Scientology got Matt Sharp Back into the Game

Scientologist Matt Sharp has the self-confidence that comes from understanding how to deal with challenges in life. His profile is one of 200 “Meet a Scientologist” videos available on the Scientology website at www.Scientology.org.

Matt Sharp always worked hard and played to win. But right after college he struck out over a problem he simply couldn’t handle.

“I was an able guy,” says Sharp, 27, “but life threw me this curve and it caught me unprepared.”

A Target National All-Around Scholarship Winner, U.S. Army National Scholar Athlete, Sharp set his sites on the Major Leagues. But he wasn’t prepared for the competitiveness of professional sports. When he ran into conflicts he couldn’t resolve, he found himself on the sidelines and he opted out.

“That was a real shock for me,” says Sharp. “I had always been able to make things work, just by being myself. I was raised a Scientologist but I never felt the need to learn it before this occurred. That’s when I buckled down and started to study Scientology.”

Taking courses at the Scientology Church in Clearwater, Sharp learned how to deal with stress and discovered what lies behind irreconcilable conflicts. He learned the tools to handle these and other challenges in life.

Sharp began working in real estate and marketing, where his friendliness and outgoing nature made him a natural.

“I also studied some of the administrative technology developed by L. Ron Hubbard and use it every day on the job,” says Sharp. “I enjoy my work and consistently hit the targets I set for myself.”

A hard worker and optimist, Sharp is always open to new experiences.

“I recently landed a part in an independent film and am trying my hand at screenwriting,” he says. “From studying Scientology I know what to do if I run into barriers or stops in life. That makes it much more fun to try new things.”

View the Matt Sharp video at www.Scientology.org.

###

The popular “Meet a Scientologist” profiles on the Church of Scientology International Video Channel at Scientology.org now total 200 broadcast-quality documentary videos featuring Scientologists from diverse locations and walks of life. The personal stories are told by Scientologists who are educators, teenagers, skydivers, a golf instructor, a hip-hop dancer, IT manager, stunt pilot, mothers, fathers, dentists, photographers, actors, musicians, fashion designers, engineers, students, business owners and more.

A digital pioneer and leader in the online religious community, in April 2008 the Church of Scientology became the first major religion to launch its own official YouTube Video Channel, which has now been viewed by millions of visitors.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

GOLDEN ERA PRODUCTIONS RECEIVES TELLY AWARD FOR HOW TO USE DIANETICS FILM ON DVD


How to Use Dianetics was honored Monday, June 13, with a Bronze Telly Award for Film or Video in the category of Religion and Spirituality. The film is a four-and-a-half-hour book on film of L. Ron Hubbard’s seminal work, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, the all-time best-selling book on the human mind.

This is the second coveted industry award received this month by the film, produced by Golden Era Productions, worldwide dissemination center for the entire Scientology religion, responsible for all film, video, television, Internet and international event production.

“How to Use Dianetics contains more than 10,000 computer-generated special effects graphics, illustrating every component of Dianetics,” says Catherine Fraser, Director of Public Affairs for Golden Era Productions. “It enables the viewer to see each of the concepts presented in the book. Great care was taken to stay true to the book and bring the bestseller to life, making it as realistic as possible, even down to filming a real black panther to illustrate one of the key concepts in the book. The step-by-step presentation makes it possible to master every Dianetics principle, one at a time. The film has already been translated into 16 languages, and we ultimately plan to expand this to more than 70 languages in all.”

The Telly Awards, established in 1978, has the mission of strengthening the visual arts community by inspiring, promoting, and supporting creativity. Today, the Telly is one of the most sought-after awards by industry leaders, from large international firms to local production companies and ad agencies. The 32nd Annual Telly Awards received over 11,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents.

On June 1, 2011, How to Use Dianetics was honored with an Indie Fest Award of Excellence for educational and instructional films. Golden Era Productions has earned 58 national and international awards for their films, documentaries, public service announcements and websites. For more information about Golden Era Productions and the How to Use Dianetics DVD, visit www.Scientology.org.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

WHAT IS FLAG?

Flag Service Organization in Clearwater, Florida

Flag (the Flag Service Organization) is a religious retreat located in Clearwater, Florida. It serves as the spiritual headquarters and Mecca for Scientologists planetwide. Flag is the largest Church of Scientology in the world. Flag represents the hub of the greater Scientology worldwide community as a dynamic, multilingual organization. Flag not only ministers the most advanced levels of training available anywhere, but all advanced levels of auditing up to New OT VII.

The title “Flag” follows from the fact that from the late 1960s through the mid-1970s, the highest ecclesiastical organizations were located at sea aboard a flotilla of ships. The 330-foot motor vessel Apollo served as Mr. Hubbard’s home. Accordingly, it was then the most senior Scientology Church. It was known as the “Flagship” of the flotilla and called “Flag” for short.

At that time, special advanced auditing and training services were ministered only aboard Flag. However, as more and more Scientologists wished to participate in these services, the lack of sufficient space required a move to land. In 1975, the Flag Service Organization established itself in Clearwater, Florida, where it occupied the historic twelve-story city landmark Fort Harrison Hotel. Since then, Flag has continued to expand. Today it also occupies the Sandcastle which ministers advanced auditing, the Coachman Building which serves as a training center for thousands of Scientologists and many other supporting facilities.

