Spooked!

"Notorious"... And Now Haunted?

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:12:00 +0000

For those of you who are fans of primetime television's supernatural series Ghost Whisperer on CBS, you may have noticed the newest cast addition is none other than gay icon and stand-up comedian Margaret Cho. She will have a recurring role as Anthropology Professor Avery Grant, a rather serious (and perhaps a bit snobbish) role which might surprise Cho fans. Most of us know her better as an outlandish and blunt funny woman instead of the weeping widow.

Her debut appearance featured her communicating with a spirit with the aid of a Ouija board, an item with which Margaret is quite familiar (and I'm jealous of her collection). It may surprise some people to know that the comedian is actually a believer in the paranormal. In fact, on her MySpace profile, it clearly states she would like to meet "...hot bottoms, bears, paranormal investigators,..." and a slew of other fascinating people. Perhaps she is a girl after my own heart, considering I quite possibly meet all those qualifications (ok... so the first one is relative).

Here's a brief behind-the-scenes interview with the comedian on her experience with the show and her thoughts on Ouija:

Dragged into a World of Lycanthropy...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:12:00 +0000

Many of us remember that rather interesting scene from An American Werewolf in London where Hollywood magic met full nudity, watching a man transform into a hairy beast while sprawled out naked on the floor. Perhaps a few of us found it strangely sexy on some amusing level, while others were intrigued by the thought that we could change our outward appearance in such a drastic way (if only in our imaginations). The werewolf remains an iconic image from classic movie horrors. Even modern audiences still thrill over vampires, ghosts,... and now the lycanthrope.

From Joe Johnston (director of Jumanji, The Rocketeer, and Jurrasic Park III) and writers Andrew Kevin Walker (who wrote the screenplays for Sleepy Hollow and Se7en) and David Self (The Haunting) comes a new remake of The Wolfman, due for release in theatres this week. At first glance, the film does seem to have a certain Tim Burton quality to it which might be caused by the music (written by my personal favorite composer Danny Elfman).

There is quite an impressive cast for Wolfman... and one in particular may be of special interest to you, dear readers. Some of you might recognize Hugo Weaving from The Matrix while I prefer to remember him as "Felicia Jollygoodfellow" in the gay Australian flick The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. It seems all three lead actors from the film have gone on to bigger and better things. Movie fanatics may recognize another cast member from Priscilla (Terence Stamp, who played the transsexual "Bernadette") from his role as the butler in Disney's The Haunted Mansion.

Though I'm afraid Wolfman fails to bring out any cross-dressing creatures, the image might give a few moviegoers something interesting to imagine while seeing Hugo on the big screen. Without further adieu, I bring you the official movie trailer:

Supernatural Spotlight: Jeffrey Justice

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:29:00 +0000

Well over a year has passed since my last post highlighting someone in the paranormal field. And it was my intention to write about Jeffrey over 4 months ago, but as they say better late than never. In the past year, I have come to know him as a good friend and fascinating individual, regardless of his various talents. But as with everyone I've written about on this blog, whether I know them personally or not, I do my best to set aside any personal bias I may have and give those I deem worthy of some praise a bit of the limelight.

Honestly, I have known several dozen psychics and mediums in my life and they have run the gambit between truly talented and complete frauds. From my own experience, Jeffrey Justice falls into the former category. A Massachusetts native and direct descendant of those disturbing people called the Puritans who landed off Cape Cod nearly 400 years ago, Jeffrey comes from a long lineage of people with some form of psychic ability. While his parents wished for him to have a normal life and avoided discussing any strange experiences he encountered as a child, his grandmother helped him better understand the nature of what people often describe as "the gift."

Although he has received some press coverage for his talents as a medium, Jeffrey is widely unknown outside his native New England. Yet perhaps that is as he would prefer it to be. Although mediumship is his profession and full-time business, he doesn't wish to find fame and fortune in his supernatural abilities. He does offer his services as a medium, tarot reader, channeler, numerologist, and much more to the public and can be found at certain events in and around Salem (founded by his ancestor Roger Conant), yet doesn't wish to spend his entire life being "The Mayflower Medium", as he is often dubbed. His greatest ambition is pursuing a literary career... and perhaps living in a warmer climate.

Wherever his life may take him, there is no doubt that the paranormal will always haunt him. It's difficult to entirely turn your back on the supernatural once it's in your blood. But at least for now, people from New England and beyond can contact him and explore his talents of the metaphysical variety. Whether or not you choose to believe in psi abilities or the ability of a living individual to contact the dead, Jeffrey is a fascinating individual and worthy of a bit of praise and notice.

