Tony Ortega's Blog, page 348
February 8, 2021
NARCONON SHRINKAGE: Scientology lists only five US locations as ‘Fresh Start’ is removed
In 2015 we reported that the entire Northern California Narconon rehab network had cut ties with Scientology, and some longtime Narconon critics were skeptical. But then we watched as Per Wickstrom’s Midwest centers also pulled out of Scientology’s network.
Rod Keller pointed out numerous times for us that while Narconon seemed to be in retreat in the US, David Miscavige was pushing for more centers overseas and a few new “boutique” rehabs in the US in places like Ojai, California.
Narconon’s downsizing in the US appeared to be the direct result of three patient deaths in a nine month period in 2011-2012 at Narconon Arrowhead, the flagship clinic in Oklahoma, and large number of lawsuits filed in the ensuing two years.
Well, recently we heard from Lucas Catton, the Narconon whistleblower who at one time was president of Narconon Arrowhead, and he told us he had heard that Narconon Fresh Start, a company based in Glendale, California that ran Scientology’s rehabs in that state as well as in Nevada and Texas, was in trouble.
At about the same time, we heard from reader Science Doc, who occasionally drives by Fresh Start’s main outlet in Warner Springs in San Diego County, and he reported that it had dumpsters outside as it seemed to be going through a major cleaning out.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Yesterday he went by and took the photo you see above: “Six or seven years ago they would have had about 18 private vehicles plus three or four of their vans. There’s no one outside on a 69 F sunny afternoon.”
We called the Fresh Start headquarters in Glendale last week and got a receptionist. When we asked if the Fresh Start location in Warner Springs was shutting down, she said that it was “going through changes,” but then said she wanted someone else to call us back. No one did.
However, just yesterday we went to the main Narconon website to see what locations they now list and found this surprising image:
Yes, Narconon itself is now listing only five US locations and has de-listed Narconon Fresh Start’s final locations, in Warner Springs, in South Texas, and in Caliente, Nevada.
In 2002, there were 21 Narconon locations in 14 US states.
Catton says that as recently as 2012 there were about 14 locations in the country.
He says he was surprised to see that only five locations are now listed on Narconon’s website, and he predicts that state and federal investigators have those remaining clinics in their crosshairs.
He recently put out a video explaining that a 2018 change in federal law put one of Scientology’s chief Narconon strategies in jeopardy: Paying commissions for referrals to drug rehabs is now illegal.
“I am certainly willing to bet that Narconon Suncoast [in Clearwater, Florida] has paid out FSM commissions to someone in the past three years, and likely one of the local church entities. Additionally, some other Narconons have probably paid commissions to one or more church entities locally in the past three years,” he says.
And are authorities listening? “I have personally reported it to law enforcement. I’ve spoken to some state investigators and I’ve reported it to the FBI. It’s going to have to be taken up on the federal level,” Luke says.
Here’s Luke’s video about the change in the law.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
At one time Scientology leader David Miscavige had major ambitions for Narconon. Its flagship clinic Narconon Arrowhead had plans for more than 200 beds for “students.” He had Scientology celebrities like John Travolta and Kirstie Alley praising Narconon and trying to give the impression that it would be able to make a dent in the country’s addiction problem.
But since the Oklahoma patient deaths and dozens of lawsuits, Miscavige pivoted to a very different strategy in the US, embodied by the upscale “boutique” clinic in Ojai, housed in Larry Hagman’s former hilltop estate, where only six beds for patients exist, small enough that it flies under any state regulation at all.
We have not heard much lately about its east coast counterpart, a new clinic that was being planned for Maryland at a place called Trout Run. We’d expect Miscavige will go through with it and expect that it will eventually join the list at Narconon’s website.
And even if Scientology has only five clinics operating today, they are still businesses built on deception that families looking for a clinic for a loved one should avoid at all costs. Narconon claims that it provides individualized drug addiction counseling in a safe environment and with medical staff on hand. None of those things is true. Narconon is actually a dangerous cold turkey regimen with quack medical ideas that gives addicts Scientology training, not drug counseling, and in an unsafe environment staffed by former addicts, not nurses or physicians. This has come out time and again in court case after court case.
Scientology relies on families being so desperate to get help for a loved one that they don’t take the time for a simple online search on the name Narconon. As long as any of them is still open, they pose a risk. We hope state and federal investigators take Luke Catton’s reports seriously and shut down the last remaining clinics.
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“You want to make a Clear Clear. You want to make somebody who won’t have any trouble with the Goals Problem Mass or any trouble with the bank from there on out, and all of his fondest hopes, and so forth. And of course, if you keep doing that in extremis and then straighten out the Whole Track, and take up all fragments of the Goals Problem Mass in their turn and handle all them, you’ll make an OT. You couldn’t help it. So you probably could make a Dynamic Clear or a Clear Clear, a stable, a very stable Clear by moving straight on through the Goals Problem Mass and getting these valences parked in their proper places on the Track so they’re not troubling the pc, and so forth. And he’d stay that way. It’s taken trillennia to get these things assembled into a black sponge. And it’ll take him more trillennia to get them back together again because it’s quite accidental that they remain in that weirdly balanced balance. You mean somebody has got a package that comes from 10 trillion years ago, beautifully poised and balanced against a package that came from 110 trillion years ago, and he’s got a 100 trillion year loop in the Goals Problem Mass. And these two things are opposing each other gorgeously. How does he do it? I ask you. Thetans are skilled, but I never expected them to be that clever. But they actually can do it.” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 8, 1962
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“MIMEO FILES FB: DOUG LEWIS is removed as I/C and demoted in the same unit for being unable to handle people and neglecting to study the project or clarify intention. Robert Williamson is restored to Mimeo Files I/C with orders to get the files set up. Doug Lewis, Robert Williamson, Mort Smithberg and Richard Bunnell are affected by this order. It is noted that Smithberg, a speed typist, should never have been assigned to this unit and should be replaced soonest. The project has no typing or stencil cutting duties. Its sole duty is to set up and to file all loose mimeos on the ship NOW, NOW, NOW. I haven’t seen such an enmest mess for a long while!” — The Commodore, February 8, 1971
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“The problem in the indie and Freezone field is an Ethics Situation developing into a catastrophe. The tools are assignment of High Crimes and putting heads on a pike to cool things out and build ethics with gradients.”
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2002: BBC News reported that Tom Cruise took time from promoting his latest movie to lobby the American ambassador to Germany on behalf of Scientology. “He met with US ambassador Dan Coats while in the country promoting his new movie Vanilla Sky with co-star and girlfriend Penelope Cruz. Germany refuses to recognise Scientology as a legitimate church, claiming it is a fake religion based on making money from its followers. Scientology was put under official scrutiny in Germany in 1997, followed by France which outlawed it as a cult. Following Cruise’s hour-long meeting with Mr. Coats the star signed autographs and chatted to embassy staff, who remarked on how friendly and patient he was. Mr. Coats later attended the German premiere of Vanilla Sky, but would not comment on the meeting.”
