Celebrity Scientologists

Kirstie Alley's Political Choices

2016-04-09T17:27:00.001-04:00

Politics is a contentious arena, perhaps as contentious as religion.

Some families have rules that they don't talk about religion or politics at the dinner table or at family gatherings. Good advice.

Recently Kirstie Alley declared her support for a particular candidate in the US Presidential race and was asked on twitter what candidate the Church of Scientology was backing. Her reply was "Probably the same as every other church on the planet....vote for whoever the hell you want to."

Just to be totally clear, the Church of Scientology is completely nonpolitical and non-ideological. Here is the official Church policy lain down by L. Ron Hubbard in 1965:

"I hereby declare Scientology to be nonpolitical and nonideological. ... Scientologists may be members of any political group on this planet without restraint ... Scientology is for a free people and is itself on this date declared free of any political connection or allegiance of any kind whatever.":

I know Scientologists who are Republicans, Democrats, Independents and Libertarians. I know some who yawn about politics and some who get very passionate about it. I know Scientologists who are going to vote for Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump and John Kasich (I don't know any who like Cruz, but that doesn't mean there aren't any) and I know some who don't intend to vote for any of them.

We are as varied as any other group of people and the Church itself stays out of it. As with the rules families have, I consider this a very good idea.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

How to lose a court case

2012-09-29T09:52:00.001-04:00

So how do you lose a court case? It's very simple really. Just tell lies about a big name and then try to make money out of it. Fails every time.

Another lawsuit against John Travolta dismissed

That makes three out of three this year. You'd think these people would learn.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Church of Scientology Opens National Office in Washington, D.C., Landmark

2012-09-17T17:35:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, September 12, national dignitaries joined more than a thousand Scientologists and guests to celebrate the grand opening of the Church of Scientology’s National Affairs Office in Washington, D.C.

Located in the historic Fraser Mansion at Dupont Circle, the new National Affairs Office stands as the central point from which the Church coordinates its many social and humanitarian initiatives on a national and international level.

The establishment of the National Affairs Office is necessitated by the Church of Scientology’s unprecedented worldwide growth and commensurate demand for Church-sponsored programs. In the past several years, dozens of new Ideal Churches of Scientology (Ideal Orgs) have opened in major cities across the world. In the United States, new Churches now stand in Washington, D.C., New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Seattle, Denver and Phoenix, to name but a few. While internationally, they also now stand in Rome, London, Madrid, Brussels, Berlin, Hamburg, Mexico City, Johannesburg, Melbourne, Moscow and Tel Aviv. Ideal Orgs are designed to both serve the needs of parishioners as well as the community at large, while the National Affairs Office serves to facilitate implementation of the Church-sponsored programs both nationally and internationally.

These programs include a worldwide human rights initiative; equally far-ranging drug education, prevention and rehabilitation programs; a wide-reaching criminal reform program; a global network of literacy and learning centers; a moral education movement restoring the brotherhood of Man; and the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, the world’s largest independent relief force providing emergency response at major disaster sites for more than a decade.

Underscoring the importance of the new National Affairs Office to the Church’s greater social and humanitarian mission, Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, led the dedication. In honoring the occasion, he said: “Here is an Office designed to give back to a United States government that steadfastly guaranteed our religious rights—the very freedom that allows us to do what we are doing today. And with that, we extend our reach by invoking what we hold to be the greatest of all rights, the one right which must be invoked if one is to fight for the freedom of others—the right to help. And yes, that’s what we pledge today with the inauguration of this new Church of Scientology National Affairs Office.”

Dignitaries joining in the opening ceremony included Members of U.S. Congress Rep. Dan Burton (R-IN), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) and Danny Davis (D-IL); as well as Liz Gibson, Senior Program Manager, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Honorable Dan Burton spoke to the Church’s signal contributions in the protection of children from psychotropic drugging and preservation of the rights of families: “I applaud you for taking the time to pursue this issue, and for helping make the Child Safety and Medication Act the law of the land. Working together we have been part of a course of correction to safeguard America’s youth while promoting and protecting liberty.”

Acknowledging the Church for its abiding commitment to human rights, the Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee, Member of U.S. Congress, said: “I want to thank L. Ron Hubbard for recognizing that courage is not rewarded but it is valued. And to be able to have the wonderment of people coming together and ensuring that people come together for peace. That’s what I see in the Church, that you have come together for peace. I welcome and support that.”

