty” Savio. He is also a suspect in the disappearance of his fourth wife Stacy Cales Peterson. My wife is Kathleen Savio’s first cousin.

As you can certainly see, I have always been… shall we say, “encompassed” or “encircled” by killers, serial killers, mass murders, and the most deviate of society. To be an author and not to write about them would be a waste. My nature is to promote awareness and safety from these aberrations and miscreants. If my writing brings about a single turned head at the precise moment to avoid a possible disaster, and saves one person if only by chance… the “why” in what I do is no longer in question!

True Crime Author Dane Ladwig

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Look for both books coming this fall 2013!

Sites:

“Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitchapel Ripper”

http://www.holmestheripper.com/

YouTube Video Trailer ~ “Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitechapel Ripper”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BagndVCPZM8

“First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology”

 http://www.rjparker.net/search?q=True+Crime+Serial+Killers+Anthology

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By Writer and Author • Posted in ARTICLE, Articles, Author RJ Parker, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, Bloodstains, Bloodstains the book, bloodstainsthebook.com, Book Reviews, Books, Breaking News, Crime, Crime File News, Crime Ticker, culture, Dane Ladwig, Devil in the White City, Dr. H. H. Holmes, Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitechapel Ripper, ebooks, General, Herman Webster Mudgett, hh holmes, Holmes exhumed, Holy Cross Cemetery, Independent Authors, Independent Publishing, inspiration, interview, Jack the Ripper, Jeff Mudgett, Jill the Ripper, journalism, Life, miscellaneous, New Books, Nonfiction, Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration, R.J Parker, self-publishing, Serial Killers, The First Annual Serial Killers Anthology, The Murder Castle, Timothy Wayne Krajcir, true crime books, True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, true-crime, UNCATEGORIZED, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, Women Who Kill, wordpress, Writing, www.daneladwig.com, www.holmestheripper.com, YouTube, YouTube videos • Tagged articles, author, Author RJ Parker, Blog, Blogging, bloodstainsthebook.com, books, culture, Dane Ladwig, Dr. H. H. Holmes, Dr. H. H. Holmes and the Whitechapel Ripper, eBooks, Herman Webster Mudgett, hh holmes, inspiration, Jack the Ripper, Life, Miscellaneous, nonfiction, Piercing the Veils of Death: A Paranormal Exploration, Random, serial killer, serial killers, social, The Devil in the White City, The First Annual Serial Killers Anthology, The Murder Castle, timothy krajcir, Timothy Wayne Krajcir, true crime books, True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, true-crime, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, www.daneladwig.com, www.holmestheripper.com
10
Jun 11 2013

Do You Enjoy Great True Crime Books? You Will Love This…

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The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology

Lately, I have been searching for “new” books on serial killers.  Not new as in unused, but new as in fresh ideas.  I have dozens of books in my private collection all doing a grand job accounting for the A-list of criminally insane and your typical frontrunners such as Ed Gein, Jeffrey Dahmer, John Wayne Gacy, Lizzie Borden and Aileen Wuornos.

There is nothing wrong with educating oneself on the well-known and often recorded tales of high-profile upper crust sensationalized serial killers.  However, have you ever wondered about other “not so” elite serial killers?  The ones who are just as deadly, just as cunning, and just as gruesome as those of the more “distinguishable” killer.  These homicidal maniacs and outcasts have stories that are just as compelling, if not more, then their more infamous fraternal successors and predecessors.

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You may have noticed a new sidebar widget on my blog, over there to the right below the Facebook and RSS feeds widget.  I am honored to be listed among some of the greatest minds of true crime.

Later this year, The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, will bring global talent together in a consorted effort to construct a book based on the “lesser known” serial killers from around the world.  Lesser known, but infamous all the same.  These killers have amassed more than 250 known murders between them, and countless other homicides, no doubt attached to these self-appointed executioners are unaccounted for, which remain unresolved.

This is the first ever True Crime Serial Killers Anthology ever published!

As you can imagine this is a major undertaking.  To get the right mix of authors, the perfect blend of topics (serial killers), and then bringing it all together and raising the funding to promote such major project so it accurately represents the goals of the group and the ideals proper to paying homage to the victims, and properly distributing the books, takes a daunting determination.  Fortunately, this group of authors has that!

We are proud to say we have giving hearts.  Upon release of The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, 100 paperback copies will be sent to hospitals to benefit Wounded Allied Soldiers (through “Soldiers Angels Foundation” http://soldiersangels.org/books.html) free of delivery and cost.  A very small token of our gratitude for the sacrifices Armed Forces personnel make to ensure our safety and freedoms.  However, our gratitude does not stop there.  We will continue our efforts to support our troops for as long as book sell and we still breathe.

More on this a bit later…

I would like to introduce our team of devoted cutting-edge contemporary true crime authors (links to the authors individual websites are located under their names in blue text).

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Michael Newton — Has published over 260 books and many True Crime Encyclopedia’s

http://michaelnewton.homestead.com/

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RJ Parker – Best Selling True Crime Author and Publicist

http://www.rjparker.net/

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Peter Vronsky – True Crime Author, Historian, Filmmaker

http://www.petervronsky.com/

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Lee Mellor – True Crime Author, Musician, Historian

http://www.leemellor.com/

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Cathy Scott – True Crime Author, Award Winning Journalist

http://www.cathyscott.com/

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Sylvia Perrini – True Crime Author, Historian

http://sylviaperrini.goldmineguides.com/

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Dane Ladwig – True Crime Author, Historian, Chaplain

http://www.daneladwig.com/

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Karen Scioscia – True Crime Author, Journalist

http://karendscioscia.com/

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Kim Cresswell – Award Winning Fiction Author

http://www.kimcresswell.ca/

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William Cook – Macabre Author, Graphic Artist

http://www.amazon.com/William-Cook/e/B003PA513I

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The elite list of writers comprising The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, is rich in knowledge and individually each author has met with success and is well-respected in the True Crime community.