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“Stan Lee, Forrest J Ackerman and Hugh Hefner are the Holy Trinity of my adolescence.”
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
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Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, fraud: Charged in Brooklyn federal court on February 4.
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
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SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
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THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] War on wogs is hell: A peek inside Scientology right now, and it’s not pretty
[TWO years ago] USC: SCIENTOLOGY FAKED LETTER FROM PROFESSOR TO DISNEY, PROBE OPENED
[THREE years ago] David Palter, 1952-2018: Remembering a Scientologist who became a steady critic
[FOUR years ago] Ron Miscavige on life at Scientology’s secretive Gold Base (and getting thrown in its lake)
[SIX years ago] Ryan Hamilton’s plan to consolidate his lawsuits against Scientology rehabs is denied
[SEVEN years ago] Jon Atack on Scientology’s methods of ‘thought stopping’
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s Atlanta Drug Rehab Buys Its Way Out of Courtroom Nightmare
[NINE years ago] Scientology’s Gag Reflex: The Church’s History of Enforcing a Vow of Silence
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Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,206 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,710 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,230 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,250 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,141 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,448 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,316 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,090 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,894 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,210 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,776 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,695 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,863 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,444 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,705 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,743 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,456 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,981 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 336 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,511 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,062 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,211 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,531 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,386 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,505 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,861 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,164 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,270 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,672 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,544 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,127 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,622 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,876 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,985 days.
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Posted by Tony Ortega on February 8, 2021 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
February 7, 2021
Man down! Patriots lose another voice on Twitter as general confusion spreads
Some links to Q-related items today…
These are very confusing times for patriots.
Get the special QAnon rate at Trump International!
Oh no, not the dumbest man on the Internet!
The New York Times, doing everyone proud.
NEW YORK TIMES: "Mr. McInnes has since distanced himself from the Proud Boys."
MCINNES on Parler every day since the election: WE ARE THE PROUD BOYS!!! HAHA! FUCK YES!!! pic.twitter.com/3C5SUnSdsV
— Dell Cameron (@dellcam) February 7, 2021
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent recent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
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THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you’re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 7, 2021 at 9:15
Here’s Scientology’s 2021 Super Bowl ad: A pandemic-flavored ‘mystery sandwich’
So much has been different this year, but Scientology remains consistent and is serving up another mystery sandwich for the Super Bowl.
In a 1990s court case, Hana Whitfield testified that Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard had said in her presence, “To keep a person on the Scientology path, feed him a mystery sandwich.”
That’s exactly what Scientology’s Super Bowl ads are all about. You won’t learn a thing about what actually happens in a Scientology church, but you will get your inner pilgrim pandered to, grasshopper.
Since 2013, the church has bought local ad spots during the big game to show its slick ads. People in some markets see the ad during the long pre-game show and during the game itself, usually right after halftime and as the third quarter is about to begin. But it has appeared in other spots as well.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Here’s this year’s entry, titled ‘Be More.’ This is a 2-minute version, but what actually airs during the game will be 30 seconds or less…
In the wake of the unimaginable
In the shadow of uncertainty
In the face of fear
It’s time
To rediscover
Your hope
Your purpose
Your passion
Your potential
You
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Because no matter what we may face
Nothing is stronger than the human spirit
It’s the same narrator as ever, the same look, the same word salad that adds up to nothing.
And it never fails. Each year, we see viewers go completely nuts over the idea that Scientology has paid to run a short pitch on their TV screens.
Speaking of going nuts. No reaction to a Scientology Super Bowl ad was more attention-getting than Mr. Peanut’s classic Twitter take two years ago…
Watching the @Scientology ad like… pic.twitter.com/iCnkfmTS8l
— Mr. Peanut (@MrPeanut) February 4, 2019
Anyway, we expect a lot more incredulity tonight. You’d think people would be used to it by now. Eight years ago, for 2013’s Super Bowl, Scientology advertised during the game for the first time. Why then? Well, we agreed with Mike Rinder that it was probably a direct result of Debbie Cook asking, in court testimony in 2012, about the money that Scientologists were supposedly paying for publicity campaigns.
Cook was a top former church official and the questions she raised in a famous New Year’s 2012 email led directly to a large exodus of people leaving the church — and no doubt made Miscavige sit up and take notice. She seemed to have a good point: Scientologists are under intense pressure to fork over huge amounts of money that they are told will be used to “disseminate” Scientology to the larger public. But what did they have to show for it? Where were the TV ads or other means of getting the word out? Only a few months after Cook made that complaint, Scientology aired its first ever Super Bowl ad.
And fortunately for us, the result was seven more years of hilariously earnest TV ads that resulted in endless mocking on social media each year.
Again, for the press who makes this mistake every year, this is not a national ad spot that, this year, costs advertisers $5.5 million for a 30-second commercial. Scientology instead buys local advertising spots in select markets during the game. One expert told us they figure it costs the church about $1 million to do it that way. As usual, we’ll be watching Twitter to see where the ad shows if there is one this year.
In case you’ve missed them, here are the ads for the previous Super Bowls…
2013’s ad, “Knowledge”…
2014’s ad, “Scientology Spiritual Technology”…
2015’s ad, “Age of Answers”…
2016’s ad, “Who Am I”…
2017’s ad, “Your Full Potential”…
2018’s ad, “Curious?”…
2020’s ad, “It’s Time To Rediscover The Human Soul”
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Evan Rachel Wood reads the Bunker?
Like us, you may have been stunned by the allegations that actress Evan Rachel Wood has revealed against Brian Warner, a/k/a Marilyn Manson, accusing him of grooming her as a teenager and then putting her through years of abuse. It takes a lot of bravery to stand up and speak out the way she has, and it looks like authorities are taking her seriously.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});At her Instagram account, she has been posting relevant documents, and she’s also posted a lengthy Instagram “story” with her allegations. About halfway through that story, she posted this screen:
We were stunned, because we recognized it instantly. It’s a passage from a story here at the Underground Bunker, and comes from Leah Remini’s missing chapter from ‘Troublemaker’ about Tom Cruise.
Leah generously gave us that material, which lays out how Cruise was not only aware of abuse in Scientology, but was complicit in it and even directed some of it. The chief example, which Evan Rachel Wood quoted, was Cruise and Scientology blackmailing his former publicist, Pat Kingsley, threatening to release negative information about her if she spoke out after Cruise fired her.
We’re glad that Wood noticed it and included it in her story. Wow.
