News International and the death of ethics in journalism

Fresh allegations that private investigators paid by the News of the World hacked into the phones of families of victims of the 7/7 bombings as well as relatives of the girls killed in the Soham murders have plunged British journalism deeper into crisis.

The phone hacking scandal escalated on Monday when The Guardian reported the phone of murdered teenager Milly Dowler had been hacked and some of her messages deleted by an investigator hired by the News of the World while she was still missing.

Now, the Metropolitan Police have contacted the families of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, who were murdered by Ian Huntley in Soham in 2002, the same year as Milly Dowler, to say their phones might also have been accessed by the tabloid newspaper.

The House of Commons was due to discuss the developments in an emergency debate today (Wednesday) as a campaign for a public inquiry is launched in the House of Lords.

“What has happened is News International has built up a surveillance system that is more potent than anything the police have available. I’m very distressed by what’s happened, it’s appalling. It’s even worse that it has taken since 2002 to come to light,” says Duncan Williams, chairman of Independent News Ltd, the regional newspaper and magazine publishing company which operates a positive news editorial policy.

“Something has gone wrong and people are actually appalled by the latest allegations. It’s an outrageous abuse of the privilege of working in the media.”

In an exclusive interview with Seeker News’ online video channel, Mr Williams highlighted the serious implications for British journalism.

“The media today is going through huge changes, but this kind of activity is actually detrimental to freedom of speech. There’s nothing wrong in investigative journalists unearthing valid stories, without that we’d be an even more censored society, but it’s how that story is treated and relayed to the reader, the citizen or the viewer. Too often the story is scurilous or gossip and it’s hard to claim interest.”

Police have reportedly widened their investigation to include every high profile murder of a child since 2001.

David Cameron’s former director of communications Andy Coulson resigned earlier this year amid allegations that phone hacking was rife at the News of the World during his time as editor. His predecessor, Rebekah Brooks, who was editor during the Soham murders and Milly Dowler cases has said it was “inconceivable” she knew Milly Dowler’s phone was hacked and has refused to step down.

“Ford has already pulled its advertising from the News of the World and other companies like Halifax, Orange, nPower and T-Mobile are reviewing their position, this is having a major commercial effect on News International,” says Seeker MD Steve Cook.

“Newspapers need quality journalism, but they also need the support of advertisers and if they’re losing major clients then maybe it’s about time our newspapers had a close look at how they operate. When the Washington Post journalists Woodward and Bernstein broke the Watergate scandal they were acting in the public interest, ultimately protecting American democracy from a President who was lying.

“What possible comparable public interest is there in hacking the phones of murder victims and their families?”


Reprinted from the Business Page of SEEKER NEWS, 2011 (c) copyright.
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View the full length interview online. Photography by Steve Cook.

Vision Talk -

VISION TALK -

a report from the Alpha International Conference by Duncan Williams.

Nicky Gumbel was in engaging form at the Alpha International Conference, held in London at Holy Trinity Brompton from the 6th to 10th of June.

This was the first time I had heard the evangelical reverend speak in person; and was immediately impressed by a gift for simple delivery coupled with a powerful message.

Nicky's welcome to the many Catholics who had attend end the Conference for the first time was heartfelt, as was his introduction to his Vision Talk that openly acknowledged the benefits Christianity had gained from last year's Papal visit to the UK.

Through focus upon a reading from Isaiah 61:4; The Vision Talk went on to encourage those of us working in the media to inspire and unite and rebuild the communities, people and religions of the world. Using our media skills to build a bridge of communication towards a better understanding and peace.

Media is a message bearer, and the minds and spiritual vision of thousands can be enhanced by taking active responsibility for its appropriate use.

I was reminded that we are in a most privileged position to encourage transformation.


"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastate; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations" - Isaiah 61:4

Why Positive News Is Good For Us All

Why Positive News Is Good For Us All

Independent News Ltd. buys previously loss making newspapers and turns them into profit making entities that improve communications with local communities.

This is all done with the power of positive news. Positive news sells. Companies would much rather have their product or service advertised alongside an uplifting article that puts the reader in a good mood than an article about doom and gloom.

Positive Stories

What kind of stories do you like to read in the news?

Stories about success and celebration? Or stories about tragedy and the misfortune of others?

Most people would surely prefer to read uplifting stories that are well written and that aim to educate and inspire.

But unfortunately, when you take a look at your daily newspaper each morning, you may notice that the main headlines all focus on negativity.