When we first began brainstorming this idea, the excitement level was “through the roof.”  And the energy, and interest, has escalated from there.  The idea of writing about serial killers who have “slipped through the cracks” or were lesser known because a media, political, or public event pushed the story aside is thrilling.  Especially when these criminals account for so many innocent lives lost in a society where we just began adopting the policy of locking our doors within the last 50 years or so.

The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, will accrue costs, it is inevitable.  To assist in accomplishing our goals (this is the place I said I would revisit), we are kicking off a campaign to invite everyone to become a part of The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology.  As you might guess, preparation and formatting, copyediting and proofreading, design, marketing and promotion, publication and distribution, of a paperback and most all eBook formats, Soldiers Angels gifts, and the narrating cost of an audiobook are in the thousands.

By visiting:

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/true-crime-serial-killers-anthology

You can contribute to our combined effort and in turn benefit such wonderful causes as individual “National Hero’s” or “Heroes in the Line of Duty” (armed forces, police, firefighters, paramedics).  You may even want to be listed in the The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology, as a “Contributor,” this is where you make that happen.

In the least, we ask you share the exciting news about The First Annual True Crime Serial Killers Anthology!

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By Writer and Author • Posted in Amazon.com, Articles, author, Author RJ Parker, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, Book Reviews, Books, Breaking News, Creep by William Cook, Crime, Crime File News, Crime Ticker, Dane Ladwig, Death in the Desert by Cathy Scott, Drama, ebooks, Entertainment, freelance, Independent Authors, Independent Publishing, indiegogo.com, journalism, Kidnapped, Kidnapped by the Cartel by Karen Scioscia, miscellaneous, New Books, Nonfiction, R.J Parker, self-publishing, Short Stories, The First Annual Serial Killers Anthology, Top Cases of The FBI, true crime books, true-crime, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, Women Who Kill, www.daneladwig.com, www.holmestheripper.com • Tagged Amazon.com, Armed and Dangerous, articles, author, Author RJ. Parker, Blog, Blogging, book reviews, Cathy Scott, Creep, crime, Crime File News, culture, Dane Ladwig, Death in the Desert, eBooks, Independent Authors, indiegogo.com, Karen Scioscia, Kidnapped by the Cartel, Kim Cresswell, Lee Mellor, Michael Newton, Miscellaneous, nonfiction, Peter Vronsky, Rampage, Reflection, self-publishing, serial killers, Sylvia Perrini, The First Annual Serial Killers Anthology, The Method and Madness of Monsters, Top Cases of The FBI, true crime books, true-crime, unsolved crime, unsolved murder cases, William Cook, Women Serial Killers of the 20th Century, Women Who Kill, www.daneladwig.com, www.holmestheripper.com
13
Nov 16 2012

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

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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

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By Writer and Author • Posted in AFTERLIFE, ANGELS, APPARITION, ARTICLE, Articles, author, AUTOPSY, BEING, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, CONJURE, conventional publishing, culture, Dane Ladwig, DEATH, DEMON, DEVIL, Devil in the White City, DIVINE, Dr. H. H. Holmes, Entertainment, ENTITY, Essay, EXORCISM, EXORCIST, freelance, FUNERAL, General, GHOST, ghost hunters, H.H. Holmes, HAUNT, haunted, HAUNTING, Henry Howard Holmes, Hereafter, Herman Webster Mudgett, inspiration, Jack the Ripper, Journal, journalism, Life, MEDIUM, METAPHYSICAL, MIRACLE, MIRACULOUS, miscellaneous, Musings, MYSTIC, MYSTICAL, MYTH, MYTHICAL, NECROMANCER, Nonfiction, NUMINOUS, OCCULT, Otherworldly, PARANORMAL, PARANORMAL-INVESTIGATION, parapsychology, PHANTOM, PHENOMENON, POLTERGIEST, Psychic, publishing, Random, SATAN, SHADE, Short Stories, SIGHTINGS, social, SORCERER, SOUL, SPECTOR, SPECTRAL, SPOOK, SPOOKY, supernatural, The Murder Castle, Thoughts, TRICKSTER, true-crime, UNCATEGORIZED, UNEARTHLY, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, Victorian era, View From My Loft, White Chapel murders, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, crime, culture, Dane Ladwig, Dr. H. H. Holmes, entertainment, essay, freelance, ghost, H.H. Holmes, Herman Webster Mudgett, Jack the Ripper, Life, literature, Miscellaneous, Musings, nonfiction, Opinion, paranormal, paranormal investigations, parapsychology, phenomenon, Random, social, Society, spector, The Devil in the White City, The Murder Castle, the Whitechapel murders, thoughts, true-crime, unearthly, Writing
1
Oct 30 2012

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.

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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

*          *          *

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By Writer and Author • Posted in ARTICLE, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, Breaking News, culture, Dane Ladwig, freelance, General, Hurricane Sandy, inspiration, Journal, journalism, Life, miscellaneous, Nonfiction, Opinion, Random, Reflections, relationships, social, Thoughts, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, culture, Dane Ladwig, freelance, Hurricane Sandy, inspiration, Life, Miscellaneous, nonfiction, Opinion, Random, reflections, social, Society, thoughts, Writing
0
Oct 3 2012

Chip Coffey Responds to Author: Calls Author’s Blog Harsh and Judgmental

Chip Coffey: Paranormal Psychic/Medium

The below correspondence between Paranormal psychic/medium Chip Coffey and myself was in response to an article I had posted on 9/29/2012 titled Chip Coffey: Psychics, the Paranormal, and Sensational(ism) Sales!

Original Article: https://daneladwig.wordpress.com/2012/09/29/chip-coffey-psychics-the-paranormal-and-sensationalism-sales/

Mr. Ladwig:

You begin your blog with the following statement: “Don’t take this as a bash against Chip Coffey the man. I have never met Mr. Coffey and I do not know him.” And from that point forward, bashing me and my work is precisely what you do.