Ghosts and Goblins Get Down and Dirty...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:36:00 +0000

Everywhere you look these days, paranormal and supernatural themes are quite popular. Some of the most talked about books and movies feature ghosts or vampires. Even on television, the inundation of witchcraft, hauntings, and monsters is extremely obvious. As a society, we love the mysterious, the unknown, and the surreal. And it reflects in everything... including subjects of a more adult nature.

Yes, believe it or not, even pornography has crossed over into these supernatural realms in the past few years.

I debated for a long time whether to touch on the subject here at Spooked! I've always tried to keep subjects humorous yet not too risqué. But in all honesty, we tend to be very sexual beings and at the same time, you can't help but laugh sometimes as these films. So now, I'd like to take a moment to finally give those of you who enjoy such things a little interesting insight into the world where porn meets the paranormal. And for those of you who wish not to subject yourself to such material, feel free to stop reading now and skip along to a different post.

Continue Reading...

Let's start with a rather amusing movie, and the title says it all: The Haunted House on Sex Hill (2003). It seems to be a very slight nod to House on Haunted Hill in more ways than merely the title. The plot (and many of you might be surprised that there could be one) may sound familiar to fans of the Vincent Price classic. A lawyer and a realtor join forces to scare a young gay couple into believing a house in Orlando (previously owned by the aunt of one of the young gay men) is haunted. Of course, neither of the disbelieving pranksters realize the house was once a male brothel, and the arrival of a real ghosts from the house's past bring about a few scares... and the usual sexual romps one would expect with such a film.

Now let's move on to a few films directed by "Peter Z. Pan", shall we? We have two intriguing titles here to examine. First off, there's BeTwinked (2006) which, as you might guess, is a twist on the classic TV show Bewitched about the life of the young male witch Samuel (nice nod there to "Samantha") and his boyfriend Derrick in a comedic homage to the original series... with, of course, gratuitous sex. Following with the television theme, The Twink Whisperer (2008) is similarly titled after a show most of us are familiar with, The Ghost Whisperer, yet lacks any real similarity with its close namesake. the film follows a voyeuristic young ghost (and yes, the customary transparent double exposure variety we generally see in spooky flicks) from the 1920s watching gay couples and their lovemaking in Room 69 at a hotel where he died (no, not during autoerotic asphyxiation... but just as bizarre).

We'll end our strange journey on the most recent addition to our sexual and supernatural selection, a takeoff on the widely-loved books and movies about teenage vampires. The new movie Twinklight certainly appears to be a higher-budget flick than most of the previously-mentioned titles. And with it slated to be released this month, we shall see how close it comes to the storyline of Twilight. While most of these films tend to have low-budget feels to them and a rather absent "plot", I'm impressed with some of the pre-release material. And I think you will be too. Here's a taste of the work put into making this a cut above your standard adult film:

And here's a quick look behind the scenes:

Save a Horse, Ride a Centaur...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:03:00 +0000

More than a few of us have dated a jackass, but usually it's not something meant literally. Though to some, that idea just might be appealing. But in these instances, we hardly even consider the possibility that it could lead to a half-human newborn. It's simply impossible, right? Well, as bizarre as it may sound, some experts say that not only is it plausible, but it may be a real part of history for thousands of years.

In 2005, a study of approximately 5,000 rock paintings in South Africa and Australia dating as early as 30,000 BC by University of Cambridge anthropologist Christopher Chippendale and Dr. Paul Takon of the Australian Museum led the duo to a fascinating conclusion: primitive man lacked the imagination to paint what he could not see, therefore such creatures must have existed. In their new visualization of early man, our ancestors walked the earth alongside these half human beings, known collectively as therianthropes. They surmised that while the frequency and chance occurrence of such births would have been rare, the "beasts" from mythology most likely did exist.

The most famous examples come from Greek mythology. The centaur (from Ancient Greek Κένταυροι or Kéntauroi, meaning "piercing bull-stickers") was half-human, half-horse and is seen even today as an iconic image of mythical creatures, as well as the symbol of Sagittarius in astrology. Soldiers during ancient times would bring sheep and goats with them as both a source of food and sexual relief, since it was deemed less sinful than sleeping with a prostitute (my goodness, how times have changed). The Roman poet Juvenal even made mention that "Roman women often exposed their naked buttocks to tempt donkeys into sex contacts."

Well-respected scholars of the past, including the Italian lecturer and philosopher Fortunio Liceti, recorded several births of therianthropes (both born from humans and animals). Even in more recent history, mentions of half-human births were found in medical books of the 19th and 20th centuries. Although genetically-speaking, animals and humans vary only slightly, modern science held out for some time on the belief that interbreeding was even feasible, yet experiments are said to have resulted in successfully creating organisms with both human and animal cells.