Nowadays, column inches seem to be packed full of the woes of celebrities, the failures of politicians, the depressing overview of the economic climate. Even worse, these stories of gloom are often reported with an amount of glee on behalf of the journalist. The articles are often poorly written and do not educate nor inspire positive change in the life of the reader or society in general.

But wouldn’t it be nice to be greeted with an uplifting story about achievement, about something to celebrate, about something optimistic to get you in a good mood as you take on the day?

This is exactly what Duncan Williams, a Director on the board of Independent News Ltd., aims to achieve. He really does believe in the power of a good story.

“A good story does as it says on the tin; It reports a truthful, inspiring message. Maybe sheds a little light on some gloom... or draws attention to somebody or something worthwhile. The story's power lies in the fact that through its reporting it seeks to encourages more of the same” said Williams.

Improving Society With Positive Media

Duncan Williams hopes to increase the well-being of society with positive media.

“Marginalised elements of society often find it hard to access or express views in the mainstream media. Broadly speaking there is a trade in sensationalism and death. A tragic killing gets a mass of column inches and airtime, whereas the celebration of a human life gets far less. A birthday of a 100 year old citizen deserves as much, if not more attention, than the gleeful reporting of yet more doom and gloom. Coverage should always aim to be personal and real. Profiles of people should aim to help readers identify and feel a part of the story rather than apart from it. Ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.”

A good story does not necessarily have to be an uplifting story of celebration. A tragic story can also be a good story.

In the reporting of a tragic story the reader demands that there be a point and a purpose to the way the story is told. From a tragedy people can still learn something that will help them in life. A tragedy often brings out the best in people and highlights the inner strength of human beings, with communities pulling together during times of adversity.

Whether it be about a tragedy or a success, a good story is always about the celebration of human life.

“It's human nature to want a good motive to override a bad one; it's what best assists group survival” states Williams.

Good Stories Sell

A good story is also advantageous from a business perspective. Good stories sell.

With Independent News Ltd., Duncan Williams has found a winning business formula of purchasing previously loss making regional newspapers and fast tracking them into profit. By doing this he has built up a portfolio of titles launched specifically at improving communication within local communities.

Independent News Ltd. uses what is known as value advertising to turn the newspapers into profitable entities.

The concept of value advertising is to increase the number of positive and uplifting stories in newspapers to make it more appealing for companies to want to purchase advertising space alongside such articles.

Duncan Williams believes that advertisers would much rather have an ad for their product displayed next to a positive story than alongside a story full of gloom and negativity. An uplifting story will shed the product in a more positive light. The reader will also be in a more positive mood as a result of the story and thus more receptive to advertisements on the page.

“If you were a newspaper advertiser would you want to promote your product or service next to an article about something dark and negative or positive and uplifting? Positive wins through.” he said.

Creating A More Positive Society

Independent News Ltd. is about more than just profiting from uplifting stories. Duncan Williams believes that by offering more positive media, we can build a more positive society.

“When all focus is placed relentlessly upon the negative, true vision, faith and hope all get eroded. A new pair of glasses can remind people that the world can still be a very beautiful place even in the most difficult of times. Modern media can be that powerful.” he states.

Duncan Williams wants to see more stories about the celebration of human life. Stories that help readers identify and feel part of the story rather than apart from it. He believes that ten years of revised media attitudes could have a remarkably beneficial effect upon society.

The Future Of Positive Media

As Independent News Ltd. continue to turn around the fortunes of magazines and newspapers, the amount of quality content in the media is only going to increase.

In 10 years’ time you may well get to take a look at your morning newspaper and read a good story that not only informs you, but educates you, and inspires you, and enriches your life. Wouldn’t that make a nice change?

CityLife Magazine : Issue 18

Open publication - Free publishing - More bartercard

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THE SON - why not become a reader... or even a Partner?

THE SON - Additional tabloid evangelists are required to help bring about more positive news in our papers.

Plymouth born media entrepreneur Duncan Williams said he was 'immensely impressed and delighted' when he discovered a radical new red-top being produced in his home city.

Says Duncan; "As a former tabloid hack it really was an instant hit with me! The Son is a welcome broadside shot at all those negative news stories that seems to dominate our British press. I simply love this paper's outlook!"

Duncan and his company Independent News Ltd. have pledged to get hundreds of copies of The Son distributed on London streets in time for Christmas...

"This is a really great little paper and I hope more people will get to read it!"