I am sure you assert that you are just “expressing your opinions” and you have every right to do so. I, however, assert that your blog was an overly critical personal and professional stab at someone you admittedly have never met, namely me. The blog is very harsh and judgmental.

You state that “those who dedicate themselves to investigating the hereafter get a bad name from those who use the paranormal field for their financial gain.” May I ask if YOU are someone who does not require being paid for the work that you do? Will the book that you are currently working on, “which delves into the human condition as it relates to the afterlife,” be available to the public at no charge? And will the work that you do “with celebrated author Jeff Mudgett on an upcoming television broadcast(s) for PBS, the History Channel, Syfy, and the Discovery Channel” be done pro bono?

I feel certain that you see the point that I am making. Most people need to earn an income. As a professional, I am most assuredly paid for the work that I do. I enjoy living indoors and eating daily, so I have been blessed with the God given abilities to do the work that I love AND support my financial needs, which, by the way, are NOT extravagant.

You state “I do not believe a legitimate psychic, medium, channeler, or sensitive would consider capitalizing monetarily on an individual, or a situation, if he or she truly is genuine.” “Capitalizing” is a word that generally carries negative connotations, as it can indicate that one preys on others for financial gain. That is NOT what I do, Mr. Ladwig. What I do, in fact, is provide a service that certain others believe is valuable to them, not at all unlike the work performed by a minister or counselor or life coach. Your blog did not include feedback from individuals who have availed themselves of my *genuine* services, the vast majority of whom have been satisfied clients. (And yes, I have had a few dissatisfied clients, like any other individual, company or corporation that deals with the public, but not many.)

I very much look forward to once again visiting Chicago later this month and seeing my supporters/fans who will be attending my event.

Sincerely,
Chip Coffey

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Greetings Mr. Coffey,

I would like to first thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to read my blog and then to send me a letter regarding the contents. You prove to be respectful and considerate, and sir, I will extend you the same courtesy.

It is clear, you view my blog article as a direct attack against you personally and for that I would like to say, sir, you are guilty by association. The “harsh and judgmental” opinion I have, shared by many throughout society, stems from a blemished point of view from people in your profession who have taken advantage of people for centuries.

As I have never met you, there is no way for me to determine the validity of your “talents”, for all I know you may have a direct connection to the afterlife. My contention is; when people charge exuberant fees for seminars and lectures they alienate the common person.

You seem to feel, per your letter, I expect you to “work for free”. Mr. Coffey, that is absurd. I agree with you, every human must provide a home for themselves and eat. When a psychic/medium charges $100.00 for a half hour (a common fee, one quoted when I inquired on a recent trip to New Orleans) to “read” an individual, I look at the numbers and I shake in my boots. That happens to be more than my union electrician, educated dentist, my doctor or even my surgeon charges.

How can a struggling single mom, who may have just lost a child to war who would like the benefit of a psychics assistance, afford these services. She cannot! Furthermore, a famous psychic, such as yourself, who talks of clients who have “availed themselves of [your] ‘genuine’ services” should be giving back to the people.

To answer your question and address the previous paragraph, as an author, yes, I will be charging for my work. However, when I looked into your Chicago visit to the Congress Plaza Hotel, I realized the difference between the $106.43 package you offer and the $168.74 package is the ticket holder will receive a copy of your book, Growing up Psychic, which sells on Amazon for $10.00. I am wondering how you can justify the difference of $62.31 in the price for your book when purchased at one of your events?

I hope my books are affordable, somewhere in the ballpark between $15.00 – $20.00. One thing I realize is; I am not in it for the money, I write because I have a passion for writing! In addition, a friend turned me on to a great idea, which I fully intend to employ. To all active service members of any branch of military, to all civil servants, who send me a request and their information, at my expense I pledge to issue a free copy of any of my works. It is called gratitude for those who serve and protect my freedom to enjoy the things in life I love most and paying it forward!

Additionally, each book I write I shall donate a portion of the proceeds to a charitable cause. The book I currently have coming out I’m donating the charitable proceeds to: The Noonan Syndrome Support Group, Inc. (a 501c3, nonprofit) P O Box 145, Upperco, MD 21155.

Mr. Coffey, are you donating to show your gratitude to charitable causes or to those who escalated you to the status you now enjoy? Your time? Services? Money? You were gracious enough to write me, thank you. Are you courageous enough to stand united and give? I invite you to join me on my local radio broadcast View From My Loft. We have a local following of 80,000 listeners, and I offer you the opportunity to address your audience. View From My Loft is a respectful, family oriented show, which features authors and writers.

View From My Loft would be the forum you could show the world (well begin to show the world through Chicago’s audience), how Chip Coffey gives back. Offer a few lucky listeners free admission, a free book, or a reading. Chip, I refuse to pay the prices the venue is charging, however, offer me the opportunity to be proven wrong and I will publically restate my position and rewrite a positive opinion regarding Chip Coffey and his “genuine” psychic services.

On View From My Loft integrity is the number one priority. I vow to expose wrongdoing and also to elevate those ideals and people who are deserving. When an individual responds, they have the right to be heard and not censured, no matter if I agree or disagree – it’s a free world.

Thank you Mr. Coffey and I do hope you consider my offer!

