2013 Year in Review: The Way to Happiness Spreads Hope

The Nashville chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation had a whirlwind of a year, from distributing booklets to an entire community to reaching out to Native Americans, its message went far and wide.

The Way to Happiness, a book by L. Ron Hubbard, is comprised of 21 precepts, each one predicated on the fact that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—and that without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness are attainable. In the two decades since it was authored, some 80 million copies of the book passed hand to hand, thus inspiring the international movement which has found its way to Nashville, TN.

The Nashville team decided to distribute copies of the book to neighboring communities.  “It’s our responsibility to pass it along,” says program coordinator, Rev. Brian Fesler. “This book can uplift whole societies, reduce crime and encourage cooperation.”

Throughout 2013 the group volunteered in local health fairs, festivals and community gatherings.

In April, they participated in the Earth Day celebration where they distributed over 1,000 copies of the book. “There is an entire chapter about safeguarding and improving the environment around one, and that is very timely for this world today,” says Fesler.

To ring in the end of the school year, Volunteers participated in a local festival where they distributed copies of the book to youth.

Over the summer, volunteers joined up with the Edgehill Youth Council to distribute copies of the booklet to an entire neighborhood: 750 booklets went to the residents. “When copies of the booklet go out in bulk like this in an area, we have noticed a reduction in crime and immorality. That’s why it’s so important to spread it around,” says Fesler.  

The team in Nashville has plans to reach out to the rest of the counties in Tennessee, spreading this positive message.  The book is secular, and its only discussion of religion is the advice to respect the religious beliefs of others. 

For more information, visit thewaytohappiness.org.

Nashville Church of Scientology Celebrates the Holiday Season

How do Scientologists celebrate the holidays?  You might be surprised.

Because the Scientology religion is practiced in 165 countries and territories, Scientologists come from a wide variety of faiths and cultural traditions. But no matter their background, they, like most people, gather with loved ones to enjoy the warmth of friends and family and celebrate the joy of the season.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard honored the great religious leaders of the past for the wisdom they brought to the world, writing that Scientology shares “the goals set for Man by Christ, which are wisdom, good health and immortality.” It is in this spirit that Scientologists celebrate the holiday season, whether they observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other religious or cultural tradition.

Pastor of the Nashville Church, Rev. Brian Fesler, says, “our church captures the spirit of the holidays. We bring people together to celebrate and plan the year ahead, and everyone is welcome here throughout the season.”

The Church annually celebrates New Year’s Eve with a large-scale event that all parishioners are invited to attend. It is at this event that the church reviews the accomplishments for the year and sets the course for the year to come.

For more information about Scientology, visit www.scientology.org.

2013 Year in Review – Drug-Free South Tackling Drug Problem in Tennessee

A recent study of 7th-12th-grade students revealed 10 percent of them abused over-the-counter drugs typically found in the home medicine cabinet. The U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy reports that prescription drug abuse is the country’s fastest-growing drug problem. Drugs are finding their way into the nation’s classrooms and schoolyards.

For a quarter of a century, Scientologists around the world have been working with youth, educators, parents, religious and community leaders and law enforcement officers to provide drug education to children and teens. The result is a series of drug education resources that work—a multimedia program that speaks to the youth of today, informing them of the truth about drugs and empowering them to make their own decisions to live drug-free.

The cornerstone of the program is a series of booklets that provide the facts about the most commonly abused drugs: marijuana, alcohol, Ecstasy, cocaine, crack cocaine, crystal meth, inhalants, heroin, LSD, prescription drugs, painkillers, and Ritalin.

Next is a series of 16 award-winning “They Said, They Lied” public service announcements. They are contemporary, high-impact communications aimed directly at youth.

Finally, the core of the Truth About Drugs educational program is a 100-minute documentary, The Truth About Drugs: Real People, Real Stories. The film is a hard-hitting, no-holds-barred presentation told by former users who themselves survived life-shattering addiction.

Parents and teachers can order Truth About Drugs booklets and DVDs free of charge from the drugfreeworld.org website or download the free Truth About Drugs Education Application onto their iPads or iPhones.

The Tennessee Chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, which uses The Truth About Drugs materials, began the year with a bang, visiting four counties before Spring. Each visit, the chapter delivers seminars to students on the Truth About Drugs program which includes the documentary film and educational booklets. By the end of the year, volunteers for the program had traveled nearly 5,000 miles, educating students along the way.

To date, the Tennessee chapter has visited 30 counties, delivered over 230 seminars on the program, and distributed more than 50,000 booklets to those in need.

For more information on the Truth About Drugs program, or to order materials, visit drugfreesouth.org.

2013 Year in Review – Inspiring a Movement for Human Rights in Tennessee

In 2013, human rights organizations joined together to inspire and educate about human rights in Tennessee.

While it is true that in 2012 the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations released a report which showed Davidson, Shelby, Knox and Coffee Counties among the highest ranked in regard to the number of human trafficking victims, with about 4,000 victims statewide, Tennessee has also made advances for the state of human rights.

This was the 50^th anniversary of the Metro Nashville government as well as state and local agencies concerned with human rights. With that came many celebrations and events to broaden awareness and make human rights more known.

Recognizing the global need for human rights education, Tennessee human rights agencies decided to end the year with an event recognizing those leaders who’ve brought us through tough times and those who are shining a bright light into the future.

The Church of Scientology joined with local and state government as well as non-profit organizations spanning the state to plan the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, which occurs every year on December 10th.  The celebration was held in the Howard School Building, a government facility in Nashville, Tennessee.

Three lifetime advocates received awards for their work, including the Rev. James "Tex" Thomas, pastor of Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church; Elliot Ozment, the founder and managing attorney at Ozment Law; and Carrie Gentry, who was active during the civil rights movement in Nashville.

“Rising Advocate” awards were given to individuals showing great promise in the field of human rights.  This year, recipients included Gatluak Thach with the Nashville International Center for Empowerment and Stephanie Teatro with the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition.

Rev. Brian Fesler who chaired the event planning committee said, “Our goal is to inspire more people to fight for human rights. We want people to know they, too, can achieve great things. That is what these awards represent.”

For more information, visit nashvillehumanrights.org.

Human Rights Still Have Far to Go

Today, Tennessee celebrates International Human Rights Day. On this day 65 years ago, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Assembly proclaimed its principles as the “common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations.” It represents the universal recognition that basic rights and fundamental freedoms are inherent to all human beings, inalienable and equally applicable to everyone, and that every one of us is born free and equal in dignity and rights. These rights are internationally recognized and accepted norms and values which promote dignity, fairness and opportunity for all people in communities around the world.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Through this office, the potential of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has become more focused. The office has revitalized the human rights movement and generated progress in implementing human rights principles into common law.