The Honorable Danny Davis thanked the Church for its commitment to improving one of today’s most pressing social problems—criminal reform: “Since 2004, the Church has been part of the broad coalition that has tirelessly worked with us in Congress to get the Second Chance Act passed into law, which is a monumental first step in reforming our criminal justice system nationwide. I am extremely grateful for the work you do to help those individuals who are most in need.”

Ms. Liz Gibson, Senior Program Manager, Federal Emergency Management Agency, highlighted the effectiveness of Church volunteers in all forms of disaster response and community need: “You have consistently come to the aid of major and many minor disasters around the country. You arrive, help, then help some more and stay on after others have gone home. All our work from the policy level down to the local level depends on groups like the Churches of Scientology Disaster Response—these partnerships are and will be in the future the strength of our work here in this country.”

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The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office houses an array of facilities for meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops and events to promote collaboration on solutions to society’s greatest challenges. In particular, its Chestnut Hall is configured to host a wide range of functions, from human rights symposiums and drug education workshops to panel discussions, press conferences and awards ceremonies.

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The Church of Scientology acquired Fraser Mansion in 1994 to serve as home to the Church of Scientology of Washington, D.C., now located in expanded quarters on 16^th Street Northwest’s historic Church Row. The mansion, dating from 1890, is a nationally registered historic landmark. Under the Church’s custodianship, the combination Beaux-Arts, Renaissance and Romanesque building has been meticulously restored to its original glory. Fraser Mansion also stands just two blocks from the historic Founding Church of Scientology at 1812 19^th Street NW, established in 1955 by Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

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The dedication of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office follows the opening of a series of Ideal Churches of Scientology (Ideal Orgs) in 2012, including the new Center of Scientology in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, August 21; the Churches of Scientology of Los Gatos, California, July 28; Buffalo, New York, June 30; Phoenix, Arizona, June 23; Denver, Colorado, June 16; Stevens Creek in San Jose, California, June 9; Orange County, California, June 2; Greater Cincinnati, February 25; Sacramento, California, January 28; and Hamburg, Germany, January 21.

For a complete list of new Churches of Scientology, visit Scientology.org.

In total, the Scientology religion today comprises more than 10,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 nations.

^{Happiness and strength endure only in the absence of hate. To hate alone is the road to disaster. To love is the road to strength. To love in spite of all is the secret of greatness. And may very well be the greatest secret in this universe.~~L. Ron Hubbard}, founder of the Scientology religion

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Meet a Scientologist - Yulia Gould's Path to Freedom

2012-09-11T14:22:00.000-04:00

Yulia Gould spans the landscape of arts, professions and interests. A Clearwater, Florida-based graphic artist, professional interpreter, public relations officer and events coordinator, she is also a certified scuba diver who loves skiing, skydiving and traveling the world. And although raised in the Soviet Union where the only “religion” was atheism, she has been a Scientologist since she was 14.

“I have walked a long way from being born and raised an atheist to finding my spiritual side through Scientology,” she says. “Realizing that I am not just an ‘animal’ as I was taught in school gave me a different level of responsibility for my actions. It matters what we do with our lives. I want to make the world a better place through my art and work.”

From a background where freedom and basic human rights were not available, Gould doesn’t take these rights for granted. One of her passions is promoting religious and cultural diversity, a goal she pursues by volunteering in groups that promote religious tolerance. And she is particularly proud that her painting “The Awakening” is part of the collection of the founder of the “Pave the Way Foundation,” a nonsectarian public foundation that identifies and eliminates obstacles between faiths.

“As a professional and an artist I really appreciate freedom of speech and expression,” she says. “I am very gratified that I belong to a church that sponsors an international human rights campaign.”

Yulia became involved in Scientology in Russia after the fall of the Soviet Union.

“Both of my parents are MDs,” she says. “They knew that there was more to life than what is normally taught in school. They were searching for the answers. We saw a TV show featuring Dianetics and they became really interested, as it showed the way to help people alleviate psychosomatic illnesses where traditional medical approaches are not enough.”

Gould and her parents enrolled in a Dianetics seminar in Moscow.

“It answered all my question about human behavior—why people sometimes act in a way that seems to have no explanation. I realized here was something that could change my life and the lives of others for the better,” she says.

The entire family continued to study and practice Scientology and Dianetics and it made an enormous difference in Gould’s life.

“I used to be very shy. I was reluctant to speak up,” she says. “Now I really enjoy communication and working with people. Scientology has really helped me get my message across confidently and professionally, whether in interpreting, art or personal relationships. Through Scientology, life has become much easier to understand. If I have an issue or a problem in some area, I know that there is some aspect of Scientology technology that I can learn and use to make things better for myself and others.”