So, could your next boyfriend be a centaur or girlfriend be the REAL cat-woman? Not very likely. Russian biologist Ilya Ivanovich Ivanov attempted such experiments during the 1920s and all his attempts were thwarted before his eventual exile to Almaty due to public outcry. Beastiality, even in the name of science, is seriously frowned upon by the general population. Yet who knows? Perhaps in some remote land, far from societal pressures and taboos, any one of us could very well find a four-legged, two armed man of our dreams who is quite literally hung like a horse.

Ballsy Specter or Unfortunate Urology?

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:19:00 +0000

A rather creepy photograph has haunted Wales for nearly 14 years. While many may be unaware of it, one lucky gentleman has had his private bits immortalized by a rather comical article written up in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine.

An ultrasound performed in 1996 at Royal Gwent Hospital on a 45-year-old patient was far from normal. Doctors were attempting to locate an undescended right testis in the patient, yet it wasn't found. Instead, in the patient's sac where a normal testis would be found was a rather peculiar image. The radiologist J R Harding (quite a fitting name) described it as a "screaming ghost-like apparition". But you can feel free to judge for yourself:

As Harding stated, "If you were a right testis, would you want to share a scrotum with that?"

View the PDF of the original article here

Hitting the Frozen Air Waves...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:39:00 +0000

Ohio winters can be unpredictable and depressing... and this year has failed to disappoint in those respects. Snow, rain, sleet, freezing rain, fog, bitter cold, mild warmth. We've experienced it all in northeast Ohio just within the past few weeks. And the dismal gloom of it all weighs on my mind far too often... yet I have managed to keep myself preoccupied occasionally.

For one, I've been getting some enjoyment out of my new iPod Touch (thanks to Yahoo and their Year in Review contest). I can now listen to podcasts anywhere I go, including my previous interview with Beyond Ghosts Interactive Paranormal and my recent talk with Island Ghost Radio. You can subscribe to both on iTunes and download the latest several shows. Click the image below too listen to the Island Ghost Radio interview (I'm in the second half hour).

And the radio show season seems to be kicking in for me! This coming Sunday, I'll be returning to the Kode n' Nyte Show on Nyte's Realm Radio. So be sure to tune in at 8:00 PM EST for all the alcohol-fueled insanity. And don't forget to have your teleshots handy! I'll be sticking around DJ Kode and DJ Nyte for a few days, hopefully to accomplish that investigation of their house without any glitches this time as well as a possible overnight investigation of a residence east of Cleveland. And who knows... I might be dropping by a haunted Cleveland gay bar on Saturday too!

I do have one other bit of good news to share. My book was reviewed in the winter edition of the American Library Association's GLBTRT Newsletter. I'm all for more libraries carrying Queer Hauntings, especially since buying isn't always an option for people in our dreadful economy. And if you wish for your library to carry it, just fill out a patron request at your nearest branch so they know to see about obtaining a copy.

This year could very well turn out to be an interesting one. I'm still in pursuit of more stories for the sequel to Queer Hauntings, so I welcome any input from anyone worldwide. And there is a good chance I might be doing some traveling over this year once more, but I won't go into detail until anything is definite. Of course, I have set my sights on making it to Australia in the not-too-distant future, so I'm making it my goal this year to at least have plans finalized before the year is over. It's a trip overdue for 15 years now... sometimes, life is too short not to throw caution to the wind and make all your dreams a reality. Yes, money is definitely an issue, but I do believe that with enough work and determination, you can accomplish anything.

Seeking Spirits with Pride...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 00:39:00 +0000

So a lot of people are a bit puzzled by some of the cryptic allusions I've made to upcoming projects in my life. Well, I'll give you all a bit of insight into one in particular. Not long ago, while doing my usual searches for interesting stories and possible ghosts for my next book, I stumbled across a paranormal group based in California, Antelope Valley Ghost Hunters. They are quite possibly the only visible and exclusively LGBT paranormal team anywhere... well, save for The Scary Marys.

Sometimes calling themselves "Family Paranormal", they tried unsuccessfully to capture the attention of a network station but haven't given up yet. I have spoken with the founder, Teresa Parker (who has formed BirdPark Productions), and she's quite a nice and knowledgeable person. Yet again, though, I'm never in the right place... but hopefully, I'll have a chance to tag along with the gang at some point in the future.

And it just might happen some time soon, but that's as much as I'm at liberty to talk about at this time. I'd rather not say too much too soon, just in case plans fall through. I've learned that from experience. But from what I've heard, they're an enthusiastic and great bunch of people, so I definitely hope the tentative speculative plans being made do come to fruition. It's been a while since I've been out west anyway, and I just might get to see a few friends of mine on the way.