Progress has been made in the advancement of rights for women, minorities and people with disabilities, the development of international law which institutes accountability for human rights abuses, human trafficking, torture and modern slavery, emerging rights (rights of older people, right to the truth, right to a clean environment, right to clean water and sanitation and the right to food) and a greater understanding of individual and universal human rights.

Many challenges lie ahead in the struggle to promote and enhance the dignity, freedom and rights of all human beings. As the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. said in 1963, we must have a “fierce urgency of now” to continue progress and confront challenges.

In Nashville, we commemorate this day to reflect on our history and work with others to create a view to make our city, our state and our nation better. We will recognize three individuals for Human Rights Lifetime Achievement: the Rev. James “Tex” Thomas, pastor of Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church; Elliott Ozment, the founder and managing attorney at Ozment Law; and Carrie Gentry. Also, two individuals as Rising Advocate — Gatluak Thach with the Nashville International Center for Empowerment and Stephanie Teatro with the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition.

A panel that includes Forrest Harris, president of American Baptist College; Tasha French Lemley, executive director of The Contributor; and Pat Shea, executive director of the YWCA of Middle Tennessee, will speak on education, homelessness and domestic violence. It will be moderated by Oscar Miller, chairman of the Tennessee State University sociology department.

The committee organizing the event for Human Rights Day includes the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association and Amnesty International.

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place at the Sonny West Conference Center on the Howard School Campus and is free and open to the public. Networking begins at 4 p.m., and the program starts at 4:30. For more information or to become involved with this year’s celebration, visit nashvillehumanrights.org.

Beverly Watts is the executive director of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.

Artlightenment 2013 Art and Film Festival Awards Announced

Artlightenment 2013, the art show and film festival which showcased over 70 visual artists, painters, sculptors and filmmakers officially hit its stride this year as the five-year-old festival enjoyed record attendance.

Artlightenment is an annual event that was created by Robyn Morshead in 2009. It is held at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville in the old Fall School building. Rev. Brian Fesler, Pastor of the Nashville Church says, “It is part of our mission to assist the artists in society, as they are the ones who uplift the culture.  So this art show ties right in with our purpose.” 

This year, the festival ran from November 14-16. Artlightenment producer, Robyn Morshead said, “In particular, the students from MTSU’s Film and Video Department captured the spirit of Artlightenment in their films.” Overall, Morshead was pleased with this year’s festival, which she said was a testament to the festival’s objective of “bringing a new renaissance in filmmaking and visual art to Nashville.”

Awards for this year’s films and visual art were presented on Saturday evening.  It was met by an enthusiastic and large crowd, as Artlightenment’s festivities wound to a close. The highlight of this year’s Artlightenment Festival was celebrity photographer, Raeanne Rubenstein who was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her incomparable body of work.

The Artlightenment Best Film Award went to Jaclyn Edmondson with MTSU for her film “Sbocciare.”  Winner of the Overall Competition for Best Art went to Jennie Schut. The full list of awards can be found online at artilghtenment.com.

Hubbard Dianetics Seminar Answering the Demand for True Help

The Hubbard Dianetics Seminar, offered by the Nashville Church of Scientology each weekend, is answering the demand for true mental counseling.

June 2009 saw the single most momentous advance in Dianetics technology since the day of its original publication on May 9, 1950.  

Dianetics became universally accessible.

The Dianetics Seminar was released with new audio-visual components that not only make it easy to understand and apply, but break down to such an ease that all one has to do is watch.

Nashville’s Church of Scientology has offered the seminar each weekend since that time with rave success.

“It’s not so easy any more to find real help,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology.  “The Internet is flooded with offers that don’t live up to the promise.  People are betrayed by ‘professionals’ who take their insurance money and send them away.  It’s time for someone with real answers and effective results to step up to the plate.  That’s why we’re here.”

Fesler wants to let Middle Tennesseans know the seminar is open to the public.

According to the book What Is Scientology?, the Church of Scientology is “all-denominational” and members are free to attend any church, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship of their choice while also taking classes or attending the seminars. 

The Hubbard Dianetics Seminar is based on the bestselling self-help book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health and takes just a weekend to complete.  It features the video series “How to Use Dianetics,” consisting of 32 films—a total of four and a half hours of visual instruction in the principles and procedures of Dianetics. In the seminar, attendees learn how the mind contains a hidden influence that will cause individuals to feel grief and pain long after the reasons for which they first arose.

“People are getting amazing results at this seminar.  And what’s more, they have skills they can continue to use at home and with friends and family,” says Fesler.  

The two-day Dianetics seminar is offered every weekend at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville at 1130 8^th Avenue South. For more information, visit www.dianetics.org or call the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation at 615-687-4600.

Committee Reveals Schedule of Events for Tennessee Human Rights Day Celebration

The committee planning Tennessee’s annual Human Rights Day celebration is pleased to reveal the official schedule of events for the day.

International Human Rights Day occurs every year to commemorate the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations on Dec 10, 1948. It occurs each year on December 10^th in Tennessee, and this year the celebration will take place at the Howard Office Building in the Sonny West Conference Center.

The event will open with a musical selection by accomplished singer/songwriter Joie Scott, an international hit songwriter whose songs have been recorded by Shania Twain, Collin Raye, Lucie Diamond, Anne Murray and many more.

Following this, the Mayor’s Youth Council will make a special presentation for Human Rights Day and the youth will speak to what human rights means to them.

Mary Pat Silveira who served in the United Nations for thirty years will introduce the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and will discuss the articles to help those attending have a better understanding of the document on which the day is based.

There will be a panel discussion on “Human Rights Issues Today” with panelists Pat Shea of the YWCA of Middle Tennessee discussing domestic violence; Tasha French Lemley with the Contributor Newspaper discussing homelessness and hunger; and Dr. Forrest Harris of American Baptist College speaking about education. 

Finally, awards will be bestowed for Human Rights Lifetime Achievement and Human Rights Rising Advocate.  Awardees this year include the Rev. James "Tex" Thomas, pastor of Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church, who is often referred to as the "Mayor of Jefferson Street" for his work on issues that affect North Nashville; Elliot Ozment, the founder and managing attorney at Ozment Law who has been a longtime advocate for civil and immigrant rights in Tennessee; and Carrie Gentry, who was active during the civil rights movement in Nashville, helping students get to sit-ins and bailing them out of jail after they were arrested.