Read All About It!

The Son is a proactive, provocative and uncompromising newspaper which aims to put Jesus back at the centre of society. Written and presented in an easy to read tabloid style, based on the UK’s biggest circulation newspapers, The Son is an ideal tool to reach believers and unbelievers as well. As well as exclusive news, showbiz and sport from the paper, we bring you some groundbreaking exclusives and insight from The Son’s brilliant team of columnists.

Mission Statement

We have a simple goal at The Son:

"To use what God has given us, to share him with others."

The Son doesn't belong to us… or even to you! It's God's and we will humbly obey him and serve him in this ministry for as long as he wants. If you love the Lord and The Son, get involved.

Son Evangelists Required!

If you think The Son is awesome and you want to get involved, here's how you can become a partner.

This is your paper and we’d love to offer you the opportunity to get more involved. We are looking to set up a network of people that can get involved in this growing ministry by promoting The Son in their church, village or area.

People ask us, “How can we get involved?” – well here’s 3 ways:

Prayer

We believe this is a great ministry that enables people to read about the Christian life in a relevant, interesting and non-patronising way. Please pray for those involved in writing, producing, promoting and financing this project.

Buy It!

The Son is currently quarterly but our readers would like it monthly. For £30.00 per issue (plus postage) you can buy 100 copies. Some people buy them and stick them through letterboxes, others give them out at libraries, cafés, businesses, etc. Be creative! It’s a great way of sharing great news! If you'd like to buy copies of The Son, call us on 01752 225623.

Sign Up!

Just click here and complete the contact form. Don’t worry, you’re not signing your life away. As a Son Partner* you will be informed about news and events as well as developments and future plans.

If you have any questions (or ideas!), please give us a yell on 01752 268635 or email theson@cornerstonevision.com

*I agree to be a Son Partner. This commitment has no binding or legal consequences. It simply means I am keen to be involved in supporting this ministry and I’m happy to have relevant information sent to me. If I have signed up as a Church, I have permission to do so from the Church leadership.

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Thousands Turn Out To Welcome Pope In London

Thousands of people have turned out in London to welcome the Pontiff as he continues his Papal tour of the UK with a series of public events in the capital.

The west London suburb of Strawberry Hill near Twickenham has been turned into a riot of colour as schoolchildren and members of the clergy descend on the area.

But the huge security operation surrounding the visit has led to unusual scenes outside a college where Pope Benedict XVI will address thousands of children.

Streams of bemused nuns waited in long queues to go through security scanners at St Mary's University College.

Their veils were inspected and rosary beads removed from handbags as they negotiated security.

One monk looked on incredulously as his crucifix was inspected and his habit frisked by police.

The Pope began the second day of his official Papal Visit with a private mass in Wimbledon after flying into London last night.

He then travelled to St Mary's University College, where he performed a special service for young people in an event to celebrate Catholic education.

Protests have also been planned to coincide with the Pope's visit to south west London, with humanist groups planning to demonstrate outside the college.

Among those gathered, some held banners reading "Holy Joe Ratzinger" and "From Hitler Youth to Papacy".

Later the Pontiff will head to central London, where he will address the Houses of Parliament and meet the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams.

In the evening Pope Benedict will attend Evensong at Westminster Abbey.

Yesterday, his Holiness was greeted by an estimated 125,000 well-wishers in Edinburgh who lined the streets for a glimpse of the head of the Catholic Church.

Shortly after his arrival in the UK, the Pontiff gave a speech in which he said the UK remained "a key figure politically and economically on the international stage".

"May it always maintain its respect for those traditional values and cultural expressions that more aggressive forms of secularism no longer value or even tolerate," he said.

"As we reflect on the sobering lessons of atheist extremism of the 20th century, let us never forget how the exclusion of God, religion and virtue from public life leads ultimately to a truncated vision of man and of society and thus a reductive vision of a person and his destiny."

The Pope also took time on his earlier flight from Rome to speak of his "sadness" over his church's handling of child abuse scandals.


Source (c) Sky News 2010

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The era of the 'new media baron' dawns at Camelot Castle, Cornwall

Camelot Castle Hotel in Tintagel, Cornwall, plays host to celebrities, business owners and media leaders; where talks are held, sometimes late into the night, to uphold the values of positive news reporting

The names John Mappin and Duncan Williams are synonymous with local media.

Both men have strong links to Cornwall, and both have been pioneers of positive news reporting; pledging to use media as a tool to improve understanding, communication and peace.

