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!

The Scientology Handbook is a great book that provides solutions to life situations, including the dynamics of existence. This data has the precepts for living an ethical life and in that way becoming successful.

Further information can be found at www.scientologyhandbook.org.

For comprehensive information about Mr. David Miscavige and what he stands for, go to
davidmiscavige.rtc.org.

If there is some situation in your life that needs to be improved, there are Scientology techniques that will help you do so. See the chapter Ethics and Conditions in the Scientology Handbook. More on this at www.scientologyhandbook.org.

Newly on DVD is the Introduction to Scientology, the only filmed interview ever recorded of L. Ron Hubbard. It has been beautifully restored and is now available in 50 languages. Find out more about it at www.scientologytoday.org.

The Scientology Handbook has solutions to situations that have plagued man throughout history. Find out about them at www.scientologyhandbook.org.

This is a video of John Travolta on Scientology and what it has done for him.

Here is the Scientology Volunteer Ministers video in Castillian Spanish.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers are a growing world help movement that delivers effective results to people, including victims of disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes, wild fires and earthquakes. They can be counted on to get the job done. See more at www.volunteerministers.org.

For those who speak the Spanish language, here is a video of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers in action. This is the most effective worldwide movement that brings real help to people.

This is a video narrated in German showing the Scientology Volunteer Ministers in action. This is a global movement that brings effective help and relief to people all over the world, including victims of disasters. Their motto is: Something can be done about it.

Scientology assists bring effective relief and help to people in need of it. The Scientology Handbook has a chapter on this called Assists for Illnesses and Injuries. Information on this can be found at www.scientologyhandbook.org.

It probably isn't well known, but it is a fundamental human right to have some time to play. Reference: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Here is a video about it.

A major typhoon has caused much devastation in the Philippines. Help is needed from Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

They have the technology to deliver real help, and anyone who wants to help in the Philippines can be trained in the technology.

Find out more at scientologytoday.org.

This is a great video that brings to life what it really means to be worthy of trust.

This is an excellent video on results with Dianetics counselling.

Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes' wedding was an amazing, beautiful event!

What makes it even more special is that it was a Scientology wedding ceremony.

Data on Scientology weddings can be found at www.scientologywedding.org.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers are an ever-growing force of effective individuals who bring real help to people.

This video portrays what they do and the remarkable results they achieve, using Scientology technology.

Think of a civilization in which all people could trust each other. It would be a flourishing and prosperous one.

In the words of L. Ron Hubbard, Founder of the Scientology religion:

On the day when we can fully trust each other there will be peace on earth.

The following video portrays this.

The Life Orientation Course in Scientology has to do with attaining competence in life. It is descsribed in Chapter 12 of the book What is Scientology?

Starbucks

Clearwater really is a sleepy town.

Do you remember when the big news of the year was Starbucks opening a downtown store?

There are thousands of Scientologists in the Clearwater/Tampa area who reach out into the community with thousands of hours of volunteer activities to help the community. For more data on this see, the website Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization, www.scientology-fso.org, Community News and Events link.

Flag training is the best. My daughter is on full-time training at the Flag Service Organization. She has been winning and moving well throughout and is now auditing on her Class IV internship.

Clearwater Sunset

It's a beaut. Isn't it?

Auditors Day 2006

Auditors Day is celebrated every year in September, and the clebration at Flag is the best one in the world, as this is the "mecca" of Scientology and more auditing occurs at Flag that anywhere else on Earth.

We had our celebration last night and it was great!

Really, since David Miscavige announced the Golden Age of Tech ten years ago, the gains people have had from auditing and the speech of their results has accelerated so dramatically that there are far more people moving up the Bridge than ever before.

Moving up the line

There's no place like Flag to progress in Scientology. That's why so many Scientologists have moved here.

But one of the great things about this is that the volunteer actions in the Tampa Bay area are outstanding. There is always something you can do to help. And it's so much fun!

Clearwater Scientologist has a Great New Blog

Stan Dubin has a great new blog called a Fresh Opinion

He posts stories about the news and shows how aspects of the Scientology religion relate to these. But the difference between Stan's blog and that of many others is that he doesn't just watch what's going on, he's in there with solutions on making things better.

It's interesting but in Scientology the concept of making things better is really a part of your life. It's the living, breathing aspect of our religion.