But without further babbling, let's see the group in action, shall we? Here's a clip from one of their investigations and a little encounter with a not-so-nice male entity:

A New Year is Dawning...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 05:32:00 +0000

After a few days if internet woes (following weeks of writer's block and apathy/uninspiring times), I'm back. Still, this is a time of great change. In less than 24 hours, a new decade will begin. And that has me contemplating so many things, including the state of this blog... and its future.

I have a lot of things to juggle right now. Old projects, new optimistic possibilities. So many things have changed in my life over the last year, let alone the past 10 years. And I feel I don't have adequate time to devote to Spooked! right now, nor have I for months. A trend started this past year... not merely writing about strange things and place, but seeing new horizons and actually living those things. I've laughed and loved, taken risks to venture into new strange lands, and remembered what it was to be happy. I still love the paranormal and this blog will always be a fond memory. As for whether I continue it or begin a new one, that remains to be seen.... and we will all find out as 2010 arrives.

Tonight, I took a fond look back myself at some of the interesting things from my life, and reviewed old videos sent by my dearest friend on the planet, Joel. So many things have happened in the course of our friendship. We shared the good and bad together, laughed as well as cried. It was a pleasant trip, but not without a few sad thoughts. He has been the greatest impact on my life out of anyone I know, and still having him in my life is the greatest gift I could ever receive. Still... it reminds me that Australia has been an ambition of mine for half my life. Of my few opportunities to see the country, fear has always stopped me in my tracks. And that is one thing I hope to shed in the near future. I've even made a pact with my friend Dana that if we can find a way, we will travel there together, making it a less frightening experience for both of us.

And then there are other things coming up... but I will wait to mention those things after the fact. I'd rather not jinx myself by saying some things are in the works and find out that everything falls through. But I'm off to a party tomorrow so I'll be away from the computer for the next couple days. But stay tuned....

A Manicure for All Eternity...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 07:48:00 +0000

In the ancient world, death was often as important as life. The two worlds were intertwined and coexisted in the minds of many people. Egyptians held ceremonies for their dead and celebrated the afterlife, making sure that tombs were stocked full of food and wares for their journey into the next life (we could say they obviously disagreed with the old adage "you can't take it with you"). They also believed in ghosts, or khu. Although we can't be sure that apparitions wander the Valley of the Kings, there might be a few restless spirits lingering near the Nile River. And all of them may not be straight.

A tomb was unearthed in 1964 near Memphis which surprised many archaeologists. It was the final resting place (or way station, in their views) of Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum, two royal servants from the Fifth Dynasty (2498-2345 BC, a.k.a. Old Kingdom). When combined, their names can be translated as "joined in life and joined in death", which is fitting given their life together and joint burial near the pyramid of King Unas. Though what is not very common is the fact that Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum were both men.

This pair of royal confidants were "Overseers of the Manicurists in the Palace of King Niuserre", according to inscriptions at the site (fascinating how some 4500 years later, we sometimes perpetuate the stereotype by having such professions). In artwork adorning the tomb, the two men are shown holding hands and touching noses (the Egyptian version of a kiss). At the time, the accepted hypothesis was that they were twin brothers and that explained the "exaggerated affection" shown. But the evidence from history could not be ignored, leading some historians to name the pair the oldest documented gay couple in history.

While some people insist that homosexuality was not accepted in ancient Egypt, the lack of mentions of gays and lesbians may, in fact, mean that sexuality was a non-issue. Mundane, every-day things were not often recorded in history, after all. For these two royal manicurists to be given a tomb together says a lot about the world before Christianity took root. it's nice just to know that thousands of years ago, the love between men could be deemed worthy enough for the afterlife... and two male lovers could share an eternity together.

Can't You Hear, Can't You Hear the Thunder...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:04:00 +0000

I'm an aussiephile; there's no denying it. So far in my life, I missed out on a chance to attend university in the "land down under" and take a vacation there (after saving the money and wasting it on a bad relationship). The country itself intrigues me to no end, as does the history. Needless to say, I was absolutely tickled pink to find my book on sale at Angus & Robertson. I might not be on the other end of the globe, but some part of me is.

I'm still determined to get there. Most people don't realize how hard I tried to find ONE story from Oz for the book. I gave up after a tiny nibble (a bed & breakfast which might be haunted, but needs to be investigated), but this time I'm more determined than ever. So, I'm asking for a little help from readers. If you're in Australia and know of any possible hauntings (be it hate crime ghosts, haunted gay bars, or anything of the like), I would really appreciate any tips. There has to be at least one LGBT haunting in the country, and I need to hear about it!! I'm about a dozen stories shy of being able to start work on the next book, so any input is much appreciated. Even if they're not from Australia, I'd love to hear from anyone who might have an interesting tale to tell.