Given Flag’s growing international congregation, the last several years has seen continual construction to provide still more facilities for its parishioners. On January 1, 2008, the fully renovated 172,000-square-foot Oak Cove opened, providing both accommodations for visiting Scientologists and space for ministering Flag religious services.

On March 14, 2009, the ribbon was cut on the eleven-month, million-man-hour restoration of the 267,000-square-foot Fort Harrison. Providing accommodations and restaurants for Scientologists while receiving religious services, the historic property is also open to the public for charity events, tours and open houses.

Immediately following the Fort Harrison rededication, the final construction phase began on the 377,000-square-foot Flag Mecca building. When completed, the 22 separate course rooms will seat 1,800 parishioners, while the 300 Church counseling rooms will service 1,200 more every day.

Since its founding, Flag has expanded to more than 40 buildings totaling more than 2 million square feet, servicing an average of 2,700 Scientologists a week in all major languages.

Flag is also a hub of Scientology within its own community, sponsoring a variety of outreach activities to help those in need. Visiting Scientology artists and performers regularly hold public exhibitions and concerts to which local residents are always invited.

Flag is the spiritual Mecca of the Scientology religion. Although it concentrates on ministering the most advanced spiritual levels of Scientology, its services span the entirety of the Bridge. Every Scientologist aspires to come to Flag. And sooner or later, everyone does.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

RIBBON FALLS ON AUSTRALIA'S
FIRST IDEAL CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY

Thousands of Scientologists, dignitaries and guests from across the nation celebrated a milestone—the opening of the first Ideal Scientology Church in Australia.

Auntie Joy Murphy Wandin, senior elder of the Wurundjeri people, opened the dedication with the traditional “Welcome to Country” ceremony, welcoming Scientologists to the lands of her ancestors.

Scientologist, Melbourne native and award-winning singer and songwriter Kate Ceberano performed a moving rendition of her original composition “This Song is You,” written in honour of the occasion and the heritage of the city and all that Australia holds dear.

In tribute to the significance of the occasion Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, travelled to Melbourne from the United States to officiate at the dedication. He acknowledged the long parade of accomplishments by Australian Scientologists that culminated in the new Church.

“It is my honour to join you this evening and commemorate a moment that will live on in history for a long time to come. Not that you haven’t loomed large in history before, not that you haven’t triumphed over great adversity in years gone by, not that you didn’t stand firm for the dignity of Man, and not that you didn’t indeed uphold the God-given rights of all religions all over this world.

“But having triumphed today in the name of our religion, you just flipped this planet all the way around so that Melbourne now sits on top of the globe. And that’s what it means to build an Ideal Org beneath the Southern Cross.”

Mr. Miscavige also spoke of Melbourne’s hallowed place in Scientology history, noting that Founder L. Ron Hubbard himself came to Melbourne in November 1959 to deliver a series of lectures to its founding Scientology community. As Mr. Miscavige explained: “Those November 1959 lectures marked a turn in the path and a rise in the road, from which the whole panorama of human potential came into focus. Whence, the highest levels of Scientology and the whole vista of spiritual enlightenment and freedom.

“So you wonder where you stand in the history and legacy of LRH and our religion as a whole? None of it would exist were it not for what began right here—and that’s both the heritage and legacy, which is indelibly woven through the brickwork of your new Ideal Org of Melbourne.”

Acknowledging the Church for its many contributions to the community were Melbourne Lord Mayor the Honourable Robert Doyle, Moonee Valley City Councillor Paul Giuliano, Shadow Minister for Tourism and Major Events, the Honourable Justin Madden, Sociologist Professor Gary Bouma and former Indigenous Person of the Year Uncle Bob Randall.

Praising the Church’s active role in community life, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle told those assembled: “Today marks an historic occasion for Scientology. The building you see before you is the first of its type in Australasia, and the re-birth of an historic Melbourne building. This is a unique space. I hope benefits flow in partnerships, community connection and goodwill. I invite you to celebrate this opening in the heart of our exciting, welcoming and diverse Melbourne.”

Moonee Valley City Councillor Paul Giuliano welcomed the congregation to his metropolitan Melbourne community where the Church is located: “I know that I speak for many when I say thank you so very much for restoring this beloved landmark to its former glory. I cannot think of a better custodian than the Church of Scientology.”

The occasion was a reunion for teacher, football icon and Victoria Shadow Minister Justin Madden, who attended the Catholic University within the walls of what is now the new Scientology Church. He commended the Church for its historic preservation as well as its literacy and drug education initiatives: “Unselfishly, you work to provide ways and means to uplift our society. You have set the standard for the community with your restoration of this building and with your social programs—an example I will point to for others to follow. Your new Church is as Melbourne as Melbourne gets.”

Human rights activist Bob Randall, whose award-winning documentary, Kanyini, exposed the plight of the Aboriginal “stolen generations,” thanked the Church and its Scientology Volunteer Ministers program for its commitment to the indigenous people of Australia: “Scientology Volunteer Ministers have come to my country and given us hope that we can deal with these problems and we will make a difference in the near future. The Volunteer Ministers I’ve met have become my friends. The fellowship between us has been fun and I look forward to continuing that relationship to continue on to the present into the future. On behalf of me and my people, I thank you.”

Melbourne has long held importance for the Scientology religion. Within months of L. Ron Hubbard authoring Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health in 1950, the first Dianetics group in Australia was formed here and in 1955 the first Scientology Church in Australia opened in this city.

Australia similarly long held a place near to L. Ron Hubbard’s heart, beginning with his service “Down Under” as a United States Naval Officer through the first days of World War II. Principally stationed in Brisbane, but also operating from Melbourne, then Lieutenant Hubbard was charged with organising relief efforts for Allied troops trapped in the Philippines. He also proudly served with Australian gunnery units for the defence of Brisbane.

As Scientology Founder, L. Ron Hubbard returned to Australia in 1959 to deliver two historic lecture series: The Melbourne Congress and the 1^st Melbourne Advanced Clinical Course. Remembered today for his delineation of the highest spans of the Scientology Bridge, Mr. Hubbard’s Australian lectures will forever hold a cherished place in the religion.

Today, the Melbourne Scientology Church is the first Ideal Church of Scientology Organisation in Australia, realising Mr. Hubbard’s vision for what Scientology can provide for its congregation and community.

The Church now stands on the site of the 19th century estate of Robert McCracken, leading businessman and founder of the legendary Essendon Bombers football team. After the turn of the 20th century, this building became the home of Mercy Teachers’ College, later part of the Catholic University. The original name of the estate is “Ailsa” for Ailsa Craig, an island off the west coast of Scotland from where the McCracken family sailed more than 150 years ago.

Melbourne’s Public Information Centre offers more than 450 informational films illustrating Scientology beliefs, the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard, and the full array of Church-sponsored social betterment and community outreach programs.

The Chapel seats hundreds, the library contains all Church Scripture. Course rooms and counselling rooms accommodate Scientologists from throughout Victoria. Seminar rooms, film rooms and Life Improvement Course rooms make effective solutions to the most pressing challenges people face today easily available to Scientologists and non-Scientologists alike. Workspaces for volunteers stand open and ready for use by parishioners and the community.

_______________________

Under the guidance of Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, 23 Ideal Churches have been dedicated and opened since 2003, including those in world cultural capitals—The National Church of South Africa in Johannesburg; the National Church of Scientology of Spain in Madrid; the Church of Scientology of New York, just off Times Square; the Church of Scientology of London, located in the epicentre of the city; the Church of Scientology of Italy in Rome; the Church of Scientology of Washington, D.C., just blocks from the White House on “Church Row”; the National Church of Scientology Mexico, in Mexico City; and the Church of Scientology of Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate. Another 60 Ideal Churches are in design, planning or construction phases.

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in the United States in 1954 and has today expanded to more than 9,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 165 countries.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

clearwater scientologist: MARLENE CABENDA’S

EXTRAORDINARY LIFE

Marlene Cabenda was a trusted and admired human rights lawyer and insurance executive, yet she knew something was missing—until she found Scientology. Her profile is one of 200 “Meet a Scientologist” videos available on the Scientology website atwww.Scientology.org.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

When Marlene Cabenda sets her mind to do something, the results are remarkable.

When Cabenda was growing up in her native Suriname, there was no university. She applied to study in the Netherlands, won acceptance and a scholarship, and at 18 moved on her own to Europe to study law.

She returned home a corporate attorney with a specialty in insurance and rose to the top of her field, eventually becoming the most senior executive in her firm—her country’s highest-placed woman in the industry.

While advancing her career, Cabenda dedicated herself to the purpose that originally led her to study law—to help those in need. She devoted her energy to humanitarian law, practicing pro bono as counsel for the Suriname Red Cross, where her work was so highly regarded she was asked to take over as president in 1985.

“I was a businesswoman. I made good money, had a nice house, traveled around the world,” says Cabenda. “But I always felt something was missing.”

Introduced to Scientology by her sister Ingrid, in 1997 Cabenda received her first auditing—spiritual counseling, from Latin audire, “to hear or listen.”

“I had been searching on a spiritual level for a very long time,” she says. “I found the answers I was looking for in my very first auditing session.”

Cabenda retired at 46, moved to Florida with her one-year-old daughter Kimberly, and began a second career—as a Scientology auditor.

“I always wanted to help,” says Cabenda, 58. “Now I really knew how.

As an auditor, no matter what the person across from you is going through, you know he or she will be smiling by the time you end the session. Their relief and happiness is also mine. That’s about as high as you can go this side of heaven.”

View the Marlene Cabenda video at www.Scientology.org.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers have been in Haiti since the January earthquake. Sponsored by a grant by the International Association of Scientologists, they will be there for the long haul.

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers program was created by L. Ron Hubbard in 1976. The motto is "Something CAN be done about it."

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers program came into the forefront when a group of VMs spent months at Ground Zero after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Mr. David Miscavige expressed the gratitude and pride ofScientologists everywhere when he awarded the leaders of that Volunteer Ministers disaster relief action "Freedom Medals" of the International Association of Scientologists. The IAS further acknowledged The Church of Scientology of New York by funding the entire refit and renovation of the New York Org. David Miscavige was the special guest speaker when the New York Org opened in 2004.

Video footage of the grand opening and speeches, including that of David Miscavige, are online at the Scientology website.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Mary Shuttleworth: Youth for Human Rights World Tour

Mary Shuttleworth: Youth for Human Rights World Tour

IAS medal-winner Mary Shuttleworth carried out a three-month-long Youth for Human Rights International world tour this year. Above is a photo of her delivering a workshop at a South African University.

Shuttleworth received the IAS Freedom Medal for her work in founding and developing Youth for Human Rights, a non profit program that educates youth on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. A school principal who grew up in apartheid South Africa, Shuttleworth is passionate about eradicating human rights violations through education. As the Scientology religion is committed to human rights, as stated by the Scientology Creed, Scientology churches started sponsoring Youth for Human Rights groups, and the Church of Scientology International Human Rights Office worked with Shuttleworth in developing properties to make the subject understandable to the man in the street.

One of the most lucid and simple expositions of human rights is the film, "What Are Human Rights," produced at Golden Era Publications. In June 2009 this film was released by Mr. David Miscavige at an annual convocation held aboard the Freewinds motor vessel.

In addition to their annual world tour, Youth for Human Rights holds an annual youth summit at one or another of the UN headquarters.

Shuttleworth says her inspiration in carrying out this campaign to educate youth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was L. Ron Hubbard who wrote, "human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream."

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Scientology expansion in Clearwater

"Nowhere is the growth of the Scientology religion more in evidence than at Flag, its spiritual headquarters in Clearwater, Florida. Planned to ensure the most important Scientology religious retreat continues to meet the increasing need for its services, what began with a single property in 1975 now spans a complex of some 50 buildings over a nine-mile grid, totaling upwards of two million square feet. Here follows a brief but incisive history of that expansion:

First there was the opening of the 172,000 square-foot Oak Cove on January 1, 2008. Its renovation provided both religious retreat accommodations for visiting Scientologists and space devoted to the ministry of Flag religious services in 14 languages.

Next was the grand opening of the new Fort Harrison on March 14, 2009, with more than 6,000 Scientologists from over 50 nations filling the streets and sidewalks as Mr. David Miscavige officiated. The renovation and restoration of all 267,000 square feet of the Fort Harrison beyond its original 1926 grandeur marked the end of phase two.

The final phase of construction on the 377,000-square-foot Flag Mecca building began in March 2009, immediately following completion and dedication of the new Fort Harrison."

My marriage was headed for divorce.

Another great win from the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of the Church of Scientology of Tampa

"My marriage was headed for divorce. And even though we loved each other, something had come between us and I didn’t know what it was. We tried everything. We went to a marriage counselor, we even went to a psychiatrist and the end result was we still were headed for a divorce.

So just when I was about to file the final papers, a close friend of ours insisted, absolutely insisted, that we try Dianetics. And that is when we knew what had come between us—it was the reactive mind. So not only did Dianetics give us the tools to save and rebuild our marriage, but we love each other more today than the day we got married."

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Fashions with Flair 8th Annual Fashion Show at The Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization's Historic Fort Harrison

Church of Scientology's Fort Harrison Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Clearwater's Leading Ladies Fashion Show.

Clearwater Community Volunteers of the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization announces its 8th Annual “Fashions with Flair” Silent Auction and Fashion Show Fundraiser on Saturday, August 7th, 2010 11 AM – 2:30 PM. The event will be held at the historic Fort Harrison which is owned by the Church of Scientology and is located at 210 S. Ft. Harrison Ave. Clearwater, Florida. The show is sponsored by Clearwater Community Volunteers, a volunteer arm of the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization in Clearwater, a non-profit charitable organization made up entirely of volunteers.

Clearwater, FL, July 21, 2010

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

My trust in my relationship is back!

The Church of Scientology of Tampa, Dianetics Foundation, published this success story on their Dianetics website.



“Before my first session of Dianetics I didn’t trust everything my girlfriend told me. I thought a lot of the time the was always ‘someone else’. Afterward I realized that this was not from anything she had done but from a previous relationship. I realized those feelings from the previous relationship were not correct and they were coming out now in my present relationship. I discovered that my mistrusts were not actually coming from my current situation!"

C. R.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Scientology in Tampa

Right next to Clearwater is Tampa, Florida. The Church of Scientology of Tampa was actually the first Ideal Scientology Church. It was the bright idea of David Miscavige to pilot creating a church like that next to the Scientology spiritual HQ in Clearwater.

Here's the story, from Scientology.org

Tampa, Florida

World's First Ideal Church of Scientology

March 29, 2003

Tampa Scientologists and guests celebrated a watershed achievement in Scientology history when they dedicated the new Church of Scientology of Tampa on March 29, 2003. On that day, Tampa became the world’s first Ideal Church of Scientology, ushering in a new breed of Church capable of providing services to both parishioners and the community at large at at an unprecedented level.

Carrying out strategic planning directed by Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, Mr. David Miscavige, Tampa Bay Scientologists joined forces to create this ideal Church of Scientology and attain the goal set years earlier by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. Staff and parishioners accomplished the target less than one year after the building was acquired and so made the historic Andres Diaz Building in West Tampa their new home.

Three times the size of the previous Church, the four-story structure comprises numerous spiritual counseling rooms, two course rooms seating 200 students and a Chapel for Sunday services and other Scientology ceremonies.

The Diaz Building not only allows the Tampa Church to preserve a Tampa landmark but to also fulfill its revitalization initiatives through secular programs in literacy and drug abuse prevention.

Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Travolta is the best

Just saw this cool video interview of Travolta where he talks about the movie "Be Cool" and techniques her learned from Scientology to help heal people.

Travolta is the best.



Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Youth for Human Rights Creates Awareness Against Racial Discrimination

I found this interesting article about Youth for Human Rights in Clearwater. These kids to a great job to raise awareness of human rights issues:

Youth for Human Rights Florida stepped out onto the streets on March 20th to create awareness against racial discrimination. March 20th was International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, a day when people around the world came together in their communities to work toward ending racism. The group, which promotes education of the 30 human rights based on the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, went to the people in the streets, gathering hundreds of signatures on a petition to get human rights taught in schools.

Youth for Human Rights Florida believes that when people fully understand human rights, they will demand their rights and respect the rights of others. Making racial discrimination a priority, the group works toward tolerance and peace through various avenues. They have marched on Martin Luther King Jr. Day; represented youth at Passing the Torch to America’s Youth—the historical fight at Selma, Alabama to gain voter’s rights for all races; and represented the USA in the International Walk for Human Rights on UN Human Rights Day, when the United Nations stated their motto as “Embrace Diversity—End Discrimination.”

“The dream of a world free of racial hatred and bias remains only partially recognized, as according to FBI statistics racial hate crimes in America are on the rise,” said Youth for Human Rights Florida President Dustin McGahee.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was first established in 1966 because of the shocking violence on March 21, 1960, when 69 young students peacefully protesting against apartheid laws in South Africa were massacred. The United Nations General Assembly called upon the international community to work together throughout the world to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.

Youth for Human Rights Florida is a secular, non-profit organization with the mission to educate people of all ages about their rights. The uniqueness of the program lies in the educational materials created in collaboration with the Human Rights Department of the Church of Scientology International. Its founder L. Ron Hubbard in fact stated: “Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream.”

Designed to present the subject of human rights in multimedia formats suitable for all ages, the materials include “The Story of Human Rights,” a documentary video that illustrates the history of human rights through the ages; booklets; public service announcements that educate youth and adults on the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and teaching aids that include a study guide, activities manual and educator's classroom kit. For more information about the 30 human rights go to: www.youthforhumanrights.org


Scientology in Clearwater on Scientology.org

Scientologist Chairs Fourth Annual Human Rights Walkathon to Raise Awareness of Abuse and Solutions

St. Petersburg, FL—More than 1,200 Tampa Bay residents of all ages walked quarter-mile laps around Straub Park in St. Petersburg Saturday, March 6, to raise human rights awareness. Ms. Linda Drazkowski, Founder and President of the Human Rights Group Inc., Scientologist, mother of two and Clearwater resident, created the Human Rights Walkathon four years ago, and has chaired it every year since. The fourth annual Human Rights Walkathon, produced by the Human Rights Group in partnership with Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking and the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope, featured performances by hip hop artist MC Lyte, recording artist David Pomeranz, and the Dundu Dole Urban Ballet. Speakers included Mrs. Anna Rodriguez, founder of the Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking; Mr. James Evans, founder of the Tampa Bay Academy of Hope; Rev. Alfreddie Johnson, founder of the World Literacy Crusade; and Dustin McGahee, president of Youth for Human Rights Florida.

The day before the walkathon, an article in the Fort Meyers, Florida, News-Press pointed out the vital role education plays in protecting human rights. A 15-year-old Guatemalan girl living less than 150 miles south of St. Petersburg, in Immokalee, might still be enslaved and forced into sex, pornography and field labor today had it not been for the alertness of a Florida woman who suspected she was the victim of human trafficking and reported it to authorities.

Some 800,000 men, women and children are trafficked across international borders each year. “People who know and understand human rights will not only stand up for their own rights but also for the rights of others,” said Drazkowski.

To raise awareness of this and other crucial human rights issues, the Human Rights Group uses educational booklets, DVDs and an educators’ guide created by Youth For Human Rights International in collaboration with the Human Rights Department of the Church of Scientology International.

For more information on these programs and materials, visit United for Human Rights at www.humanrights.com.

This is a photo of the grand opening of the newly refurbished Fort Harrison Hotel in Clearwater. The celebration occurred in March 2009. It was dedicated by David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center.