There's a lot of great information on how to use Scientology to improve your life in the Scientology Handbook

Mythology of the Fort Harrison Hotel

Our very own Fort Harrison, part of the spiritual headquarters for the Scientology religion for 31 years, is part of the mythology of the Rolling Stones:

During the Rolling Stones' third tour of the United States in 1965, Richards came up with the guitar riff for the song. The Stones were staying at the Fort Harrison Hotel in Clearwater, Florida for part of their tour, and one night Richards suddenly woke up, turned on a tape recorder, and promptly played on his guitar the riff that opened "Satisfaction" before returning to bed. He would later describe it as: "...2 minutes of 'Satisfaction' and 40 minutes of me snoring."

Later, Richards brought it to the studio where the Stones were recording. Jagger took an immediate liking to the riff, but Richards was concerned that it sounded too much like Martha & The Vandellas' "Dancing in the Street". In an interview, Jagger later said that "I think Keith thought it was a bit basic. He was too close to it and just felt it was a silly kind of riff." Jagger proceeded to write up lyrics for the tune, trying to make a statement about the rampant commercialism that the British Stones had seen in America. Richards said of the songwriting process for "Satisfaction": "Mick wrote all of the words that say anything and I wrote the hook. I woke up in bed with this riff and I thought 'I've gotta put that down.'"

Friends on the Other Coast

Now that I live in LA I don't get to see my Clearwater friends nearly enough.

But just in the past 24 hours, a friend of mine who'd been living and working on Clearwater for the past 7 years moved back to LA. It was so great to see her. She hadn't changed at all (and she was nice enough to say that I hadn't either).

And then just now I got a call from another Clearwater friend and it was so good to hear from her.

So I guess I stay connected.

You run into all your friends in Clearwater

If you are a Scientologist and you are visiting or living in, you'll eventually run into all your friends here.

Okay. That's an exaggeration. But only just.

The funny thing is if you have been to lots of different Scientology churches, as I have. You see someone and you know you really like the person and "just saw them" know (or knew) him or her really well. But who is it? And then you realize that it's true you knew this person really well. You were roommates 25 years ago in England, or that person was your course supervisor in Copenhagen three years ago....

And another fantastic thing about being in Clearwater is that as the "mecca" of Scientology you get briefed by senior executives from all over the world. And if you plan your trip right you will even be here when David Miscavige acts as emcee for one of the international events that are held here, such as the celebration of the L. Ron Hubbard's birthday which is held in Clearwater every March.

Scientology's new mission: Seminole Heights outpost

I thought this story from the Tampa Tribune deserved a replay here:

The beige two-story house at 902 E. Louisiana Ave. in Seminole Heights has a cozy feel to it, with hearts carved into the window shutters and brick steps leading up to the black iron gate at the door. If it wasn't for the huge white banner announcing the "Church of Scientology Mission of Old Tampa Bay,'' one would think it was some family's home.

From this humble post, Scientologist Milton James plans to reach out to the African-American community.

The mission, opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Saturday evening, will offer lectures and introductory courses on things such as Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard's study and communication techniques.

"This technology can be used in the

African-American community,'' said James, the mission's executive director. "And as an African-American, I feel a responsibility to take the technology to African-Americans to help improve their conditions.''

The Seminole Heights facility is the third Scientology mission in Tampa Bay. The others are in Belleair Bluffs and Clearwater. Unlike church-run outreach centers, Scientology missions are run by parishioners.

In addition to basic Scientology courses, the mission also will offer Dianetics counseling, the core practice of Scientology. And in a couple of months, James plans to offer purification rundowns, a process that purports to remove harmful toxins through exercise followed by several hours in a sauna, while taking a regimen of vitamins, minerals and oils.

Freedom Magazine has a wonderful story about the work of Scientology Volunteer Ministers from the Church of Scientology of Tampa and the work they did to help others after last year's tsunami in South East Asia.




Here is one of the stories she tells:

"Among the survivors Jessica aided was a woman who, more than three weeks after the catastrophe, still refused to leave her battered home. Jessica heard about the woman from a concerned neighbor who asked if the Volunteer Ministers could help. "She was terrified the wave would come again, and said she could still hear the rushing, roaring water, an incessant noise which haunted her day and night," Jessica said. "She was completely gripped in the past moment that the wave came crashing onto the shore, smashing into her village."