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“Evidently, it’s practically an affront not to be able to find out about something. Any time you want to go around wearing a bath towel with a Woolworth diamond on it and be a swami reading people’s minds, also take out a large insurance policy and get your burial arrangements straight. It’s probably why they hung Christ, if they did. That’s right. That’s right. If he was the Son of God, he should have been able to find out about all the orthodox malpractices. And he didn’t. And they hung him. They didn’t hung him. They crucified him. Common practice of the day. If he existed. It isn’t true that he led a good life, so they crucified him. You see, that wouldn’t be the right story. He should have found out about ’em and he didn’t, so you see they had to crucify him and that’s just about the way it would be. Now, if you go around telling everybody you can read their minds — I know this might get you lots of PCs for a little while — be sure at the same time that you go down to the Bide-a-Wee Cemetery and get yourself a nice quiet lot because probably you won’t have time a little while later. It’s very hard to buy a lot when you haven’t got a body to pull money out of the pockets of. But that’s about how it is, you see?” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 7, 1962
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“The rule that blown SO members may not work in orgs is now being fully enforced. This affects Durban and Asho. CS-1 should advise these and other orgs. Franchises employing them are instantly indebted $5000 to the SO for VIIIs and other sums for other training. One special permission exists for Chris Stevens on petition to work in Tech only in JBG org. SO members who do not return from leave are classified as blown. It is interesting that freeloader org and SO billings are paid when billed. It gives an avenue of conscience money. It is actually very cruel not to provide an avenue for redress of wrongs. But freeloader billings have to be billed regularly.” — The Commodore, February 7, 1971
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“Very seldom have I seen a couple ‘significance’ their way back to a sane 2D once it has broken down. No matter how many Dr. Phil shows are watched, Cosmopolitan magazines are pored over, or deep, endless analysis sessions of how nuts the other is with friends and family, it takes Scientology marriage counseling to as-is the mental masses and the crazy think embedded in them. Suddenly the ‘loved one’ that was being described in Satanical terms is now an angel who can do no wrong after the auditing.”
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2001: The San Francisco Chronicle published an article on Astra Woodcraft and her experiences in Scientology “Astra Woodcraft, apostate and defector, is the latest enemy of the Church of Scientology. Woodcraft, 22, never really joined this controversial psycho-spiritual movement, at least not as a free-thinking adult. Astra was born into it…Astra said her formal education stopped at age 9. Over the next few years, she was sent to a series of makeshift schools run by Scientologists. ‘There were no lessons, and hardly any books,’ she said. ‘Mostly, we just hung around.’ ‘We were only getting five or six hours a week,’ Astra said. When she was 14, young Woodcraft was recruited to follow her mother’s footsteps and join the Sea Organization. From age 14 to 19, she said, she was working from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., laboring for months without a day off, doing administrative work at the church world headquarter building in Hollywood. ‘Every week, you’re supposed to do more than the week before,’ she said. ‘You are in such a state of paranoia. All these kids are running around yelling at you. They’ll come up to you and yell, ‘What are you doing! Your statistics are down! What are your crimes?'”
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“The 49ers sucked so bad I was forced to turn to punk rock and hard drugs for entertainment. It’s all John Brodie and Scientology’s fault.”
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, fraud: Charged in Brooklyn federal court on February 4.
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
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SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
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THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Scientology will try to force Jane Doe in Miami child abuse case into ‘religious arbitration’
[TWO years ago] Scientology’s social media effort tries so hard to distract you from what’s really going on
[THREE years ago] Scientology officials from around the globe called to Florida for news of ‘Scientology TV’
[FOUR years ago] Great moments in Scientology journalism: When Alex Mitchell blew the lid off ‘Babalon Working’
[FIVE years ago] Yes, that was a Scientology ad you saw during the Super Bowl. Here’s what’s in it.
[SIX years ago] An L. Ron Hubbard island fantasy: The Scientology daydream you haven’t heard
[SEVEN years ago] REPORT: Man was hired to keep Shelly Miscavige from escaping Scientology base near L.A.
[EIGHT years ago] Jenna Miscavige Hill Continues Her Media Blitz; More Scientology News in Thursday Roundup
[NINE years ago] 5 Biggest Lies in Scientology’s 2-Minute TV Ad
[TEN years ago] Scientology in The New Yorker: Lawrence Wright Buries L. Ron Hubbard For Good
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Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,205 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,709 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,229 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,249 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,140 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,447 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,315 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,089 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,893 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,209 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,775 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,694 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,862 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,443 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,704 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,742 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,455 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,980 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 335 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,510 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,061 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,210 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,530 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,385 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,504 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,860 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,163 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,269 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,671 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,543 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,126 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,621 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,875 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,984 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 7, 2021 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
February 6, 2021
The unkindest cut: Gen. Mike Flynn breaks it to QAnon patriots that they need to get a life
Some links to Q-related items today…
Gen. Flynn revealed in an interview that there is no plan, and patriots are grappling with how hard not to believe him.
Mike Flynn crushed the hopes of Q followers with this 1 🤣🤣 #MyPillowGuy pic.twitter.com/Lc0JYAxMVi
— Drivenprogressive (@drivenprogres) February 5, 2021
Meanwhile, on the MTG beat…
It's my understanding that Marjorie Taylor Greene commented on her 9/11 conspiracy theory, but has yet to walk back her claim that Hillary Clinton murdered JFK Jr.
One can only assume she still believes it. https://t.co/YHoO4GbWqR
— Travis View (@travis_view) February 4, 2021
And on the local beat…
This is the most in depth scoop on City of Sequim, WA and its Qanon mayor. You have to start with the basics a group calling itself Save Our Sequim. Kudos to writer and editor Laura Bliss https://t.co/rcTO7sjmFo
— Rebecca Horst. (@purdylion) February 5, 2021
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent recent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
————-
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you’re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 6, 2021 at 9:20
VIDEO: Jon Atack talks to Mike Rinder about his first months aboard Scientology’s ‘Apollo’
I’ve spoken with more than a thousand Scientologists over the years, but Mike Rinder’s interview is the most vivid and appalling account of daily life aboard the ship run directly by Hubbard.
Mike Rinder was eighteen when he joined the flagship and international headquarters of Scientology at Lisbon in 1973. Mike was there to study Founder and Commodore Ron Hubbard’s elaborate system of statistical management known as the Flag Executive Briefing Course (FEBC).
Hubbard claimed to have devised the finest management system ever known. Through this elaborate method of statistical management Hubbard claimed that groups could achieve the “ideal scene.”
The flagship under Hubbard’s direct control is the best evidence that his management system was a fraud. Mike’s account shows that conditions aboard the Apollo were inhumane. While Hubbard raked in money, his followers were reduced to serfdom in complete violation of their civil rights.
