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Associated Press
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
A Look at the Value of Dystopian Fiction as Cautionary Lessons This Memorial Day
Final Blackout, by L. Ron Hubbard, is recognized as a forerunner of dystopian fiction, providing cautinary lessons for Memorial Day. 'Before dystopian fiction became a genre unto itself, 'Final Blackout' set the standard.'— A.G. Riddle, Author 'Atlantis Gene' LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, May 19, 2025 / / -- As we approach Memorial Day, we recognize the sacrifices many have made to guarantee our continued freedom as a country. It also provides a time to reflect and look at alternate futures that could have been if not for the dedication of our armed forces. L. Ron Hubbard penned ' Final Blackout ' as a three-part novel, which was published in the April - June 1940 issues of Astounding Science Fiction and became one of the most influential military science fiction works of the twentieth century. Science fiction is a very special genre of fiction. Its value is often as a cautionary tale, posing what-if questions with their potential outcomes. 'Final Blackout' is one such case and was considered by Robert A. Heinlein 'As perfect a piece of science fiction as has ever been written,' penned as it was well before any of the horrors of WWII ... yet predicting much of what transpired and even more of what could have come to pass.\ The novel's lasting appeal lies in its timeless themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the human spirit. Themes as relevant today as when first written 85 years ago. Hubbard served as a Lieutenant in the US Navy and, as a World War II veteran, was familiar with war and its oft-required ultimate sacrifice. And so, when 'Final Blackout' was republished as a novel in 1948‒after the completion of WWII‒ Hubbard added the following dedication, 'To the men and officers with whom I served in World War II, first phase, 1941-1945.' And in the 1948 newly written Preface, Hubbard opens with, 'When FINAL BLACKOUT was written there was still a Maginot Line, Dunkirk was just another French coastal town and the Battle of Britain, the Bulge, Saipan, Iwo, V2s, and Nagasaki were things unknown and far ahead in history.' [ Click here to read the Preface in full. ] Interestingly enough, science fiction thriller author A.G. Riddle ('Atlantis Gene') wrote, 'Before dystopian fiction became a genre unto itself, 'Final Blackout' set the standard. Hubbard's grim vision of a war-ravaged Europe remains as powerful and cautionary as when it first stunned readers decades ago.' Before becoming an international bestselling science fiction author, Craig Martelle ('Battleship Leviathan') spent over two decades as a US Marine, retiring as a Major. He wrote, 'Who has a soldier's best interest at heart? Who can protect them from the machinations of the political class? The Lieutenant is born into the role fighting through a dystopian world, taking unto himself the hardest task of all with the cold logic of military precision.' The Lieutenant, the central figure of Final Blackout, states as he meets with a delegation from the United States attempting to seize control of additional lands as the World War continues in a dystopian future, 'I am neither a politician nor a statesman; I am a soldier. I know nothing of the chicanery which goes by the name of diplomacy. But I learned long ago that there is only one way to rule, and that is for the good of all.' What makes Memorial Day so important is its recognition of duty, honor, courage, and sacrifice. 'Final Blackout' recognizes these principles while also making it clear what life would be like if we didn't have those individuals who made the right choice to protect their ideals and their country. Learn more about Lt. L. Ron Hubbard by visiting John Goodwin Galaxy Press +1 323-466-3310 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Hollywood Volunteers Transform Neighborhood for Earth Day: Butterflies Respond Immediately to New Gardens
LOS ANGELES, Calif., April 29, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — In a remarkable display of environmental stewardship, volunteers ranging from age 9 to 72 transformed parts of Hollywood this past weekend through a comprehensive Earth Day initiative inspired by the precept 'Safeguard and Improve Your Environment' from L. Ron Hubbard's common-sense guide, 'The Way to Happiness,' the Church of Scientology International announced today. The Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team implemented a unique three-pronged approach that went beyond typical Earth Day activities. Volunteers not only collected 50-gallon bags of trash from local streets but also restored a vandalized wildlife mural at Bronson Avenue and Carlos Street, returning the public artwork celebrating California's native species to its original beauty. Perhaps most striking was the creation of two butterfly gardens that showed immediate results. 'Within minutes of planting our first garden, we witnessed both cabbage white and skipjack butterflies arrive and land on the new plants,' said Rob Hoover, a local Scientologist who led the butterfly garden initiative. 'It was as if nature was thanking us in real time.' The second butterfly garden was planted at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre, featuring flowers near the waterfalls along with berry bushes and beneficial ladybugs to support the ecosystem. Hoover, who has established several butterfly gardens throughout Hollywood, also created an interactive 8-foot photo wall featuring monarch butterfly wings that allows visitors to appear as if they have wings themselves, with the message 'Help take care of the planet' prominently displayed. Throughout the day, volunteers distributed hundreds of copies of The Way to Happiness to neighborhood residents, sharing the practical environmental wisdom contained in the booklet. 'This Earth Day initiative demonstrates how simple, coordinated community action can make an immediate visible difference,' said a spokesperson for the Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team. 'When people come together guided by the principle to safeguard and improve their environment, transformation happens quickly.' For more information about future community improvement projects or to obtain copies of The Way to Happiness, contact [email protected]. LEARN MORE: VIDEO: PHOTO LINK FOR MEDIA: IMAGE CAPTION: The Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team, ranging from ages 9 to 72, gathers in front of the butterfly photo wall after distributing over 400 copies of 'The Way to Happiness' booklets throughout the community during their Earth Day celebration. MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: Linda Wieland +1-323-960-3500 [email protected] NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: Religion and Churches, The Way to Happiness, Earth Day celebration, Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team, Church of Scientology International, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Church of Scientology International) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P125826 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Associated Press
21-03-2025
- General
- Associated Press
The Way to Happiness Campaign Offers Common-Sense Solutions on the United Nations' International Day of Happiness
/ -- On this United Nations-designated International Day of Happiness, The Way to Happiness Foundation International is championing a grassroots approach to strengthening happiness in our communities and neighborhoods—one based on common sense. Through its 21 precepts offering a moral compass for living, The Way to Happiness book offers a practical, non-religious guide that unites people and fosters trust and kindness throughout our society. 'The values outlined in the Way to Happiness: A Common Sense Guide To Better Living align closely with theme of The World Happiness Report 2025 which focuses on 'caring and sharing'. On this International Day of Happiness, true happiness is emphasized not as a quick fix but as a way of life. It's built through our individual and collective actions and how we treat others. The Way to Happiness book offers a clear path, rooted in integrity, respect, and compassion.' stated Ludwig Alpers, President of The Way to Happiness Foundation International. As part of the organization's nationwide initiative, The Way to Happiness Foundation International, recently participated in the World Conference of Mayors annual gathering in Orlando, Florida. Working with mayors from across the United States to provide tools to raise the trust, competence and happiness levels of their cities, crucial indicators of thriving communities, partnerships were forged by The Way to Happiness Foundation to help achieve these qualities at every level in these cities. The values presented in The Way to Happiness book points the way for lasting happiness in our communities and in our personal lives. Precept 20 in the book: 'Try to Treat Others as You Would Want Them to Treat You' encourages individuals to practice benevolence, respect, and empathy in their daily interactions. By treating others with kindness and fairness, we help create a harmonious environment where happiness can flourish. Such virtues of honesty, love and tolerance are not just ideals, but actionable principles that lead to well-being and success in life. The International Day of Happiness was established by the United Nations in 2012, recognizing the importance of happiness and well-being as universal goals. Celebrated annually on March 20th, the day highlights the role that happiness plays in promoting human development, social progress, and sustainable economic growth. The Way to Happiness Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving communities worldwide by promoting character standards and providing individuals with practical tools to lead a better life. With its distribution of The Way to Happiness book written by author and humanitarian, L. Ron Hubbard, the foundation aims to uplift individuals by teaching them how to make positive choices that impact not only their lives but the world around them. The Way to Happiness Foundation has distributed over 138 million copies of The Way to Happiness book in 118 languages in 92 nations. Media Relations The Way to Happiness Foundation +1 323-775-9292 X Legal Disclaimer:
Associated Press
20-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Scientology Network Illuminates the Life and Legacy of L. Ron Hubbard
LOS ANGELES, Calif., March 20, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) –- L. Ron Hubbard's life is one of endless remarkable achievements. A bestselling author, his groundbreaking book ' Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health ' became the first definitive explanation of human thinking and behavior. His further discoveries on the subject of the human mind and spirit led to his founding of Scientology, the world's youngest major religion. Scientology Network features programs that celebrate his life and legacy including: To learn more about L. Ron Hubbard, go to Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018, launched by David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. Since then, Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization and presenting its Social Betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM and AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. LEARN MORE: VIDEO: IMAGE link for media: PHOTO CAPTION: L. Ron Hubbard © 2025 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved. TAGS: #ScientologyNetwork #LRonHubbard NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: Religion and Churches, Scientology Network, L. Ron Hubbard, Dianetics, LRH, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Church of Scientology International) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P124871 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
On This Day, Feb. 18: Snow falls in Sahara for 1st known time
Feb. 18 (UPI) -- On this date in history: In 1841, the first filibuster in the U.S. Senate began. It ended March 11. In 1865, after a long Civil War siege, Union naval forces captured Charleston, S.C. In 1930, dwarf planet Pluto was discovered by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. In 1954, the Church of Scientology was established in Los Angeles. L. Ron Hubbard, who founded the church based on his book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, died in 1986. In 1967, J. Robert Oppenheimer, the "father of the atomic bomb," died in Princeton, N.J., at the age of 62. In 1979, snow fell in the Sahara Desert in southern Algeria for the first known time. It fell a second time in 2016 and a third time in 2018. In 2001, Dale Earnhardt Sr., stock-car racing's top driver, was killed in a crash in the final turn of the final lap of the Daytona 500. He was 49. In 2003, nearly 200 people died and scores were injured in a South Korea subway fire set by a man authorities said apparently was upset at his doctors. In 2004, 40 chemical and fuel-laden runaway rail cars derailed near Nishapur in northeastern Iran, producing an explosion that killed at least 300 people and injured hundreds of others. In 2006, 16 people died in rioting in Nigeria over published cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad that enraged Muslims around the world. In 2008, two of four masterpieces stolen from the Zurich museum a week earlier, a Monet and a van Gogh, were found in perfect condition in the back seat of an unlocked car in Zurich. In 2013, eight men disguised as police disabled a security fence, drove two vehicles onto a Brussels airport tarmac and stole diamonds worth $50 million. In 2014, violence erupted between protesters and security forces in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev, eventually resulting in 98 dead with an estimated 15,000 injured and 100 believed missing. In 2021, NASA's Mars rover Perseverance made a robotic landing on Mars, starting a high-tech mission to hunt for signs of life in an ancient lakebed. In 2024, Fifty-five people died following an ambush in Papua New Guinea's remote Highlands region amid a years-long series of clashes among warring tribes.