To meet Scientologists from all walks of life, view more than 200 “Meet a Scientologist” videos on www.Scientology.org.

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The popular “Meet a Scientologist” profiles on the Church of Scientology International Video Channel at Scientology.org now total more than 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, with videos now viewed more than 8.1 million times.

WNBC 27 August 2012 John Travolta/Kelly Preston at Scientology Celebrity Centre Gala

2012-09-02T22:54:00.001-04:00

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International Celebrates 43rd Anniversary

2012-09-01T21:52:00.001-04:00

The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre hosted its 43^rd Anniversary Gala in Hollywood on Saturday, August 25^th. More than a thousand Scientologists and guests attended including many of the Church’s well-known members, among them John Travolta, Kelly Preston, Giovanni Ribisi, Michael Pena, Anne Archer, Jenna Elfman, Danny Masterson, Jason Lee, Erika Christensen, Nancy Cartwright and Stanley Clarke whose special performance closed the evening’s celebration.

The annual event highlights the humanitarian programs sponsored by the Church—programs addressing drug abuse, human rights, moral values for a modern world, illiteracy and disaster relief. The night’s program also highlighted the Church’s rapid expansion with twelve new Ideal Churches opened in the last year. The most recent and the first in the Middle East opened its doors just days ago in Tel Aviv’s ancient port city of Jaffa.

The evening’s guest speakers included Bishop Franklin Harris of the Laurel Street Missionary Baptist Church, a member of the Los Angeles clergy for 24 years and executive associate of the LA County Sheriff’s Multi-Faith Clergy Council. Bishop Harris spoke about The Way to Happiness and its success in eradicating crime:

“Today calm is coming to the streets of South Los Angeles. It is incredible to see. It truly is something magical. But, it’s not really magic at all. It is simply the basic goodness in every human being that the Way to Happiness inspires and brings out. So, today there’s a new education on the streets of South Los Angeles. And for that I deeply and sincerely thank the Church of Scientology and Mr. L. Ron Hubbard.”

California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto has championed children’s rights and thanked the Citizen’s Commission on Human Rights and the parishioners of Celebrity Center International for their work in this field, saying:

“You have empowered parents with their rights and you have saved children’s lives. There is of course much more to do. And you can be certain I will keep doing everything in my power to see that your voice is heard and that our state leaders act for the sake of all of our children. And I ask you to remember this: the work you are doing is saving lives, and saving the dream of the future that all of us, and all the generations before us, have worked so hard to achieve.”

Louisiana State Senator A. G. Crowe has led efforts to assist those affected by the Deep Water Horizon Oil Rig explosion from 2010 and the resulting personal hardship from toxic exposure. Parishioners of Celebrity Centre and the International Association of Scientologists are generously supporting a detoxification program for those afflicted. The successes reported showed dramatic improvements in the quality of life after completing the program. Senator Crowe presented a proclamation on behalf of the Louisiana State Senate which read, in part:

“WHEREAS, the Gulf Coast Detoxification Project was founded by parishioners of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre who, through studies of Mr. Hubbard’s works, were inspired to establish this humanitarian Project with their compassionate desire to help their fellow man. Now, therefore, let it be known that the Louisiana State Senate hereby commends and congratulates the parishioners and staff of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre.”

The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Hollywood was founded in 1969. Other Celebrity Centres are located in cultural hubs around the world including New York, Paris, Nashville, Las Vegas, Vienna, Florence and London.

In keeping with Mr. Hubbard’s words, “A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists.” These Celebrity Centres are Scientology Churches devoted to those whose broad visions for social enhancement are essential for positive progression of society. Celebrity Centres, like all Churches of Scientology worldwide, are open to the public.

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A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Scientologists Cut the Ribbon on Landmark Buffalo Church

2012-08-18T12:55:00.002-04:00

More than a thousand Buffalo Area Scientologists gathered on Saturday, June 30, to celebrate the rededication of the Church of Scientology Buffalo.

The ceremony marked the transformation of the 41,000-square-foot Ideal Church of Scientology (Ideal Org) to better accommodate its ever-growing congregation and extend the Church’s humanitarian programs to all communities across upstate New York.