"The young Volunteer Minister gave her an assist known as a "locational," directing her attention outward to her surroundings. Soon the woman began to brighten. She realized she no longer had the tsunami's overpowering noise rushing through her head and that the wave itself was gone. She started to laugh, then to talk. And then, for the first time in weeks, she stepped outside her door. She looked around, smiling, and told Jessica she saw there was more life to be lived.>> more

Scientology in Tamapa

The Church of Scientology of Tampa is a real asset to the Tampa Bay area including Clearwater and St. Petersburg. They are constantly expanding their programs to service the community, and have a community center where they offer tutoring and chaplain help. Their Scientology Volunteer Ministers are famous for the work they do in disaster relief.

New Web Site for the Church of Scientology of Tampa

There is a beautiful new site for the Church of Scientology of Tampa
It's filled with news about Scientology activities in the city and in Clearwater.

Save the Date- International Association of Scientologist 21st Anniversary Celebration

This Friday is the IAS event in Clearwater.

You don't want to miss this one.

It was held in the UK on Friday - a great Scientology presence in East Grinstead for the weekend.

It's in Clearwater on Friday and in Los Angeles at the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles - in a big tent at the front of the building.

The rest of the English-speaking Scientology churches have their event next weekend, and non-English speaking in the weeks following that.

Scientology on the Article Factory

I just found a new section on the Article Factory about Scientology, with a very good articles about the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

This summer Mr. David Miscavige gave a very heart-warming speech about the work of the Volunteer Ministers to help the victims of last winter's tsunami in South Asia.

We certainly didn't expect Hurricane Katrina to destroy New Orleans and man other towns on the Gulf Coast.

And we didn't expect Hurricane Stan to hit with the ferocity it did.

Nor did anyone predict the earthquaqe in Pakistan.

It has been a terrible year for natural disasters.

I'm very proud of my friends who are Scientology Volunteer Ministers and what they have done and will continue to do to help others.

Congratulations Tom and Katie

With all the hoopla over Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes announcing Katie's pregnancy, I though I'd post the facts about what Scientologists believe and what a Silent Birth is.

This is from the Scientology Home Page

What is a “Silent Birth”?

In the book, Dianetics, L. Ron Hubbard writes that for the benefit of the mother and child, silence should be maintained during childbirth. This is because any words spoken are recorded in the reactive mind and can have an aberrative effect on the mother and the child. The same applies to the vicinity of any injured person. To find out why, read Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.
www.dianetics.org

As to why this is done, that information is readily available. It is in Dianetics the Modern Science of Mental Health and there is a terrific DVD that covers the basics of Dianetics that can be ordered online at www.scientology.org Anyone is welcome to stop in to any Scientology church of mission and ask to see the DVD. Staff there will be more than happy to show it to you.

Anti-Drug Conference

Drugs is a serious situation everywhere today. I'm really glad my church and Scientology Churches around the world work to educate kids about the truth about drugs.

There's a very interesting article on a web site about effective Scientology solutions on a drug conference being held in Brussels at the Church of Scientology Internation European Office of Public Affairs and Human Rights where members of government and civil society are meeting to discuss what they can do to impinge on this situation.

Clearwater Volunteer Ministers Head Up the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Effort

Because we have so much experience in hurricane relief, Scientology Volunteer Ministers from our home town are leading the disaster relief effort in Louisianna.

Hundreds more are needed, so if you know anyone who wants to help please encourage them to visit the Scientology Volunteer Ministers web site and check out how they can join us.

The need is intense and will go on for months, so please help us now.

Scientologists from Italy Travel to Clearwater

Scientology is very popular in Italy, and so many Italian Scientologists travel to Clearwater every year to participate in the advanced training and auditing (spiritual counseling) offered only in Clearwater.

I have some very close Italian friends, and it is always a pleasure when they come and we can renew our friendships.

Clearwater is a terrific city to live in - very friendly, great weather, and, or course, Scientology spiritual headquarters.

Speaking of Scientology and Italy, here's an interesting Italian web site (with a page in English) that gives information on

Scientology Effective Solutions

It's great to see that the Church of Scientology International European Human Rights Office is updating their web site with news about conferences and seminars they are holding.

Here's some news about the European Freedom Magazine Human Rights Leadership Awards!