And the Compass Turns to Nowhere That You Know Well...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:54:00 +0000

In Celtic circles, November is the beginning of a new year. And thus far, the month has been a time of further great change for me. Finding time for blogging hasn't changed, though. Coupled with a dash of writer's block and feeling completely worn down, I simply haven't had much energy to devote to Spooked! Maybe the culmination of all the events of the year have led me to this very point, where I'm back to where I began: uncertain of the future and longing for change.

And change itself is something we love and loathe. While we hope things will become better or different in a positive sense, we are ever fearful of reaching outside our comfort zone. There is danger and risk outside the known bubble in which we exist. Calamity and heartache, rebirth and different scenery. Which is why so few people ever step toward that great horizon and dare to see what could be. It can be a great adventure... or an incredible disaster.

I am often guilty of wavering on issues and directions. I contemplate too much. But there's a good reason for it. I can see all sides of most situations and moves, and there's never a perfect decision to be made. For every step we take, there can be both joy and pain. What brings happiness to some leaves other individuals damaged, battered, or bruised. Change itself is one of those risky behaviors our school teachers warned us about. We hate the people who refuse to change while chastising those who do. We question the purpose of mending the wall while keeping with the status quo.

I often ask myself where I will be in another year, another decade. I have no sure answer. A dozen trails lay before me and I could follow any one of them at any given time. There is no "safe path" except inaction. And oh, how I loathe stagnation. But I'm the dreamer, the surrealist. My life won't follow a course of normality. I don't want my life to be average. Yet I pay the price time and time again. And therein lies the trick to leading an alternative existence: understanding the risks involved and weighing your options. Sometimes, it's important to take the plunge into a new pool. It's up to each of us to decide whether to check and make sure it's filled with water first, though.

As winter fast approaches, I have a great many things to ponder. I have new projects to work on and important decisions to make. And honestly, I have no idea what the outcome of any of it will be. The only thing I know for sure is that any choices I make carry permanent risk and damage. In the end, I will follow what I believe to be best. Perhaps it's being selfish, but they will be the decisions best for my own life. Of course, I will be considering how it will impact everyone else close to me. Given my nature, I can't help but ponder the ripples through my own private ecosystem. Each path we forge or stream we reroute effects our world.

In retrospect, the past year has been a bit terrifying at times. I've taken chances for the first time in what feels like centuries. I set a dinghy out among clippers and schooners in the literary world and managed not to sink, ventured beyond the United States and explored and loved and lost, and navigated the East Coast solo. None of these were without a few bumps along the way, but I survived. Adventure is like heroin, and I'm finding myself addicted. I need more exploration in my life to feel fulfilled. As for what kinds of adventure it will mean next year, that remains to be seen.

Spooky Happenings in the Crescent City...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 05:03:00 +0000

Among the many cities I'm dying (well, not literally) to visit is New Orleans. Just like the Witch City of Salem, it's a town where death seems to be a part of life. Ghosts, witches, vampires, and other nocturnal peoples seem quite at home there and the presence of hoodoo is undeniable. Every shop, bar, and hotel carries with it some fascinating, if not haunting, tale.

One such place is 5 Continents Bed & Breakfast, which I did look into and noted in the "Haunted LGBT Accommodations" section in the back of my book. While I left out some of the history and hauntings at the inn, I just might finally revisit it for the sequel. It's a beautifully-restored old home, and apparently still occupied by its original owners.

Passport Magazine visited this haunted hotspot for the Halloween season (possibly after seeing it listed on my website... I'm not trying to assume, but reporter Paul West did attempt to contact me about a story earlier this summer, but due to email issues I missed him... sorry again, Paul!) and interviewed the innkeeper as well as a paranormal team as they looked for paranormal evidence at the business.

Check out the video from Passport.TV:

Crawling Out from Under...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 07:25:00 +0000

October is finally over. And somehow, I managed to survive. Sure, I slept away the entire first day of November, but my body was trying to tell me something, aside from all these aches, pains, and utter exhaustion that still floods over me. I feel as though I've been thrown in a washing machine with a few dozen boulders. And my throat feels like I tried swallowing a grapefruit.

Boy, you're probably thinking, sounds like he sure had a fun Halloween! If only that were so. If fun involves being too exhausted to focus energy on anything for more than 5 minutes, trying to nap and failing miserably, battling the cold weather of Ohio, watching as half the people you know face automobile problems, and ending it with phone calls to police and hospitals, panicked that a family member has been in a serious accident (or possibly dead)... then, and only then, would I say yes, it was fun.

