June 25, 2012
Salem County officials pull the plug on TV episode of 'My Ghost Stories' on fears of bad publicity
By Michael Williams/Today's Sunbeam
Click here to Read Article
Salem County officials pull the plug on TV episode of 'My Ghost Stories' on fears of bad publicity
By Michael Williams/Today's Sunbeam
Click here to Read Article
Over the last 24 hours, I have received so many emails, telephone calls, and text messages from people everywhere. Even skeptics have been giving positive feedback about everything that has been going on. Because of the large amount of feedback, I have decided that explain myself and the situation here on the JUMPS website.
As it is explained in the article, a producer from the A&E Biography Channel's show My Ghost Story contacted me on the telephone stating that they are recruiting stories for their upcoming season of the show. After all of the arrangements had been made, permissions from Salem County Freeholder Director Acton and Administrator Ford were granted for filming and the show booked the flight and hotel stay, things began to go downhill.
The flight was scheduled to leave on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 9:45 AM out of Philadelphia International. At approximately 9:30 AM on Tuesday, June 19, I received an email stating the whole thing was cancelled indefinitely. Because of the time difference, I contacted the producer of the show around lunch time and explained everything that was happening. I suggested another location, however because of the short time, it was unable to be done. When we spoke, he said he would have to talk to his bosses. About a half hour later, he sent an email saying they have cancelled it. Less than 24 hours to go!
I am in no way speaking negative about any county official. I am just furious and confused on what happened. According to Freeholder Acton, it was such a great opportunity 2 weeks ago for the county. That was until she sent me an email stating some officials had questions about it. When I spoke with her on the phone immediately after receiving that, I asked her what the questions were so I could answer them or find an answer. She stated it was not so much the questions, only that they needed a vote by the board because some felt it would be negative for the county.
After days of waiting, I heard nothing. Then, it was just a NO. I immediately sent an email to everyone saying that this would have been huge for Salem County and I was very frustrated. I also asked that if because they felt a National TV show appearance may be "negative" for Salem County if they thought my research over the last 4 years was "negative." There were some minor responses, but nothing explaining the true reason for passing up this incredible opportunity.
I appreciate all of the support from all the local and non local residents. Even skeptics have spoken up and supported the idea. It is obvious by everyone that this decision is not popular at all! Not only did this whole process end up being a complete waste of time, but it has halted out research for a few weeks. It is just mind blowing!
Now, of course, there are some other comments people have made in reference to the bad things that could happen if this went national. Possible break-ins, individuals who may be trying to visit for the wrong reasons, but come on! The articles written back in October about the ghost activity could do the same thing. No matter what situation it is, there is always the potential for some negative things. That is the world we live in! Are you saying public information on crime isn't going to attract criminals?
As I said, the whole thing, in my opinion, has just been confusing, frustration, and mind blowing. However, Today's Sunbeam writer Michael Williams did a fantastic job on the article written and presented it to the public in such a great way, so I would like to thank him for that! For everyone who continues to support our research, we are forever greatful! Even to the county officials who have supported us and continue to do so, thank you. To the county officials that feel this kind of research is a waste, I am not quite sure who made this decision or why, but I want you, as well as everyone to know, that I will continue to conduct my research in this area because it something I strongly believe in. I will continue to do everything I can to promote tourism in this county, regardless of the "negative" impact some may believe it will bring. I vow to continue to help our clients who seek our help in figuring out what phenomena they are experience. And I will promise this, if this kind of opportunity is ever brought up again, I will pursue this with a past client who feels as strongly as I do and willing to bring this publicity to our county.
I can always be reached anytime at jerseyuniqueminds@gmail.com or at 856-924-4615. I am always open to comment on anything. If anyone has any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.
Thank you all again for your continued support!
As it is explained in the article, a producer from the A&E Biography Channel's show My Ghost Story contacted me on the telephone stating that they are recruiting stories for their upcoming season of the show. After all of the arrangements had been made, permissions from Salem County Freeholder Director Acton and Administrator Ford were granted for filming and the show booked the flight and hotel stay, things began to go downhill.
The flight was scheduled to leave on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 9:45 AM out of Philadelphia International. At approximately 9:30 AM on Tuesday, June 19, I received an email stating the whole thing was cancelled indefinitely. Because of the time difference, I contacted the producer of the show around lunch time and explained everything that was happening. I suggested another location, however because of the short time, it was unable to be done. When we spoke, he said he would have to talk to his bosses. About a half hour later, he sent an email saying they have cancelled it. Less than 24 hours to go!
I am in no way speaking negative about any county official. I am just furious and confused on what happened. According to Freeholder Acton, it was such a great opportunity 2 weeks ago for the county. That was until she sent me an email stating some officials had questions about it. When I spoke with her on the phone immediately after receiving that, I asked her what the questions were so I could answer them or find an answer. She stated it was not so much the questions, only that they needed a vote by the board because some felt it would be negative for the county.
After days of waiting, I heard nothing. Then, it was just a NO. I immediately sent an email to everyone saying that this would have been huge for Salem County and I was very frustrated. I also asked that if because they felt a National TV show appearance may be "negative" for Salem County if they thought my research over the last 4 years was "negative." There were some minor responses, but nothing explaining the true reason for passing up this incredible opportunity.
I appreciate all of the support from all the local and non local residents. Even skeptics have spoken up and supported the idea. It is obvious by everyone that this decision is not popular at all! Not only did this whole process end up being a complete waste of time, but it has halted out research for a few weeks. It is just mind blowing!
Now, of course, there are some other comments people have made in reference to the bad things that could happen if this went national. Possible break-ins, individuals who may be trying to visit for the wrong reasons, but come on! The articles written back in October about the ghost activity could do the same thing. No matter what situation it is, there is always the potential for some negative things. That is the world we live in! Are you saying public information on crime isn't going to attract criminals?
As I said, the whole thing, in my opinion, has just been confusing, frustration, and mind blowing. However, Today's Sunbeam writer Michael Williams did a fantastic job on the article written and presented it to the public in such a great way, so I would like to thank him for that! For everyone who continues to support our research, we are forever greatful! Even to the county officials who have supported us and continue to do so, thank you. To the county officials that feel this kind of research is a waste, I am not quite sure who made this decision or why, but I want you, as well as everyone to know, that I will continue to conduct my research in this area because it something I strongly believe in. I will continue to do everything I can to promote tourism in this county, regardless of the "negative" impact some may believe it will bring. I vow to continue to help our clients who seek our help in figuring out what phenomena they are experience. And I will promise this, if this kind of opportunity is ever brought up again, I will pursue this with a past client who feels as strongly as I do and willing to bring this publicity to our county.
I can always be reached anytime at jerseyuniqueminds@gmail.com or at 856-924-4615. I am always open to comment on anything. If anyone has any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.
Thank you all again for your continued support!
Sincerely,
Doug Hogate Jr
JUMPS Founder & Head of Research
Doug Hogate Jr
JUMPS Founder & Head of Research