Lately, John Mappin is just as well known for his remarkable restoration of Tintagel's Camelot Castle Hotel; now an international focal point for members of the celebrity and media worlds. In fact, Camelot has once again become a global round table where decisions are made.

Nicolas Cage, Kate Winslet, Buzz Aldrin, Donald Pleasence, the Emir of Quatar, key business leaders, politicians and even a Russian Oil Oligarch, have all enjoyed visits and talked into the small hours at Camelot Castle.

Williams himself recalls his first memorable visit to the hotel, some years ago, when it was being used as a movie set for a big budget adaptation of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.

"Some while later John Mappin and I were working together on a small newspaper," says Duncan. "Which, at the time, was one of the very few in this country to make a brave stand against the pressured political cries for an invasion of Afghanistan."

Under Tony Blair, most major newspapers and indeed old school 'press barons' toed the line and printed the lie. Now look at what has resulted!

Duncan Williams went on to form his own ethical publishing company, printing 1000s of copies of a successful self help book, then created a series of regional newspaper and magazine titles.

Mappin and Williams hold the view that society and survival are in grave danger when false reporting or incorrect data are used to justify an unsound government agenda.

Media then has a duty to report the truth. Positive reporting is ethical reporting. Transmitting a fact without recourse to negative spin.

"It is sad to read so much negativity about the work that goes on at Camelot Castle," says Duncan. "John Mappin, his wife Irina and resident artist Ted Stourton all contribute a huge amount to Cornwall. They offer their home as a base for debate about issues concerning local and national media."

And these are issues that still concern us all ...

To find out more about the real Camelot Castle Hotel follow these links below;

http://www.camelotcastle.com

http://vimeo.com/13887539
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Independent News Ltd. - Established publisher of UK regional newspapers and magazines. Offering distribution and marketing opportunities in key locations throughout Great Britain.

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The era of the 'new media baron' dawns at Camelot Castle, Cornwall

Camelot Castle Hotel in Tintagel, Cornwall, plays host to celebrities, business owners and media leaders; where talks are held, sometimes late into the night, to uphold the values of positive news reporting

The names John Mappin and Duncan Williams are synonymous with local media.

Both men have strong links to Cornwall, and both have been pioneers of positive news reporting; pledging to use media as a tool to improve understanding, communication and peace.

Lately, John Mappin is just as well known for his remarkable restoration of Tintagel's Camelot Castle Hotel; now an international focal point for members of the celebrity and media worlds. In fact, Camelot has once again become a global round table where decisions are made.

Nicolas Cage, Kate Winslet, Buzz Aldrin, Donald Pleasence, the Emir of Quatar, key business leaders, politicians and even a Russian Oil Oligarch, have all enjoyed visits and talked into the small hours at Camelot Castle.

Williams himself recalls his first memorable visit to the hotel, some years ago, when it was being used as a movie set for a big budget adaptation of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.

"Some while later John Mappin and I were working together on a small newspaper," says Duncan. "Which, at the time, was one of the very few in this country to make a brave stand against the pressured political cries for an invasion of Afghanistan."

Under Tony Blair, most major newspapers and indeed old school 'press barons' toed the line and printed the lie. Now look at what has resulted!

Duncan Williams went on to form his own ethical publishing company, printing 1000s of copies of a successful self help book, then created a series of regional newspaper and magazine titles.

Mappin and Williams hold the view that society and survival are in grave danger when false reporting or incorrect data are used to justify an unsound government agenda.

Media then has a duty to report the truth. Positive reporting is ethical reporting. Transmitting a fact without recourse to negative spin.

"It is sad to read so much negativity about the work that goes on at Camelot Castle," says Duncan. "John Mappin, his wife Irina and resident artist Ted Stourton all contribute a huge amount to Cornwall. They offer their home as a base for debate about issues concerning local and national media."

And these are issues that still concern us all ...

To find out more about the real Camelot Castle Hotel follow these links below;

http://www.camelotcastle.com

http://vimeo.com/13887539
# # #


Independent News Ltd. - Established publisher of UK regional newspapers and magazines. Offering distribution and marketing opportunities in key locations throughout Great Britain.

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WRITERS WANTED!

How do I get a break into the competitive world of journalism?

We are regularly asked if we 'have any vacancies for journalists on our newspaper and magazine titles?'

The answer is; yes! ... We are always on the lookout for genuinely talented people. YOU are the lifeblood of future reporting and the news industry depends upon your input.