Chemical Imbalance and the American Psychiatric Association (APA)

I was pretty shocked when I saw the Today Show and heard the President of the APA ad mit they have no proof of chemical imbalance.

In all the media frenzy of the past few days I think this admission has not gotten the attention it deserves.

Chemical imbalance is THE theory justifying the use of SSRI antidepressants.

I've heard that people who go on these antidepressants tend to gain a lot of weight - 40 to 50 pounds isn't unusual.

I've also heard that it affects ones sexual drive.

Has anyone reading this experienced anything like this?

David Miscavige in Clearwater

Again this year, as in each year past for at least 10 or 15 years, Mr. David Miscavige returned to Clearwater to officiate at the birthday celebration of L. Ron Hubbard in March.

It is always a high point of my year whenever Mr. Miscavige comes to town.

I've been a Scientologist for many years, and I appreciate everything he has done to help people. He's one of the most intelligent and caring people I've ever had the good fortune to meet.

This world can be pretty cruel and uncaring. You only have to log on or open a newspaper to have that made clear. Scientology has answers to people's problems, and solutions to the worst of the social ills we are confronted with.

For someone to work with the unrelenting dedication of Mr. Miscavige to make these solutions available is certainly worthy of comment!

Here's another interesting article about Mr. David Miscavige at the grand opening of the new Church of Scientology of Johannesburg South Africa

This article was written by L. Ron Hubbard was published in the Clearwater, Florida edition of Freedom Magazine.

The Way to Happiness is a common-sense guide to better living. A testimony to the regard in which he held men of goodwill, no matter their faith, L. Ron Hubbard wrote this moral code for use by adults and children of all faiths.

It contains 21 precepts for successful living in a modern world. The first portion of Precept 17 is included here; others will be published in future editions of Freedom.

In an age of intricate equipment and high-speed machines and vehicles, one’s survival and that of one’s family and friends depends in no small measure upon the general competence of others.

In the marketplace, in the sciences, the humanities and in government, incompetence can threaten the lives and future of the few or the many.

I am sure you can think of many examples of this.

Man has always had an impulse to control his fate. Superstition, propitiation of the right gods, ritual dances before the hunt, can all be viewed as efforts, no matter how faint or unavailing, to control destiny.

It was not until he learned to think, to value knowledge and to apply it with competent skill that he began to dominate his environment. The true “gift of heaven” may have been the potential to be competent.

In common pursuits and activities, man respects skill and ability. These in a hero or athlete are almost worshiped.

The test of true competence is the end result.

To the degree that a man is competent, he survives. To the degree he is incompetent, he perishes.

Encourage the attainment of competence in any worthwhile pursuit. Compliment it and reward it whenever you find it.

Demand high performance standards. The test of a society is whether or not you, your family and friends can live in it safely.

The ingredients of competence include observation, study and practice.

Look. See what you see, not what someone tells you that you see.

What you observe is what you observe. Look at things and life and others directly, not through any cloud of prejudice, curtain of fear or the interpretation of another.

Instead of arguing with others, get them to look. The most flagrant lies can be punctured, the greatest pretenses can be exposed, the most intricate puzzles can be resolved and the most remarkable revelations can occur, simply by gently insisting that someone look.

When another finds things almost too confusing and difficult to bear, when his or her wits are going around and around, get the person to just stand back and look.

What they find is usually very obvious when they see it. Then they can go on and handle things. But if they don’t see it themselves, observe it for themselves, it may have little reality for them and all the directives and orders and punishment in the world will not resolve their muddle.

While one can indicate what direction to look and suggest that they do look, the conclusions are up to them.
A child or adult sees what he himself sees and that is reality for him.

True competence is based on one’s own ability to observe. With that as reality, only then can one be deft and sure.

David Miscavige

I just want to comment about my respect and admiration for Mr. David Miscavige. He has done so much to make Scientology the movement it is today.

His work in ensuring that Scientology applied religious philosophy stays pure, and exactly as L. Ron Hubbard wrote it is a real inspiration to me.

He has incredible enthusiasm and drive to make the help our church has to offer to everyone, and I for one am doing MUCH more because of his example.

Here's a link to an article about David Miscavige at the grand opening of the Church of Scientology of Madrid, which happened in October 2004. http://www.beliefnet.com/story/153/story_15301_1.html

Last week was the 25th annual Clearwater Jazz Festival.