Best,

Dane Ladwig

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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

Dane Ladwig also hosts Chicago Bears Radio Live — The 50 Yard Line every Monday at 1:00 pm cst: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-50-yard-line

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

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By Writer and Author • Posted in AFTERLIFE, ANGELS, APPARITION, ARTICLE, Articles, author, BEING, blog, Blog Talk Radio, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, BlogTalkRadio.com, Chip Coffey, CLAIRVOYANT, culture, Dane Ladwig, DEATH, DIVINE, DIVINER, ENCHANTER, Entertainment, ENTITY, Essay, EVP, FORTUNE-TELLERS, freelance, General, GHOST, ghost hunters, HAUNT, haunted, HAUNTING, HEAVEN, HEAVENLY, Hereafter, inspiration, Journal, journalism, Life, MEDIUM, Memoir, METAPHYSICAL, MIRACLE, miscellaneous, Musings, MYSTIC, Nonfiction, NUMINOUS, Opinion, Otherworldly, PARANORMAL, PARANORMAL-INVESTIGATION, parapsychology, Personal, PHANTOM, PHENOMENON, POLTERGIEST, PROPHET, Psychic, Random, Reflections, SIGHTINGS, Social, SOUL, SPOOK, SPOOKY, supernatural, Thoughts, UNCATEGORIZED, UNEARTHLY, UNKNOWN, View From My Loft, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, Chip Coffey, culture, Dane Ladwig, entertainment, essay, ghost, inspiration, journal, Life, memoir, Miscellaneous, Musings, nonfiction, Opinion, paranormal, paranormal investigations, parapsychology, personal, phenomenon, Random, reflections, social, Society, thoughts, unearthly, View From My Loft, Writing
2
Aug 30 2012

The Justice Cafe or the Unethical Oppression Cafe ~ A Battered and Murdered Family Members Semi-Nude Photo is Paraded and Displayed ~

~ A Battered and Murdered Family Members Semi-Nude Photo is Paraded and Displayed ~

Here’s the scenario; your daughter, mother or sister is found, by her ex-husband, in the serene surroundings of the one place she retreats to for a few moments of privacy — the all too comforting whirlpool bath where she has sought solitude and revitalization of life — later you are notified she has met with her demise. Initial coroner’s report: accidental death. It just doesn’t add up! Why?

There was no water in the tub, her hair was dry, and to top it off her purse where she keeps all her most valuable possessions was found in the car — in the garage. Her marriage of twenty-one years ended in a bitter divorce battle. Her ex-husband, a Police Sergeant, made numerous threats against her life and even went as far as battering her.

After her husband remarried a woman thirty years younger than he, following a period of shacking up in the ex-wife’s basement with his new found mistress with their joint children sleeping just one floor above, his mistress, turned Barbie doll wife, was presumed to have perished after months of searching for any signs leading to her existence. The cop was now being looked at, but this time around, in a very different light, not as a grieving victim, but as a killer.

Upon exhumation of his third wife, yes the woman found in the bathtub was wife number three, and the woman who went missing was wife number four, his third wife’s death was now reexamined and her death reclassified as a homicide. Wives number one and two admitted to his brutality and his illicit wayward ways with the women, and soon after marrying him both marriages ended in quick uncontested divorce’s.

This is less about the case, and more about the injustice of a blog site, ironically, going by the name “Justice Cafe”.  Justice Cafe has dedicated its objective to reporting the alleged “facts” in the case of the State of Illinois vs. Drew Peterson. Peterson is the Bowlingbrook, Illinois Police Sergeant who stands on trial for the crime of murdering his third wife Kathleen Savio. The problem; they illegally posted a semi-nude court evidence photo to their website (reported to the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office on 8/29/2012) and other bloggers have nabbed the photo and are posting it over the internet.

The fact I have a bias, as my wife is related to Kathleen (first cousin’s), I have decided not to use this as a forum to express my opinion, or to debate on the case. I would like you, as readers, to consider one thing, and one thing only… The Justice Cafe, a blog that preaches civil justice and morality, somehow got their hands on a court document, a semi-nude crime-scene photo of a deceased woman, which was/is a court photo and evidence. Soon the photo became the hot topic on Google, well, that was until my friends on Facebook banded together and had Google remove the photo. The Justice Cafe, I THINK NOT, it’s more like the “Unethical Cafe”!

After the States Attorney’s Office who is prosecuting the case was made aware the leaked photo it was immediately removed from the Google internet image search engine. However, as I stated, a number of bloggers grabbed the photo and it spread like Poison Ivy. After attempting to convince each blogger regarding the legal infractions they were committing in posting the court evidence document, and asking them to remove the image on behalf of still grieving families, they insensitively neglected my demands. Again, it is back to the States Attorney’s Office with a complaint and list of sites who are displaying the photo of a semi-nude recently departed loved one over the internet for the entire world and every deviate to gawk over.

Wrong is wrong! What of the dignity for the deceased? Would you want a semi-nude photo of you as a deceased person floating over the internet? I think not! What this world and the internet is coming to is nothing short of frightening. To publically humiliate a battered women who was being oppressed by a man and now is facing oppression by society and the people she was to trust in life, is outright unspeakable and inhumane. Subjecting anyone to internet bullying by bloggers who post such nightmarish filth to attract readers should not be tolerated. Leave the nightmares to Hollywood producers!

I am posting each site I found, and continue to find, in an effort to cease all such molestation of human rights. Perhaps if enough people band together and complain to the site administers or to their neighbors, something will finally be done to protect people’s internet rights. Remember, this could very well happen to you one day, don’t be the one who said, “I should have…,” be the one who says, “I have rights!”