But first of all we need to know that you can develop the same high standard we have come to expect from our team of writers?

To give you a chance to shine as a scribe we select interns who can trial for a period as 'guest bloggers' on one of our publication's websites; working on established regional newspapers and magazines that go out in key areas throughout the UK.

In this way you get a chance to put your news and views across direct to our readers, 1000s of them, often gaining you an immediate following and linking your name, as a brand new journalist, with one of Britain's most successful and prolific regional publishing companies.

So, if you are really interested in making an impression and possibly joining our professional team of bloggers for a 12 week period of free training, please read the five tips below and then do get in touch with us...

Five Tips Every Guest Blogger Should Know


One of the best ways to increase your visibility is to become a guest blogger at a popular blog. This is a chance for you to gain exposure to a new audience and credibility by being associated with highly-respected bloggers with major followings. Guest blogging is a win-win situation for everyone if done right: the blog gets excellent and free content to use while the guest blogger gets increased exposure for their blog, brand or products.

Of course, there are many other people who want to become guest bloggers for the same reason it might make sense for you to do the same. In order to get the prime guest blogging spots on the top sites you need to make yourself and your content stand out from the pack. Here are five tips on how to make that happen:

1. Read and Understand the Blog: It's amazing how many people contact major blogs wanting to be guest bloggers without fully understanding what the blog is all about. Each blog has its own topics that are of interest to the owners and their readers. If you suggest content which is not appropriate your guest blogging request is going to be denied.

Instead, read through the past two to three months of blog posts to see what topics the blog is focused on. You'll want to avoid pitching topic ideas that have already been covered, but at the same time you might be able to pitch a rebuttal to a previous post or a different take on a popular theme. This will also give you a strong sense for the tone of the blog.

2. Know the Guest Blogging Guidelines: Not all blogs accept guest bloggers, so you'll want to make sure they do before you pitch them with your idea. If they do accept guest posts, chances are that they'll have specific guest blogger guidelines published on their site. It's important to review these rules before you contact a blog. You don't want to break any rules at the start which might anger the blog owners and make it harder for you to convince them to let you be a guest blogger. If you seem uninformed about the guidelines of the blog, it's tough to convince a blogger that you will provide great content.

3. Write the Blog First: If you are dealing with a very popular blog, chances are that the site's owners and editorial team are extremely busy. Taking the time to establish a rapport with the blog's management, pitching a story idea and then working through the details is time-consuming. In many cases, it's better to just write a blog on a topic you feel confident will work and send it to the blog. If they like it, they can publish it without having to jump through hoops. If they reject it, you can take it to another blog.

4. Prove Yourself: It's important to provide your credentials when sending over a guest blog in order for the bloggers to understand that you are an expert in the field. A guest blog written by a savvy industry professional is going to carry more weight than one written by a random person. Explain to the blog why you are the right person to discuss a certain topic with their audience and what perspective you bring that can't be found anywhere else.

5. Write a Compelling Headline: A great headline can do more than bring readers to your blog -- it's also the perfect way to grab the attention of the owner or editor of a blog. Much like readers, the people you contact with a request to guest post might only skim to the title of your proposed post. If it's interesting and engaging, they'll want to read more; if it's boring or stale, they'll move on. One great tip is to write a headline that proposes a question you will answer in your article.



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What Happens When Motivation Fails?

An article for Independent News by Lindelle Jones




When we put forth a constant effort to be positive and behave in a positive manner, yet the day comes to an end and you are lacking that motivation. What causes this type of motivational failure? How can we beat it?

There are probably two very different types of individuals that ask this question:

1) The Individual Being Motivated: Employee, Student, Daughter, Son, etc. These are the types of individuals that normally receive motivation from a motivator, or are guided along the self motivation path. Yet they have trouble finding motivation.

2) The Individual Motivator: Manager, Teacher, Mother, Father, etc. These are the types of individuals who inspire motivation, help guide motivation, and require self motivation. Yet they too find it hard to stay motivated.

Understanding the problem and finding a solution may vary upon individuals. The first group has lost confidence and need a bit of a nudge now and again. They are finding themselves and need to be guided along the pathway of motivation. It is important to note that this group tends to need motivation defined by someone else before they see it within themselves. They have to learn to set attainable goals. They must create a version of success within their own minds and follow their own path. They may need help along the way, but they'll make it.