The Church’s landmark home, originally constructed in 1898, stands in the Allentown Historic District. In the process of transforming the structure, the Church fully restored and preserved its magnificent Beaux Arts features. The prominent façade stands as it did at the turn of the 20th century, its distinctive buff brick ornamented with glazed white terra cotta and limestone trim. The interior is likewise returned to its original splendor, from the terrazzo and oak plank floors to the elaborately sculpted crown moldings that grace the elevated ceilings. As a fully-realized 21st century Ideal Org, the landmark now stands ready to serve Buffalo for decades to come.

In testament to the significance of the occasion, the rededication ceremony was led by Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. In his address, Mr. Miscavige told Buffalo staff and parishioners: “Today we arrive at a higher place wherein possibilities for excellence and good fortune are endless. By the same token, however, it means all present today have quite a role to fulfill tomorrow. For as of this moment, you possess unimaginable resources for positive change and thus the wherewithal to provide assistance to all people of goodwill and to help every person in need, no matter their circumstances.”

Mr. Tim Lomas, Church of Scientology Director of Public Affairs, acknowledged the Church’s work to revitalize Buffalo communities: “Our Church realizes our Founder’s vision that all Churches of Scientology become what he termed Ideal Organizations, to not only provide the ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom, but to also serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. To that end, we share our Church and our many social betterment and community outreach programs with this city. Moreover, we look forward to collaborating with every group and individual committed to revitalizing Buffalo, in the same spirit that originally built this City of Light. Together, we can achieve our common dream of a drug-free, crime-free and flourishing future for all.”

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The Church of Scientology Buffalo now houses state-of-the-art facilities to introduce the fundamentals of Scientology to those new to the religion. Most notable among these features is the expansive Public Information Center. Buffalo residents are invited to take a self-guided tour of the exhibit’s interactive displays. At the touch of a button, visitors are presented films on the beliefs and practices of the religion, as well as the life and legacy of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Public Information Center also provides an overview of the many Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs, including a worldwide human rights initiative; a drug education, prevention and rehabilitation program; literacy and learning centers; and the Scientology Volunteer Minister program comprising the world’s largest independent relief force. In full, the Center’s displays contain more than 500 informational and documentary films, with new ones regularly uploaded electronically from the Church’s international headquarters in Los Angeles. The Buffalo Center is open morning to night and visitors are welcome to stay as long as they like and return as often as they wish.

The Church invites members of all faiths to Sunday Services held in its Chapel. In addition to congregational gatherings, the Chapel also hosts a wide range of community events—from seminars and workshops to banquets and receptions.

The Church also now provides dedicated facilities for the entire range of Introductory Services. Among those are evening and weekend Dianetics and Scientology seminars. Additional classrooms accommodate a wide array of introductory courses imparting tools to improve any facet of life. The newly transformed Church further includes dozens of specially appointed rooms providing the ideal setting for Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling), and an expanded Church Academy with multiple study rooms for the training of Scientology counselors.

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The rededication of the Buffalo Church follows a series of new Ideal Orgs opened in 2012, including the Church of Scientology Phoenix, June 23; Church of Scientology Denver, June 16; Church of Scientology Stevens Creek of San Jose, June 9; Church of Scientology Orange County, June 2; Church of Scientology Greater Cincinnati, February 25; Church of Scientology Sacramento, January 28; and Church of Scientology Hamburg, Germany, January 21.

Ideal Orgs realize the fulfillment of Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s vision for the religion. They not only provide the ideal facilities to service Scientologists on their ascent to greater states of spiritual awareness and freedom, but they are also designed to serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift citizens of all denominations.

Among the dozens of Ideal Orgs opened in recent years are those that now stand in New York, New York; Washington, D.C.; Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota; Tampa, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; Seattle, Washington; Las Vegas, Nevada; Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Inglewood, California; Québec City, Mexico City, London, Melbourne, Brussels, Madrid, Rome, Berlin and Moscow. For a complete list of new Churches of Scientology, visit Scientology.org.

Seven new Ideal Orgs are further scheduled for grand opening in 2012.

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The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 10,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY INAUGURATES NEW LANDMARK HOME IN CALIFORNIA’S CAPITAL

2012-04-09T17:35:00.001-04:00

California’s capital celebrated the grand opening of the new Church of Scientology of Sacramento on Saturday, January 28. The dedication ceremony was attended by more than 2,500 Scientologists, guests and city, state and national officials.

The Church’s new home, located just blocks from the State Capitol, is one of the city’s most prominent architectural landmarks. Originally opened in 1930 as the Ramona Hotel and designed by California’s first state architect, the building is Sacramento’s finest surviving example of the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The Church meticulously preserved the building’s structure and restored its features to their original glory, including the characteristic stucco, ornamental glazed brick and terra cotta tiles, decorative iron accents and the original blade sign. All restoration was planned and executed for minimal environmental impact and maximum sustainability, meeting the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification standards.