The below links are the sites persecuting my wife and her family with posting semi-nude photos of their deceased loved one, please take a moment to stand up for all American’s rights and let them know you don’t tolerate such crimes against humanity…

Crime File News —

http://www.crimefilenews.com/2012/08/drew-petersons-late-wife-kathleen-savio.html

Crime Ticker – –

http://www.crimeticker.com/2012/07/31/drew-peterson-trial-day-1-opening-arguments-and-first-witness/

Justice Cafe

http://petersonstory.wordpress.com/

Scribd —

http://www.scribd.com/doc/76762379/Kathleen-Savio-Crime-Scene-Photo

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By Writer and Author • Posted in Articles, author, AUTOPSY, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, Breaking News, Crime File News, Crime Ticker, culture, Dane Ladwig, Equality, Facebook Friends, family, freelance, General, human rights, journalism, Life, Opinion, Random, Scribd, social, true-crime, View From My Loft, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, crime, Crime File News, Crime Ticker, culture, Current Events, Dane Ladwig, Drew Peterson, Drew Peterson Trial, freelance, human-rights, Justice Cafe, Kathleen Savio, Life, Miscellaneous, nonfiction, Opinion, Random, Scribd, social, Society, Stacy Ann Cales, thoughts, Will Count States Attorney, Writing
2
Aug 15 2012

Review of Author R.J Parker

Author R. J. Parker

Today, I am taking a brief recess, as it were, from the Holmes the Ripper posts I am accustom to blogging. I have chosen to review a few eBooks by Author R.J. Parker. I will review, Women Who Kill, and Top Cases of the FBI.

Before I get to the reviews, I would like to take this opportunity to get some things off my chest about eBooks and self-publishing.

First, I have several friends who are authors and have taken the route of self-publishing. They are always trying to convince me of the benefits to self-publishing and the pitfalls of going the route of conventional publishing.

I argue my stance, the disadvantages of self-representation in legal matters, marketing, and the time self-publishing consumes. They retort with the all too familiar, “Yes, but you get to keep most of the money.” For me, when I weigh the benefits vs. the disadvantages, it’s mostly a no-brainer. I am a writer and I wish to spend my time writing. If I wanted to make money, I would have chosen something other than writing.

My latest qualm with eBooks stems from the quality argument. I have invested several years and a ton of money in learning how to write coherently – I have paid my dues. Sure, I still make numerous mistakes, however my work is far more superior than a great deal of the trash coming out on eBooks lately.

Recently, when I read about a half-dozen or so eBooks, to my displeasure and frustration, I was forced to stop reading because of the quality of the written material – it was atrocious. I began thinking. If I were a butcher, would I place the most delectable cuts of meat in the display case between rotten tomatoes and worm infested apples? No! Then why would I as a writer place my work, which I so diligently created and perfected, on a shelf (or in an eBook market) with rubbish? I would not!

Well, that brings me to Author R.J. Parker a Canadian author . As I read a few of his eBooks, Parker demonstrated the quality of work I would be proud to be associated with. I am now back to wondering if I could benefit from producing an eBook or two. He has restored my faith in the attributes some authors bring to eBooks.

R.J. Parker not only delivers, but he does so with great attention to detail and fervent dedication to achieving excellence. Integrity in an authors presentation says much about the author, Parker displays an unwavering loyalty to the facts. I am looking forward to reading the next eBook in my Kindle cue by R.J. Parker, next up, Unsolved Serial Killings. One I will positively enjoy!

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Women Who Kill by R.J. Parker

Review of Women Who Kill by R.J. Parker

Women Who Kill, is a very detail oriented account of some of the few women throughout history who have been dubbed as “serial killers.” Author R. J. Parker takes an interesting in depth perspective into the case files of what makes women commit crimes, which have, throughout history, notoriously been attributed to men.

As I read through the pages of Women Who Kill, I was happily met with intelligence, sound facts, and a contemporary stylish prose to pull it all together. It was refreshing to read an eBook, which did not adhere to the common well known criminals and interjected some lesser known, but nonetheless fascinating female serial killers who have plagued society.

As an author, R. J. Parker shows he is cognizant of his audience and keeps them intrigued with his investigative research and his keen eye for interesting material. All too often I feel eBook sellers promote under developed work for inflated prices, Women Who Kill and other eBooks published by R.J. Parker flourish in content and are nominally priced considering the content and the quality.

I give Women Who Kill and Author R. J. Parker 5 stars on a 5 star scale!

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Top Cases of The FBI by R.J. Parker

Review of Top Cases of the FBI by R.J. Parker

Top Cases of the FBI, is a must read for the novice to the true-crime buff. Author R. J. Parker takes an in-depth unbiased perspective and presents a well documented case study into some of the top case files, which cultivated and captivated the investigators of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).

Parker takes us through the seemingly long and tedious see-saw journey of J. Edgar Hoover’s inception of the FBI and its catastrophic end, were it not for the apprehension of a few of the most notorious criminal throughout history, and Parker does it with eloquent style and brief chapters, making this a refreshing and enjoyable read.

When it comes to details, Author R. J. Parker has done his homework; offering tidbits of information even the most versed readers of true-crime would find impressive. I am embarrassed to admit, R. J. Parker has a greater grasp of the American Federal Bureau of Investigations than I, and Parker lives in Canada. Kudos to Author R. J. Parker!

Top Cases of the FBI, begins with the case that put the Bureau on the map, and then instead of remaining stuck in the past like so many other historic accounts, which dwell in the antiquity of famous crimes, R. J. Parker takes us on an unhinged journey advancing throughout time to recent cases.

My rating for Top Cases of the FBI and Author R. J. Parker 5 stars on a 5 star scale!

Follow the link below for a complete list of titles offered by author R.J. Parker

 http://www.amazon.com/R.J.-Parker/e/B006DJ6AAG/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1345062675&sr=8-2-ent

[Disclaimer – In my review of an authors work(s), I make it a practice never to disclose the authors work(s) [spoilers], as the author is due his or her just rewards for the written content – he or she has invested a great deal of time and effort into the work and deserve the rights to their creation(s). My “Review” is merely my opinion of the work(s) and the authors presentation and should in no way be accepted as the authors work(s) or the authors opinion of his or her work(s).]