The second group has to have an understanding of individualism and understand the fact that everyone is different. Nothing is set in stone, and what motivates one individual may not work for another. They have to be willing to help change the attitudes of others. Attitudes cause behavioural problems when they are out of synch with the individual. These are tell tale signs that more guidance is needed, and that the individual has yet to be motivated properly. When this group gets down they must reflect inward and look for the changes and adjustments they can make within their own lives.

Let's look at some of the things that motivate people. Some people are motivated by an example. A teacher gives guidance and motivates students by showing a positive attitude. The students pick up on this and exemplify that attitude. Some people are motivated by money. A manager and employee; the manager sets a bonus for productivity and the employee works toward that. A criminal and a police officer; the criminals actions are normally motivated by the fear of being caught and the thrill of getting away with something illegal. Fear can be a very powerful motivator. There are as many different types of motivators as there are people, and each individual is motivated by something unique to them. Some will be the same as others and others will be totally independent.

The idea is that with the right attitude and proper motivation, anyone can pick themselves back up. Some people may need help, others just need time. Overall it just depends on the individual and what motivates them.


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Our Readers' Poll of Top Ten Family Movies

If you're looking for an affordable fun-filled activity that you and your family members can enjoy, then you don't need to reinvent the wheel. Watch a movie! Although not every movie is appropriate for children, there are still tons that are. Here are 10 fun, wholesome films in no particular order that every member of your family can enjoy:

1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

This is an oldie-but-goodie film that never seems to become outdated. The film is based on the children's novel by L. Frank Baum, of the same title. "The Wizard of Oz" is about Dorothy Gale, 12-year-old girl from a Kansas farm. After becoming unconscious during a tornado, Dorothy and her dog Toto seem to be transported to the world of Oz. There, she meets a host of memorable characters.

2. The Parent Trap (1961)

This original version was much better than the 1998 remake. The Disney film is based on the life of teenage identical twins, and their (divorced) parents. Sharon and Susan meet at summer came, but don't realize that they're actually sisters. After becoming friends, they learn that their parents had divorced soon after the twins were born. The twins switch places, and ultimately attempt to reunite their parents.

3. Mary Poppins (1964)

This Disney musical stared Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, and was based on the Mary Poppins books written by P.L. Travers. The story is based on the adventures experienced by the Banks' family's new nanny, Mary Poppins; Mary's friend Bert; and the Banks' children Jane and Michael. "Marry Poppins" won five Academy Awards, and was nominated for 13 awards-an all-time record for Disney films.

4. The Bad News Bears (1976)

This original film is heads and shoulders better than the 2005 remake, and is also arguably one of the best sports films ever made. The movie is about Morris Buttermaker, who's recruited to coach the worst team in a Southern California baseball Little League. Although the Bears' first game of the season is a disaster, the team eventually earns a spot in the Little League championship.

5. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

This film stars a young Drew Barrymore before she became a household name in Hollywood. The story is about Elliott, a lonely boy who becomes friends with an extraterrestrial named "E.T." Elliott and his sibling try to keep E.T. hidden from their mother and the U.S. government, while E.T. strives to return home.

6. Back to the Future (1985)

The film is the story of Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox. McFly is a teenager who accidentally travels back in time, from 1985 to 1955. Afterwards, he meets his parents while they're high school students. Marty has two missions: to make his parents fall in love with each other, and to find a way back to the future-the year 1985.

7. The Princess Bride (1987)

This is not only a fun family film-it's also funny! The film is based on grandfather's reading a book to his ill grandson. The humor in the fairytale is what makes it different from run-of-the-mill fairy-tales featured in other family films. It's a film with multiple layers.

8. Toy Story (1995)

The film was the first computer-animated family film to be produced, and was the first feature film in history to be made entirely using Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). It also features voice acting by several Hollywood stars. The story is about the toys of eight-year-old Andy. The toys come to life whenever humans aren't around.

9. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)

This is the first film in the series, which introduces the audience to the world of Harry Potter. On his eleventh birthday, Harry Potter learns that he's a wizard. He then must attend the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, to begin his education in magic. There he meets Ron and Hermione, who become his best friends.

10. Shrek (2001)

"Shrek" is an animated comedy film that was the first movie to win the "Best Animated Feature" award at the Academy Awards. The movie is about an ogre named Shrek, a beautiful princess named Fiona, and Donkey-a chatty donkey.