Rather than studying the FEBC, Mike was immediately told that the Australian Scientology organization had traded him for a “mission” from the flagship. In reality, Mike had been trafficked in an act of modern slavery.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Conditions on the flagship were far from any “ideal scene.” Members of Hubbard’s “elite” Sea Organization lived in squalor packed into filthy, stinking dormitories and allowed only thirty seconds a day in the shower. Clothes were washed in buckets of sea water, and, as Mike says, the food was “garbage.”
In 1950, Hubbard claimed to have developed the first workable science of mental health. Aboard the Apollo, Hubbard “researched” his cure for psychosis, the Introspection Rundown. He decided that recovery would happen if a psychotic was completely ignored. In Hubbard’s mind, psychosis was just attention-seeking behavior.
Mike was tasked to ensure that silence was maintained outside the cabin where a crew member in the grip of a psychotic episode was imprisoned. This was the only “research” case for the Introspection Rundown, Hubbard’s purported cure for insanity. The subject for the research was actually off-loaded as soon as his psychotic break ended, without any follow up to see if he suffered further bouts.
However, Hubbard was exultant and made various claims about his new “technology”: “THIS MEANS THE LAST REASON TO HAVE PSYCHIATRY AROUND IS GONE [emphasis in original] … I have made a technical breakthrough which possibly ranks with the major discoveries of the Twentieth Century,” and, “Its results are nothing short of miraculous.”
Hubbard’s claims are belied by the McPherson case. In 1995, after 17 days on the Introspection Rundown, Lisa McPherson died at Scientology’s Florida base. She appears to have been held captive and there were ligature marks on her wrists and ankles. She had more than a hundred insect bites on her body. Scientology organizations deny any responsibility for her death.
After his Introspection Rundown “baby-watch,” Mike was sent ahead to prepare for the Apollo’s arrival at the island of Madeira. He gives his account of the famous “rock festival,” where locals attacked the ship with bricks and cobblestones and heaved crew motorcycles and Mary Sue Hubbard’s car into the sea. Mike was the only crew member left on the island and was lucky to escape unharmed. He describes the adventure in detail.
Russell Miller’s excellent biography, Bare-Face Messiah, relied upon Let’s Sell These People a Piece of Blue Sky, which is listed in his bibliography as “Hubbard Through the Looking Glass.” I chose that title because Scientology is very clearly the opposite of Hubbard’s public claims. Far from releasing mankind from trauma and granting self-determinism, Hubbard was actually inflicting trauma and robbing his most dedicated followers of their personal liberty.
This is one of the most fascinating interviews of my long career as a Scientology historian.
— Jon Atack
“I happen to be a nuclear physicist. I am not a psychologist nor a psychiatrist nor a medical doctor. To some degree, it was my responsibility that this world got itself an atom bomb, because there were only a handful of nuclear physicists in the thirties — only a handful. And we were all beating the desk and saying ‘How wonderful it will be if we discover atomic fission,’ because we decided that the thing to do with atomic fission was to go out and discover the stars, to make big passenger liners that would go ten times around the world on the same fuel. This was what we endeavored to do with atomic fission. The government stepped in and gave us three billion dollars. I had nothing to do with that program; I would not have had anything to do with the program. Three billion dollars to destroy all of man.” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 6, 1952
——————–
“If your parents or friends are the kind who worry about you, BE SURE AND WRITE THEM AN AIRMAIL LETTER regularly. Otherwise they give us DEV T by asking the government to check up on you to see if you’re all right. If uncertain about it, write them anyway. Also, if you haven’t written your family recently do so anyway. Otherwise they’ll think Scn put you OUT of communication. You can mail the letter straight from here.” — The Commodore, February 6, 1969
——————–
“Over the millenniums, thousands of religions, philosophies and mental therapies have been dissecting, explaining and advising us crazy critters — enough to fill libraries. Of the ones I’ve read, many have been interesting, some brilliant, insightful and helpful. And some destructive and others downright weird and incomprehensible (would someone please explain Deconstructivism?) However, NONE of these have gotten rid of the reactive mind, much less as-ised one lousy, bothersome mental image picture. That is until L. Ron Hubbard came along. In order to really fully understand and help a being, both mass and significance have to be understood.”
——————–
2000: Mark Bunker, filmmaker for the Lisa McPherson Trust, was attacked this week by a worker at the home of German Scientologist Gottfried Helnwein. “This morning Mark Bunker went with German film maker Peter Reichelt and Hans Michael Kassel, director of documentary film for the German TV station ARD, to Gottfried Helnwein’s house on Palm Bluffs Road, about a mile and a half north of 33 N. Ft. Harrison. Gottfried is a Scientology artist in Germany who has apparently been denying he is a Scientologist, and Peter and Hans Michael were here gathering documentary footage to prove he is an active Scientologist. As Mark was videotaping, a man ran out of Gottfried’s house and assaulted Mark with a hammer. He hit Mark’s camera twice but luckily did not hurt Mark, although Mark was extremely frightened and shaken when this man ran at him and struck him with a dangerous weapon. The man then went back into the front door of Gottfried’s house, and soon after that two police officers arrived. Mark spoke to Officer Kelly, and told him that a man had just assaulted him with a hammer and asked the officer if he wanted to see it on videotape. He asked Mark if he had informed the man that he was audiotaping him. Then Officer Kelly told Mark that he was going to arrest him for audiotaping the hammer-wielding man without his knowledge!”
——————–
“If I knew I was going to live this long, I would have tried even harder to destroy myself.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
— David Gentile, GPB Capital, fraud: Charged in Brooklyn federal court on February 4.
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
——————–
SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Scientology OT8 dentist closes office while patients confront him about their cash
[TWO years ago] Scientology TV wins a boatload of awards, and is the ‘fastest-growing TV network in history’!
[THREE years ago] Scientology spies coming forward to spill their guts, then and now: A key example from the past
[FOUR years ago] L. Ron Hubbard’s daughter — the one he wanted to disappear — surfaces online
[FIVE years ago] ‘Are you 100 percent American?’ — ‘Ross & Carrie’ investigate joining Scientology
[SIX years ago] Scientology vs. the mayor: The full Gabe Cazares interview from 1997’s Secret Lives
[SEVEN years ago] The BBC’s John Sweeney gives us another glimpse of creepy Scientology intimidation
[NINE years ago] Scientology’s Secret Vaults: A Rare Interview With a Former Member of Hush-Hush “CST”
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,204 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,708 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,228 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,248 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,139 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,446 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,314 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,088 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,892 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,208 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,774 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,693 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,861 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,442 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,703 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,741 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,454 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,979 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 334 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,509 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,060 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,209 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,529 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,384 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,503 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,859 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,162 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,268 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,670 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,542 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,125 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,620 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,874 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,983 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 6, 2021 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
February 5, 2021
Patriots ponder the Super Bowl and hold on to hope, CNN has fun new QAnon footage
Some links to Q-related items today…
Can patriots keep the faith as so many predictions fail?