It featured Allon Sams, Rick Braun, Big Z & The Sophisicats, Victor Wooten, Branford Marsalis, Pepper & Fine Thyme, Tony Vacca & World Rhythms, Chris Botti, Neville Brothers, Nate Najar Quartet, Uptown Jazz, Adelo Dalto & Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

4 days and nights of free jazz at the Coachman park -- what a great weekend!

Here are some excerpts from decent articles from the
St. Petersburg Times about David Miscavige: one of the leaders of the Scientology religion

David Miscavige

Although David Miscavige does not live in Clearwater, this town is very important to him because factually Clearwater is the spiritual headquarters of the Scientology religion.


Most religions suffer prejudice in their earlier years - the Christians in Rome certainly didn't have an easy time of it. Neither did early Mormons. Scientology is a new religion, and relations between the church and the city of Clearwater were strained for the first 20 or so years.

Although the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organizations (the name of the Scientology church in Clearwater) provides advanced services to Scientologists from all over the world, many have moved to Clearwater and made it their home.

I think Mr. Miscavige was disturbed by the animosity in the community toward members of our religion. And he took the time to better this relationship personally.

He granted an interview with the St. Petersburg Times which entailed several days of meeting with staff from the paper and touring them through Scientology facilities on both coasts.

This started the trend of St Petersburg and surrounding towns realizing that Scientologists are very good neighbors, are just like other folks, and have a great deal to offer the community.

Here are some of the articles the St Petersburg Times has written covering these actions by David Miscavige, and the ultimate result - an excellent relationship between Scientology in Clearwater and the Clearwater community.


THE OUTSIDERS

Robert Trigaux

David Miscavige

He may not agree, but his organization's expanding presence in Clearwater has had more economic impact than religious significance to the area. Miscavige is the Los Angeles-based head of the Church of Scientology, which in recent years has become the dominant developer in the city's downtown area.

Currently headquartered in the Fort Harrison Hotel, the Church of Scientology has spent millions in a steady acquisition of property and buildings.

Clearwater's traditional leadership is by no means comfortable in the growing Scientology shadow, but city officials are trying to make peace with the church (and its opponents) and reap some benefit of urban redevelopment from such a well-financed organization.

As a young man, Miscavige studied to become a Scientology minister. He later worked with Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard to help produce training films and materials. Miscavige's real coup for the movement came in 1993 when he helped end the 40-year war between the Scientologists (seeking to protect their tax-exempt status as a religion) and the Internal Revenue Service.




SCIENTOLOGISTS CELEBRATE A 50-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Jan 1, 2000
G.G. Rigsby

In downtown Clearwater, more than 3,000 Scientologists gathered to mark the new year, but also to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.

A self-help book published in 1950 by L. Ron Hubbard, Dianetics led to the founding of the Church of Scientology four years later.

At the Los Angeles event, Church leader David Miscavige emceed a three-hour documentary on Scientology's history, from its early days after Dianetics, to the church's arrival in Clearwater in 1975, and on to the present as Scientology constructs its first-ever new building - a mammoth headquarters downtown that will be the centerpiece of a $ 60-million to $ 90-million expansion.


August 22, 1999, Sunday, 0 South Pinellas Edition

CLEARWATER OFFICIAL RECEIVES RARE SCIENTOLOGY SUPPORT

CLEARWATER - The icy relations between the city of Clearwater and the Church of Scientology appear to be defrosting as dozens of church members leaped to the defense of the embattled city manager.

After city commissioners sharply criticized City Manager Mike Roberto recently, hinting that his job was on the line, the letters and e-mails started pouring in.

Of the 36 letters and e-mails to City Hall and 44 pro-Roberto letters to the St. Petersburg Times, nearly 80 percent were written by Scientologists.

Church officials said this was no orchestrated effort, just a spontaneous effort by Clearwater citizens.

But the church's Los Angeles-based leader, David Miscavige, said the response is likely due to Roberto's unprecedented efforts to open the lines of communication and include Scientologists in talks about downtown redevelopment. But Miscavige cautioned that he also thought Roberto had made some missteps, including taking staffers on a retreat that cost the taxpayers $ 15,000.

