How long have you been interested in the paranormal?

My experiences with the paranormal began when I was around 10, but I suppose I didn't really become interested in the field until I was a teenager. I didn't give much thought to the strange things that would happen in our house until I was old enough to read about other people's experiences.

What started this interest?

I grew up in St. Louis, MO. When I was about 10 years old, we moved into a house that was "very active." Lights would turn on and off, cabinets would open by themselves, and objects would go missing and then turn up in odd places several days later. Oftentimes, we would smell strange odors, and windows would open and close for no apparent reason. I actually heard my name called on more than one occasion. This type of activity has followed my siblings and me for the past 20 years or so, and my children are now experiencing the same sort of phenomenon that I experienced as a child.

How did you become involved with New England Paranormal?

I was lucky enough to meet Steve Gonsalves at the TAPS headquarters in Rhode Island. He suggested that I contact Mike Dion and attend the Ghostbusters class at the Boston Center for Adult Education. I corresponded with Steve a few times via email after our initial meeting and eventually was able to attend the class. Mike Dion was the instructor and the class was great. After the class I was invited to join the group as a member in training and gladly accepted the invitation. My first investigation was not long after that. Mike has been a great teacher and I consider myself very lucky to be an investigator with NEP.

When you go on an investigation what do you expect? What don't you expect?

When I go into an investigation, I expect that we are going to find a client that for some reason is feeling uncomfortable in their home. However, I have to say that I'm the biggest skeptic. In every instance the client truly believes that paranormal activity is taking place (or we wouldn't be there) but more times than not there is usually a perfectly logical explanation for the activity. That's probably why I get so excited when we do capture an EVP or some other sort of evidence. Although I don't "expect" to experience anything, I'm always hopeful. I'm happiest on an investigation when we call "lights out."

If someone wants to get involved with Paranormal Research/Investigations, what would you suggest to them?

Read everything you can get your hands on and find out all you can about the different types of hauntings. Educate yourself on the types of equipment commonly used on investigations. Investigate a group before joining. Make sure they share your philosophy on the paranormal and that you will be a good fit. Prepare yourself fully for what you are getting involved in and what risks are involved. Although 99% of the time you come away from an investigation with nothing, never let your guard down. Anything can happen. Examine your owns beliefs and know that this field attracts people from all faiths and backgrounds, have an open mind. When you go on an investigation, plan ahead. If you are going to be driving a long way, make arrangements to stay at a hotel if you need to. Most investigations don't start until after dark and can go into the wee hours of the morning.

Any other comments?

I would just like to reiterate how honored I am to be a part of New England Paranormal. The people I have had the opportunity to work with thus far have all been incredible. I've had some great adventures so far and look forward to having many more.