The grand opening of the new Church was distinguished by the presence of Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, who officiated at the ceremony.

In signifying the importance of this new Church, Mr. Miscavige said: “The dedication of this new Church signifies a solemn pledge. It’s a pledge to employ the full measure of what lies within those walls on behalf of this City. It’s a pledge to make a world of which we can be proud. A world without insanity, criminality, illiteracy and immorality; a world where the able can prosper, where honest beings have rights and where all are free to rise to greater heights. That’s our responsibility as Scientologists. And, yes, a responsibility we willinglyembrace.”

Also in attendance and commemorating the occasion were Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson; California State Assembly Member Mike Gatto; Greater Sacramento Urban League president David DeLuz; Interfaith Council of Greater Sacramento president Jon Fish; and International Faith-Based Council president and founder Bishop Ron Allen.

In his salutatory address, Mayor Kevin Johnson welcomed and acknowledged the Church for demonstrating its commitment to the city: “Sacramento is the most diverse city in the country, and your church and what you guys are doing is diverse. This building here is not just a building for you—it’s a building for the community. It’s a building that will help us revitalize this downtown area. The Church of Scientology came to us and said, ‘Look, we want to help. We want to take a historic building and preserve it and renovate it and make it a masterpiece for the downtown area showcase.’ We really wanted to transform Sacramento into the greenest region in the country and a hub for clean technology and you folks are helping to make that a reality. You have done your part.”

California State Assembly Member Mike Gatto commended the work of the Sacramento Church of Scientology and its Citizens Commission on Human Rights to protect children from psychotropic drugging: “These kids may never have the chance to find themselves before being prescribed a drug. They may never know what it means to feel their own pure emotion in their hearts and their own thoughts in their minds. You can rest assured I will continue to do everything in my power to see that every legislator and parent hears your voice, and thereby gains their own power to act for the sake of all children in California.”

Interfaith Council of Greater Sacramento President Jon Fish recognized the Church’s effective contribution to the community, including its humanitarian program utilizing L. Ron Hubbard’s book, The Way to Happiness: “I can’t tell you how uplifting it is to know there are people out there every day—the Scientologists—addressing moral virtues in society, and who really know what they’re doing. For those reasons and so many more, we welcome members of the Church of Scientology. We know this will always be a home of friendship toward us and others. There shall always be an open invitation and an outstretched hand.”

Highlighting the Church’s work in human rights education, Greater Sacramento Urban League president David DeLuz said: “You are educating people on their rights and thereby building up the coming generation who we’ll rely on to protect those rights for everyone, no matter their race, color, creed or religion. Here in California’s capital, we come from everywhere… We need to nurture that, which is exactly what you’re doing. Because this is a Church, not just open to everyone but you freely give to anyone the many tools you have. That’s why this Church is as much a gift to Sacramento as to your parishioners.”

Citing the Church’s worldwide Truth About Drugs education program, International Faith-Based Coalition founder and president Bishop Ron Allen said: “I’ve always said ‘so goes California, so goes the nation.’ Cleaning up the capital and blanketing it with Truth About Drugs materials will cause an effect so great it will ripple out across America. This program is the answer to the global epidemic. I want it mandatory for school children across America to go through the Truth About Drugs curriculum.”

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The new Ideal Church of Scientology of Sacramento rises seven stories and measures 57,000 square feet. In addition to its central Chapel for all congregational gatherings, Sunday Services and religious ceremonies, the Church further includes multiple seminar rooms and classrooms, in addition to dozens of rooms for Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling).

The entirety of the ground floor has been reserved for Introductory Services, welcoming visitors and those wanting to find out about Scientology for themselves. It further includes an expansive Public Information Center, providing a complete introduction to the beliefs and practices of the Scientology religion, as well as the life and legacy of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Information Center additionally presents a detailed overview of Church-sponsored humanitarian programs, including a worldwide human rights initiative; an equally far-ranging drug education, prevention and rehabilitation campaign; a global network of literacy and learning centers; and the Scientology Volunteer Minister program now comprising the largest independent relief force on Earth. In full, the Information Center’s multimedia displays offer some 500 informational and documentary films at the touch of a button. The Center is open morning to night and visitors are invited to tour at their leisure and return as often as they wish.

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The Church of Scientology Sacramento is the second Ideal Org to open in 2012, following the Church of Scientology Hamburg, in Germany, on January 21, 2012.