That does make it sound like I had the worst month ever, though. And I can't say that. I've met and spoke with wonderful people, traveled extensively, made new friends and contacts, and found a few times to smile and laugh genuinely. Still, there have been difficult moments. And some people have been left by the wayside as my time has been horrifyingly limited. I'm still only in the beginning phases of catching up, so hopefully I can, at least in part, make up for the many blunders and changes that've happened in these short few weeks. Only time will tell.

I do need to get back to business here on this blog too. I've had one guest blogging offer already, which pleases me to no end. Any time I can have a few people take over for a brief time and post some interesting, amusing, or humorous tidbits in keeping with the intended purpose of this blog, it's greatly appreciated. As one man, trying to write these posts along with other articles all over and future book projects, it can be difficult finding the time to remember that my own life is often kept on the wayside. I love to write on here, don't get me wrong, but after a few years of posting far more regularly, I do need a break. There are people out there I want to have some actual time with and trips I need to make or plan. And to top it all off, I have a severely difficult project on the horizon: writing a sequel to my book. It won't be easy, that's for sure... but I want to do it and refuse not to do it.

So, as the weather gets colder and more dreary here in Ohio, we'll see what happens with my cabin fever as we head into winter. One year of so much traveling and interesting adventures will certainly make matters worse. And when the first snow flies in the coming month or so, I'll probably have more time for blogging... but long for the world outside that is frozen in place until the spring thaw.

Out With the Old...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 06:11:00 +0000

In light of new projects coming my way (and since Halloween/Samhain is also the new year in certain religions), I've decided to take Haunted Cuyahoga off the market soon. And by soon, I mean after selling ONE more copy. (I'm notified of every sale, so I can do that.) Yes, just one... making a grand total of printed copies 266. Why? Well, it's time to move on for me. New things on the horizon... letting go of some of the past that's weighing down this suitcase of life I carry with me. It's been three years since this little venture, and I'd like to lay it to rest...

Home is Where the Tell-Tale Heart Is...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 03:46:00 +0000

So, I'm back in northeast Ohio after a LONG hiatus. What a trip—er, trips—it's been. I feel like the last two weeks, I haven't had much time to sit still for long, let alone digest everything. From Salem (an incredible city... thanks to everyone there who made my trip enjoyable and the many new friends I made along the way) and my first-ever book signing at Cornerstone Books to Dayton (as well as Yellow Springs where two bookstores now carry Queer Hauntings) and my wonderful friends, both distant and close, there who kept me on my toes. I haven't even unpacked yet, but I did take the time to make a Halloween tree and decorate my window a little, just to cheer myself up from the exhaustion for a little while.

I have so much to get done, I'm not sure how long it will be before I have the time to write a regular blog entry. It might be time to finally create that team of bloggers to help me keep Spooked! active during my more busy times. I promised myself I would have a book signing in my own area before trying to tackle other signings elsewhere. I have a place in mind, but I need to make some calls and see what's happening.

Otherwise, much to my surprise and chagrin, it has been a good month for press. Although I had to decline a few media events due to my hectic schedule, Toronto's Autumnplay Magazine featured an article about the book and I. But that's not all; just yesterday, I was told that Instinct Magazine reviewed my book this month. I still need too get my hands on a copy! It may not have been long or 5 stars but till, it's exciting.

Having said that, this neck ache is creeping up my spine and giving me a headache, so I shall bid you all adieu. I'll be back soon, hopefully, if time permits. There's too much to do, but right now it's time to take some aspirin and watch the twinkling ghost lights dance around my window frame...

No Need for Broom Closets....

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 01:24:00 +0000

For starters... Happy National Coming Out Day!! I know, I didn't realize until just now. Sorry! My mind has been elsewhere!

Well, Salem has been everything I thought it would be. And above all else, the entire month of October is one, long Halloween for this town. There isn't another city on earth I can think of where zombies, vampires, and other costumes are seen daily on the street. Of course, fighting your way through the crowd is another matter. It's a madhouse around here.

I'll have to update about my entire trip when I get back. I want to devote some time to everything here in the best way that I can, with enough rest for my bones and less aches and pains from hours on the streets. I have so many businesses to talk about... interesting people to mention (beyond Jeffrey Justice, who has been a dear even though he's run ragged with work... stay tuned for a Supernatural Spotlight featuring him) and photos to share (I know I'll max out my monthly allowance of photos on Flickr for sure). I've been trying to avoid being a tourist, but it's difficult not to be.