"I worry about that being perceived as some sort of blind support," Miscavige said of the "mutual respect" he shares with Roberto. "I don't want to appear to be going to bat for the guy."

La Cienciología en España

In Celebration of the upcoming grand opening of the Church of Scientology of Madrid in Spain, [Iglesia de Cienciología de España] here is some information on Scientology in Spanish

Cienciología es una religión en el sentido más profundo y tradicional, porque se ocupa nada menos que de la rehabilitación plena del ser espiritual innato del hombre –sus capacidades, estado de consciencia y la certeza de su propia inmortalidad– y su relación con lo divino.

Cienciología tiene en común con muchas de las religiones más antiguas del mundo la creencia de que al hombre se le puso aquí para encontrar su propia salvación y que sólo haciéndolo puede comprender completamente su relación con Dios el Creador.

Cienciología, además, sostiene que el hombre es básicamente bueno y que su salvación depende de sí mismo, de sus semejantes y de su logro de la hermandad con el universo.

La nueva Iglesia de Cienciología de España que se acaba de restaurar ahora está aquí como monumento que representa la libertad para toda España.

El Presidente de la Asociación Civil de Dianética de Madrid, tiene el placer de invitarle a la ceremonia inaugural de su nueva sede central en Madrid al proximo 18 de Septiembre a las 16,30 h.


Cienciología soluciones eficaces ayudando a la sociedad con eficacia

Cienciología:una nueva religión

Cienciología:rasgos de religión

Here's a great letter to the editor that I found in the St. Pete Times.

Thanks goes to mystery couple

My husband and I would like to thank the couple that came to clear off our deck and ramp after Frances. You could not see the deck due to all the branches and leaves. We don't know many of our neighbors on Glenwood Avenue, since many people have moved out and new neighbors have moved in.

I am a paraplegic due to a car accident and have to rely on the ramp to enter my home. The couple had yellow T-shirts with the Scientology Ministries name on the back. We have lived in Clearwater for more than 36 years and have yet to have someone we don't even know come to help us. Yes, there are some caring people out there.

Mary Jane Hopper, Clearwater

"Scientology volunteer minister Judy Fagerman arranges emergency supplies for distribution to victims of Hurricane Charley, Sunday."

I'm very proud of my friends who have helped straighten things out in the wake of Charlie.

It's a blessing we didn't get hit in Clearwater and Tampa.

USA Today did this really nice story on the work they and other voluteers have been doing.

No such blessings with Frances, but the damage was still so much less than with the big C.



I'll be glad when hurricane season is over.

How's this for a great quote:

Thomas Jefferson to John Taylor, 1816
"I sincerely believe ... that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies, and that the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity under the name of funding is but swindling futurity on a large scale."

Here's a group I really recommend checking out for wise handling of business and economics:

The Hubbard College of Administration and their page on L. Ron Hubbard, after whom they are names, is very informative.

After all the devastation of hurricane Charley, it's little solace to read that Charley a Harbinger of Busy Hurricane Season

and with headlines such as this: Medical Experts Fear Charley's Aftermath

I'm really glad to see Scientology volunteer ministers are on the job helping to sort things out in the aftermath.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Help at Florida Disaster Site

As you can see in this site (Scientology Volunteer Ministers Bringing effective help to the community)
Scientology Volunteer Ministers have a reputation of always being there to help in times of disaster.

And life's personal disasters can be a lot worse than the "natural disaster" kind. Sometimes what goes on behind the walls of a perfectly "normal" home can be crushing - drug or alcoholism, infidelity, financial stress....

Scientology volunteer ministers use Scientology applied religious philosophy as laid out in the Scientology Handbook to help friends, neighbors, family members or even total strangers.

By the way, you don't have to be a Scientologist to use the techniques in the Scientology Handbook, or to be a Scientology volunteer minister. All you have to be is a caring person who wants to help others.

I'd say most people fit those qualifications....

I thought this was an excellent letter to the editor that showed up in the St. Petersburg times. Thought I'd reprint it here before it disappears into the ether of the WorldWideWeb.

"Re: Scientology's town, July 18.