Ideal Orgs realize the fulfillment of Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s vision for the religion. They not only provide the ideal facilities to service Scientologists on their ascent to greater states of spiritual awareness and freedom, but they are also designed to serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift citizens of all denominations.

Other new Churches opened in recent years include Washington, D.C.; New York, New York; Los Angeles, California; Pasadena, California; Inglewood, California; Seattle, Washington; Tampa, Florida; Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota; as well as Québec city, Canada; Mexico City, Mexico and Melbourne, Australia.

More than 15 new Ideal Orgs are scheduled for grand opening in 2012.

For a complete list of new Churches of Scientology, visit Scientology.org.

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For more information on the founder of Dianetics & Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, visit L. Ron Hubbard.org.
For more information about David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, visitScientology.org/David Miscavige.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

L. Ron Hubbard's Birthday

2012-03-13T13:13:00.001-04:00

In honor of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday--this video.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol - Premiere and Interviews

2011-12-20T15:35:00.003-05:00

The latest Mission Impossible is out: Ghost Protocol
You can read about the premiere here: Tom Cruise rules red carpet at 'Mission: Impossible' debut and you can read an interview with star Jeremy Renner here: Jeremy Renner gets into the action .

The trailer looks great! Can't wait to see the movie.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Clearwater Community Volunteers put on Winter Wonderland

2011-12-13T17:04:00.001-05:00

Each year since 1993, the Clearwater Community Volunteers put on Winter Wonderland, which is a two to three-week long charity drive in downtown Clearwater whose proceeds benefit the children of Pinellas County. Winter Wonderland is a complete Christmas village with an entertainment stage, photos with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, a hot chocolate shop, a petting zoo, pony rides, playground, a Bouncy House, a Giant Slide and the Holiday Express Train!

Entrance to Winter Wonderland is free but we ask visitors to bring a non-perishable food item and/or an unwrapped toy. The toys and canned goods are donated to local area charities, such as the Homeless Emergency Project sponsored by Everybody’s Tabernacle.

Winter Wonderland is open from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weeknights, and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on weekends. For the starting and ending dates of this year’s Winter Wonderland, please check the event details in the sidebar of our website.

People from all over the world have visited Winter Wonderland, gazing in awe at the thousands of lights that adorn the real pine trees and enjoying the wonderful entertainment that is on the stage all the time that Winter Wonderland is open.

Date: Fri, Dec. 2, through Wed, Dec. 21
Times: 6 – 9 pm weeknights, 4 – 9 pm weekends
Location: NW Corner of Ft. Harrison Ave. & Drew St, Downtown Clearwater, Florida
Cost: Free, with a small charge for some rides and refreshments

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Pomeranz promotes Dianetics at MIBF (Manila International Book Fair)

2011-09-15T22:32:00.004-04:00

(The Philippine Star) Updated September 16, 2011
MANILA, Philippines - David Pomeranz returns to the Philippines for the 32nd Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), ongoing until Sept. 18 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.
On Sept. 18 at 3 to 5 p.m., Pomeranz is set to perform his hits and promote L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics, the landmark work that launched the worldwide movement for The Church of Scientology, of which Pomeranz is a member.
Pomeranz believes that the real barriers to a happy and valuable future are the upsets, failures, fears and mistakes of the past.
“These things hang around us like ghosts spoiling every chance to create a new and better life.” he says. “I had my own personal fears and internal barriers that blocked my way and threatened to destroy my chances to achieve my goals.”
Knowing and using Dianetics can help you break free of those barriers, Pomeranz notes, as Dianetics discusses the different dynamics or areas of life that are essential for real success.
“Dianetics enabled me to shake off the shadows of the past and see the life the way it really is. It gave me the power to deal with life in a positive and constructive way,” Pomeranz asserts. “I have a great career doing exactly what I want to do, a wonderful wife and family, and, I am proud to say, many friends that I’ve been able to help to lead happy and fulfilling lives.”
Dianetics is published by Bridge Publications and will be available at the MIBF.
A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Kirstie Alley Hits the Catwalk for Malaysian Designer Zang Toi

2011-09-14T17:35:00.002-04:00

Sep 14 2011 12:00 PM ET

Attendees at Zang Toi’s runway show at New York Fashion Week Tuesday were treated to a special treat: an appearance by Kirstie Alley. The actress took a turn on the catwalk at Lincoln Center, sporting an embellished blue coat dress and an exaggerated beehive hairdo.