“Rising Advocate” awards will be given to Gatluak Thach with the Nashville International Center for Empowerment and Stephanie Teatro with the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition.

The committee organizing the event for Human Rights Day includes the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Amnesty International and the Church of Scientology.

The event is free and open to the public.  Information booths open at 4pm and the program starts at 4:30pm.  For more information, or to become involved with this year’s celebration, visit nashvillehumanrights.org.

Nashville Scientologists Hold Drug-Free Events in Honor of Red Ribbon Week

In October 2013, volunteers from the Nashville Church of Scientology teamed up with the Drug-Free South to help others live drug-free lives.

Tennessee now leads the nation in meth use, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations. Tennessee has ranked among the top three states for meth use since 2007 but has now passed Missouri for the top spot. To protect youth from the disastrous effects of abusing this and other drugs, in October a team of Scientologists decided to bring the truth about drugs to students.

Throughout the month, church volunteers joined with Drug-Free South to distribute copies of The Truth About Drugs, a booklet that helps young people understand what drugs are and how they affect the user. Drug-Free South is the Tennessee chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, an international non-profit organization. Its materials demonstrate the dangers of drugs through factual information and interviews with former addicts giving personal perspectives on each of the substances covered.

The volunteers also provided seminars to students in six counties during this time. One school to receive a visit from the Drug-Free South was Smyrna West Alternative where a teacher expressed his gratitude by writing a letter to the volunteers.  He noted the program “is a highly informative, mind-grasping look at the dangers and horrible realities that addiction creates.  Just say no is not just a cliché or a challenge for teens to try drugs after this program; it becomes a hard-hitting, in-your-face demand that has real meaning and power.”

Over 3,000 booklets were distributed in Tennessee during October for Red Ribbon Week, a week-long celebration to promote a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon has been worn as a symbol since 1985 when DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was murdered. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons to show their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America.

For more information on the Truth About Drugs, visit drugfreesouth.org. For more information on the Church of Scientology and its programs, visit Scientology.org.

Committee Announces Awardees for Tennessee Human Rights Day Celebration

The committee planning Tennessee’s annual Human Rights Day celebration has just released the names of the 2013 awardees.

Human Rights Day in Tennessee has become a time to celebrate the leaders of yesterday and recognize those taking up the torch for tomorrow, a time to look at battles won and lessons learned as well as to inspire the youth of today to do something about the state of the world tomorrow. It occurs each year on December 10^th, and this year the celebration will take place at the Howard Office Building in the Sonny West Conference Center.

The event centers around the Human Rights Lifetime Achievement awards.   Awardees this year include the Rev. James "Tex" Thomas, pastor of Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church, who is often referred to as the "Mayor of Jefferson Street" for his work on issues that affect North Nashville; Elliot Ozment, the founder and managing attorney at Ozment Law who has been a longtime advocate for civil and immigrant rights in Tennessee; and Carrie Gentry, who was active during the civil rights movement in Nashville, helping students get to sit-ins and bailing them out of jail after they were arrested.

“Rising Advocate” awards will also be given to individuals who show great promise in the field of human rights.  Planning committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler says, “This is the third year for the Rising Advocate award.  It’s been a wonderful experience looking at people who are taking up the torch for human rights.” The Rising Advocate awards this year will go to Gatluak Thach with the Nashville International Center for Empowerment and Stephanie Teatro with the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition.

The committee organizing the event for Human Rights Day includes the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association, and Amnesty International.

The event is free and open to the public.  Booths and networking begin at 4pm and the program starts at 4:30.  For more information or to become involved with this year’s celebration, visit www.nashvillehumanrights.org.

Drug-Free South Hits Entire County with the Truth About Drugs

Drug-Free South has a message for all students, and this past week, they took that message to every student in Lake County, Tennessee.

Drug-Free is the way to be if you live in Lake County. Drug-Free South just wrapped up a tour of every school in the area, where they spoke to nearly 1,000 students on the dangers of drug usage.

“We distributed almost 1,500 booklets,” says Anne Vallieres who volunteers for Drug-Free South, “many of them ask for additional booklets to give to their friends and family.”

Before the day was done, Drug-Free South volunteers also visited the Sheriff’s office where they left information on the program, so the county can remain safe and healthy.

“We will go to anyone, anywhere with our message,” says Vallieres.

Drug-Free South volunteers have been to more than 30 counties with the drug-free message and have distributed over 50,000 booklets.

Drug-Free South is a chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, based in Los Angeles, California, which provides educational tools to help students learn the truth about drugs. The Foundation provides a booklet which covers common street names of drugs, short and long term effects as well as myths that a dealer might say to make the sale. It also provides an in-depth documentary of former users telling their story and an entire educational curriculum to help students understand what drugs really are.

For more information, visit www.drugfreesouth.org. 

Artlightenment 2013 Art and Film Festival

Artlightenment, the annual Multi-media Art Show and Film Festival which showcases visual artists, painters, sculptors and filmmakers is slated to run November 14, 15 and 16 at the Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre in Nashville.

Created by painter, sculptor and film producer, Robyn Morshead in 2009, Artlightenment is a three day event which features workshops, live music and a fashion show.

This year’s Festival will highlight the work of landmark photographer Raeanne Rubenstein whose work has graced the pages of numerous publications such as People Magazine and The New York Times. Rarely seen images of iconic celebrities scanning four decades of American Pop Culture, such as Andy Warhol, John and Yoko, Lou Reed, Jim Morrison and Dustin Hoffman will be available for viewing throughout the Festival. In addition, attendees can hear Rubenstein speak when she hosts a talk: “My Life as a Celebrity Photographer” on Friday, November 15 at 6:30 pm

On Saturday, November 16 (4:00 pm-6:00 pm), award-winning composer, arranger, orchestrator and producer of music for film, television and album projects, Greg Simms will be the featured speaker for a two hour workshop – “Film Composing 101: Making Your Movie With Music”. As the composer of the closing theme for Oprah’s first prime time special, “Legends Ball” and the CGI animated film, “The Lion of Judah” Simms will discuss his work and host a Q and A session with the audience.

In addition, the Festival will feature The MTSU Florence Project, three films produced by well-known Documentary Filmmaker Tom Neff and shot by student filmmakers from MTSU. The films center on the unlikely cross-cultural exchange between Florence, Italy and Murfreesboro, TN, as MTSU filmmakers traveled there to make these extraordinary films about contemporary Italian artists, their work and methodology.

Sherry Carlisle and the Impalers will be kicking off the festivities on Thursday, November 14 at 6:30 pm. The band is comprised of veteran touring and session musicians who have played with such notable acts as James Taylor, Cream and The Jordanaires.

Tickets for the event are $10. Ticketholders will have access to all exhibits and workshops, as well as the Film Festival, closing-night awards and fashion show.

For more information on the Artlightenment 2013 Art and Film Festival or to purchase tickets, please visit: artlightenment.com.

Drug-Free South Distributes Booklets at Bike Show

Drug-Free South is working to eradicate the demand for drugs in Tennessee and so establish health and happiness for all citizens. This past week, they took their message to a motorcycle show in Rutherford County.

Drug-Free South is known for spreading its message on the Truth About Drugs to students across Tennessee by delivering lectures in schools, but this past week members were invited to a motorcycle show where over a hundred riders were able to receive, and benefit from, the information.

“We will go to anyone, anywhere in the state with our message,” says Marc Vallieres who volunteers for Drug-Free South, “everyone deserves to receive the truth about drugs, and it’s never too late to reach out to someone – they can always benefit from knowing.”

Drug-Free South volunteers distributed dozens of booklets to those attending.

Vallieres went on to say, “It is important to realize that each person who receives the truth could be another life saved. That is why we do what we do.”

Drug-Free South is a chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, based in Los Angeles, California, which provides educational tools to help students learn the truth about drugs. The Foundation provides a booklet which covers common street names of drugs, short and long term effects as well as myths that a dealer might say to make the sale. It also provides an in-depth documentary of former users telling their story and an entire educational curriculum to help students understand what drugs really are.

For more information, visit www.drugfreesouth.org.

Religion Communicators Council Hears About Good Works By Good People

The Religion Communicators Council is an interfaith communications organization which meets monthly to learn from one another and explore new ways to promulgate religious messages.

In October, the Nashville Religion Communicators Council (RCC) heard from the Nashville Rescue Mission and Salvation Army.  Topic of the day was “Putting Faith Into Action.” Both ministries shared the values of bringing the faith to the people in such a way that makes lives better each day.

Lynn Bogle, with Nashville Rescue Mission, stressed the importance of reconnecting people with God. The Nashville Rescue Mission serves the homeless, addicts and broken families by serving meals, providing shelter, restoring life and helping people get back on their feet. Bogle made it clear that anyone can end up at the Mission after just a couple of bad choices in life.

Gerald Brown, with Salvation Army, presented a video about the Salvation Army which demonstrated the motto: Doing the Most Good. The army "provides soup, soap and salvation," but truly encompasses a myriad of activities to the benefit of children, men and women.

President of the Nashville chapter and pastor of the Church of Scientology, Rev. Brian Fesler said, “I’m always encouraging my parishioners to get out and be active in the community... and people like this just prove it’s all worthwhile.”

Both organizations provide shelter for those without homes, and both give out meals to the hungry.

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) hears regularly from such organizations to learn how they act out their faith. Fesler went on to say, “We will continue to bring these important topics to the forefront at coming meetings. This is the kind of good news that we share as religious communicators.”

The RCC is open to members from all denominations, and the Nashville group includes Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, and more.  For further information about the RCC or their next meeting, visit www.religioncommunicators.org.

Church of Scientology Community News: Religious People Working for a Better Nashville

The Nashville Church of Scientology supports the good works of others. Today’s highlight: People of faith working together to improve conditions.

If you’re a person of faith and looking for a way to get involved in the community, Nashville, Tennessee is calling your name.  Many men and women of God live in and around Nashville and are working every day to improve the lives of the people in the city.

Most of these go unnoticed but by the people directly involved.  For example, a group of religious people from different faiths gather monthly to make the city greener, more beautiful, healthier and more energy efficient.  Under the name “Interfaith Earth Care Network” they are making a difference.

Then, there is a group of pastors who meet weekly to discuss the many problems and destructive influences at work in society and how to bring about social justice.  The Interdenominational Ministers Fellowship has worked on these issues for five decades.

The Religion Communicators Council, a national organization going on its 85^th anniversary, has a chapter in Nashville, an interfaith group composed of media professionals and communicators who work day in and day out to spread the good news.   

There are many others who take part in active work to help the city. Residents volunteer with the group Hands On Nashville, while others volunteer at local soup kitchens or facilities for the homeless, such as the Room in the Inn, Safe Haven and the Nashville Rescue Mission.

Nashville is a hub for religious and spiritually rewarding work and is growing. There are many ways to get involved; it’s just a matter of knowing where to look.

Church of Scientology Hosts Film Screening for World War II Inspired Documentary

The Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre Nashville will host a film screening on Saturday for a documentary inspired by life during World War II.

“Love Letters: A Legacy of Tormented Addiction” is the award winning documentary inspired by the story of Roswell Joseph Weil and the letters he wrote during World War II to his parents every day for three and a half years while he was stationed in Europe. The documentary describes his meeting with his future wife, their marriage during the war and her addiction to pharmaceutical drugs.

“I hate what our servicemen and women have to go through,” says pastor of the church, Rev. Brian Fesler, “There is a huge disconnect between life at home and life in the military and people need to see this, understand it. We’re honored to host Mr. Weil’s documentary.”

The film screening will take place October 5th at 7pm in the community room of the church. It is being presented by filmmaker Richard Lyons Weil. Weil is a New Orleans native who came to Nashville in 2004 to pursue his career as an artist.

Contact The Actors' Reading Room at 615-915-0891 for further information about the screening. For more information about the church, visit scientology.org.

Drug-Free South Celebrates Red Ribbon Week All Month Long

“A Healthy Me is Drug Free” is the campaign this year for Red Ribbon Week, a week-long celebration to promote a drug-free lifestyle. The Red Ribbon has been worn as a symbol since 1985 when DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was murdered. Angered parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons to show their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America.

In Tennessee, the group Drug-Free South plans to take its message further this year by promoting awareness all month long. They plan to visit schools across Tennessee giving lectures and handing out information to students on the truth about drugs.

Anne Vallieres with Drug-Free South said, “We will see students in Murfressboro, Clarksville, Smyrna, Fairview, Watertown, Lake County and Crockett County. It is important to reach as many people as possible with these messages—before it is too late.”