SCIENTOLOGY - THE FASTEST-GROWING RELIGION IN THE 21ST CENTURY

March 14, 2009: More than 6,000 Scientologists from over 50 nations filled the streets and sidewalks at the 200 block of Fort Harrison Avenue to witness Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, Mr. David Miscavige, officiate at the ribbon cutting of the Clearwater landmark—the new Fort Harrison.

“Her bones were good, her breeding impeccable and her choice of residence couldn’t have been more fitting: Clearwater, Florida,” began Mr. Miscavige as he addressed the crowd. “When she originally opened in 1926, they called her ‘the aristocrat of southern Florida hotels’ and described her as a ‘picturesque edifice’ known all up and down the coast, as the toast of this city and an ever-bustling hub of wedding receptions, fashion shows, bridge teas and Rotary Club functions.

“She additionally saw no inconsiderable parade of luminaries. In the ’60s and ’70s the Phillies used to stay here during spring training and Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Buddy Rich all performed in our ballroom.”

The Crystal Ballroom (upper left) that in earlier decades hosted the likes of Duke Ellington and Count Basie now stands fully restored to its original gold-leaf splendor. The Flag Auditorium (lower left) is the site for international Scientology events and seminars, as well as benefits hosted by nonprofit community groups. The Fort Harrison Grand Lobby (right), long the crossroads for the Clearwater community, is now fully restored with an elegance that far exceeds her opening day in 1926.

Mr. Miscavige’s concluding remarks expressed both the spirit and significance of the occasion:

“The bottom line is the same bottom line for the last 80-plus years: this Fort Harrison is and will always remain a landmark and home for all of Clearwater.”

And with that, he cut the 2,000-foot-long red ribbon and so ushered in a new beginning for the “Grand Dame of the West Gulf Coast.”

A Monumental Restoration Project

The grand opening of the new Fort Harrison was the culmination of an 11-month, million-man-hour restoration overseen every step of the way by Mr. Miscavige. All 267,000 square feet of the 83-year-old structure were stripped down to bare beams and rebuilt from the inside out.

The 21st century infrastructure eased into her 1920s framework, with every one of the 200 guest rooms rebuilt from floor to ceiling—not to mention energy-efficient, low-emission electrical and mechanical systems throughout.

More than 350 local tradespeople worked on the project, ultimately laying 100,000 square feet of carpet, installing 300,000 feet of plumbing and stringing a full 100 miles of electrical wire.

Restoration of the building’s hallmark features began in the elegant Grand Lobby, from the original wrought-iron and brass balustrades to the signature checkerboard marble floor and gold-leafed Corinthian columns. And high atop the Fort Harrison, the legendary Crystal Ballroom also underwent complete restoration—taking it, too, well beyond its original beauty.

Community Hub

The Fort Harrison has served as a hub for this community since the 1920s and continues to serve so today. In addition to the Scientologists who avail themselves of the accommodations, restaurants and amenities while staying in Clearwater for religious services, the community at large enjoys the Fort Harrison as well. Since grand opening, hundreds from across Tampa Bay have gathered for Open House brunches and community events, such as the Sunscreen Film Festival Broadway and Beyond Concert, benefiting local artists. Couple that with the dozen or more who simply walk in every day for a tour—and it is clear the Fort Harrison is, as it has always been, a home for Clearwater. More at freedommag.org

David Miscavige Dedicated the New Oak Cove

Last year David Miscavige dedicated the Oak Cove, fully refurbished. This then made it possible to do the full renovation of the Fort Harrison Hotel which is opened in March this year.

David Miscavige Officiated at the Grand Opening of the new Buffalo Org

David Miscavige Officiated at the Grand Opening of the new Buffalo Org

In November 2003, the new Buffalo Org opening its doors. This was one of the first of the new breed of Ideal Scientology Organizations (Orgs), the inspiration, planning and driving for for which was David Miscavige, seen here at the front of the line of dignitaries who cut the ribbon at its grand opening.

David Miscavige

It is always a treat to go to a Flag event when David Miscavige is the MC. He is not only great speaker, he is also a leader, and a genius.

David Miscavige: At the Helm of Scientology's Explosive Growth

Incredible photo of the new Fort Harrison. Such an upgrade for Clearwater!

By the Numbers: Scientology members
in the Clearwater Community

(Freedom Magazine Report) Since the Church moved its spiritual headquarters to Clearwater in 1976, Scientologists have become an integral part of the community. Not only do they travel from all over the world for extended stays while participating in religious services, many Church members and families have made Clearwater their home. The presence of the Church generates thousands of jobs, boosting the economy and revitalizing the area. Independent studies on the overall economic impact of the Church found its presence had a decisively positive effect. At the end of the 1990s, the Church and its members accounted for 5.4 percent of the area’s sales, 10.7 percent of its employment and 3.4 percent of area income. While direct spending by Scientologists totaled almost $100 million, the Church’s greater impact on the Clearwater economy was estimated at almost half a billion dollars which, in turn, generated more than 5,000 jobs. The studies reported that without the Church’s stabilizing presence, the entire city would be far less viable economically. Today, 10 years later, the economic influence of Scientologists in the community is commensurately higher.

• 9,523 Scientologists live in the Tampa Bay area.
• There are 22 Church of Scientology facilities in downtown Clearwater.
• The Church is the largest property taxpayer in downtown Clearwater, paying nearly $1 million in property taxes last year.
• 1,500 Church staff provide religious services at the Scientology facilities in downtown Clearwater.
• 8.2 percent of Clearwater’s population are Scientologists.

THE RELIGION OF SCIENTOLOGY A DESCRIPTION

Scientology comprises a body of knowledge which extends from certain fundamental truths. Prime among these truths:

• Man is an immortal spiritual being.
• His experience extends well beyond a single lifetime.
• His capabilities are unlimited, even if not presently realized.

Scientology further holds man to be basically good, and that his spiritual salvation depends upon himself and his fellows and his attainment of brotherhood with the universe. In that regard, Scientology is a religious philosophy in the most profound sense of the word, for it is concerned with no less than the full rehabilitation of man’s innate spiritual self — his capabilities, his awareness and his certainty of his own immortality. Furthermore, as religion deals with the spirit in relationship to itself, the universe and other life, and is essentially the belief in spiritual beings, Scientology follows a religious tradition that is at least as old as mankind. Yet what Scientology ultimately represents is new. Its religious technology is new, its ecclesiastical organization is new, and what it means to 21st-century man is entirely new.

At the heart of Scientology lie its axioms that precisely define the fundamental laws and truths of life, including who we are, what we are capable of, and most importantly, how we might realize our native spiritual abilities. These axioms form the foundation of a vast body of wisdom that applies to the entirety of all life. From this wisdom has come a great number of fundamental principles people can use to improve their immediate lives, as well as to achieve spiritual immortality. In fact, there is no aspect of life that cannot be improved through the application of Scientology principles.

Scientology Bursting at the Seams in Clearwater

It's pretty exciting being in Clearwater these days. New OT VII completions at every Friday night graduation. Literally hundreds of people completing courses on the new editions of the Scientology and Dianetics books and a totally new level of optimism and cooperation.

David Miscavige was here in March at the celebration of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday and he promised even more to come. I can't image what could top the last year!

Now on! Freewinds Maiden Voyage Events in Clearwater!

A roughly 150- by-200-foot tent was erected by the Church of Scientology in Tampa to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the maiden voyage of the Scientology training ship Freewinds. The celebrations were presented by Scientology leader David Miscavige and took place on the newly refitted motor vessel Freewinds at the end of June 2008. The recordnings are being shown in Churches of Scientology all over the world.

Quilt Exhibit Celebrates African-American Art

In celebration of Black History Month, Clearwater City Hall is honoring the achievements of African-Americans with a display of quilts created by artist Anthony Jones.
Jones continues the American tradition of quilting that is hundreds of years old yet explores innovative techniques in his work. “My work is grounded in the traditional, yet is hopefully a thoroughly modern expression of that tradition,” he says.
Now through March 28, the quilts will be on view. The exhibit is free to the public in the building’s lobby at 100 S. Osceola Ave. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For further information, contact Elizabeth Minor in the city of Clearwater’s Cultural Arts Division at 562-4814.

One of my favorite videos of all time is, This is Scientology, in which Mr. David Miscavige describes the Scientology religious movement and it's impact on the world.

In addition to full religious recognition in Spain, the Church of Scientology has gained full religious recognition in Portugal in the month of December 2007! This again shows the exponential expansion of Scientology in countries throughout the world.

I love the Way to Happiness public service announcements, particularly the one "Respect the Religious Beliefs of Others".

Kids at Risk from Meth

A story in today's St. Pete Times shows that kids are not only dangerously uninformed about the dangers of Meth, they are at risk from the false information they have gotten on the subject.

According the the survey released yesterday and reported on by the Associated Press, nearly a quarter of teens say it would be "very easy" or "somewhat easy" to get methamphetamine, and one in three teens also believes there is only a "slight risk" or "no risk" in trying meth once or twice.

Yet former Meth users uniformly speak of how they were addicted to the drug the first time they used it.

Case in point, in the Meth booklet that's part of the Truth about Drugs series published by the Foundation for a Drug Free World, a woman named Marie says:

“My life spun out of control after a simple 'girls night out' to alleviate boredom. After being introduced for the first time at age 40, within 3 years I was shooting meth. I left my husband and three children (10, 12 and 15) and ended up living on the street.”

The Church of Scientology of Tampa and the Flag Service Organization both sponsor Say No to Drugs groups that distribute these booklets and enlist the participation of other community groups to spread the word about drugs like Meth. For copies of the booklet or information on how to start your own group, contact the Foundation for a Drug Free World.

Clearwater Volunteers use the Scientology Handbook

There are so many Scientologists in Clearwater, and among the activities they do is the Volunteer Ministers program.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers are probably best known for their work in times of disaster, but there are just as many who simply volunteer in their communities to reach out and help their neighbors.