While several family movies have been produced in the history of film, these aforementioned ones are some of the best-of-the-best. If you have a DVD player then you're ready to enjoy an evening of quality entertainment with your family.

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Forty billionaires to give away wealth

Forty American billionaires have pledged to give at least half of their fortunes to charity as part of a campaign by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett. Microsoft founder Gates and investor Buffett, who are worth a combined $90bn (£56.6bn), have persuaded 38 of their fellow billionaires to sign up.

The friends and philanthropists started The Giving Pledge last month.

Its aim is to persuade fellow billionaires to pledge the money to charity, either in their lifetime or after they die.

Buffett said: "We've really just started, but already we've had a terrific response.

"At its core, the Giving Pledge is about asking wealthy families to have important conversations about their wealth and how it will be used."

He added: "We're delighted that so many people are doing just that - and that so many have decided to not only take this pledge but also to commit to sums far greater than the 50% minimum level."

Those who sign the pledge are also invited to publish a letter explaining their decision.

Among the latest batch to have signed up is New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who is worth $18bn (£11.3bn).

In his letter Bloomberg wrote: "Making a difference in people's lives - and seeing it with your own eyes - is perhaps the most satisfying thing you'll ever do. If you want to fully enjoy life - give.

"And if you want to do something for your children and show how much you love them, the single best thing - by far - is to support organisations that will create a better world for them and their children."

Joining him is Star Wars Director George Lucas.

Lucas wrote: "My pledge is to the process; as long as I have the resources at my disposal, I will seek to raise the bar for future generations of students of all ages."

Others on the list include entertainment executive Barry Diller ($1.2bn, £775m), Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison ($28bn, £17.6bn), energy tycoon T. Boone Pickens ($1.1bn, £692m), media mogul Ted Turner ($4.8bn, £3bn), banker David Rockefeller ($2.2bn, £1.3bn) and investor Ronald Perelman ($11bn, £6.9bn).

They join Eli Broad, who made his money in property, venture capitalist John Doerr, media entrepreneur Gerry Lenfest and former Cisco Systems Chairman John Morgridge in supporting the effort.

The US has 403 billionaires, the most of any country, and all together they have a combined fortune of $1.3 trillion.

Mr Buffett himself pledged to give 99% of his wealth to good causes in 2006.

Gates and Buffet will now wine and dine other billionaires in an attempt to persuade them to follow suit.


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Narconon Hastings pays tribute to work of local magazine publisher and his team

A Community News report by Alison Withey
Narconon UK - Tel. 01424 420 036

We at Narconon Hastings are not only dedicated to saving lives through the Narconon Rehabilitation program but we also work and co-operate with and support other groups and people who help and inspire others to do better in life.

Fortunately there are many people of goodwill in this world and they do not always get the recognition or the acknowledgements deserved for what they do.

We would like to introduce you to someone that we recognize for the positive impact he is creating on the community. He is the editor of well known magazines ‘In Chelsea’ and ‘Your Town Your Choice’ which specializes in good news. He is also a good friend of Narconon Hastings and here is what he has to say:

(Duncan Williams and friend )

"As a magazine publisher I believe strongly in supporting positive community values that are in the best interest all. Clearly problem drinking or drug abuse is a menace to our society; to the employer, employee, to families, their health, wealth, hope and happiness. For this reason myself and all my local news correspondents are keen to endorse all worthwhile efforts to combat addiction. If the skills to provide rehabilitation and education for those attempting to recover are genuine, they deserve to be highlighted. These valuable tools can then be wisely and widely applied to handle addiction and its associated problems."

Duncan Williams




This is an excerpt from ‘The Way To Happiness’ written by L.Ron Hubbard, author and humanitarian.

DO NOT HARM A PERSON OF GOODWILL.

“Despite the insistence of evil men that all men are evil, there are many good men around and women too. You may have been fortunate enough to know some.

Factually, the society runs on men and women of goodwill. Public workers, opinion leaders, those in the private sector who do their jobs are, in the great majority, people of goodwill. If they weren’t, they long since would have ceased to serve.”

- L.Ron Hubbard -


(c) 2009 Narconon United Kingdom . All Rights Reserved. NARCONON is a registered trademark owned by the Association for Better Living and Education International and used with its permission. Grateful acknowledgement is made to L.Ron Hubbard Library for permission to reproduce selections from the copyrighted works of L.Ron Hubbard.


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Duncan Williams - Official UK publisher of 'The Way To Happiness' booklet

Open publication - Free publishing - More criminon