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If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on Blog Talk Radio at:

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

Visit Jeff Mudgett’s website where you can get a glimpse ofBloodstains, and read about the exciting new book Jeff is working on at: http://www.bloodstainsthebook.com/

Follow The Mudge Report where Jeff Mudgett hosts some of the best talent and discussion in the paranormal community and discusses a myriad of other topics:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-mudge-report

I host the blog The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:  http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

I also host the blog The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal: http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” my Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, I am just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

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By Writer and Author • Posted in ARTICLE, Articles, author, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, culture, Dane Ladwig, ebooks, Entertainment, freelance, General, inspiration, Journal, journalism, Life, Memoir, miscellaneous, Musings, Nonfiction, publishing, R.J Parker, self-publishing, Short Stories, social, Thoughts, Top Cases of The FBI, true-crime, UNCATEGORIZED, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, View From My Loft, Women Who Kill, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, books, crime, culture, Dane Ladwig, ebook market, eBooks, entertainment, essay, freelance, inspiration, journal, Life, literature, memoir, nonfiction, R.J. Parker, Random, reflections, self-published, self-publishing, short-stories, social, Society, thoughts, Top Cases of The FBI, true-crime, unsolved crime, Unsolved Serial Killings, View From My Loft, Women Who Kill, Writing
0
Jul 25 2012

H. H. Holmes in Contemporary Art

Tattoo Artist ~ DJ Minor

When thinking of H. H. Holmes in contemporary views, one rarely looks to the Victorian authors of classic literature as a model of how we see the world through modern eyes. This does cause me to wonder if Poe and other great classic authors of horror and literature of a diabolic nature, knew of the devils future arrival and the future devastations brought about by Dr. H. H. Holmes.

An artist has shared his rendition of H. H. Holmes in a very unique fashion – – skin art! DJ Minor a professional tattoo artist rendered his interpretation of psychopath serial killer H. H. Holmes (pictured below). To my knowledge, and I did research this exhaustively, this is the only rendition of Holmes in the art form of a tattoo in existence.

Tattoo of Infamous Serial Killer ~ Dr. H. H. Holmes
(click image to enlarge)

DJ Minor travels the nation and he is in high demand as his graphic art captures the essence of the human condition. One look at the tattoo above and you immediately notice the famed derby hat, hypnotic eyes and low-slung mustache of H. H. Holmes. I attempted to contact the artist; however, he is so busy, I was unable to reach him for an interview.

The one question I would have like to ask, which was perhaps more suitable for the recipient of the tattoo; what was the motivation behind getting a tattoo of H. H. Holmes? Of course I would also have liked to know more such as; what, if anything were you (the artist) or the recipient experiencing during the process? Maybe DJ or the recipient of the tattoo will read this blog and decide to inform us more about this contemporary gothic depiction of, if not the most, one of the most prolific psychotic serial killers of all time.

I too sport tattoos, thirteen to be exact, but the most gothic I have are the classic skull and crossbones and a piece I drafted the artwork for; an icy frozen cross on a burning flaming sea of water with my children’s names circling the cross. No, it never crossed my mind to tattoo myself with the likes of H. H. Holmes, but I do have to admit, artists like DJ Minor really make me reconsider my decision about the tat’ of the Tasmanian Devil I have been living with on my chest – – I can see it now… Nathanial Hawthorne, Edgar Allan Poe, Vincent Price, and Alfred Hitchcock sitting at a bar, in an absinth and laudanum induced state, discussing their latest endeavors and philosophy on the afterlife.

As for now, I will continue to embrace the art of DJ Minor from afar and hope his genius and extraordinary talent continues to inspire artist of all backgrounds to tap into history and find ways to preserve our past, the good and the horrific. With no remembrance of people like the villainous Holmes, we have nothing to base the good upon!

My hat’s off to DJ Minor!

*          *          *

If you enjoy View From My Loft join Author Dane Ladwig on Blog Talk Radio at:

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

Visit Jeff Mudgett’s website where you can get a glimpse ofBloodstains, and read about the exciting new book Jeff is working on at: http://www.bloodstainsthebook.com/

Follow The Mudge Report where Jeff Mudgett hosts some of the best talent and discussion in the paranormal community and discusses a myriad of other topics:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-mudge-report

I host the blog The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:  http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

I also host the blog The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal: http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” my Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, I am just an email away: authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

*          *          *

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By Writer and Author • Posted in AFTERLIFE, APPARITION, Art, Articles, author, AUTOPSY, BEING, blog, Blog Talk Radio, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, BlogTalkRadio.com, Bloodstains, CLAIRVOYANT, CONJURE, Contemporary Art, culture, Dane Ladwig, DEATH, DEMON, DEVIL, DIVINE, DIVINER, DJ Minor, Dr. H. H. Holmes, ENCHANTER, ENCHANTRESS, Entertainment, ENTITY, EXORCISM, EXORCIST, FORTUNE-TELLERS, freelance, FUNERAL, General, GHOST, ghost hunters, God, H.H. Holmes, HAUNT, haunted, HAUNTING, HEAVEN, HEAVENLY, Hereafter, Herman Webster Mudgett, inspiration, journalism, Life, MEDIUM, Memoir, METAPHYSICAL, MIRACLE, MIRACULOUS, miscellaneous, Musings, MYSTIC, MYSTICAL, MYTH, MYTHICAL, NECROMANCER, Nonfiction, Nostalgia, NUMINOUS, OCCULT, Opinion, Otherworldly, PARANORMAL, PARANORMAL-INVESTIGATION, parapsychology, PHANTOM, PHENOMENON, POLTERGIEST, SATAN, SHADE, SIGHTINGS, social, SORCERER, SOUL, SPECTOR, SPECTRAL, SPELLS, SPOOK, SPOOKY, supernatural, Talk Radio, Tattoo, The Murder Castle, Thoughts, TRICKSTER, true-crime, UNCATEGORIZED, UNEARTHLY, UNKNOWN, unsolved crime, Victorian era, VOODOO, WICCAN, WITCHES, wordpress, Writing • Tagged art, articles, author, Blog, Blogging, contemporary art, crime, culture, Dane Ladwig, DJ Minor, entertainment, ghost, God, H. H. Holmes Tattoo, H.H. Holmes, Herman Webster Mudgett, inspiration, journal, Life, memoir, Miscellaneous, Musings, nonfiction, Opinion, Otherworldly, paranormal, paranormal investigations, personal, phenomenon, professional tattoo artist, Random, reflections, serial killers, social, Society, spector, Tattoo, The Murder Castle, thoughts, unearthly, victorian authors, Victorian era, Writing
2
Jul 20 2012