Volunteer Ministers have the advantage of having, studying and using the Scientology Handbook, based on the works of L. Ron Hubbard. It's actually a compendium of skills LRH developed for the various areas that trouble people most in life, such as being able to cope with their own and others' emotional reactions, being able to communicate even if the other person doesn't want to cooperate, being able to study any subject, smoothly, simply, easily.

It's a great book. The online version is not the complete text of the handbook but it has a lot of very helpful information and you can not only use it yourself, you can send your friends to it to help them if they need something to get them over a hard spot.

Auditors Day

Tonight, Auditors day was celebrated in Clearwater, the spiritual "headquarters" of the Scientology religion.

I've been reading the basic books of Scientology (released in late June in Clearwater by David Miscavige and although I've been a Scientologist for many years, I am getting a much much better understanding of what it means to be an auditor.

L. Ron Hubbard used the word "auditor" instead of counselor or therapist or whatever because the word itself explains what a person who is an auditor does and what his attitude is toward the people he/she helps. Auditor means "one who listens" and that is one of the most important skills and functions he/she learns and performs.

When I was new to Scientology a friend of mine, who introduced me to it, sat down with me and just listened to me for about three hours. I felt much better at the end of that. Just having someone listen to me and let me vent without feeling compelled to tell me what he thought I should think about myself was so helpful.

From there I read the Dianetics book and that's when I realized how much this subject had to offer.

Anyway, tonight was Auditors Day in Clearwater, as I said, and auditors who train in Clearwater from around the world (literally) were acknowledged and thanked for their help. And boy do they help!

People are making huge life-changing gains from study of the Basic Books and Lectures, the fundamentals of the Scientology religion. Knowing these materials results in 100% understanding of the technology of life. Mr. David Miscavige has done a tremendous job making these materials available to everyone.

This page has links to the biography of David Miscavige in 16 languages.

This page on religious tolerance gives a good overview on the Scientology religion.

The Man Behind Scientology is an interesting article about an interview of Mr. David Miscavige by the St. Petersburg Times. It is at www.geocities.com/athens/delphi/1200/davidmiscavige.html

When Mr. David Miscavige was interviewed by the St. Petersburg Times, the resulting article gave some interesting quotes. This is a page that covers them. www.sptimes.com/TampaBay/102598/scientologyquotes.html

Mr. David Miscavige is an outstanding individual and driving force for freedom for mankind. This page has biographical data on him that provides a good picture of his accomplishments and goals.
www.scientologytoday.org/bio

Here is a page about the St. Petersburg Times interview of Mr. David Miscavige, including quotes. www.sptimes.com/TampaBay/102598/scientologyquotes.html

This page on Mr. David Miscavige biographies and articles includes many presentations he has done. He is a great motivational speaker. www.scientologytoday.org/bio

There is a great story on this page of how the Scientology Handbook was used by a Volunteer Minister to help children in Kolkata, India recently. The photos really show it, too. These children are beaming! This technology really works. www.scientologyhandbook.org

This is a special web page, Mr. David Miscavige's keynote address at the grand opening of the magnificent Church of Scientology of London. The photos are beautiful too! miscavige.rtc.org/london/index.html

The web page called David Miscavige Biographies and Articles, includes presentations and speeches made by Mr. Miscavige at major events including grand openings of Churches of Scientology through the world. One of my favorites is the opening of the Church of Scientology of Johannesburg in South Africa. Information on this is at www.scientologytoday.org/bio.

Mr. David Miscavige is unquestionably a leader of leaders as evidenced by the incomparable results he achieves applying Scientology technology. Here is a page that gives a good overview of his presentations, speeches and accomplishments. www.scientologytoday.org/bio

This page outlines effective solutions to problems that plague this civilization. Anyone can learn and use them. www.scientologyreligion.org

Here is page that covers an interview of Mr. David Miscavige by the St. Petersburg Times. www.sptimes.com/TampaBay/102598/scientologypart1.html

Scientology technology delivers results, predictably. This page describes the effective results achieved.
www.scientologyreligion.org

The Scientology Handbook has a wealth of technology given in simple steps that can be used to help others. Here is a page about it www.scientologyhandbook.org

The outstanding work done by Mr. David Miscavige for the Scientology religious movement is beyond words. He is a great man. Here is a page that provides information on this. www.scientologytoday.org/corp/rtc2.htm

Here is a comprehensive page about the bonafides of the Church of Scientology. It is very informative. www.bonafidescientology.org

This interview of Mr. David Miscavige by the St. Petersburg Times is an interesting outline of Mr. Miscavige's introduction to the Scientology religion and his tremendous dedication to achieving its aims. www.sptimes.com/TampaBay/102598/scientologypart1.html

I just found the funniest story in Google News with this quote:

"Any politician who supports war is insane according to the spiritual technology of Scientology."

It goes on to say:

"In the spiritual technology of Scientology, 'insanity is defined as the overt or covert but always constant intention to harm or destroy.'"

This quote is absolutely true.

The article, which is a parody, then takes it to some pretty ridiculous extremes, but as a completely minitant anti-war person, I wasn't unhappy to be classified as a member of a religion that is completely opposed to war!