Patriots prepare for Sunday’s big game by trying to decode its numerical significance. You’ll love where they end up…
The MyPillow guy wants you to watch his new movie or the world will end.
So a majority find the Q scenario at least plausible. A majority.
Before the riot, a meeting…
NEW: Inside a QAnon meeting in Arizona.
Some attendees went on to DC on January 6th. One is in jail. Another's home has been raided by the FBI. pic.twitter.com/dOI0Ro7Dkf
— Donie O'Sullivan (@donie) February 5, 2021
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent recent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
————-
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you’re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 5, 2021 at 9:20
Judge to Valerie Haney: You need to get this Scientology ‘arbitration’ underway
On Tuesday, a hearing took place at Los Angeles Superior Court in Judge Richard Burdge’s courtroom that had been scheduled a year earlier, when the judge first derailed Valerie Haney’s lawsuit against the Church of Scientology and told her to take her complaints to Scientology’s internal “religious arbitration.”
He made that decision on January 30, 2020, and then scheduled a “post-arbitration” hearing for February 2, 2021, expecting that by that date the arbitration would have been completed.
Instead, over the last year Valerie has been fighting Burdge’s decision, first by filing a motion for reconsideration that Burdge rejected, and then by filing a petition for a writ of mandate with an appeals court, and when that failed a request for review with the state supreme court. That too was rejected.
So Valerie’s been busy. But on Tuesday, Judge Burdge, according to his minute order, informed her attorneys that it’s Valerie’s responsibility to get the religious arbitration going, putting it on her to get it done. He then moved the post-arbitration hearing out six months, to August 2.
OK, now this is getting kind of scary, and let us explain why.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Scientology first came up with its religious arbitration gambit in a 2013 fraud lawsuit filed by former church members Luis and Rocio Garcia. In March 2015 Tampa federal Judge James Whittemore granted Scientology’s motion for arbitration, denying the Garcias right to trial.
And then, nothing happened.
We were covering the story closely at the time, and we can tell you that neither Judge Whittemore nor Scientology pressed the matter after the Garcia lawsuit was derailed.
It was the Garcias themselves who finally got the ball rolling on arbitration about a year later. According to Scientology’s supposed rules for arbitration, the first step would require the Garcias to select an arbitrator who was a member of the church in good standing. (Scientology would then select an arbitrator, and the first two arbitrators would select a third. All three had to be church members in good standing.)
The Garcias went through that process without the help of their attorneys; according to Scientology rules, they could only communicate with Scientology’s “International Justice Chief” Mike Ellis, who made the decisions about which members could serve as arbitrators.
Although they were under no pressure to do so, the Garcias decided to start the process in order to expose what a sham it was. And for months they tried to find a Scientologist who would agree to be an arbitrator that the church actually approved of. As the process failed time and again, they went back to the judge in the hopes that he’d cancel his order and get the lawsuit back on track. Instead, Whittemore surprised everyone by announcing that he would take over the selection process himself and chose three arbitrators. (And that’s one of the issues in the appeal that the Garcias filed after they went through the arbitration. It was also what the justices in the Eleventh Circuit seemed most interested in: How did Whittemore have the authority to take over the process of choosing arbitrators in a ‘religious arbitration?’ The Garcias are still waiting for an answer on that appeal, which was filed more than two years ago; oral arguments were held in July.)
In the case of the Garcias, it was pretty obvious that Scientology was glad to have the lawsuit derailed and didn’t intend to press the arbitration itself. If the Garcias hadn’t taken the initiative to start the arbitration, we have doubts that it would have happened at all.
But that’s not the case this time.
Tuesday’s court order shows that Judge Burdge is actively pressing Valerie Haney to get the ball rolling and start the arbitration, something she has said publicly she doesn’t want to do.
It’s Valerie’s contention that she was abused by Scientology and that she signed the agreement locking her into arbitration in part because an armed guard was present in the room when she was asked to sign it. Going through Scientology’s arbitration would be like crawling back to her abuser.
But Judge Burdge has not just denied her the right to trial, he’s now pressuring her to go through Scientology’s sham internal court. And she’ll have to negotiate the process personally with Mike Ellis, and without the involvement of her attorneys, like the Garcias did.
We’ll try to figure out how she’s going to respond.
——————–
“I don’t say that you could walk up to the tomb of Alexander and bring Alexander back into the tomb and have him knock the dust together again and resurrect. See, I don’t say that you could do this. But I don’t say you can’t.” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 5, 1957
——————–
“The demands for books to meet increased org activity generated by the FEBCs returning is a subject of concern. Pubs Org fell low in income after mid-1970 and has not recovered and is travelling at a non-viable level now reflected in its crossed Cash-Bills. Non E has been assigned with a Liability Condition in the offering and a general rocket has been set. A strong US center is being urged by me, an order not fully carried out a long time ago. Measures will have to be taken. Eval in Data Bureau should get to work on its WHY. There was a spectacular stat change in mid 1970 after which no recovery.” — The Commodore, February 5, 1971
——————–
“The risk we are running now is dispersal and distances. All around the planet there are many people who want to do something. But there should be focus points so that those people get contacted and into communication. We have had very bad examples of that in the past. Insanity reigned. I believe now we have the chance and freedom to do it right. This is the ultimate test. There is nothing impeding us anymore. We are many and we are more sane now. On top of it there is no Suppressive over us. We have to just organize this in the fullest sense of the meaning. Organization is not bad. For some, it got a bad name because of Miscavige. But those did not know their LRH on Organization. Organizing is a beautiful thing and it helps human beings regain their pride. Being on one’s own is just effort and there is no pride there except for the insane: ‘Look, I am doing it all by my own.’ LRH was sane enough to understand that the forward progress of Scientology depends on sane organizations applying and promoting the Tech.”
——————–
1999: The Associated Press reported this week that Heber Jentzsch, president of the Church of Scientology International, predicts growth and acceptance in Europe. “The Los Angeles-based church created by late science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard has been persistent in attempts to become recognized as a legitimate religion, said the Rev. Heber Jentzsch, president of Church of Scientology International. ‘There is a shift,’ he said. ‘Scientology has become visible. It will happen in the next five years, maybe 10 years.'”
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
——————–
“The one thing that LRH and D.M. have elevated to a fine art is cheapness. I heard stories about J. Paul Getty when I was a kid and he had nothing on these guys.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
David Gentile, GPB Capital, fraud: Charged in Brooklyn federal court on February 4.
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
——————–
SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[ONE year ago] Scientology provides all the proof you need that Narconon is more than ‘tied’ to it
[TWO years ago] Tonight, Leah Remini looks at Scientology’s ultimate prize: The protections of tax exemption
[THREE years ago] Best reactions to last night’s Scientology Super Bowl ad, which asked, ‘Curious?’