I'm down to the last 5 copies of my book already, and I've only been here three days! Let's hope they last me through it all. I wasn't expecting this much. I dropped off two copies at The Magic Parlor yesterday and they both sold within 24 hours! We shall see how long the 10 signed copies there now last. Otherwise, I've met some amusing people, had some interesting conversations, and thoroughly enjoyed myself. People are far more receptive about Queer Hauntings than the naysayers would care to believe. And if all goes well, aside from a few radio show/podcast interviews I have coming up thanks to some good people I've met, I might even be talking at a university in the coming months!

It's all so exciting, wonderful, and yet exhausting. But for now, I'm signing off from the Witch City. It will be a very long week...

(Un)Dead Man Walking...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:59:00 +0000

Welcome to October... or, as I prefer to think of it, that time of year when suddenly everyone thinks about ghosts, ghouls, and hauntings only to forget about them after Halloween. Those of us dealing with the dead generally feel it's "just another day at the office" and sometimes scoff at the sudden interest. Although there is one exception to it being like the rest of the year: everyone wants you to be everywhere at once for the whole 31 days.

Honestly, I haven't had what you might call a laid-back October in a few years now. I miss the days when Halloween was something to look forward to instead of the last night and a mile marker for that next chance to take a deep breath, kick off your shoes, and relax. But this is what I've chosen, because I love the paranormal. So I won't complain... though I might try my best to find mild ways of enjoying myself between gigs.

And this month is going to be action-packed for me. I'm gone to Cleveland this weekend to conduct an investigation at a haunted place, followed by an appearance on The Kode 'N Nyte Show on NRR Radio on Sunday to talk ghosts, have fun, and give away a copy of Queer Hauntings. Then I have a few days of down time, hopefully having coffee with a friend, before taking my great adventure east to Salem, the Witch City!

Thankfully traveling via Amtrak again (I love rail travel... so relaxing), I'll be arriving in Boston on October 8th where I'll meet with Jeffrey Justice, who has been tirelessly helping me plan events in Salem for my week-long stay. I don't have a full schedule yet to give you all, but you can be sure I'll be poking around town, popping up in some of the expected (and more unexpected) places. If you happen to be in the area, check with your local bookstores and see if I'll be popping by... I know Cornerstone Books is on my list for the 15th!

Although it is mainly intended to be a "business" trip, that doesn't mean I'm not planning on enjoying myself. If money permits, I'll be having a nice celebratory beverage at some night spot with Jeffrey and I'll be taking plenty of photographs throughout my stay. I''m even planning an excursion to a haunted New England site as research for the sequel to Queer Hauntings (yes, I'm already working on that slowly). Perhaps I'll take a few interesting photos and have a little contest here... letting my dear readers try to guess where I was.

After I arrive back in Ohio on October 17th, it's off to Dayton for another busy week with friends, followed by a ghost tour. Perhaps I'll stop to breathe around the 24th before the month crescendos into Samhain, or All Hallows Eve. All the while my laptop will be with me. During all my excursions, I should be letting everyone know what is happening and updating things accordingly. There is no guarantee I'll have time to post daily, but at least I'll do my best to share my experiences with you all.

I See a Bad Moon Rising...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:29:00 +0000

It's early Monday morning, there's thunder outside and the rhythmic sound of rain falling. It may be close to dawn, but there's still enough "dark and stormy night" to make me forget all the stress, drama, and insanity of recent time and think back to Halloween's approach.

October (and all the festivities that come with it) is a time when we all want to be someone... or something... else for a little while, even just to pretend for a few hours. And what best exemplifies this desire than the shapeshifter. Werewolves and other humanoids have been a part of lore for centuries. We've been terrified by the thought of people who could become animals while the moon was full, though secretly, we all would like to have that ability: the power to change who we are and live differently for a brief time. Let's face it. None of us is completely happy with ourself or life as it is. There's something intriguing out there that catches everyone's fancy.

Still, as I always say, there's humor to be had in everything. And in light of the fact that life can get insane, overwhelming, and downright difficult, I think it's time to get a little amusement out of that inner animal inside us all. And an ingenious man online did just that... having a little fun with Shakira's song "She Wolf". I can't help but laugh watching this one. Well, ok... perhaps between chuckles I think he's not too bad to look at:

Win a Copy of Queer Hauntings!

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:57:00 +0000

Most of you readers may not realize how much work goes into trying to find interesting stories, websites, etc. to mention in this blog. It can be tiring work. But the research and digging doesn't end there. Even when it comes to my book, finding reviews, booksellers, or anything else happening with it, that too requires a lot of research and digging. Yes... believe it or not, authors aren't told everything!