How NOT to Blog: An Author and Huff Post Journalist Derails

I was a bit intrigued, and perplexed, by author Joe Nickell’s perspective on how to approach the matter of the paranormal. An author, blogger, and journalist in The Blog on Huffington Post located in the Books section, titled 9 Most Haunted Places (Photos) (article link below), Nickell’s derails causing catastrophic insult. In plain English, his article rubbed me the wrong way! He says, “In investigating ghosts we have a decision to make: Do we start with a belief, then seek to find justification for it? Or do we examine real cases with the intent of solving them, seeking the best evidence and letting it lead us to an answer that we then believe on the evidence? I have chosen the latter path—‘the one less traveled by’.”

His supposition, not unlike the perspective of many ill-informed so-called experts, makes many assumptions and contradicts itself. First, he says, “In investigating ghosts we have a decision to make,” this statement would assume there are indeed – ghosts. The author then asks his audience, “Do we start with a belief, then seek to find justification for it? Or do we examine real cases with the intent of solving them, seeking the best evidence and letting it lead us to an answer that we then believe on the evidence?”

Every person goes into every situation with his or her set of pre-ordained beliefs, it is human nature and unavoidable. To say you enter any situation void of your belief system is to say you have lived an entire life in seclusion, never to have had interaction with another human, education, media, religious institution, spirituality, or life itself.

Then the author says we should “examine real cases with the intent of solving them”, which is the option the author opts for in his article. Well, if a case is predetermined to be a real case it must have been pre-investigated to conclude it in fact is a real case. The evidence is where everyone, bar none, trips up, every investigator and skeptic has issues with evidence, hence, the proof is in the pudding. Evidence has been the catalyst of every discrepancy in paranormal investigations. Unfortunately, many times evidence becomes skewed by the investigators personal bias – beliefs.

As you can see, there are many issues with Joe Nickell’s article. My experience has been to enter an investigation, or any situation, as informed as possible. Allow your mind to accept all possibilities as theories, then one by one look for the evidence supporting the theory and the evidence against the theory; debunking the hoaxes and the influences of humanity, science and nature. When employing this method, more often than not, the truth will surface. Those times when it does not surface and your final determination is unexplainable or indeterminable, and you have exhausted all efforts, you go back to the drawing board or conclude – inconclusive.

There are those cases where inconclusive is the only answer; hence, paranormal or supernatural. To say there is room for nothing but black or white, evidence for or against, would conclude logic and reason are the only factors to concern oneself with. I say, as it pertains to the paranormal and the supernatural, if you are looking for evidence it is imperative to think outside of the box. If you back yourself into the corner of thinking, I will consider those cases, which are valid real cases that have been validated in some way as being real, you begin with a presupposition the case has been previously proven – in which case, why do you investigate a case, which has been previously proven!

I have no personal emotional attachment to author Joe Nickell. However, when an author, which I happen to belong to this elite group of wordsmiths, publishes an opinionated article based on flawed philosophy regarding a matter I am passionate about, I feel an obligation to acknowledge the article and the author and offer a rebuttal. Do I always get it right? No. I could only hope other authors and respectful readers would straighten me out as I do care how I am perceived, both personally and professionally.

In a twist of irony, Joe Nickell utilizes this blog, which is endorsed as being dedicated to 9 Most Haunted Places (Photos), which the article itself clearly make no mention, other than the introduction to the nine photos, of any “haunted places”. Nickell uses the blog platform to endorse his book titled The Science of Ghosts: Searching for Spirits of the Dead. On the Amazon link, he describes his work in a few short sentences, concluding, “Are ghosts real? Are there truly haunted places, only haunted people, or both? And how can we know? Taking neither a credulous nor a dismissive approach, this first-of-its-kind book solves those perplexing mysteries and more—even answering the question of why we care so very much.”

Well, Mr. Nickell, I hate being the bearer of discomforting news, but many authors throughout history have attempted to solve the so-called “mysteries” of ghosts, haunted places, and haunted people, including yours truly. Thus, your book is not the “first-of-its-kind”. To express such self-absorbed disingenuous unreasonable implausibility and proclaim oneself as an author to have discovered a unique “first-of-its-kind” approach is an insult and a discredit to authors everywhere.

For us less lofty authors who know their place and respect the works of their peers, and that of past authors, may we continue to present unbiased perspectives filtered through a notion of gratitude and common sense. For other authors who remain stuck in a world of contradictions and self-absorbed “first-of-its-kind” approaches, may you one day know what it is like to view your work through the eyes of the real world!

This has been a… View From My Loft

Huff Post article:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joe-nickell/ghost-stories-science_b_1672400.html?icid=maing-grid10%7Chtmlws-main-bb%7Cdl17%7Csec1_lnk3&pLid=181501#slide=more238636

By the way, I attempted to do the righteous thing and post a comment on author Joe Nickell’s blog regarding this response to his article. My response made it to the abyss of “pending confirmation” comments. I will check back periodically to see if he in fact allows my response.