[FOUR years ago] Scientology’s 2017 Super Bowl ad, ‘Your Full Potential,’ is another mystery sandwich
[FIVE years ago] Scientology is the bomb diggety, and here’s proof, starring Leah Remini’s husband!
[SIX years ago] SCIENTOLOGY DENIED: Australia’s only Narconon rehab center loses zoning fight
[SEVEN years ago] The secret of everything? It’s time for Scientology’s Original Operating Thetan Level Five!
[EIGHT years ago] Jenna Miscavige Hill on her Uncle, Scientology’s Leader: A Bully Too Afraid to Show His Face
[NINE years ago] Scientology Sunday Funnies: The Denver Miracle!
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,203 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,707 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,227 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,247 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,138 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,445 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,313 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,087 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,891 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,207 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,773 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,692 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,860 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,441 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,702 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,740 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,453 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,978 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 333 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,508 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,059 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,208 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,528 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,383 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,502 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,858 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,161 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,267 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,669 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,541 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,124 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,619 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,873 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,982 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 5, 2021 at 07:00
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
February 4, 2021
Scientologist David Gentile charged by feds in $1.8 billion Ponzi-like fraud scheme
For months Jeffrey Augustine has been telling us about wealthy Scientologist David Gentile, a money manager who had lost his investors a lot of money at GBP Capital.
When a company employee was charged last summer, we wondered if an ongoing investigation was going to ensnare Gentile himself, the company’s chief executive.
Well, this afternoon New York Attorney General Letitia James announced that Gentile and two of his associates have been charged with running a $1.8 billion scam. The US Department of Justice press release about the charges can be seen here.
Here’s Reuters on the announcement:
David Gentile, the chief executive of GPB Capital Holdings LLC, was accused of using new money to repay earlier investors, and together with his co-defendants siphoning millions of dollars to pay themselves and fund luxury expenses, including a Ferrari for Gentile.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Authorities said more than 17,000 retail investors were taken in by promises that GPB would provide consistent 8% annual returns plus occasional “special” distributions.
Criminal charges were also brought against Jeffry Schneider, the owner of GPB’s placement agent Ascendant Capital, and Jeffrey Lash, a former GPB managing partner.
We’ve reached out to Jeffrey to get his thoughts on this amazing development.
Will you look at that, another criminal prosecution of a wealthy Scientologist. Add it to the pile.
Gentile and his family are associated with the New York Scientology org, where a church publication recognized them for their large donations.
Here’s the indictment itself…
US vs David Gentile: Indict… by Tony Ortega
And the SEC complaint…
SEC vs David Gentile: Complaint by Tony Ortega on Scribd
——————–
“Scientology is liable to be around for a long time, because that really isn’t a split terminal. Somebody’d have to dream one up which ran a parallel to get a total throw-out of the subject called Scientology. But then it throws itself out, which is the only thing that makes it safe to have around. Probably the only subject on Earth today which solves itself without liability or continuance of itself, which is quite interesting. It’s a safe subject.” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 4, 1957
——————–
“Odd time of the year to speak about Christmas. But in this case it’s a statistic. Public Popularity increase over the world was very marked this last Christmas. The general public response was up very nearly 35% over previous years. The volume of public cards to me personally would indicate an increased popularity of Scientology by a full third! Gifts were 40 – 45% higher than in previous years. While it was a joy hearing from so many at the time, now in retrospect, it can be viewed as confirming a general public upsurge. My hard working personal staffs here and in other areas were impressed with the increase. In previous years it was already enormous. My staffs work for many weeks after Christmas caring for the flow, the address corrections and tabulations and do an excellent job of it. So the full picture is now in and the fact emerges. Public Popularity has increased a full third.” — The Commodore, February 4, 1971
——————–
“Is religion and spirituality all part of the trap to keep us down involved in MEST as we appear to be? Auditing is the only answer to get rid of charge. It is that which holds us trapped and doing crazy things. If we wait until we can do it perfectly, we won’t ever do it. A lot of engrams got run from those who simply read DMSMH and did it even poorly. If we fight the Corp Church we take our eyes off the ball, create a game and problem that will hang in time and achieve nothing. Let’s just get on with clearing the planet. The church tells us to be careful: That’s suppression. LRH gave us a gift. Let’s get busy and use it. It is the most fun you can have.”
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
——————–
1998: The UK newspaper Express on Sunday carried an article on a wealthy Saudi Arabian woman who has turned to Scientology. “Her billionaire father was once the richest man in the world and she has everything she could ever need. She had a mink coat at the age of three and luxury homes all over the world. But for Nabila Khashoggi, daughter of the Saudi Arabian arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi, money did not bring happiness. Now after leaving London for Los Angeles, she has become even deeper involved in the Church of Scientology. The 35 year old mother says the much-derided Scientology has helped her find fulfillment and ‘handle problems in my life.’ She claims her colourful family — her mother Soraya is said to have a reckless appetite for lovers and in 1989 her father was imprisoned in Switzerland accused of fraud — all approve of her decision.”
——————–
“Raining on other people’s parades is one of my specialties.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
——————–
SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[TWO years ago] Mark Bunker: Clearwater’s Officer (now Chief) Slaughter oversaw the Scientology detail
[THREE years ago] Are you Sci-Curious? Here’s Scientology’s 2018 Super Bowl ad
[FOUR years ago] Scientology’s Super Bowl ad: Here’s your sneak peek at what it’s going to be like
[FIVE years ago] When David Miscavige was riding high with ‘The Basics’ — Scientology’s 2008 New Year’s event!
[SIX years ago] LEAH REMINI IN TALKS TO SUE SCIENTOLOGY: MIKE RINDER TESTIMONY
[SEVEN years ago] It’s a make-or-break day for Monique Rathbun vs Scientology in a Texas courtroom
[EIGHT years ago] Best Twitter Reactions to Scientology’s Super Bowl Ad
[NINE years ago] Scientology Wants It Both Ways: The Church’s Opposite Legal Strategies In Florida and Texas
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,202 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,706 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,226 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,246 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,137 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,444 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,312 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,086 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,890 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,206 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,772 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,691 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,859 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,440 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,701 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,739 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,452 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,977 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 332 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,507 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,058 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,207 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,527 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,382 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,501 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,857 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,160 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,266 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,668 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,540 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,123 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,618 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,872 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,981 days.
——————–
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 4, 2021 at 13:10
E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter. We also post updates at our Facebook author page. After every new story we send out an alert to our e-mail list and our FB page.
Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
Kevin McCarthy has never heard of QAnon, and other tall tales before the storm
Some links to Q-related items today…
Parler’s CEO gets the boot, and patriots are all over him.
The state of the American right: Newsmax anchor @gregkellyusa had to walk back his criticism of the Myanmar coup because too many of his fans support military coups. Kelly is now coup-ambivalent. pic.twitter.com/qdXmae9ifo
— Will Sommer (@willsommer) February 4, 2021
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy pretends he’s never heard of QAnon…
Kevin McCarthy defending Marjorie Taylor Greene by pretending he's never heard of qanon is a pretty good illustration of where the GOP is. https://t.co/cDbbdZsOzg
— Adrenochrome Harvester (@ClenchedFisk) February 4, 2021
…and Travis View busts him:
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent recent article at New York magazine as a place to start.
————-
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you’re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.
Posted by Tony Ortega on February 4, 2021 at 9:10
Ted the tour guide called ‘bigoted hate group’ by Scientologist city board member
Well that didn’t take long. On Tuesday we told you about Ted Reinhard, the Clearwater, Florida tour guide who has decided to start offering guided walking tours of the city’s creepy downtown, which is dominated by the Church of Scientology and it’s “spiritual mecca,” the Flag Land Base.
“Cult City Tours,” Ted calls it, and his idea was a big hit with our readers. After some test groups, Ted began his business in earnest this week.
And last night, he decided to introduce himself and his business to Clearwater’s Downtown Development Board which is, gulp, dominated by Scientologists.
City councilman Mark Bunker is an advisory member of the board, and he alerted us last night that Ted had spoken to the group. He put together a video cut of the city’s recording.
What you’ll see is Ted introduce himself and his new business, and emphasize how it would be bringing paying customers downtown. He pointed out, for example, that he’s timing his tours to take place from 10 to 11:30 am so that when it’s done, his customers will be ready to spend money on lunch in local restaurants.
Advertisement(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Just what a development board wants to hear, right?
Well, after a long silence, Bunker himself spoke up to thank Ted, saying that his new company is a great idea. And why not, it was Bunker himself who had first suggested that Clearwater might take advantage of Scientology’s presence to turn it into a tourist attraction.
But board chair Paris Morfopoulos, who is a Scientologist and the owner of One Stoppe Shoppe, a well known local store, wasn’t happy, calling Ted’s company a “bigoted hate group” and a “front.” Check it out and let us know what you think:
Morfopoulos: OK, I would just like to make one comment, if I may, one comment about that particular group. Lest anybody be deceived, it’s not a new business. It’s basically a front for a bigoted hate group. I’ve already had tours come by my store, where my name is called out and I’m being defamed, my store is being pointed out as a target. It’s happened twice already. This is basically a front for an anti-Scientology group. So let’s, you know, all this smiles and friendly stuff, it’s a front. Please don’t be deceived. No, you don’t have permission to respond. But I just wanted to say, please don’t be deceived by the friendly, the apparent friendliness. That’s not what this is about. This is strictly a bigoted hate group trying to promote divisiveness in our downtown. And that’s all I have to say about it.
Ted Reinhard responds:
Let’s just say the response we received from the Board was a kilo of 100 percent pure Cult City Crazy! Bring tourists downtown by the hundreds each week to shop and dine… we’re bigots. Offer to volunteer for downtown events… we’re a hate group. Tour guide points in the direction of his shop… he’s being targeted. Smile and be friendly… we’re promoting divisiveness. He didn’t start yelling “LIES!!” and speaking in tongues while writhing on the floor, but there’s always next month’s meeting.
——————–
Bonus items from our tipsters
Grifters gonna grift…
“Scientology is liable to be around for a long time, because that really isn’t a split terminal. Somebody’d have to dream one up which ran a parallel to get a total throw-out of the subject called Scientology. But then it throws itself out, which is the only thing that makes it safe to have around. Probably the only subject on Earth today which solves itself without liability or continuance of itself, which is quite interesting. It’s a safe subject.” — L. Ron Hubbard, February 4, 1957
——————–
“Odd time of the year to speak about Christmas. But in this case it’s a statistic. Public Popularity increase over the world was very marked this last Christmas. The general public response was up very nearly 35% over previous years. The volume of public cards to me personally would indicate an increased popularity of Scientology by a full third! Gifts were 40 – 45% higher than in previous years. While it was a joy hearing from so many at the time, now in retrospect, it can be viewed as confirming a general public upsurge. My hard working personal staffs here and in other areas were impressed with the increase. In previous years it was already enormous. My staffs work for many weeks after Christmas caring for the flow, the address corrections and tabulations and do an excellent job of it. So the full picture is now in and the fact emerges. Public Popularity has increased a full third.” — The Commodore, February 4, 1971
——————–
“Is religion and spirituality all part of the trap to keep us down involved in MEST as we appear to be? Auditing is the only answer to get rid of charge. It is that which holds us trapped and doing crazy things. If we wait until we can do it perfectly, we won’t ever do it. A lot of engrams got run from those who simply read DMSMH and did it even poorly. If we fight the Corp Church we take our eyes off the ball, create a game and problem that will hang in time and achieve nothing. Let’s just get on with clearing the planet. The church tells us to be careful: That’s suppression. LRH gave us a gift. Let’s get busy and use it. It is the most fun you can have.”
——————–
1998: The UK newspaper Express on Sunday carried an article on a wealthy Saudi Arabian woman who has turned to Scientology. “Her billionaire father was once the richest man in the world and she has everything she could ever need. She had a mink coat at the age of three and luxury homes all over the world. But for Nabila Khashoggi, daughter of the Saudi Arabian arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi, money did not bring happiness. Now after leaving London for Los Angeles, she has become even deeper involved in the Church of Scientology. The 35 year old mother says the much-derided Scientology has helped her find fulfillment and ‘handle problems in my life.’ She claims her colourful family — her mother Soraya is said to have a reckless appetite for lovers and in 1989 her father was imprisoned in Switzerland accused of fraud — all approve of her decision.”
——————–
“Raining on other people’s parades is one of my specialties.”
——————–
Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker
Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Masterson arraigned Jan 20. Next conf to set prelim, March 24.
— Jay and Jeff Spina, Medicare fraud: Jay’s sentencing delayed to March 2.
— Hanan and Rizza Islam and other family members, Medi-Cal fraud: Trial scheduled for May 20 in Los Angeles
Civil litigation:
— Luis and Rocio Garcia v. Scientology: Oral arguments were heard on July 30 at the Eleventh Circuit
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ Petition for writ of mandate denied Oct 22 by Cal 2nd Appellate District. Petition for review by state supreme court denied Dec 11.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson: Dec 30, Judge Kleifield granted Scientology’s motions to compel arbitration. March 8: Status conference.
— Matt and Kathy Feschbach tax debt: Eleventh Circuit ruled on Sept 9 that Feshbachs can’t discharge IRS debt in bankruptcy. Dec 17: Feshbachs sign court judgment obliging them to pay entire $3.674 million tax debt, plus interest from Nov 19.
— Brian Statler Sr v. City of Inglewood: Second amended complaint filed, trial set for Nov 9, 2021.
Concluded litigation:
— Author Steve Cannane defamation trial: Trial concluded, Cannane victorious, awarded court costs.
— Dennis Nobbe, Medicare fraud, PPP loan fraud: Charged July 29. Bond revoked Sep 14. Nobbe dead, Sep 14.
— Jane Doe v. Scientology (in Miami): Jane Doe dismissed the lawsuit on May 15 after the Clearwater Police dropped their criminal investigation of her allegations.
——————–
SCIENTOLOGY BLACK OPS: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks
The Australian Seven News network cancelled a 10-part investigation of Scientology and its history of dirty tricks. Read the transcripts of the episodes and judge for yourself why Tom Cruise and Tommy Davis might not have wanted viewers to see this hard-hitting series by journalist Bryan Seymour.
After the success of their double-Emmy-winning, three-season A&E series ‘Scientology and the Aftermath,’ Leah Remini and Mike Rinder continue the conversation on their podcast, ‘Scientology: Fair Game.’ We’ve created a landing page where you can hear all of the episodes so far.
LEAH REMINI: SCIENTOLOGY AND THE AFTERMATH
An episode-by-episode guide to Leah Remini’s three-season, double-Emmy winning series that changed everything for Scientology watching. Originally aired from 2016 to 2019 on the A&E network, and now on Netflix.
SCIENTOLOGY’S CELEBRITIES, from A to Z
Find your favorite Hubbardite celeb at this index page — or suggest someone to add to the list!
Other links: Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?
——————–
THE WHOLE TRACK
[TWO years ago] Mark Bunker: Clearwater’s Officer (now Chief) Slaughter oversaw the Scientology detail
[THREE years ago] Are you Sci-Curious? Here’s Scientology’s 2018 Super Bowl ad
[FOUR years ago] Scientology’s Super Bowl ad: Here’s your sneak peek at what it’s going to be like
[FIVE years ago] When David Miscavige was riding high with ‘The Basics’ — Scientology’s 2008 New Year’s event!
[SIX years ago] LEAH REMINI IN TALKS TO SUE SCIENTOLOGY: MIKE RINDER TESTIMONY
[SEVEN years ago] It’s a make-or-break day for Monique Rathbun vs Scientology in a Texas courtroom
[EIGHT years ago] Best Twitter Reactions to Scientology’s Super Bowl Ad
[NINE years ago] Scientology Wants It Both Ways: The Church’s Opposite Legal Strategies In Florida and Texas
——————–
Bernie Headley (1952-2019) did not see his daughter Stephanie in his final 5,667 days.
Valerie Haney has not seen her mother Lynne in 2,202 days.
Katrina Reyes has not seen her mother Yelena in 2,706 days
Sylvia Wagner DeWall has not seen her brother Randy in 2,226 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his grandson Leo in 1,246 days.
Geoff Levin has not seen his son Collin and daughter Savannah in 1,137 days.
Christie Collbran has not seen her mother Liz King in 4,444 days.
Clarissa Adams has not seen her parents Walter and Irmin Huber in 2,312 days.
Carol Nyburg has not seen her daughter Nancy in 3,086 days.
Jamie Sorrentini Lugli has not seen her father Irving in 3,890 days.
Quailynn McDaniel has not seen her brother Sean in 3,206 days.
Dylan Gill has not seen his father Russell in 11,772 days.
Melissa Paris has not seen her father Jean-Francois in 7,691 days.
Valeska Paris has not seen her brother Raphael in 3,859 days.
Mirriam Francis has not seen her brother Ben in 3,440 days.
Claudio and Renata Lugli have not seen their son Flavio in 3,701 days.
Sara Goldberg has not seen her daughter Ashley in 2,739 days.
Lori Hodgson has not seen her son Jeremy and daughter Jessica in 2,452 days.
Marie Bilheimer has not seen her mother June in 1,977 days.
Julian Wain has not seen his brother Joseph or mother Susan in 332 days.
Charley Updegrove has not seen his son Toby in 1,507 days.
Joe Reaiche has not seen his daughter Alanna Masterson in 6,058 days
Derek Bloch has not seen his father Darren in 3,207 days.
Cindy Plahuta has not seen her daughter Kara in 3,527 days.
Roger Weller has not seen his daughter Alyssa in 8,382 days.
Claire Headley has not seen her mother Gen in 3,501 days.
Ramana Dienes-Browning has not seen her mother Jancis in 1,857 days.
Mike Rinder has not seen his son Benjamin and daughter Taryn in 6,160 days.
Brian Sheen has not seen his daughter Spring in 2,266 days.
Skip Young has not seen his daughters Megan and Alexis in 2,668 days.
Mary Kahn has not seen her son Sammy in 2,540 days.
Lois Reisdorf has not seen her son Craig in 2,123 days.
Phil and Willie Jones have not seen their son Mike and daughter Emily in 2,618 days.
Mary Jane Barry has not seen her daughter Samantha in 2,872 days.
Kate Bornstein has not seen her daughter Jessica in 13,981 days.
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Posted by Tony Ortega on February 4, 2021 at 07:00
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Our new book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is now on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.
The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2020 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2020), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)
Other links: BLOGGING DIANETICS: Reading Scientology’s founding text cover to cover | UP THE BRIDGE: Claire Headley and Bruce Hines train us as Scientologists | GETTING OUR ETHICS IN: Jefferson Hawkins explains Scientology’s system of justice | SCIENTOLOGY MYTHBUSTING: Historian Jon Atack discusses key Scientology concepts | Shelly Miscavige, 15 years gone | The Lisa McPherson story told in real time | The Cathriona White stories | The Leah Remini ‘Knowledge Reports’ | Hear audio of a Scientology excommunication | Scientology’s little day care of horrors | Whatever happened to Steve Fishman? | Felony charges for Scientology’s drug rehab scam | Why Scientology digs bomb-proof vaults in the desert | PZ Myers reads L. Ron Hubbard’s “A History of Man” | Scientology’s Master Spies | The mystery of the richest Scientologist and his wayward sons | Scientology’s shocking mistreatment of the mentally ill | The Underground Bunker’s Official Theme Song | The Underground Bunker FAQ
Watch our short videos that explain Scientology’s controversies in three minutes or less…
Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates, or join us at the Underground Bunker’s Facebook discussion group for more frivolity.
Our non-Scientology stories: Robert Burnham Jr., the man who inscribed the universe | Notorious alt-right inspiration Kevin MacDonald and his theories about Jewish DNA | The selling of the “Phoenix Lights” | Astronomer Harlow Shapley‘s FBI file | Sex, spies, and local TV news | Battling Babe-Hounds: Ross Jeffries v. R. Don Steele
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