Drug-Free South is a chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World which is operated out of Los Angeles, California. It is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that provides youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. The organization gives away a “Truth About Drugs” booklet, an informational pamphlet that details short- and long-term effects of drugs, common street names and myths that a dealer might use to make a sale.

Since its inception, the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has promoted drug-free living and celebrated Red Ribbon Week.

According to Vallieres, “Red Ribbon Week is a time for us all to come together to end the drug crises in our country. Everyone should participate.”

For more information or to schedule a seminar on the truth about drugs, visit www.drugfreesouth.org.

Religion Communicators Council Puts Faith Into Action

The Religion Communicators Council meets each month to hear about a topic of interest. This month, the Nashville Chapter will hear from two organizations about how to put faith into action.





Religion Communicators are welcomed and invited to a meeting with a representative from the Nashville Rescue Mission, and one from the Salvation Army.  Topic of the day: Putting Faith Into Action.



Both organizations began with a mission from a higher power. According to nashvillerescuemission.org, “Following God’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves, the Nashville Rescue Mission seeks to help the hurting of Middle Tennessee by offering food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and recovery programs to those enslaved in life degrading problems,” and according to salvationarmyusa.org, “The Salvation Army, an internal movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.”



The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) hears regularly from such organizations to learn how they act out their faith. President of the Nashville chapter and pastor of the Church of Scientology, Rev. Brian Fesler says, “I’m always encouraging my parishioners to get out and be active in the community… and people like this just prove it’s all worthwhile.”



The RCC meeting will be held on October 16th over lunch at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.



The RCC is open to members from all denominations, and the Nashville group includes Baha’is, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Scientologists, and more.  For further information about the RCC or their next meeting, visit www.religioncommunicators.org.

Artlightenment 5th Annual Festival to Take Place this Fall

Visual artist Robyn Morshead decided to create an art show in 2009 with a special purpose: elevate the artist to elevate the culture.

She has continued moving visual art to the foreground in the city of music through the Artlightenment festival, now in its fifth consecutive year. It was expanded in 2011 to include film about art, artists and the art of existence, which encouraged further collaboration between the worlds of filmmakers and visual artists of all kinds.

The festival will take place November 14-16 at the Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre in Nashville. Rev. Brian Fesler who pastors the church says, “It’s part of our mission to assist the artists in society. Artists have the power to uplift the culture, and society depends on their creativity.”

In 2012 the film “Miracles on Honey Bee Hill” by Bob Pondillo won the Artlightenment award for Best Film. Pondillo won many other awards of the evening including Best Sound Design, Costume and Editing. “Molly and the Kids” by Raeanne Rubenstein won the overall Audience Choice award and was a resounding favorite. Carla Christina Contreras won the Audience Award for Best Actor or Actress. Holly Carmichael won the Best of Show Art prize.

The Artlightenment show also featured special presentations by successful artists. Filmmakers Daniel Lir and Bayou Bennett traveled from Los Angeles to give a talk called “The Art of Making a Successful Film.” Marlene Rose, an internationally known glass artist, spoke about and showed her documentary film “From Fire.”

Morshead could hardly contain her excitement, “I really want all filmmakers and artists to learn and advance their careers and connections and to gain a new audience for their films and art.” Acceptable art submissions include paintings, mixed-media, photographs, sculptures and film. All submissions should be suitable for general audiences. Prospective participants may submit their film or artwork online at www.artlightenment.com.

Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville Announces Sunday Tea

The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville announced a new weekly activity for both parishioners and guests on Sunday afternoons – tea time with a twist. Guests will be able to relax and chat with one another, but will also be able to learn something to help them in life.

“Scientology means ‘knowing how to know,’” according to the church’s website. “Scientology is all about learning to do things to improve conditions in your own life and in particular in the lives of others. An active Scientologist is not only considered to be someone who attends a Scientology church or studies Scientology, but rather someone who actively uses the insights and knowledge that Scientology gives them to make a real, positive difference in the lives of others.”

Thus when the church began offering a tea time, it not only would provide tea, but tools.
“We’ve had two Sunday Teas and both have been a great success,” says President of the Church, Corinne Sullivan, “our church is all about sharing knowledge and that is exactly what we did at the tea.”

The first tea was centered around the topic “The Joy Of Creating” inspired by an article by founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard; the second tea was about “Life As A Game,” which is how Scientologists view life.

“I like to talk about tools for life, and the Church of Scientology is the perfect place for that,” says parishioner Betsy Brubaker. Sullivan encouraged all to attend.

For more information about Scientology, visit the website, scientology.org. For more information about events and happenings, call the church and ask for Julie at 615-687-4600.

Roots of Country Music Concert Series Hosted By Nashville Church of Scientology

The Nashville Church of Scientology celebrates and uplifts the artists in society. That is why the church has opened its doors to a new concert series celebrating the roots of country music. 

“Our church has a special mission to help artists and creative people because they are the ones who shape the culture,” says church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler. Fesler referred to a quote from L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Church of Scientology: “Hubbard said, ‘A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists.’ We live that every day, hosting events for artists all year round. We’re excited about this new concert series.” 

The concert series is being organized by a group called The Country Club, and kicked off September 26th with Sherry Carlisle and friends from the artistic community at Miller Piano. Eric Bikales was on piano; Larry Knight on lead guitar; Boyd LaFan, bass and Robert Bond, drums. Carlisle, Rachel Rodriguez and Karen Dee all sang leads as well as back up. 

Singers and musicians with an interest in performing classic country please contact The Country Club at localtalentndp@gmail.com. For more information about the upcoming events at the church, call Julie at 615-687-4600.

Nashville Amnesty Chapter Hosts Fourth Annual Human Rights Conference

Amnesty International is known worldwide for its ability to help "prisoners of conscience"-people imprisoned for speaking their mind or exercising other basic rights. It does this by encouraging members to write letters which force leaders to confront the abuses perpetrated in their country. Often this will result in the prisoners' successful release.

The Nashville chapter of Amnesty International holds an annual conference where people are invited to hear about various human rights issues throughout the day, including its main area of focus: prisoners of conscience. This year promises to be a great event, beginning with registration and brunch in the morning and leading into workshops at noon, on Sept 21st.

There will be several workshops throughout the day, including a presentation on immigrant rights, poverty and unemployment, prisoners of conscience and Amnesty International's letter writing campaigns, and alternatives to the death penalty.

"We have a fantastic array of topics and great speakers for each," says Julie Brinker, community relations officer for the Nashville Church of Scientology and co-organizer of the Nashville chapter of Amnesty International. Brinker says the chapter is inviting other human rights organizations to set up information booths outside of the main event hall.

This will be the first statewide conference held in Tennessee, with other chapters traveling from Memphis, Chattanooga and Knoxville. A contingency from the regional office in Atlanta, Georgia will help host it.

Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 3 million supporters, members and activists in over 150 countries and territories who campaign to end grave abuses of human rights. It is independent of any government, political ideology, economic interest or religion, and funded mainly by membership and public donations. Amnesty International's vision is for every person to enjoy all the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights standards.

The event will be Sept 21st, 2013 from 10am-3pm with a free brunch and workshops throughout the day. It will be held in the community room at Belmont United Methodist Church. For more information, email amnestynashville ( @ ) gmail dot com.

Religion Communicators Council Confirms Remziya Suleyman to Keynote Annual Convention

The Religion Communicators Council (RCC) is the longest running interfaith communications organization in the country. As such, it holds a commitment to communicating truth and instilling faith values. So it is only fitting that for its opening address, a Muslim woman will give her perspective on the interrelation of religions and the role of religious communication in public advocacy.

Remziya Suleyman has agreed to speak at the RCC convention and deliver the opening address. A native of Kurdistan, Suleyman has called the United States her home since 1991. She holds a Masters in Public Administration and certificate in Nonprofit Management from Tennessee State University. She is known for her political activism on immigration issues, interfaith organizing, and her work in the Kurdish community to raise awareness on the Kurdish genocide. She has spoken to diverse audiences on Kurdistan and its people, her own experience as a refugee and a Muslim woman, and on life in her community after September 11.

Suleyman's organizing and advocacy was highlighted in the recent New York Times article "The 9/11 Decade: Young Muslims Coming of Age." In 2012, she was voted one of the top inspirational Muslim women in the United States by MBMuslima's 40 under 40. Recently, she was named one of "13 Tennessee Newsmakers to Watch in 2013 by the Tennessean, "13 Progressive Faith Leaders to Watch in 2013" by the Center for American Progress and highlighted by the Nashville Scene in their 2013 People Issue. She is the former Policy Coordinator for the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition and currently is Director of Policy and Administration for the American Center for Outreach.

"She is perfect for the opening address," says Rev. Brian Fesler who chairs the planning committee for the 2014 convention, "She is a woman of faith who is always on the front lines, communicating what she believes with integrity and conviction."

The April 2014 conference will celebrate the 85th anniversary of the RCC. It is open to members and others involved in religious communication on a professional or academic level.

The Religion Communicators Council, founded in 1929, is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing and in public relations. Members of the RCC come from many different religions and backgrounds including Baha'i, Baptist, Jewish, Methodist, Mormon, Muslim and Scientology among others.

For more information, visit religioncommunicators.org.

Church of Scientology Community News: Celebrate Nashville Festival

The Nashville Church of Scientology supports the good works of others. Today's highlight: the Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival on October 5, 2013.

Since 1995, Nashville has celebrated the diversity of the people who live and work in the city through a cultural exchange known as Celebrate Nashville. The festival is scheduled for October 5, 2013 and will take place at Centennial Park.

"In a city where one in six residents is foreign-born, the Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival is not only one of Nashville's favorite and most vibrant festivals, but also a celebration and reminder of what makes Nashville a great place to live," according to celebratenashville.org.

The festival was formerly known as the Celebration of Cultures and began at Scarritt Bennett Center, a conference, retreat, and education center in Nashville. As the festival grew, Scarritt Bennett formed a partnership with Metro Parks and began holding the annual event at Centennial Park. Last year, the festival drew more than 40,000 people.

In 2012, Scarritt Bennett passed the torch to Metro Parks to solely run the festival. It was then that the name changed from Celebration of Cultures to Celebrate Nashville.

For more information about the festival, or to get involved, visit celebratenashville.org.

Drug-Free South Kicking Abuse to the Curb

“I won’t stop until drugs are out of Tennessee,” says Anne Vallieres, who works with Drug-Free South as an educator. Drug-Free South (DFS) began delivering lectures to students in and around Tennessee since 2009 on the truth about drugs, and in just that time, the group has enlightened over 15,000 students across 30 counties.

Vallieres has booked seminars through October where she and her husband, Marc, will travel across the state to bring kids true data on drugs. Murfreesboro, Smyrna and Clarksville are just some of the places that will have the opportunity to receive this invaluable seminar.

The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that provides youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. The organization gives away a “Truth About Drugs” booklet, an informational pamphlet that details short- and long-term effects of drugs, common street names and myths that a dealer might use to make a sale. The Foundation offers educational materials free of charge to educators and anyone who wants to learn more about drugs.

For more information, visit www.drugfreesouth.org.

Church of Scientology Community News: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic leaders in Nashville make it a point to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month each year. According to hispanicheritagemonth.gov, “The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15.”

An online resource for Latinas, Las Fabulosas, encourages Hispanic families to begin the celebrations right at home by starting with a family tree to discover interesting information about heritage, and hopefully get a history lesson along the way. The website also encourages families to host a fiesta in their neighborhood to have neighbors and friends join in the celebration.

The official kick-off for festivities in Nashville will be on September 19th at 5:30pm at Belmont University. The program will include the reading of a proclamation from the Nashville Mayor’s Office for Hispanic Heritage Month, culinary dishes from Hispanic countries and live music.

Also on September 19th, the Nashville Jazz Orchestra will perform at Vanderbilt University in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month at the Blair School of Music.

Conexión Américas will be honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with its annual celebration at the Cannery Ballroom on September 28th at 6pm. The event will include a ceremony to honor young Latino writers from local high schools for their winning entries in the annual “My Hispanic Roots, My American Dream” essay contest. This will be followed by a fiesta at 7pm with live music, authentic Hispanic food and other entertainment.

The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is planning to host its 9th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Business and Community Excellence Awards on October 15th to close out the month’s celebrations, at the Waller Law Office in the Nashville City Center building.

DRUG-FREE SOUTH WORKING FOR A HEALTHY, HAPPY TENNESSEE

Drug-Free South is working to eradicate the demand for drugs in Tennessee and so establish health and happiness for all citizens.

When she began working with Drug-Free South, Ann Vallieres had no concept of how far she could take her message. “I wanted to help my own county because I had heard of the drug problems, but once I started I actually realized I had to help students everywhere.”

Vallieres now takes this message to students all across Tennessee and has been providing seminars along with her husband since 2009.

Drug-Free South is a chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, based in Los Angeles, California, which provides educational tools to help students learn the truth about drugs. The Foundation provides a booklet which covers common street names of drugs, short and long term effects as well as myths that a dealer might say to make the sale. It also provides an in-depth documentary of former users telling their story and an entire educational curriculum to help students understand what drugs really are.

“Students come up to me and thank me for giving them this information,” says Vallieres, “many have told me horrifying stories about what they have seen and they are so thankful that I am telling them the truth about drugs.”

Drug-Free South has visited 30 counties in Tennessee and has plans to visit the rest. Before the year is over, they will see students in Murfreesboro, Clarksville, Smyrna, Fairview, Wilson County and many more.

For more information or to schedule a seminar, visit www.drugfreesouth.org. 

Tennessee Human Rights Day Event Planning Committee Seeks Participant Agencies

Human Rights Day is celebrated each year in Tennessee on December 10th.

A committee composed of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association and others has begun meeting in preparation of the event and is now reaching out to additional organizations to contribute to the planning process.

“We’re involving organizations who work on domestic violence issues and human trafficking,” says committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler. “These are huge problems, right here at home in Tennessee.”

The event centers around the Human Rights Lifetime Achievement awards and the Rising Advocate Award. The Rising Advocate award is given to individuals who show great promise in the field of human rights, whereas the Lifetime Achievement goes to those who have worked for human rights the majority of their career.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information or to become involved with this year’s celebration, visit www.nashvillehumanrights.org.

Artlightenment 5th Annual Festival to Take Place this Fall

Visual artist Robyn Morshead decided to create an art show in 2009 with a special purpose: elevate the artist to elevate the culture. 

She has continued moving visual art to the foreground in the city of music through the Artlightenment festival, now in its fifth consecutive year. It was expanded in 2011 to include film about art, artists and the art of existence, which encouraged further collaboration between the worlds of filmmakers and visual artists of all kinds.

The festival will take place November 14-16 at the Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre in Nashville. Rev. Brian Fesler who pastors the church says, “It’s part of our mission to assist the artists in society. Artists have the power to uplift the culture, and society depends on their creativity.” 

In 2012 the film “Miracles on Honey Bee Hill” by Bob Pondillo won the Artlightenment award for Best Film. Pondillo won many other awards of the evening including Best Sound Design, Costume and Editing. “Molly and the Kids” by Raeanne Rubenstein won the overall Audience Choice award and was a resounding favorite. Carla Christina Contreras won the Audience Award for Best Actor or Actress. Holly Carmichael won the Best of Show Art prize.

The Artlightenment show also featured special presentations by successful artists. Filmmakers Daniel Lir and Bayou Bennett traveled from Los Angeles to give a talk called “The Art of Making a Successful Film.” Marlene Rose, an internationally known glass artist, spoke about and showed her documentary film “From Fire.” 

Morshead could hardly contain her excitement, “I really want all filmmakers and artists to learn and advance their careers and connections and to gain a new audience for their films and art.” Acceptable art submissions include paintings, mixed-media, photographs, sculptures and film. All submissions should be suitable for general audiences. Prospective participants may submit their film or artwork online at www.artlightenment.com.

Tennessee Human Rights Day Event Planning Committee Seeking Members

The committee planning Tennessee’s Human Rights Day celebration is looking for additional input and help in the planning process and is reaching out to like-minded organizations.

Human Rights Day is celebrated each year in Tennessee on December 10th. A committee composed of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association and others has begun meeting in preparation of the event and is now reaching out to organizations to contribute to the planning process.

“We have a great event every year,” says committee chair Rev. Brian Fesler, “and this year we are looking to involve more organizations, broaden the scope of the event.”

The day begins with a reception leading into a formal program which will feature key Tennessean speakers and awardees.

The celebration centers around the Human Rights Lifetime Achievement awards and the Rising Advocate Award. The Rising Advocate award is given to individuals who show great promise in the field of human rights, whereas the Lifetime Achievement goes to those who have worked for human rights the majority of their career.

To participate in the planning or to have a booth the day of, visit www.nashvillehumanrights.org.

Church of Scientology Community News: Mayor’s 5K Challenge

The Nashville Church of Scientology supports the good works of others. Today’s highlight: the Nashville Mayor’s 5K Challenge.

After learning that Nashville ranked among the unhealthiest cities in America, the Mayor’s Office of Nashville has issued a challenge to its residents to get healthy. The challenge: walk or run a 5K on November 17^th. The walk/run will begin at Public Square Park, outside the historic Metro Courthouse. The course routes will take participants through the streets of Downtown Nashville. Activities on the Public Square will begin at noon.

There will be a free eight-week training program to help walkers and runners prepare for the challenge, no matter the fitness level.

Because the Mayor wants everyone to participate, the walk/run will be free of charge. Metro Transit Authority will even waive the fee for anyone needing public transport to the event.

Advanced registration online is highly recommended but not required. On-site registration will be available at the event on Nov. 17, so walk-ups are welcome. The 5K is open to all ages and fitness levels. To register, or for more information, visit www.mayorschallenge5k.com.

Drug-Free South Impacts Thousands Across Tennessee

Drugs are a problem in all communities. According to the UN, an estimated 210 million people internationally consume illegal drugs. This is why a group in Tennessee has taken it upon themselves to educate children across the Southern United States on the subject, and thereby create a drug-free South.



Drug-Free South is the name of the local chapter of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World. Its volunteers have been educating students in and around Tennessee since 2009. So far, the group has visited 30 counties across the state, enlightening over 15,000 kids and adults, and distributing more than 50,000 booklets. Anne Vallieres coordinates the local chapter, and has no intention of stopping until each child has the truth. She says, “It is so important that we reach these young people.  They so need the truth before they get caught up in drugs.”



The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. According to drugfreeworld.org, “No one, especially a young person, likes to be lectured about what he or she can or cannot do. Thus, we provide the facts that empower youth to choose not to take drugs in the first place.”



Drug-Free South provides a “Truth About Drugs” booklet, an informational pamphlet that details short- and long-term effects of drugs, common street names and myths that a drug dealer might use to make a sale.  The Foundation offers educational materials free of charge to educators and anyone who wants to learn more about drugs.



For more information or to receive a copy of the booklet, visit www.drugfreesouth.org.

Agencies Work Together to Bring Tennessee a Celebration for Human Rights Day

It has been 65 years since the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. And in Tennessee, a group of organizations is working to ensure that no one forgets it. A planning committee composed of representatives of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association and others has been meeting in preparation of the anniversary of the day the declaration was signed, known today as Human Rights Day.

“We are working to educate those who don’t know about their rights,” says Chair of the Committee, Rev. Brian Fesler, who also pastors the Church of Scientology. “It has been sixty-five years, but most people have never even heard of the declaration, let alone the rights contained within.”

The event will begin with a reception and lead into a formal program which will feature key Tennessean speakers and awardees. The celebration centers around the Human Rights Lifetime Achievement awards and the Rising Advocate Award, given to individuals who show great promise in the field of human rights.
The event will be held December 10, 2013 from 4-6pm at the Sonny West Conference Center in the Howard Office Building, 700 2nd Avenue South in Nashville, Tennessee. There will be exhibits and a reception before the formal ceremony. The committee is still open to organizations who would like to be part of the planning process.

Please contact info@nashvillehumanrights.org for more information. For more information, visit www.nashvillehumanrights.org.

The Way to Happiness Participates in Health and Happiness Day in Nashville

The Way to Happiness participated alongside other non-profit organizations in the community to help spread knowledge and awareness about health and happiness this weekend in the Edgehill community.

Neighbors are fighting against lethargy and depression with Health and Happiness Day. “The purpose of Health and Happiness Day was to bring The Way to Happiness to communities in Nashville and educate residents,” says Rev. Brian Fesler who coordinates the local chapter of The Way to Happiness. The day included distribution of The Way To Happiness booklet to over 750 area resdidents, and a seminar by the local Chapter. Blood pressure screenings and information about the community garden as well.

The Way to Happiness is an international campaign for better living centered around the book of the same name by L. Ron Hubbard. It is comprised of 21 precepts which point out that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness is attainable. The book has inspired an international movement with over 95 million copies passed hand to hand in over 180 countries and territories, in more than 100 languages.

“The first thing the book teaches you is you have to take care of yourself,” says Rev. Fesler. “People came out, had some fun, and went home better off,”

For more information on The Way to Happiness, or to order a copy of the booklet, visit thewaytohappiness.org.

Church of Scientology Community News: Family of Abraham Creating Relationships Amongst Diversity

The Family of Abraham is a group of Nashvillians representing the Abrahamic Faiths of Christianity, Judaism and Islam, as well as other faiths. The group champions religious freedom and is dedicated to ending bigotry and intolerance through education. Currently the group is planning an event for August 22, meant to be a conversation about diversity. Randolph Lowry, president of Lipscomb University will be the guest speaker and will talk about "Creating Relationships in the Midst of Diversity."

Lowry's appearance signals the Nashville community's widening interest in engaging in dialogue and creating an accepting and tolerant city, according to Family of Abraham.

A panel of local human rights and religious freedom advocates will respond to Lowry's message. The panel is comprised of Dr. Amir Arain, Professor of Neurology for Vanderbilt University as well as President of the Islamic Center of Nashville; Caroline Blackwell, Executive Director of the Metro Nashville Human Relations Commission; and Steve Ivey, the CEO of Ivey Music International.

The event is planned for August 22 at 7pm at First Presbyterian Church on Franklin Road.

The Way to Happiness Plans Health and Happiness Day in Nashville

Neighbors are fighting against lethargy and depression with Health and Happiness Day. “The purpose of Health and Happiness Day is to bring The Way to Happiness to communities in Nashville and at the same time educate residents,” says Rev. Brian Fesler who organizes the local chapter of The Way to Happiness. “We feel it is our responsibility to pass the book along. It can uplift whole societies, reduce crime and encourage cooperation.”

The Way to Happiness is an international campaign for better living centered around the book of the same name by L. Ron Hubbard. It is comprised of 21 precepts which point out that one’s survival depends on the survival of others—without the survival of others, neither joy nor happiness is attainable. In the two decades since it was authored, the book has inspired an international movement with some 95 million copies passed hand to hand in 180 countries in more than 100 languages.

“Teaching positive values and a moral way of life has been out of vogue. It is time to bring back the higher standards of our great-grandparents, and we are working to do so,” says Rev. Fesler.

During Health and Happiness Day, residents will not only receive a copy of the booklet, but will have the opportunity to learn how to live healthier. “There will be blood pressure testing, nutritional information and more,” says Rev. Fesler. The first precept of the book is “Take Care of Yourself,” and, according to Fesler, this includes eating well, getting enough rest and receiving care when ill.

For more information on The Way to Happiness, or to order a copy of the booklet, visit thewaytohappiness.org.

Planning Begins for Tennessee Celebration of Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day is celebrated in grand style each year in Tennessee on December 10th. A committee composed of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Church of Scientology, United Nations Association and others has begun meeting in preparation of the event.

“Human rights as a subject is not being taught enough,” says Committee Chair Rev. Brian Fesler, who also pastors the Church of Scientology. “We are talking about the basic rights entitled to every man, woman and child, and people deserve to know their rights.”

The event will begin with a reception and lead into a formal program which will feature key Tennessean speakers and awardees. It centers around the Human Rights Lifetime Achievement awards and the Rising Advocate Award. The Rising Advocate award is given to individuals who show great promise in the field of human rights, whereas the Lifetime Achievement goes to those who have worked for human rights the majority of their career.

The committee is welcoming new organizations to participate in the planning or to have a booth at the event. For more information, visitwww.nashvillehumanrights.org.

Dianetics Makes Learning About the Mind Easy For Everyone

“What is the source of irrational behavior? How can you increase your mind’s potential?” Those are the questions that will be answered at an upcoming seminar hosted by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation in Nashville.

“We’ve been hosting weekly seminars for the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation for several years now,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology. “Our staff are very in tune with the mind, and know how to deliver the information so attendees get it.”

The book “Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health” is an in-depth look into the full realm of data about the inner workings of the mind. “People can take a course on this matter and learn more about the mind in a weekend seminar on Dianetics than four years of college,” says Fesler.

The book was first published on May 9, 1950, sparking a movement with newly forming Dianetics groups popping up across the country to use its techniques to better themselves, family and friends. Today, 63 years later, its impact is still felt around the world. The counselors of Dianetics are called “auditors” from the Latin word audire which means “to listen.” Auditors are trained in the subject of Dianetics to listen and, with precise questions, direct someone to uncovering the reason for life’s troubles.

For more information on Dianetics or auditing, visit dianetics.org or call the Foundation at 615-687-4600.