Tweeting Monday that she was “scared,” Alley jokingly asked fans and fashionistas to avoid eye contact during the show. “DONT make me laugh,” she wrote. “Gotta keep ‘model face’ … oh, who I am kidding??”

And though she was worried about falling on her “well dressed ass,” Alley took to the runway effortlessly, and at the end of the day, was grateful for the experience.

“Thank you all the REAL models for letting me share @ZANGTOI runway with you,” she Tweeted. “You all were sooo sweet and looked soooo gorgeous!!! I had the time of my life!!!!”

–Kate Hogan

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Tom Cruise is CRAZY

2011-08-27T09:38:00.002-04:00

I don't say he's crazy because he's driving a formula 1 race car at almost 200 mph. Oh no. It's what he does afterwards. Just watch the video ...

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International Hosts 42nd Annual Anniversary Gala

2011-08-09T19:41:00.001-04:00

Over 1,000 Scientologists and guests attended a gala event in Hollywood Saturday night, marking the 42nd anniversary of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre. Guests included many of the Church’s well-known members, including John Travolta, Kelly Preston, Anne Archer, Jenna Elfman, Jason Lee, Ethan Suplee, Erika Christensen, Priscilla Presley and Nancy Cartwright.

The evening’s guest speakers included John Redman, Director of Demand Reduction for California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), a program of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Redman highlighted the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which is supported by the Church: “Our partnership with the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has changed everything. I have never seen anything like it in my career. The materials are unmatched, and I don’t say that flippantly, because I have probably seen everything that has come along in drug education. These materials connect, they are interesting to the kids, and they are designed for youth and fun to work with. I’ve seen them in action and they work. The Foundation and the Church of Scientology are as committed and as serious as we are when it comes to educating the world about the dangers of drugs.”

Dr. Michael Crosby, President of the 77^th Street Division Los Angeles Police Department Clergy Council spoke about his experience with another Church-affiliated program, The Way to Happiness.

“The Way to Happiness is ageless. It is for all creeds, races and religions. And it offers a light in the darkest night for our cultures. Whenever I read one or more of the precepts I rejoice, because we have in our hands a simple yet effective way to teach basic values and principles to anyone—principles that forge strong relationships, honesty, integrity, civility, and self respect and competence.”

The Church of Scientology sponsors humanitarian programs addressing key societal issues such as drug abuse, human rights, moral values for a modern world, illiteracy and disaster relief.

In keeping with Mr. Hubbard’s words from 1951, “A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists,” the Celebrity Centre is the arts and cultural branch of the Church of Scientology and as such work with those whose broad visions for social enhancement are essential for positive progression of society.

The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Hollywood was founded in 1969. It was established to provide artists, professionals and leaders in every field with a distraction-free environment to practice their religion. Whether for up-and-coming artists or established public figures, a Celebrity Centre offers an atmosphere where all can discover Scientology for themselves. Other Celebrity Centres are located in cultural centers around the world including New York, Paris, Nashville, Las Vegas, Vienna, Florence and London. Celebrity Centres, like all churches of Scientology worldwide, are open to the public.

The popularity of Scientology among artists and professionals in many fields mirrors its current growth internationally, expanding more in the last year than the last five years combined and more in the last five years than in the five previous decades.

_________________

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Chick Corea

2011-06-30T23:54:00.001-04:00

Return to Forever IV performs at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal on Sunday (Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier), the Ottawa Jazz Festival on Monday (Confederation Park) and the Toronto Jazz Festival on Tuesday (Sony Centre).

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

JOHN TRAVOLTA OPENS CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY MISSION IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN OCALA, FLORIDA

2011-06-24T12:15:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, May 29, Scientologists, friends and neighbors filled 1stAvenue, joining actor and Ocala resident John Travolta and Ocala Mayor Randy Ewers at the dedication and grand opening ceremonies of the Church of Scientology Mission of Ocala, Florida.>>

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Cherie Ceberano

2011-06-22T19:41:00.004-04:00

Thanks to Scientology, Marlènne Knows How to Speak the Language of Friendship

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

In the latest episode of “I Am a Scientologist,” Marlènne, a translator from French Guiana (Guyane), shares the impact Scientology has on her ability to relate to others.

Despite being fluent in her native French, in Spanish and English, and working on mastering Portuguese, before Scientology, Marlènne didn’t really understand how to relate to people.

“I didn’t think I really had friends,” says the French Guianan translator.

With Scientology, she was able to learn the basics of communication. And that made all the difference.

