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Subject: The star treatment

1/31/2005

Robert Kirkham/Buffalo News

Actress Jenna Elfman was one of the celebrities who attended the ribbon-cutting for the new Church of Scientology building in Buffalo in November 2003.

When many think of the Church of Scientology, think of Tom Cruise. Or John Travolta. Or Jenna Elfman, who gave a star quality to the Buffalo church's grand opening in November 2003.

"Maybe Scientology makes you look better," laughed Kim Harman, a community organizer. "What other religion can promote their best-looking people as spokespeople?"

If Scientology is a cult, as critics say, then why are Hollywood stars drawn to it?

Critics say celebrities are shielded from the religion's dark side and pampered in the church's posh and exclusive Celebrity Centres.

But Jenna Elfman, who co-starred in ABC's "Dharma and Greg," told The Buffalo News in November 2003 that Scientology had provided her the answers she was seeking.

Like many Scientolgists, she said she had never read about criticisms leveled against the church or felt a need to.

"Scientology is so great for artists because it really allows you to be yourself," Elfman said.

"Before I heard anything bad, I read "Dianetics,' and it made a lot of sense to me. When I know something is true for me, it's my integrity, and I don't care what anybody says."

Elfman's comments echoed a popular Hubbard saying: "What's true for you is true for you."

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