*        *        *

Visit Jeff Mudgett’s website where you can get a glimpse ofBloodstains, and read about the exciting new book Jeff is working on at: http://www.bloodstainsthebook.com/

Follow The Mudge Report where Jeff Mudgett hosts some of the best talent and discussion in the paranormal community and discusses a myriad of other topics:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-mudge-report

I host the blog The Infamous Diabolic Dr. H. H. Holmes:  http://holmesmurdercastle.wordpress.com/

I also host the blog The Realm of the Supernatural and the Paranormal:http://supernaturalandparanormal.wordpress.com/

Visit and “Like” my Facebook fan page:https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDaneAllenLadwig

As always, I am just an email away:authordaneallenladwig@gmail.com

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By Writer and Author • Posted in ARTICLE, Articles, author, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, culture, Dane Ladwig, Entertainment, Essay, freelance, General, inspiration, journalism, Life, miscellaneous, Nonfiction, Opinion, PARANORMAL, Random, Reflections, social, Thoughts, UNCATEGORIZED, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, belief system, Blog, Blogging, culture, Dane Ladwig, entertainment, essay, freelance, Huffington Post, inspiration, Joe Nickell, journal, Life, Miscellaneous, Musings, nonfiction, Opinion, paranormal, personal, Random, reflections, social, Society, thoughts, Writing
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Jun 27 2012

Character, Integrity and a Career in Writing

 

Since the beginning of time, or at least since the inception of tabloids, journalists and writer’s have been scrutinized for going to extreme lengths and devious measures to extract the next big “scoop” of the century, only to deliver the coup de grâce, or a deathblow, to its innocent exploited victims. Yes, the ultimate name of the game is furthering ones career, but at what cost? As a writer, former journalist, and as a person I have asked myself many times; when it comes to ethics and morals, where do I draw the line?

 

Most every journalist and writer takes a college course on ethics. When he or she graduates, it’s time to run with the Big Dogs. You either gain an edge by any means possible or you go down in flames. Should any means possible include immoral and unethical acts? Getting ahead in the business can sometimes cost you a reputation and in the end cost you a career.

 

Both as a former journalist and as an author I am bound to certain ethical standards – legally and morally. As a writer, every so often, someone will come by to test the murky waters of my character. As a writer, my reputation depends on; what I do, how I react, the things I say, and most importantly, what I decide to put in print.

 

The journalist has a responsibility to tell the story no one else is willing to tell. It may be too risqué, too scandalous, or just plain dangerous. Nonetheless, journalism is not about fabricating a falsehood to promote oneself or to promote the sale of a publication. And by all means, you must verify your sources.

 

Recently, I wrote a blog and cited what I thought to be a credible source. However, I was notified that the information I cited, although cited properly and taken from a reputable public source, was incorrect. The information was outdated and incorrect. Does that make me liable? Only to the point that I should have went one step further and verified the information with the individual I had referenced in the blog, thus covering my tracks. Had I contacted the individual and not received a correction, I would have gave it my all and given the individual the opportunity to set the record straight. However, if given a correction, the blog article would have been that much more credible and the individual would have provided up-to-date information making the blog article that much stronger and better.

 

Needless to say, the individual I neglected to inquire with, simply pointed out my infraction. Embarrassed over my neglect, I humbly apologized and made the necessary correction. However, it is not always that easy. I dealt with a generous, kind and understanding individual who was happy to steer me in the right direction.

 

Even when it comes to using images make sure you cite them properly. If you hover over an image on my blog you will notice a very long URL string, this is the entire site address from the website the image was taken. Do not simply assume if an image is online it is public property. You must cite it properly with a full citation. I have found the best way on WordPress is by copy and pasting the site address in the name dialogue box as you upload the image. It will save you headaches down the road.

 

A writer spends a lifetime building a credible reputation; it only takes one bad judgment call, one uninformed mistake, to alter a writer’s destiny. People want to read an honest author, not a dishonest hack who finds himself or herself in court, or in the least publically embarrassed, because the story of a lifetime was about to get away, or because he or she fabricated a story to increase sales and stimulate ratings. I don’t know about you, but when I leave this world I would rather be remembered as a writer whose word was golden, not the hack who lied and whose writing was never trusted or read!

 

Even when it comes to fiction, make sure you create people, places, and things, which are believable as the truth must prevail. No matter the genre, when I read, I prefer to be met with something that offers a smidge of enticing truths and a dash of deception keenly mixed in for excitement. It is much more credible when an individual can relate to your make believe world. Disregard all truth and reality and you are left with nothing more than a conglomeration of counterfeit deception – untruths and deceit!

 

Persevere for excellence. You may not get the scoop of a lifetime, but you will sleep like a baby, especially when people desire and purchase your books because they want to read honest to goodness truth, even if it is fiction!

 

Good Reads My Friends

 

 

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By Writer and Author • Posted in ARTICLE, Articles, author, blog, Blog, Blogging, Articles, Entertainment, News, Opinion, Thoughts, Random, Social, Entertainment, Musings, Fiction, Short Stories, Nonfiction, Life, Personal, Journal, Memoir, Reflections, Essay, Misce, Blogging, Essay, Fiction, freelance, General, inspiration, Journal, journalism, Life, Memoir, miscellaneous, Nonfiction, Opinion, Random, Reflections, Short Stories, Thoughts, UNCATEGORIZED, wordpress, Writing • Tagged articles, author, Blog, Blogging, essay, freelance, inspiration, journal, memoir, Miscellaneous, Musings, nonfiction, Opinion, Random, reflections, short-stories, Stories, thoughts, Writing
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~ Author Dane Ladwig ~

~ About Your Blog Author ~

Dane Ladwig is a native of Chicago, Illinois. Dane's book, "Piercing the Veils of Death," received critical acclaim from the General Assembly. Dane is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute with a degree in Theology, and a graduate of Elmhurst College with degrees in English and Philosophy. Dane has also released, "The First Annual Serial Killers Anthology," which was a collaborative effort with some of the world's leading true crime authors. Also, his newest release, "Dr. H. H. Holmes and The Whitechapel Ripper," has been met with superior results. Dane has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, in Shaw Media, and has been a guest featured speaker on several radio broadcasts.

Dane Ladwig's books can be found on AMAZON.COM

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