Thank you for the time and attention of your reporter in ensuring accuracy in the recent two-part series on Scientology in Clearwater. (Tampabay: Scientology's town, Tampabay: About Scientology, Tampabay: The history of Scientology: A timeline, Tampabay:Scientology: Striving for mainstream, building new connections and Tampabay: Four key Scientologists)


The Scientology religion has grown at an unprecedented rate internationally in recent years, and that of course is reflected in Clearwater, the home of our international religious retreat. There is no conflict between that expansion and the revitalization of downtown, which benefits the entire community, a community much more diverse than some suggest. In addition to church staff and parishioners, the community includes 1,400 Pinellas County employees, 1,000 city of Clearwater employees, 1,000 business employees who work downtown, and the more than 100,000 residents who live within a 3-mile radius.

The downtown Starbucks is a good example of an amenity enjoyed by all citizens of Clearwater. Certainly the number of church parishioners and staff in Clearwater was a major factor considered by Starbucks. That is to be expected. Starbucks, like any business, must have confidence that it will succeed, and success means volume of customers. Similarly, the church presence would be a major economic factor in the decision of any other business or national chain considering opening downtown.

The economic impact of the church on downtown development is not based primarily on the church staff who live in Clearwater, but rather on the thousands of visiting parishioners who travel to Clearwater from around the world. In fact, they provide the same economic impact as "tourists" but year round. As your article explained, this presents an ideal opportunity for the development of downtown.

Downtown was a ghost town when the church moved to Clearwater in 1975. While it had previously thrived and was enjoyed by all local citizens, development had concentrated on the beach for tourists and on the malls for residents. At that time it appeared unlikely downtown could be developed as a destination point. The church filled that void. Today, virtually any retailer - especially name-brand stores, restaurants or a theatre - can expect to survive because of the numbers of Scientologists living and visiting in downtown. And that benefits all citizens, since the new facilities will be available to anyone, as in the case of Starbucks.

While some critics, who are not involved in downtown planning and do not know the factors involved in its development, may believe our motivations are selfish, they miss the point. Of course we would like a nice downtown with shops and restaurants and entertainment for the benefit of our visiting parishioners. But the church presence is also a "selling point" to bring those businesses downtown. If the city wants to use that presence, we not only do not object, we support the city in its efforts.

As we explained to the mayor, the city manager, and other city officials, and as people involved in downtown planning and others of goodwill have recognized, church and city expansion plans are not a point of conflict, but of cohesion. Cooperation is necessary to be successful.

It is time for us to move forward and work together to create the vibrant downtown that 80 percent of the citizens recently surveyed by the city said they want.


-- Ben Shaw, director, Church of Scientology, Flag Service Organization, Clearwater"

When I look at how much he accomplished, and how much he helped people, I am astonished at how much
L. Ron Hubbard cared.

As brilliant and capable as he was, who could have expected him to do more than publish the book
Dianetics. Just that one book was an immense accomplishment and a priceless gift. Ask anyone who has experienced the miracles of Dianetics auditing or
New Era Dianetics auditing much more refined and exact techniques that took more than 20 more years of intense research to finally codify.

The other day I was listening to a taped lecture by L. Ron Hubbard, and I notice it was recorded on December 26th, and realize this man never took time off from helping people.

His life is an inspiration to me.

Here is some more information on L. Ron Hubbard:

Open Directory Project: L. Ron Hubbard
Times Must Change - An Article by L. Ron Hubbard
L. Ron Hubbard - The Dianetics Letters
L. Ron Hubbard - Bibliography Summary
L. Ron Hubbard, The Humanitarian - Education
L. Ron Hubbard and the Narconon drug and alcohol rehabilitation program
Catalog: L. Ron Hubbard Biographical
ePolitix.com - Hubbard Foundation
Alibris: L Ron Hubbard
L. Ron Hubbard - Humanitarian - Road to Self-Respect

IAS (International Association of Scientologists)

A couple of weeks ago I attended an event about the International Association of Scientologists, usually abbreviated to "IAS". This is a group that was founded in 1984 and it is about to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

So much has changed and improved in the the past 20 years - new Scientology churches and missions in many countries, L. Ron Hubbard's technology of study and drug rehabilitation in use in secular programs around the world, not to mention religious recognition in the United States and many other countries.

This is no small part due to the efforts of the IAS.

IAS Freedom Medal Winners

Read this story about an extraordinary man, what he has accomplished, and why he was awarded an IAS Freedom Medal:President, Criminon International: IAS Freedom Medal Winner Greg Capazorio