In fact, one such bit I just stumbled across may be of interest to most of you. Edge (along with its different individual city websites) often gives away a variety of tickets , DVDs, books, etc. on its website. Now, it's giving away a copy of Queer Hauntings to one lucky entrant! There isn't a deadline listed, but I wouldn't wait too long to enter. Click here to go to Edge Boston's page for the book giveaway.

Sorry, everyone, but it's not a signed copy. Although that can be arranged if you win...

Creepy Queer Photo Ops...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 22:56:00 +0000

It's been too long since I posted any interestingly delightful images. So here's a little something to disturb or brighten your day...

Creeping from the Crypt...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 22:09:00 +0000

I've done it again. I've neglected this blog. Of course, this month I haven't been online as much as I normally am, so that's part of the reason. It's been another crazy few weeks for me, chock full of anxiety, stress, and my usual confusion. The temperatures here are slowly dropping down to autumn levels and Halloween will be here before we know it. That's not such a bad thing, though. I'm ready for pumpkins, cider, and the sweet scent of burning wood mixed with foliage in the air. Besides, 'tis the season for people to suddenly regain interest in ghosts and hauntings...

Personal dramas aside, I have also been working (when possible) on research for a sequel to Queer Hauntings. It might sound premature considering the book isn't even available everywhere yet (and I haven't even seen my first copy of it yet), but this time around. the research will be more grueling. I have perhaps five places to research at this moment, which means I need at least another 35 stories before I will have another full manuscript. My goal is by next year to have it finished, along with another possible book I'm looking into... though writing two books at once might be a struggle.

On the bright side, I'm still looking forward to my great escape to Salem in October. I'll be updating with details as soon as I know anything for certain. I'll also be off to Dayton yet again for another adventure with friends and spooks, so it will be a busy time for me. I'm hoping to have a few books on hand before I begin my travels, but we shall see how things work out. Also, on October 4th, I'll be on NRR Radio talking about my new book, as well as doing a bit of ghost hunting on the air. Apparently, the studio where DJ Kode and DJ Nyte are based has become a lot more active in the past month, so this could prove to be interesting. But don't expect things to be too serious. We're all going to have a little bit of fun... and during the program, I highly doubt the only spirits around will be those of the dead.

I've finally been updating my website a bit, so feel free to check things out. There are book excerpts posted and I'm slowly adding links as I find more booksellers offering Queer Hauntings. I'm still hoping to do book signings, lectures, and library events as time passes though it might take a little time. I know my local library might be interested in setting up something, though I'm hoping to break out of Ohio here and there too. Yet another thing for me to get going on: contacting places and trying to set up a few events as locations from the book. So much to do, so little time when you're only one man. That's where this blog suffers too. Perhaps Jeanne Barrack is right... I need a blogging team to help keep this thing going!

I'll do my best to keep this thing alive, though. Hopefully I'll find some nifty things to write about soon...

Beware the Oompa Loompas!!

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:24:00 +0000

What if that world of "pure imagination" were really a sick, twisted, dark place filled not with candies and chocolates, but with gore, brutality, and horror? Well, for all of you who thought that Willy Wonka really was a few apples short of a bushel, writer Eric Appel brings you a strange twist on the old tale of Charlie Bucket. His movie trailer for Gobstopper mixes comedy with terror. And best of all, it stars one of my all-time favorite actors... Christopher Lloyd!!

Who else could pull off that uncomfortably-creepy character with just the right comedic timing? (Sorry, Gene Wilder... deal with it. lol)

Sadly, the film isn't real. But what a shame! Here's the "trailer' for Gobstopper, via Funny or Die:

Gobstopper Trailer

And now... I bit you all adieu for a few days as I take care of some offline affairs. Thanks, Fred, for telling me about this gem of a video. I'll be doing my best to add a little humor in your life now, since you need it the most.

Glancing Down the Road...

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:07:00 +0000

In light of the crazy week it's been, I haven't had the time yet to write about some of the interesting things I've run across. But it's coming... never fear. Meanwhile, just a short personal update. The final cover is done for Queer Hauntings: True Tales of Gay & Lesbian Ghosts, so here's a sneak peek:

I'll be posting more soon. And also, plans are going ahead with my Salem adventure in October. So in less than two months, I'll be trekking across the witch capital. I've been wanting to go there for years... and what better time than the Halloween season?

I'll be gone all weekend, but hopefully I'll give you all a few amusing things to read about before I leave...

Need an Incubus to Succubus?

moonspenders@yahoo.com (Ken Summers) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 05:35:00 +0000

Thanks to my friend Buddy, I received this little clip in an email. It's The Soup's take on the season finale of Ghost Adventures. Just a little reminder to be careful what you say, especially on camera. It might come back to haunt you...