“I really understood what friendship was, how good a friend I could be, and how I could help people.”

And that is exactly what she does for a living.

“I help with written communication, business letters, and also emergency situations,” she says. “People are very happy to find someone who can help them communicate and be understood.”

By discovering what a good relationship she could have with others, she says, “it helped me improve myself at all levels.”

I Am a Scientologist is an original series on the Scientology Network. It features Scientologists from all walks of life and locations whose lives have been transformed and enriched by the religion.

This episode takes viewers from the studio of a Thai boxing coach in New Zealand to the ice rink where an award-winning figure skater from Mexico practices her routines. And it includes a Swiss golfer, an English author, and an American songwriter.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church’s global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Kirstie Alley - Dancing!

2011-05-24T08:13:00.006-04:00

Who would have thought at the start of the season that Kirstie Alley would have become the talk of the dancing world? But she did: Kirstie Alley's Big 'Dancing' Transformation

Wow! Awesome job, Kirstie!

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Jumping off the tallest building in the world

2011-05-21T21:55:00.004-04:00

Yes, that is Tom Cruise in the picture above, running along the side of the world's tallest building. This story happened in November, so it's not exactly hot off the press, but I was so amazed at the stunt that I had to post it.

The story and more pictures are here: Tom Cruise dangles from the world's tallest building as he performs a death-defying stunt for new Mission: Impossible movie

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center

2011-05-07T09:22:00.005-04:00

On Thursday, May 5th, Tom Cruise was awarded the Simon Wiesenthal Center's highest honor, the Humanitarian Award, for his longtime, consistent and substantial support.

In his acceptance speech Tom said,

Our challenge, ladies and gentlemen, is to make sure that we do all in our power to see to it that there will be no more Auschwitz/Birkenaus, no more Rwandas, no more Darfurs on our planet. That our children and their children may be free to live in a world where men and women are judged by their accomplishments and deeds rather then by their race or religion. That is why I support the Simon Wiesenthal Center and Museum of Tolerance. As Albert Einstein reminded us, "The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil but because of the people who don’t do anything about it." And as he wrote in a letter that is one of the prized possessions of the Center, "Without an atmosphere of intellectual freedom and tolerance none of us can imagine a life which would be worth living."

- Tom Cruise’s Remarks on Receiving the Simon Wiesenthal Center's Humanitarian Award
- Video: Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Wiesenthal Center Honors Tom Cruise and 3 Medal of Valor Honorees at its 2011 National Tribute Dinner
- Wiesenthal center honors Tom Cruise
- Tom Cruise honored by Simon Wiesenthal Center
- Tom Cruise honored by Jewish human rights group, the Simon Wiesenthal Center

Simon Wiesenthal was a holocaust surviver who later became a famous Nazi hunter. Between the end of World War II and his death in 2005, Wiesenthal is credited with bringing 1,100 Nazi war criminals to justice.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center is a global Jewish human rights organization that confronts anti-Semitism, hate and terrorism, promotes human rights and dignity, defends the safety of Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust for future generations. The Center's educational arm is the world famous Museum of Tolerance. Founded in 1993 the museum challenges visitors to confront bigotry and racism, and to understand the Holocaust in both historic and contemporary contexts.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Meet a Scientologist—Jive Aces Peter Howell, Swinging to the Beat of a Different Drum

2011-03-31T22:13:00.000-04:00

Meet a Scientologist—Jive Aces Peter Howell, Swinging to the Beat of a Different Drum

Interesting video on the Jive Aces. they are a fabulous group. They recently did a concert for the L. Ron Hubbard centenary at Saint Hill.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Happy Birthday to L. Ron Hubbard

2011-03-13T15:06:00.005-04:00

Today is the 100th Birthday of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology.

It is very fitting that I mention LRH on this site, after all he was a very popular writer, with a ton of NY Times bestsellers to his credit.

There is a great site on his life and achievements, with a ton of very cool videos:
- High Tech verion: L. Ron Hubbard
- Low Tech version: L. Ron Hubbard

I recommend checking out these sites.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Kate Ceberano Helps Open New Melbourne Scientology Church

2011-02-06T22:04:00.006-05:00

The name synonymous with Melbourne, Kate Ceberano performed a song she wrote for the grand opening of the Church of Scientology of Melbourne.

Beautiful new building and even better is what this new Church will make available now to Scientologists and the community.

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.

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

Kelly Preston interview: Baby Ben and Silent Birth

2011-01-20T20:35:00.001-05:00

An interview with Kelly from the Today Show:

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard