About Me

My photo
Joy Serves G*d in Joy as a passionate performing percussionist, poet, publisher, photographer, publicist, sound healer, spiritual guide, artist, gardener and Gemini. "Ivdu Et Hashem B'Simcha" -Psalm 100:2 ....... Joy Krauthammer, active in the Jewish Renewal, Feminist, and neo-Chasidic worlds for over three decades, kabbalistically leads Jewish women's life-cycle rituals. ... Workshops, and Bands are available for all Shuls, Sisterhoods, Rosh Chodeshes, Retreats, Concerts, Conferences & Festivals. ... My kavanah/intention is that my creative expressive gifts are inspirational, uplifting and joyous. In gratitude, I love doing mitzvot/good deeds, and connecting people in joy. In the zechut/merit of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, I mamash love to help make our universe a smaller world, one REVEALING more spiritual consciousness, connection, compassion, and chesed/lovingkindness; to make visible the Face of the Divine... VIEW MY COMPLETE PROFILE and enjoy all offerings.... For BOOKINGS write: joyofwisdom1 at gmail.com, leave a COMMENT below, or call me. ... "Don't Postpone Joy" bear photo montage by Joy. Click to enlarge. BlesSings, Joy



JOYous CHAI LIGHTS
DECEMBER 2010 ~ Kislev ~ Tevet 5771
with some end of Nov. CHAI LIGHTS
http://joyous-chai-lights-dec-2010.blogspot.com/


 HAPPY CHANUKAH 





Dear Chevre,

Chanukah Same'ach. Lots of CHANUKAH events in gold. See above for my art Chanukah greeting to YOU, and e
njoy my digital Chanukiyah above (created only with a keyboard and NOT Photoshop) View below my ceramic MENORAH, and my "Shamash" OHR brush painting, which I painted following my meditation on the holy Temple. Enjoy photo I took of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, in front of a menorah saved from Poland. View new Snowy Shtetl and Circle of Joy BlesSings I created near end, as well as family Chanukah mosaic and Chanukah slide show link, now on U Tube, 

 FIRST NIGHT OF CHANUKAH ~ Wed., Dec. 1st
"Each of us (according to Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, z’l), is a living Chanukah candle capable of spreading our own inner light in the world and living a story of heroism by doing so. Like that little jar of oil which burned longer than anyone thought reasonable, we can live more brightly than we often imagine, even under the most difficult of circumstances." What values do you hold that could be lived more fully and inspire those around you? - CLAL.  ~ ~ ~ "...Simple spiritual truth. A small amount of love/light/gratitude can dispel great darkness. The miracle of Chanukah and the practice of Gratitude Day is one and the same. Find a small jar of uncontaminated, pure love and simple gratitude to bring to your heart and mind. We can begin where we are. Something small, something obvious. A smile, a memory, this body are all available for gratitude practice. Don't wait. A little bit of light, a little bit of gratitude, goes a long way." - R. David Ingber (Romemu)  ~


"Don't Postpone Joy", the light of your soul. Foratzto / spread out light in all directions-- East, South, West and North, where ever we go, and share your joy, your inner core, your soul. Be a SHAMASH and spread YOUR light, which can not diminish when sharing, and only increases! A little bit of light can dispell a whole lot of darkness. - Joy Krauthammer (Joyous Chai Lights)
~
CHANUKAH, Chag urim same'ach thoughts shared by Joy 
~
JUDITH, part of the Chanukah story: http://jwa.org/discover/throughtheyear/december/judith/index.html
~
I'm excited that Rav Rahmiel Drizin shares his newest Chanukah teaching with us:  Posting:
http://ish-tam.com/blog/2010/11/29/the-miracle-of-hanukah/  Direct link to PDF: http://ish-tam.com/rav_drizin/Hanukah.pdf


~
 My dear Jerusalem rebbe Yosef Ben Shlomo Hakohen of Hazon - Our Universal Vision writes:
"Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato was a leading sage and kabbalist of the 17th century. In his great work, Derech Hashem – the Way of God, he discusses the deeper significance of the holy days of the Torah, as well as the holy days which were later established by the Prophets and/or Sages of Israel, such as Purim and Chanukah. He writes:
 'On each of these special days, something happened whereby at this time a great tikun (rectification) was accomplished and a great Light shone. The Highest Wisdom decreed that on every anniversary of this period, a counterpoint of its original Light should shine forth, and the results of its tikun renewed to those who accept it.' (Derech Hashem – the Way of God, Part 4, Chapter 7). "
Feldheim published Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan’s English translation of this work. For information, visit: www.feldheim.com   .

~
CHAG haBANOT, Festival of the Daughters, a 7th night Sephardic tradition of Chanukah double celebration is for WOMEN.
On Rosh Chodesh Tevet, maidens go to the synagogue, touch Torah, and pray for the health of their daughters. Gals made up after grievances with each other. Food plays a role because of the salty cheese (and wine) responsible for the downfall of General Halofernes by courageous heroine Judith. In her honor we eat cheeses, and dance around a fire. Other food rituals are for the protection of the daughters. Gifts are given to daughters, and to brides from grooms. Passing down inheritances is a minchag / custom on Chag haBanot. 
~
Taking light to share from another candle never diminishes the light-- the light increases.


From four years ago, I have a 
Chanukah story, "LIGHT" in Chabad's  site http://www.chabad.org/theJewishWoman/article_cdo/aid/458684/jewish/Light.htm
or  
http://www.thejewishwoman.org/ .

This month, 17 Tevet, is the 5th yahrzeit of Marcel, z'l, and in his zechut, I create and share this December's Joyous Chai Lights. (Thank you for saying Kaddish in his memory.) I miss lighting the Chanukah lights with Marcel.  

OHR
The Shamash brings down 
the light energy to light the 8 candles.
(c) Joy Krauthammer

JOYous CHAI LIGHTS, after 3 decades, is now an e-magazine of mostly baby boomer JEWISH RENEWAL spirituality and ARTS interests.
Bookmark this newly named monthly FAVORITE LINK: 
www.joyous-chai-lights-dec-2010.blogspot.com

PLEASE FORWARD CHAI LIGHTS TO YOUR FRIENDS.
New info is added every day and JOYous CHAI LIGHTS is updated throughout this JOY-zine so please take the time to scroll down. If you see errors, typos, do let me know for fixing. Thank you. 
To SUBMIT an event to me, send to me only in plain font, 1-2 paragraphs, following the format style I use-- if you want your PR included.

To view prior months--blog archives & my other sites: View MY COMPLETE PROFILE above.
I hope you are well. I always love hearing from YOU in personal mail or COMMENTS below.

Joy's ribboned timbrel
Enjoy,
Joy Krauthammer
"Ivdu Et HaShem B'Simcha" Psalm 100:2
Serve G*D in Joy

"Miriam the Prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women went out after her with timbrels & dances." Exodus 15:20



NEW expanded sites by Joy Krauthammer
My 40 sites with lots of stories and illustrative photos.
(I love giving readings of my poetry so feel free to invite me to your shuls or salons.)

* If you would like for me to give a workshop on any of my passions, call me, or leave a COMMENT below, or write to me at 
joyofwisdom1 @ gmail.com or at my AJU address. Delete spaces surrounding @.

* * * * * * * CONTENTS:
Exceptional Joyous Chai Lights to illuminate, inspire, uplift, inform and experience. 

HAPPENINGS (ARTS, spiritual retreats, festivals, news).
SHULS, MINYANS (Ongoing services and events).
HOLY GATHERINGS (LA rabbis & spiritual events).
ARTS LA (Ongoing events, museums, classes).
OUTSIDE LA (trips, news).
Joy's TORAH CHAI LIGHTS (Learn of my mamash gevaldt /truly glorious long-distance rabbis and other teachers or teachings (especially on current holidays) that I love, as well as links, videos, reviews, musings, etc.).
PRESS (Links).
INTRODUCTION. (For NEW READERS - Welcome. Please read greeting Introduction at end, my raison d'etre letter.)
CD REVIEWS by Joy at end.


Ceramic menorah 
by Joy Krauthammer (c)




* * * * * * *    HAPPENINGS

ARTS, Movies, Joy's story links, Festivals, Retreats, Farbrengens, Mazal Tovs, News









Goldstar has half-price tickets, member reviews.
Sign up now to become a member and get listings for events in your area -- music, theater, comedy, sporting events, and more. 
~ ~ ~
Yom Tov of Yud-Tes Kislev, Fri., Nov. 26, "was proclaimed by the Rebbe Reshab as the Rosh HaShanah of Chassidus.  This day is a very powerful day for us.  It's a day where all channels are open to receive Hashem's blessings in all one's needs, materially and spiritually.  Learning Chassidus on this particular day of Yud-Tes Kislev and through participation in a farbrengen (with Anash) brings down new life and strength in the ways of Chassidus and our connection to the Tree of Life, which are our Rebba'im." Bais Chana of CA. Local Chabads are celebrating.  818 758-1818 Join me.  ~ ~ ~


SEPHARDIC AND LADINO CONNECTION, Pathways of Culture with LA Jewish Symphony and Cantor Marcelo Gindlin, Mon. Nov. 29, 11 am -12 noon. VBS, 15739 Ventura Blvd., Encino 91436. RSVP before Nov. 23. 818 436-5260, info@lajewishsymphony.org
~ ~ ~


CHANUKAH, Universal Studios, City Walk, FIRST NIGHT, Wed., Dec., 1, 5-9. Giant menorah,  Lipa Schmeltzer, Pardes Jewish Rock, Lenny Solomon and comedy presented by Chabad of the Valley.
(I'll be bringing Chanukah chocolate gelt to the other students in my graphics class this night and with my 'attitude of gratitude,' also to my Apple iMac trainers. Many of them may not know about Chanukah.)
~


Over three decades ago, I arranged for the local VA hospital and the local Northridge Mall for the FIRST TIME to put up large menorahs/chanakiot.
A few years ago, because with a challenge of there being no Jewish chaplains locally, I advocated having Jewish chaplains at my local (Catholic) Northridge Hospital. Chanukah menorahs, individual and large for lobby, were brought in for the first time, by first Jewish chaplain, Chabad Rabbi Eli Rifkin. Yasher Koach.
I am glad that I spoke up at all these institutions, people listened, and a difference was made. - Joy Krauthammer
~ ~ ~


CHANUKAH lighting, Granada Hills, Zelzah and Chatsworth, 2nd night, Dec. 2, 6:30 pm, with local Chabads of Granada Hills, and Northridge.
~ ~ ~
INFLATABLE CHANUKA menorah, Porter Ranch Town Center, Sun. Dec. 5, 4:30 pm, Lighting 5:15pm
877-44CHANUKA,  Chanukah@porterranch.org .
~ ~ ~

REB SHOLOM BRODT from Jerusalem's Yeshivat Simcha Shlomo visits with Chanukah teachings:   (Dec. 2 with San Diego's Elijah Minyan)  Dec. 3-4: LA - Shabbaton with Happy Minyan, info. Mordecai Freeman, happyminyan@gmail.com (213) 709-3100. Dec. 6: LA - Round Table, Shiur and Farbrengen at Harry Nelson's home,  7:30 PM, For Men. RSVP hnelson@fentonnelson.com 
~ ~ ~
BRING ON THE LIGHT, holiday concert, Sat., Dec. 11, 8 PM, featuring Danny Maseng, and the Yuval Ron Ensemble with guest Michael Skloff, the TIOH Choir and more.
Temple Israel of Hollywood, 7300 Hollywood Blvd.  Free parking at lot on Martel & Hollywood. Cost $10 members, $18 guests. Tix available at TIOH.org or at the door.
 ~ ~ ~
HANDS ON MUSIC with Yuval Ron. Six part workshop series, 7:30 pm. 12/7 (Peace and Sound Meditation), 1/18/2011 (flamenco), 3/1 (Music as a Bridge), 4/5 (Mysticism of Sound, Meditation and Poetry), 5/3 (Debka).  Valley Beth Shalom, Encino, 818 788-6000. http://www.yuvalronmusic.com/  Yuval always offers enlightening musical events and with the finest guest musicians. What a blesSing to have this soulful musician in LA, and it's a blesSing that Rabbi Ed Feinstein offers this multi-cultural, and meditative music to community. Confirm dates. See each individual program. 
Yuval has CDs in time for Chanukah. "Searching for the Inner Soul" and "Seeker of Truth", a live recorded concert. 
VBS is offering many more musical events. See their web sites.
~ ~ 
THE VOWYiddish movie at Valley Beth Shalom, Dec. 8, 10 – 12 noon with discussion by Cantor Herschel Fox.  Contact Bill Green billg55@earthlink.net or VBS 818-788-6000. www.vbs.org

(I recall showing Yiddish films at a Yiddish festival I produced around 1982 and people came from far to see them. Films were in their original flammable reels of tape, which since then, have been recreated on flame-proof reels. The Polish director's son had hand-delivered them to me.)
~ ~ ~

UCLA Center for Jewish Studies offers their new 2011 Annual Calendar of Events. Contact UCLA for full brochure.http://www.cjs.ucla.edu/cjsrsvp@humnet.ucla.edu , cjs@humnet.ucla.edu
 310 825-5387  rsvp 310-267-5327
What do Middle-Aged Orthodox Jewish Women Want? Feb 24, Noon.
~ ~ ~
SAVE DATE Celebrating Sutzkever, a Yiddish poet, Sun, Jan. 9, 2011, 2:30-9 pm, symposium, with lectures, roundtable discussion, two concerts, and video presentations. FREE. Gindi Auditorium, American Jewish University: For details, contact organizer extraordinaire, Neal Brostoff, <neal@nealbrostoff.com> or Oren Saig at (310) 440-1279.
ON the prior Erev Shabbat, Jan. 7, 2011, there is also a Sutzkever program at VBS.
~ ~ ~
SAVE DATE
JEWISH WOMEN'S THEATRE 2011 Season. Benefit show Jan. 22, 23, 7pm, at the Museum of Tolerance, features readings from the play, "Stories From the Fringe"—a peek inside the extraordinary lives of 18 Los Angeles women who have chosen to be rabbis. Three new At-Homes Salon Series, 2/7-9, 4/4-6, 6/6-8, LA and Valley locations. Sold out last year. Audience reaction to the series is excellent. And the home-made desserts are delicious also.
"Jewish Women Do Men," "Eden According to Eve", "The Writer's Journey."
http://jewishwomenstheater.org/?page_id=11  info@jewishwomenstheatre.org Tickets make a great Hanukah present! I've enjoyed performing in the 'launch' partiesYasher Koach to the women for creating this venue for Jewish Women's Theatre, a testament to our lives.
~ ~ ~

KABBALAH TOUR TO SPAIN. Travel and study May 19 - May 30, 2011, with Daniel Matt, Ph.D, author of "The Essential Kaballah" and renowned translator of the Zohar. Hana Matt, MA, spiritual director, and teacher at the Graduate Theological Union and the Chaplaincy Institute in Berkeley, offers interfaith teachings in the very cities where Jews, Christians and Muslims lived together in harmony and cultural interchange during the Golden Age of Spain. Cities include: Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona, Guadalajara, Avila, Escorial, Toledo, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, and Malaga.  Historical Jewish sites include three remaining synagogues in Spainonce the height of Jewish life in exile. Shabbat services and dinners are celebrated with the Jewish communities of Barcelona and Cordoba.  For info. contact Shulamit Sofia, MSW, Soul Strength Seminars Tours to Sacred Sites. 



I learned a bissel Zohar again from Danny Matt at LA's Kabbalah Day. He is humble, gentle and learned, just as I recall him from Elat Chayyim 16 years ago. 
It would be a delight to travel with Danny and Hana as they share their wisdom, along with Shuli.
~ ~ ~
SAVE DATE   
ISRAEL TOUR with Rabbi Miriam Hamrell of Ahavat Torah, end of June 2011. 
~ ~ ~
SAVE DATE
KALLAH 2011 
Or Chadash --  Enrich, Inspire, and Brighten Your Jewish Path,  June 27 - July 3, Redlands, CA

I am mamash / truly excited to share that Aleph's KALLAH 2011, Gevaldt best Jewish Renewal spiritual retreat is coming to greater LA, Southern CA in 2011, just months away. University of Redlands, June 27 - July 3, 2011. Make Kallah your next summer's holiday. I've been participating since 1993 and Kallah is the spiritual highlight of my year. I bring back with me to LA and to the shuls where I share, the brilliant light and joy that I receive at Kallah.



Davvenen outside under the trees every morning at Kallah.
Rabbi Goldie Milgrom and early risers.
(c) Joy Krauthammer



I hope you request from Aleph their application to teach whether for the week (Deadline Dec. 1.) or a single workshop. Let's show Kallah how high spirited we LA Jews are!
Tell Kallah that Joy Krauthammer sent you.
Friends from many countries go to Kallah.
Kallah is joyous, fun, expansive, spiritual, artistic, experiential, meditative and filled with the best rabbis, Jewish Torah teachers, davvenen, movement, treks, choirs, music, arts, activities and veggie food.
We in LA save on the airfare; can drive, and bring our Torahs, drums, timbrels and song and dance!!!!!
ALEPH: ALLIANCE FOR JEWISH RENEWAL

View Ann Silver's 2009 KALLAH photos at
 http://annsilver.zenfolio.com/f136058039  Password is kallahohio.That's me with the timbrel on far left upper level at Jospel choir.
It's so much fun after daily workshops, choosing one of the choirs to sing in and then to perform for 1,000 friends at Malavah Malkah.
~ ~ ~



AriellaShira Lewis and I taught at Kallah and we are available in LA:

SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH ~ JOY OF WISDOM
Baby-Boomer Journeying from Mid-life to Elder & Sage 
I loved teaching Simchat Chochmah for the CSUN graduate Gerontology students.
Book a workshop with JOY KRAUTHAMMER and ARIELLASHIRA LEWIS.
Click on my (Joy's) personal website for full details and photos:
Details on SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH also found below in INTRODUCTION Letter.
~ ~ ~  

WOMEN HOLDING TORAH PHOTOS are wanted for the site, Women of the Wall. WOW wants 10,000 photos. Show your support for religious pluralism, and your concern for religious issues that limit the rights of women. Upload photos:  http://womenofthewall.org.il/ .  http://womenofthewall.org.il/take-a-stand
Articles:
Video with Anat Hoffman arrested at the Kotel for carrying a Torah, not reading.
~ ~ ~

JEWTOPIA. Greenway Court Theatre, 544 N. Fairfax Ave. W. Hollywood.
http://www.jewtopiaplay.com/  800  595-4849. Ends Jan. 3, 2011.
Check Goldstar for tix or use promo code JJ45 at box office.
~ ~ ~
ARTICLE Dec. 16.
History of Hollywood Jews to show in Vienna.  Werner Hanak-Lettner, a curator for the Jüdisches Museum Wien (the Jewish Museum Vienna) asks the question, “Does Hollywood feel like a Jewish place?”
http://www.jewishjournal.com/hollywood_jew/article/history_of_hollywood_jews_to_show_in_vienna_20101215/
~ ~ ~

LAEMMLE TheatresI appreciate that the Laemmle Theaters offer our community good foreign, Jewish, art films, festivals, and films without violence, and at lower prices especially for seniors and now students.
~ ~ ~

"KOL CHEVRE" 16th edition is published. I love reading what the Chevre shares about Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, and their own spiritual lives. This edition, I have poetry and photos published.
Annual journal can be ordered from Emuna Witt (HaLevy)  $20.
YOU are invited to share YOUR Reb Shlomo stories in the next Kol Chevre edition. Write for theme.
My story about Reb Shlomo, and photographs of Reb Aryeh Hirschfield, z'l, have been published in previous KOL CHEVRES. For my Shlomo story, also see my web link:
http://www.rebshlomocarlebach-ztl.blogspot.com/  


Reb SHLOMO Carlebach
(c) Joy Krauthammer

~ ~ ~ 
NEW
The RASHI EFFECT; Artist as  Commentator,  eclectic art exhibit, American Jewish University, opens Sun., Dec. 12.  Artists' reception, 1-3 PM. SEE ARTS.
~ ~ ~
NEW exhibits & music
SKIRBALL  (310) 440-4500 http://www.skirball.org/  See full listing below under ARTS LA.
~ ~ ~
GETTY CENTER. 310 440-7300  http://www.getty.edu/   Always love this museum. See under ARTS LA. Parking fee.

GETTY VILLA, Malibu.  Read my full REVIEW under ARTS.  I visited the magnificent museum north of Santa Monica and totally loved being on the grounds with pools of water, fountains and gardens, and enjoyed the temporary and permanent exhibits.  
Easy to reserve free tix and fee parking. 310 440-7300. http://www.getty.edu/
~ ~ ~
NEW
The ANNENBERG SPACE For Photography. See ARTS below.
~ ~ ~
ACADEMY OF JEWISH RELIGION, Rabbinical, Cantorial, Chaplaincy programs.. 
I love what this school offers and love their teachers. To learn, students travel here from all over the country. Ask about their special guest lectures. 310 824-1586
~ ~ ~
AMERICAN JEWISH UNIVERSITY, offers undergraduate, graduate and rabbinic school, as well as full adult education program. I'm an alumnus & sometimes a DCE teacher. Call to receive their brochures. (310) 476-9777, (310)-440-1246.
~ ~ ~
HEBREW UNION COLLEGE, offers programs on all levels. Ask about the Kalsman program, and also the Speigel Seminars on Family Values, sponsored by Marty Cohn Spiegel. (Mazal tov on your 2nd Bat Mitzvah.)
~ ~ ~
IVDU ET HASHEM B'SIMCHA, Serve the Holy One With JOY, newly edited version of siddur, filled with Reb Zalman teachings and Reb Shlomo, z'l, songs, compiled by one of my favorite rabbis, David Zaslow.  For your copy, write to shalomrav@aol.com
~ ~ ~ 
For your childrens' free BIRTH RIGHT trip to Israel conatact:
~ ~ ~
JEWS UNITED FOR JUSTICE / JUFJ   I'm so proud of my son-in-law, Brett, that he was chosen for a 2011 Jeremiah Fellowship with DC's Jews United for Justice -- "...mission is to lead Washington-area Jews to act on our shared Jewish values by pursuing justice and equality in our local community."  ~ ~ ~
AVIVABELL, artist of light. AvivaBell photography can be framed and given as CHANUKAH gifts. Travel, Art, Nature, Portraits. Aviva is available for photo shoots in DC area. http://www.avivabell.com/  I love Aviva's sense of perspective, composition, sensitivity and humor.


Ceramic Chanukiah by Joy Krauthammer (c)
"Hanerot Halalu Kodesh Hem"

* * * * * * *  SHULS, MINYANS


Mostly Renewal, Aleph, alternative, egalitarian, post-denominational, pluralistic, women's, progressive; some traditional, Orthodox and Conservative. 


(Other small LA minyans can be found on web: National Havurah Committee
We in LA are mamash / truly blessed with our minyanim.
  


Challot & Chevre
(c) Joy Krauthammer


"And I have loved you with an eternal love; therefore I have extended loving-kindness to you. I shall yet rebuild you and you shall be rebuilt, O Maiden of Israel; you will yet adorn yourself with drums and go forth in the round-dance of the joyful." (Jeremiah 31:2,3)
.

LEV EISHA (Heart of a Woman)  FIRST Shabbat each month, Dec. 4, (except Jan. 8) Rabbi Toba August. Regular service 9:30 am.  Pray and stay for Kiddush, blesSings, schmoozing, feasting and joy. LEV EISHA meets in the beautiful sanctuary at Vista Del Mar. 3200 Motor Ave, LA. 90034. Immediately a few feet north of National and the 10 Freeway. There is a map on the website. The new grounds are filled with trees; an oasis in the city.  
Next breakfast study, Feb. 5.
http://www.leveisha.org/ and/or read our ads in the LA Jewish Journal paper edition.

LEV EISHA is where I love to be. Davenen, my heart and soul soar at Lev Eisha.
Come say hi. We are:
* a monthly creative prayer service for women by women, led by Rabbi Toba August & cantorial soloist - Cindy Paley, accompanied by ruach/ spirit-filled global world-beat music percussionist - Joy Krauthammer, violinist - Chaplain Ruth Belonsky, and soloists - Robin Winston, Mollie Wine & Toby Schwartz who also beautifully chants Torah). We have new spiritual songs for you! Poet-in-Residence - Sarah Barash. 
Mazal tov to our violonist, Ruth, for being honored as Morei Derekh by her Reconstructionist community at Malibu JC&S.
Lev Eisha has an awesome ambience for experiential expansive prayer celebration where our inner and outer voices are heard. I feel the energy circulating, given and received at Lev Eisha, and for a musician, this is mamash important.

* An exciting, innovative Shabbat service that offers a warm welcoming environment for women seeking to connect with their Judaism. Men are welcome.
* Prepare for prayer. Come stretch with us, metaphorically and literally, into expansion to receive and give and that equals love/Chesed.
* A joyous, spiritual sanctuary for women of all ages and affiliations to come together in enthusiasm, heart, energy & intellect: in Torah, song, praise, prayer, study, dance, meditation and spiritual growth.
 The first Saturday/Shabbat of every month your other rabbis know where you are! Join us and play timbrel in praise for the Source of All BlesSings. 

As it was in the redemption from Egypt so too it will be with the final redemption, that "In the Merit of the Righteous Women We Will Be Redeemed!"  (Midrash Ruth)

LEV EISHA musicians are happy to come to your minyans, Rosh Chodeshessimchas.


Joy Krauthammer and Cindy Paley
(c) Janis Cohen
~ ~ ~
MAKOM OHR SHALOM, first & third Erev Shabbats, 7:45 pm at MOS' NEW location. Join MOS in brightly lit, beautiful chapel location, 17500 Burbank Blvd. @ Encino, SW corner, Encino, CA 91316. PARK free in rear of Bethel Lutheran church.
 Guest rabbis: 
Musical Chanukah Shabbat Service and potluck, Erev Shabbat, Dec. 3, 7:45 pm.

Rabbi/Cantor Monty Turner, Cantorial Soloist Mitzi Schwarz, Choir Director Theresa Nivon and the Makom Ohr Shalom choir, accompanist Matt Lamy, musicians and soloists will help us celebrate the festival of lights.. 
Please RSVP to Melanie Turner RSVP at  Artsymelanie@yahoo.com   310-479-1270.
During the Chanukah party, Makom will be collecting toys/gifts for kids at LA Family
Housing. Please bring an unwrapped new gift for a child, from newborn to teenager.
Pam Bassuk at 818-846-9865

MAKOM OHR SHALOM Cantor/Rabbi Monty Turner. Soloists: Dana Stone-Goldberg.
Guest musicians include: Alan Klein - horn, David Platus - clarinet, Joy Krauthammer - percussionist, Eli Lester - drummer, Steve Berman - harmonica,  Sandy Lessner - violinist. Theresa Nivon - choir director.  Shabbat dinners, Torah study, Havdalahs, Havurahs, Chagim, Healing services. The original Jewish meditation shul. See site for additional LA services. http://www.makom.org/

Dana and Makom members greet all the people at the door and it feels good to be welcomed. When I'm present (and at all shuls) early, I, too, greet Shabbat guests and introduce them to each other.
Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, always greeted each congregant at the door. He asked, "How can I be most like Hashem? To make others comfortable, making places for them."

To view years of fantastic Makom Ohr Shalom spiritual photos by 'artist of light', Mark Reden: http://www.makomohrshalom.com/  
Mark is so generous for serving for years as photographer-in-residence and capturing with sensitivity, the most moving moments. I especially love the photo he took of me tinkling my chimes.
~ ~ ~

Richard Hardy, Joy Krauthammer, Alula, Marc Bachrach
(c) Steve Greenberg

Transcending Tradition: illustrating Jewish Spiritual Renewal. Cartoon musicians include: flutist, Richard Hardy, and myself-- Joy Krauthammer, timbrel player in purple, both of us Reb Shlomo, zt'l musicians, Alula Tzadik (from Ethiopia), and Cantorial soloist Mark Bachrach on shofar; all of us from Rabbi Stan Levy's congregation B'nai Horin for last two decades.
Steve Greenberg (c) Jewish Journal's award-winning cartoonist
~ ~ ~ 

B'NAI HORIN -Children of Freedom, mostly monthly intimate Shabbat Saturday services. 
Chanukah Party, Dec. 5, 6-9 pm.
Rabbi Stan Levy, Rabbi Laura OwensMarc Bachrach, cantorial soloist. Regular Contribution: $15 B'nai Horin members, $20 guests. First-timers: no charge. Please bring a salad, dessert or drinks to share or contribute $5 toward the main dish. It is a blesSing to be in Carole Foley's home heavenly garden filled with singing birds, 11040 Queensland, West LA, one light south of National, 1 1/2 blocks east of Sepulveda Blvd.
For two decades of this 40 year old shul, you may find me there with my timbrel in hand, or playing Tibetan singing bowls, and with an open heart, dancing in the garden. Blessed, B'nai Horin was my very first Renewal Shul. Reb David Zeller, z'l and Yael Taubman from Jerusalem directed me here. This is where I first met Aleph founder, Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi. 
~ ~ ~

AHAVAT TORAH Congregation. Weekly, lively Shabbat service and pot-luck buffet luncheon. Every Sat9 AM Israeli-born Rabbi Miriam Hamrell (AJR ordained) teaches Mussar/Pirkey Avot-Ethics of our Father, and 10 AM Shabbat service with Rabbi Miriam Hamrell and Gary Levine, cantorial soloist, and Joel Warren - pianist, and sometimes other musicians: Joy Krauthammer - percussionist.
Guest Mussar and Torah teachers. Participatory musical worship service. Many interesting classes and salons are offered. 
New Buber series with Sophia Avants, and meditation with Jane Best. See website.
http://www.ahavattorahcongregation.org/ 
CHANUKAH party. Dec. 7.
Held at the Village Glen Lutheran Church, 343 Church Lane, LA, 90049, 6 blocks south of Sunset, north of Montana, just west of the 405 Freeway. Brentwood, LA. Park in the South parking lot or on the streets.
Sunset and 405 has been repaired from overpass construction. Otherwise try to use underpass south of shul to go north. For driving issues during 405 construction:  http://www.metro.net/projects/I-405/

This is a social-action community, and Rabbi Miriam and members warmly greet you at the door, and offer Torah honors which feel really good. Ahavat Torah offer important evening classes. 
Julie M. creates the artistic site. Len Felder, Ph.D. writes the newsletter and the shul blog: http://www.creatingsacredcommunity.blogspot.com/  I'm looking forward to Len's new book this upcoming summer. We had a taste of it at Ahavat Torah's Nov. retreat and he gives over so much meaning in his advice.

For Ahavat Shalom's Nov. Shabbaton, I served as Sound Healer and percussionist, as I have totally loved doing on occasion with this musical minyan. I love attending the participatory hour earlier teachings in the intimate room. I love receiving Torah aliyahs. I love feeling winged angels flying high from the cantor's sweet sounds. I love that many teachers get to offer their wisdom.  I love the sincere welcoming friendliness of the congregation.
~ ~ ~

N'SHAMA MINYAN.  Rabbi Nina Bieber Feinstein & Cindy Paley Aboody - cantorial soloist and guitarist, Joy Krauthammer - world music percussionist. Dates: Shabbat, Fri. Dec. 10, Feb. 26, 2011, April 30, Erev Shabbat May 13.  
Service usually in the artistic stained glass Lopaty Chapel, prayer, song, dance (led by Susan Gilboa North), spirit, study. Rabbi Nina creates a Torah Parsha and new song supplement for every service. Sisterhood minyan led by and for women, and all are invited. Women who have never held Torah are invited to hold the Torah and all women are invited up to Torah for aliyot. Check the VBS website or call the shul to confirm dates & time for the next Women's Shabbat service. (Not always Sat. AM, sometimes Erev Shabbat, Rosh Chodeshes and holidays) www.vbs.org/

Join N'Shama Minyan at Valley Beth Shalom, 15739 Ventura Blvd., Encino, 91436. (818) 788-6000 or Susan: (818) 343-3078. Always welcoming congregants (as did Reb Shlomo, zt'l), Shirley Lowy stands smiling at the shul door sharing hugs and welcomes for all services. Yasher Koach on the honor bestowed upon you for your sweet soul.
~

VALLEY BETH SHALOM (VBS) is like an exciting city unto itself..
If you missed the annual REB SHLOMO CARLEBACH, z'l, 16th yahrzeit musical memorial Farbrengen, Kabbalat Shabbat in October during Daniel Pearl World Music Days, plan for next year, with Rabbi Ed Feinstein, Chazan Herschel Fox and the Chasidic Orchestra: David Kaminer-pianist/conductor, Bobby Bruce-violinist, Joy KrauthammerMike Nelson-windsPeter Grant-guitar. I love playing this meaningful memorial.

College of Jewish Studies, Wed. night's 7 pm class with Rabbi Ed Feinstein. Israel, the Dream and the Reality. Different teachers each week. Rabbi Feinstein has Lunch and Learn. Wednesdays, 12 noon - 1:30- pm. Bring own dairy lunch. Read their website.
While at VBS, check out all their daily many varied fantastic spiritual offerings with many wonderful rabbis and cantors. I enjoy playing at VBS. 
Try their RIMONIM Erev Shabbat, 6:30 pm. Middle-Eastern, North African musical service with Rabbi Farkas and Cantor Phil Baron. I love it. Listen to their  new CD. It's great.
~
The VBS Library Minyan is also precious to me. It is where Reb Moshe Cohen, z'l, gave me my very first aliyah, as shomer, Joyce Kirsch, z'l, stood by my sideMay their memories be for blesSings.
Read http://www.vbs.org/  for schedules.
YUVAL RON, Music As A Bridge series at Valley Beth Shalom resumes. See info in HAPPENINGS and in VBS site.
New CDs by Yuval Ron: SEARCHING FOR THE INNER SOUL, and SEEKER OF TRUTH, with his ensembles. Yuval is one of LA's finest Middle-Eastern and mystical musicians.

A dozen years ago I (Joy Krauthammer) went to the World Sacred Music Festival in Fez, and explored the Jewish medinas and danced with the Sufi, Berbers, Taureqs/Blue men and Gnawa musicians through the star-filled night, especially in the Sahara by the sand dunes where I journeyed with my rented camel.  My musical simcha was filmed and a video is available. I brought back a suitcase of timbrels & memories. You may see me with my Moroccan frame drums when I play.
Most amazing to me was that my Moroccan Arab musician tour guide, Hamid Mernissa, was the grandson of his "maternal Jewish grandmother, Sarah." Shh. I had the chutzpah to ask him if he had any Jewish relatives... and this was his answer.
~ ~ ~

METIVTA. Some Friday and Sat. services. Lay led meets both in LA and the Valley for Shabbat services, Shabbat dinner, meditations, retreats and classes. Fills quickly. Call for dates TBA and events. I love their Contemplative intimate Kabbalat Shabbat service; candle lighting, prayer, chanting, niggunim, pot luck themed holiday Shabbat dinner and a discussion of the weekly Torah  parsha. Metivta offers Thurs. meditations, but not until 2011. It is a gift that Metivta Valley members like Gilla Nissan, the Glasers, Zellmans and Morgensterns offer their homes for spiritual Services. Founded by Rabbi Jonathan Omer-Man.
RSVP to Gilla via e mail:  
For services questions only at Gilla's home, . http://www.metivta.org/ for updates on High Holidays, etc. 
“Ultimately, the goal of t’shuvah is to retroactively change the results of our actions; to turn the negative into a positive. The action cannot be undone, but the significance of the act can be changed.” - Rabbi Jonathan Omer-Man
Over two decades ago, I began meditation with Metivta. On occassion, I love serving as percussionist.
~ ~ ~ 

MALIBU Jewish Center & Synagogue. Weekly Shabbat services with Rabbi Judith HaLevy & (Argentinean) glorious Cantor Marcelo Gindlin. Chaplain Ruth Belonsky plays exquisite soulful violin. (I love accompanying them when I attend.) Go early for Rabbi Judith's deep Torah teachings. Sarah's Tent people study & davven at Malibu and love the rabbi who co-founded Sarah's Tent. If I didn't live so far, I'd be learning there all the time. Torah study 9:30 am, Service 11:30 am.  http://www.mjcs.org/ Mazal Tov Ruth Belonsky on your Morei Derekh honor and for all you do.
 ~ ~ ~

THE ONE SOUL MINYAN.  Monthly third Saturdays, with Rabbi Mark Borovitz and Cantor Rebecca of Beit T'Shuvah (addiction rehabilitation center). Exhilarating musical service and new siddur. Third Shabbat held at Valley Beth Shalom location in most months.. VBS Rabbi Ed Feinstein and other visiting rabbis and cantors participate in service, asking serious questions of the participants, residents and visiting congregants. V.B.S. 15739 Ventura Blvd., Encino 

I truly appreciate this intimate meaningful service which has everyone reflect on their soul, light and darkness. When I don't bring my timbrel to play, the pianist loans me hers. I wish we had more Shabbats each month so I can davven everywhere. 
Beit Tshuvah meets regularly at 8831 Venice Blvd. LA.
http://www.beittshuvahla.org/ 310 204-5200 This organization collects for their thrift store.
~ ~ ~

ONE SHABBAT MORNING (OSM) with Craig Taubman & wonderful musicians at Adat Ari El, 12020 Burbank Blvd., Valley Village. Sat., Dec. 4. Call or google to confirm date of musical 10 am service with 9 am guest shiur. I love this service and the special themes. This is one of the minyans (like Lev Eisha) which attract other shul congregants from all over the greater LA area.
The congregants are given colorful egg shakers to use to enable greater musical participation. I love it when percussionist Jeff loans me his dumbek.
Check out Craig's other Shabbats at Sinai Temple. (and his web site for terrific Jewish music.)
Craig's newest CD is HOLY GROUND and it is the best. I  love it. Google to purchase. ww.craignco.com/
~ ~ ~

HAPPY MINYAN meets regularly for all Jewish observances and classes in the 'Hood'. We founded this Orthodox minyan when our beloved Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt"l died over 15 years ago. The chevra continues to meet and learn in Shlomo's light. It was the greatest blesSing in the universe for me to be Shlomo's percussionist and personal chauffeur.

Happy Minyan meets 9218 Pico Blvd. in a karate studio (across from Pat's). Regular great classes and visiting guest scholars. Musical Havdalahs. Yehuda of Moshav Band davvens with Happy Minyan. MOSHAV - does many Melave Malka Concerts, Sat. night, Happy Minyan, Mitzvah g'dola lihiyot b'simcha Tamid. It's a big mitzvah to be happy. http://www.happyminyan.org/ 310 285-7777.  Read website for Parsha commentaries.
~ ~ ~

Temple Israel's SIMPLY SHABBAT service with Cantor Danny Maseng is wonderful.
Check their website for the upcoming couple dates.  9:15 am involved lay lead Torah study with bagels, then 10 am service filled with singing, just like on Masengs CD, SOUL ON FIRE, which I love. There was Torah discussion but NO Torah scroll being read during service when I went to Simply Shabbat.
~ ~ ~ 

SHTIBL MINYAN, lay-led, meets weekly, 1525 S. Robertson Blvd., LA (south of Pico) at Workman's Circle, Arbeter Ring location on Sat. Mornings. http://www.shtibl.com/ . Enjoy exhibits in the Shenere Velt Gallery in main hall. 
~ ~ ~ 

IKAR, Shabbats with Rabbi Sharon Brous (Time Magazine top rabbis' list), and newly AJU ordained Rabbi Lizzie and Cantor Hillel. Call for schedule. http://www.ikar-la.org/ , 5870 W. Olympic Blvd., LA 90036. Restricted street parking. Lot in rear.
 I loved the spirit, filled with Reb Shlomo, z'l, song.
This is where my daughter davens when she visits. Mostly a younger congregation who love dancing. Djembe drummers-- so you know I loved the beat.
~ ~ ~ 

NASHUVA, Erev Shabbats with Rabbi Naomi Levy, one of Time Magazine's top rabbis. Wonderful musicians. ? -First Friday each month.
~ ~ ~ 

N'VAY SHALOM, Erev Shabbats with Rabbi Steve and Cantor Eve Robbins. Meets at SS Wise Temple HS. Confirm.
~ ~ ~

OHR HA TORAH, every Shabbat with Rabbi Mordecai Finley, meets west LA. I was a founding member of this large shul and played gong for their opening. R. Finley is known for his brilliant teachings each morning before services and other days.
~ ~ ~ 
Snowy Shtetl Chanukah
(c) Joy Krauthammer



* * * * * * * HOLY GATHERINGS

Shabbats, live TORAH, LA teachers, workshops, classes, etc. 
OPEN DOOR SHABBAT, with the Owens and Lesters on alternating months. Celebrate and welcome the Sabbath Bride monthly 2nd Erev ShabbatsFridays, 6:30 PM. at the Lester's home, Dec. 10.  Shayna & Eli Lester or Linda & Gerry Owens host each monthly Open Door Shabbat. Call them to confirm time, date, location in Santa Monica.  RSVP 
Prayer, holy movement, good vibrations. We send blesSings to the families.

Wonderful musicians and friends come from all Renewal chevre including Sarah's Tent. RSVP and advise what potluck vegetable, salad, fish or dessert you will share. Parking permits needed at Owen's home, so come by first to get permit. What a mamash holy gift to us that our blessed friends open their doors for Shabbat to create sacred space for us all. Filled with prayer movement, poetry and music. It feels so good to be at Open Door. If you are going from North Valley, please call me and we'll travel together.

RSVP. RevShayna@roadrunner.com . Both Linda and Shayna serve as Spiritual Directors, and may be hired, along with other divine LA Jewish women for this holy work.
~ ~ ~








With GILLA NISSAN, THE SECRET of the HEBREW LETTERS and NAMES, "Since I have known you by the name":
 כי בשם ידעתיך
"Each Hebrew letter is a wonder, a sign, a symbol; energetic keys that open the door to new self discoveries and understanding." American Jewish University, Malibu JC&S, and Leo Baeck Temple, 1300 N. Sepulveda, LA. Also at Gilla's home in Sherman Oaks. 
RSVP Fee. Registration: gilla29@msn.com or call: 818-990 7942.
Gilla Nissan, Jewish mysticism educator, published writer and poet. Graduate of Tel Aviv U.,Yeshiva U. and AJU.
Learn HEBREW and B'nei Mitzvot studies with Israeli metaphysical teacher Gilla, privately in her Valley home or a shul. You may know Gilla from AJU/UJ or Metivta. 
I love accompanying Gilla at special Metivta services, and love the Shabbat meditations that she leads.
~ ~ ~

"G*D's HOLIEST # 7" is a workshop that I, Joy Krauthammer, love teaching at AJU and I would love to teach the workshop for your organization.
~ ~ ~




DAVID SACKS from the Happy Minyan website and hear him live at Happy Minyan.
~ ~ ~

RONNIE SERR of Happy Minyan teaches privately, and at AJR.
~ ~ ~

REB YEDIDYAH BLANTON of Happy Minyan.
Reb Yedidyah teaches Rebbe Nachman's masterwork, Likutey Moharan, at the home of Shalom Yakov Mann, 1037 South Sherbourne Drive, Sundays, 8:30 pm. Must confirm.
Confirm dates and time with Reb Yedidyah at yedidyahblanton@yahoo.com or 310-630-9696.
Chevra, I have not studied with musician, Reb Yedidyah, but I hear he is "brilliant" and his classes divine. 
~ ~ ~ 

CHAI CENTER. Shabbat dinners for 60 !!! Schwartzie and Rebbetzin Olivia open their doors to strangers, holidays, giant Sukkot sukkah, Pesach events and women's events. This is an awesome mamash gevaldt family. Send them my love. RSVP.  Ask about their teachings and get on their mailing list. In the summers, they teach at Ascent in Tsfat. I’m glad that I spent time with them at Kabbalah Day in LA, Nov. 14, sponsored by JConnect. Check it out for next year.
~ ~ ~

JEWISH LEARNING EXCHANGE. So many great visiting scholars from Israel teach daily at JLE. 512 N. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 (323) 857-0923. 
New free Character Development series: Pirkei Avot, Ethics of Our Fathers with R. Berkowitz, Mondays, 7:30.
Free and fee, and sponsorship opportunities available. Can we have this in the Valley? Ask to receive their mailingsinfo@jlela.com http://www.jlela.com/
~ ~ ~ 

OHR HAMAKOR / Light from The Source, A Home for Holistic Kabbala with Rabbi T'mimah Ickovits (Aleph graduate) deciphers essential wisdom from Kabbalistic traditions, showing its relevance for today. Serving as a teacher, Mashpia Ruhanee; Spiritual Guide, Rabbi T'mimah leads custom ritual events and serves as a prayer leader. CALL for new classes or contact: RebbeT@KabbalahTmimah.org
~ ~ ~ 

BAIS CHANA women's LA school is run by Orthodox rebbetzin Yehudit Eichenblatt. Wonderful teachers learned with the finest Kabbalah teachers. Single lectures, Rosh Chodeshes, farbrengens for The Rebbe, z'l. I first met Yehudit when Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l used to stay and teach in her parents' LA home. I loved learning with her chevre and it felt mamash spiritually good to be there. Confirm days, times and go learn. http://www.baischanaca.com/
Mrs. Chana Rachel Shusterman teaches 10 - 11 am, Mondays, 423 N. Fuller Ave. 
Mrs. Sanowicz 11 - 11:45 am, Mondays, 458 N. Fuller Ave.
Rabbi Raichik, 10 am, Wed., 165 S. Hudson Ave.
Rabbis Berkowitz and Kesselman
~ ~ ~

Arbeter Ring, WORKMAN'S CIRCLE, 1525 S. Robertson Blvd., LA (south of Pico). Lectures, poetry reading with Uncle Ruthie and others, concerts, Yiddish.  Enjoy exhibits in the Shenere Velt Gallery. (Shtibl Minyan meets here.)


* * * * * * * ARTS LA

Ongoing Arts, museums, concerts, Joy's arts classes. 
More ARTS above at HAPPENINGS
TIMBREL BLESSINGS
Joy's BlesSings to You
(c) Joy Krauthammer

I shlep to NY and SF to play tourist; I can do the same here in the Big Orange. Want to join me, let me know.
~ ~ ~
NEW
POMEGRANATE GUILD of West LA. www.pomegranateguild.com  Did you ever wonder how those gorgeous Torah mantles in every synagogue get made?
Pomegranate Meetings, 2nd Wed of the month: Dec. 8. joangr@aol.com 310-476-4193.
~ ~ ~
NEW
A terrific link to ARTS calendar for every LA museum:http://www.getty.edu/visit/calendar/days/05312010.html
~ ~ ~

SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER
Enjoy the Jewish exhibits, wonderful multi-ethnic concerts, theatre, dance, film, lectures, Passport Screenings, events. Great Adult Learning program. Tasty "Cart" sandwiches/salads sold at events and buffet dinner for some concerts.
http://www.skirball.org/ 310 440-4500 Sepulveda Pass @ Skirball Drive (Mulholland Drive) Free on Thursdays.

View free films on Tuesdays.  Enroll in adult ed. courses, Learning for Life.
NEW exhibit: MAIRA KALMAN, Various Illuminations (of a Crazy World). ends Feb 13, 2011. Artist born 1949 Tel Aviv whimsical yet probing imagery featured in original works on paper that span 30 years of illustration, and photographs, embroidery, textiles, and performance. 

THE PIECES OF ME: L.A. GOAL ends Jan. 2.  Fifty paintings, ceramics, multimedia works, and texts created by artists from L.A. GOAL, serving adults with developmental disabilities. 
JUDY CHICAGO ON FRIDA KAHLO, Wed. Dec. 15, 7:30 pm. Illustrated talk on her new book, Frida Kahlo: Face to Face.






ILLUMINATED REFLECTIONS, A Bill Aron and Victor Raphael Collaboration, Jan. 4–May 8
FREE.
Reflecting upon their individual artistic achievements spanning more than four decades, LA–based artists Bill Aron and Victor Raphael have united to create a unique series of gold and metal–leafed photographs. Raphael applies the leaf to selected areas of Aron’s photographs of Jewish and diverse cultures around the world. This process transforms the images of people, shadows, walls, and windows.
~ ~ ~

GETTY CENTER, Sepulveda Pass.
Exhibits, gardens, outdoor sculptures, views, tram ride. 310-440-7300, http://www.getty.edu/ , Free admission. Parking $15. Make reservations for special events-- many free. I visit the colorful and watery Robert Irwin garden first while it is cool in morning.
Really nice that they link to ARTS calendar for other local ARTS. 
REVIEW
GETTY VILLA, Pacific Palisades. 310-440-7300, http://www.getty.edu, Free admission. RSVP required. Parking $15.
The Getty Villa is modeled after the Villa dei Papiri, a Roman  country house in Herculaneum  buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
After a decade-long renovation, I visited the Villa and totally loved being on the grounds filled with gardens, pools, fountains, sculptures and exhibits. I loved the etrog tree in herb garden and told the guide about etrogim.
Getty Villa. I tagged onto the Orientation Tour and then took the planned Architecture and Gardens Tour. Excellent docents informing us of ancient Mediterranean Roman, Greek and Etruscan life. (I have travelled to Pompeii.)  I love that the docents use a mic system and every person has a head phone, so that we hear perfectly well. I wander, so hearing was perfect; I didn't miss a word while examining the Temple of Herakles' elaborate mosaic marble floors, Corinthian columns in the Triclinium of the Peristyle, and painted ceilings with animals, fruits, and instruments including timbrel.
Sitting outside at the Getty Cafe gazing at the ocean, and enjoying delicious Cafe vegetarian meals was perfect.
~ ~ ~

The ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY.
I loved visiting this new space in the former location of the Shubert Theatre. Two hours alloted time was not long enough for my visit, but then I enjoyed playing on the new interactive table photo monitor. I wrote on the "kitchen wall" about what my "DEFINING MOMENT was in 2009". To put my words in a public space was emotional for me. To stop and think about what was defining was important.
Comfortable modern seating in digital gallery. Reading rooms. Great bathroom with photo monitor and no touch soap and water faucets. Water served in kitchen.  Cutting edge technology meets artistry. Digital Hi-def 7' x 14' and other screens project simultaneously and separately. Photos on circular gallery wall and corridors.
Validated self-parking in garage below only $1 on weekends (Constellation Ave.) Admission always free. Open Wed - Sun, 11 am -6 pm. Helpful staff. Can't wait to share this Space with my daughter the photographer.http://www.annenbergspaceforphotography.org/  213 403-3000. 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City.
~ ~ ~
NEW
The RASHI EFFECT; Artist as  Commentator,  eclectic art exhibit, American Jewish University’s Platt and Borstein Galleries. Opens Sun., Dec. 12.  Artists' reception, 1-3 PM. Ends April 10, 2011. AJU’s Platt and Borstein Galleries, Make sure to view any art in the adjacent corridor leading to dining hall. 15600 Mulholland Drive, Bel Air.   All exhibitors are members of the Jewish Artists Initiative, an organization based at USC whose mission is to inspire art and address concerns with the hopes of transforming the LA Jewish community. (At the Federation's Council on Jewish Life in the late 1980's, directed by Jerry Weber, z'l, and then Fredi Rembaum, this is what we did. Some of these good artists are from those days when we offered panels and exhibits to community. Pauline Hirsh, z'l, had run the gallery. - Joy)

Artists include: Bill Aron, Madeleine Avirov, Melinda Smith Altshuler,   Elizabeth Bloom,  Bruria Finkel,   Shelley Gazin, Susan Gesundheit, Marcie Kaufman,   Nancy Goodman Lawrence, Eileen Levinson, Laurel Paley, Doni Silver Simons, Debra Sokolow. 
The Galleries Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 10 am-4 pm and Fri. 10am-2 pm and are handicapped accessible.   Free parking. Shelley Lavender at   310.440.1201 or arts@ajula.edu.
 (310) 476-9777 ext. 201.
~ ~ ~

The National Association of POETRY THERAPY has an LA chapter. www.poetrytherapy.org 866-844-NAPT. Poetry Therapy allows one a "way to reclaim one's voice and power through self-expression....of heart, mind, and soul." Promoting growth and healing through language, symbol, and story. 
When I was a care-giver angel warrior, and new 'widow', this is one way that I survived -- by writing. I love attending their Art Lerner Poetry Therapy Day in LA. I used to work with the founder of the Art Therapy Assoc. when I was a NY social worker.
~ ~ ~

REMO Music Center is offering the best! KIDS free drum circles monthly also on first SUNDAYS, from 11 - 11:45 AM and other days. Check first before going. http://www.remo.com/  www.remormc.com

ADULT drumming every week night. Check web for amazing activities. Truly one of the greatest gifts to receive in LA from REMO. Best drums provided at every event and circle. Hundreds of drummers of all levels at REMO's drum circle and friends shlep from LA to the Valley. Other musicians invited. 818 982-0461, 7308 Coldwater Canyon, North Hollywood. (hint: you want to de-stress: DRUM.) REMO is truly one of LA's greatest gifts. Say hi to facilitators Mike & Jerry from Joy.

SISTERS IN RHYTHM All-Women’s Drum Circle, bi-monthly, 4-5:30 pm, FREE. REMO Recreational Music Center, 7308 Coldwater Canyon, North Hollywood,  91605, (818) 982-0461 - Call for date. http://www.remo.com/portal/events  Women of all ages and experience are invited. You don't have to be a drummer to participate. Everyone has something to offer the circle, and any woman or girl is welcome! Come get empowered! ~ ~ ~ ~








STEFANI VALADEZ, soloist for High Holidays at B'nai Horin shuls, sings in enchanting voice, including Ladino, at many venues around town. http://www.stefanivaladezmusic.com/One of my favorite drummers, Jamie Papish, frequently joins Stefani.
~ ~ ~

SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH ~ Joy of Wisdom is the spiritual journey and ritual celebration on turning at least 60 years. Continue to consciously envision your dreams, transform age-ing beliefs into blesSings, and strive toward attaining greater spiritual heights. How do we face our 'next' era, and then mortality, and redefine values in our lives in desiring to meet our highest potential, and leave our legacy? Become a "wisdom keeper" in a Jewish Eldering Baby-Boomer rite of passage ceremony.

We would love to offer this workshop to your spiritual community. Call or write to me ( joyofwisdom1 at gmail.com ) or leave a COMMENT below to book a workshop, or if you have questions. http://www.simchatchochmah.blogspot.com/
Joy Krauthammer, MBA (UJ) Serving G*d With Joy, artist, poet, percussionist, sound healer, Joyous Chai Lights publisher, PR consultant, workshop leader, ritual guide, gardener. (I'm a Gemini.)
AriellaShira Lewis, MA, SLR, Speech Language Therapist. Facilitator, healing circles, angel on earth.

Both Joy and AriellaShira were students of Savina Teubal, z'l (#1 creator of the Simchat Chochmah - Joy of Wisdom ritual), and have studied with Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi's Spritual Eldering Project / Aleph Sage-ing Project, as well as with Marcia Cohn Spiegel, #2 Simchat Chochmah. Many Wonderful Women With Wisdom joined us at Sarah's Tent, LimmudLA, Wagner Women Retreat, Jewish Federation, Aleph's KALLAH, Makom Ohr Shalom, and AJU workshops and are ready for part II. If you've had part I, let's prepare for part 2.
~ ~ ~
JOY SHAKERS (c) with Joy Krauthammer
JOY SHAKERS
Take a sound journey with Joy Shakers.* Learn to creatively play EGGS and small, shaken percussion instruments from indigenous world cultures. Explore shaker rhythms, tempos, patterns. Shape sounds, and experiment with body and shaker movements and positions. Shake, swing, swirl and shuckle your shakers in the Kabbalistic Four Worlds--Spirit, Mind, Heart and Body. Booking for Joy Shakers workshop, please write to me either at my personal address, or joyofwisdom1 at gmail.com (use @ sign, not 'at') www.joyshakers.blogspot.com/
JOY is available for all your spiritual percussion needs.
~ ~ ~

Joy Krauthammer's SOUNDS OF JOY ~ SOUND SPA  Healing soothing sounds with
CRYSTAL & TIBETAN SINGING BOWLS.  I love to play for UCLA's Arts and Healing dep't, and at their Healing Beat festival and for meditations at shuls. See Happenings at top.
http://healingsoundsofjoy.blogspot.com/






HAPPY CHANUKAH
photos & mosaic (c) Joy Krauthammer



* * * * * * * OUTSIDE LA

Trips, retreats, camps, workshops













SAVE DATE
KABBALAH TOUR TO SPAIN. Travel and study May 19 - May 30, 2011, with Daniel Matt, Ph.D, author of "The Essential Kaballah" and renowned translator of the Zohar. Hana Matt, MA, spiritual director, and teacher at the Graduate Theological Union and the Chaplaincy Institute in Berkeley, offers interfaith teachings in the very cities where Jews, Christians and Muslims lived together in harmony and cultural interchange during the Golden Age of Spain. Cities include: Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona, Guadalajara, Avila, Escorial, Toledo, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, and Malaga.  Historical Jewish sites include three remaining synagogues in Spain, once the height of Jewish life in exile. Shabbat services and dinners are celebrated with the Jewish communities of Barcelona and Cordoba.  For info. contact Shulamit Sofia, MSW, Soul Strength Seminars Tours to Sacred Sites. 

I learned a bissel Zohar again from Danny Matt at LA's Kabbalah Day. He is humble, gentle and learned, just as I recall him from Elat Chayyim 16 years ago. 
It would be a delight to travel with Danny and Hana as they share their wisdom, along with Shuli.
~ ~ ~

SAVE DATE   
ISRAEL TOUR with Rabbi Miriam Hamrell of Ahavat Torah, end of June 2011.  ~ ~ ~ 
Going to Jerusalem? The ultimate Jerusalem e-calendar of events, "What's Up Doc" is published by Rabbi Yaacov Fogelman. Subscribe at: top@actcom.co.il Say, HI from Joy in LA.
~ ~ ~

ELAT CHAYYIM at Isabella Freedman Center. Experience weekly/Shabbat year-round Jewish Renewal retreats with wonderful teachers by a lovely lake in the Berkshires. I love this retreat center. Meditation, and Women in Music retreat this summer. http://www.isabellafreedman.org/elatchayyim
~ ~ ~

SAVE THE DATE
KLEZKAMP presented by Living Traditions.
The 26th Annual Yiddish Folk Arts Program. Dec. 26-31, The Hudson Valley Resort and Spa, Kerhonkson, NY  www.klezkamp.org 212-532-8202
~ ~ ~
KALLAH 2011, June 26 for a week. See Happenings above.
~ ~ ~




HALEV – The Center for Healthy Living in Tzfat, Tzvi Levanon (Tet Zayin) 5 Tzfat
www.halevav.org    Info@halevav.org   077-234-5719  Tel 
My Berkeley friend, Moshe Tov, created this popular holistic space filled with healers, and musicians.

* * * * * * * JOY's TORAH CHAI LIGHTS

Recommended Torahs, Rebbes, Internet Teachers, Poets, Videos, Vegetarians, Links, etc.


Temple MENORAH chart detail
by Joy Krauthammer (c)

(LA local teachers are listed mostly at beginning.)
Many of the teachers, if you are learning from them, appreciate your DONATIONS to them.

“For the matter (of observing Torah and mitzvot) is very near to you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it.” From Chabad teaching in Likutei Amarim, TANYA, chaper 35. (which you can have mailed to you.)

"This verse asserts that the Torah is easily fulfilled through all of man’s three forms of expression (also called the “garments of the soul”): thought (“in your heart”), speech (“in your mouth”) and action (“that you may do it”). In a deeper sense, the phrase “in your heart” refers also to the emotions of love and fear of G*d; they, too, are “very near to you,” i.e., easily attainable."
~ ~ ~

KOL CHEVRE. For a copy: emunawitt14@yahoo.com  or emuna.witt@rebshlomo.org
The Voice of the Chevra of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, has printed the 16th Yahrtzeit Issue. Theme: Your stories, Your Torahs, Reb Shlomo Torahs, poetry, Reb Shlomo photos. 50-862-9040 kolchevra@rebshlomo.org  Contact Kol Chevre to write for the upcoming edition.
~ ~ ~
REB SHLOMO'S TORAHS and STORIEShttp://rebshlomo.org/
The Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach Foundation info@rebshlomo.org Jerusalem, Israel
~ ~ ~

RUTH FOGELMAN's newest book of poetry and photographs is: "Cradled in God's Arms."
I have been reading Ruth's poetry for years, and have her photos of the Old City on my eastern wall serving as mizrachis.
Ruth Fogelman is the author of "Within the Walls of Jerusalem - A Personal Perspective."
~ ~ ~

The family of REB DAVID ZELLER, z'l, have added an AFTERWARD (lots of chaplaincy wisdom) to the book which his family and friends wrote about him, published before Reb Zeller died, Sivan 5767.
http://davidzeller.org/book/afterward.php  Awesome CD's here. Order for Chanukah and anytime.
See my Blog story on Rabbi David Zeller found under VIEW MY PROFILE.


Reb Zeller was my very first beloved Rebbe and it means so much to me to read the new words about my rebbe. Please open all the links on the website and listen to Reb Zeller speak and sing in angelic voice. It was the biggest blesSing to have Reb Zeller in our lives. Reb Zeller was my passport into Jewish Renewal.
~ ~ ~

Jewish VEGETARIANS of North America (JVNA) produced an important one-hour DVD documentary A SACRED DUTY: Applying Jewish Values to Help Heal the World," which argues that the application of Jewish values is essential to respond to global warming and other environmental threats and to help shift our imperiled planet to a sustainable path.  In addition to being able to see the complete documentary, A Sacred Duty, people can also see blurbs, reviews and questions and answers about it at http://www.asacredduty.com/ Complimentary copies of DVDs. Many articles at www.JewishVeg.com/schwartz. LA has local JVNA chapters and meetings.
~ ~ ~

TORAH TEACHERS directory, Local & International mostly. We have so many DIVINE JEWISH TEACHERS who are accessible to us. Write them to receive their weekly mails, or tune in their live webcasts. Who are your favorites? Let me know.
.

Torah PARSHA teachings from ACADEMY OF JEWISH RELIGION, LA  ://www.ajrca.org/parsha_of_the_week.shtml
~ ~ ~

Torah PARSHA teachings from American Jewish University, and read commentary from Reb Mimi Feigelson and others.
~ ~ ~

Read Sarah's Tent and Malibu's JC&S member GERRY OWENs' Torah parsha commentary. I love his psychological direction.
http://web.mac.com.gerrylinda/ / for Reflections from Above . Write and ask Gerry (Generous and gracious Open Door Shabbat host) to be on his list.
 ~ ~ ~

Contact LA's RACHEL ELANA to receive weekly deep Chassidic Torah Parsha teaching, tikkunrachel@gmail.com   on HAPPY MINYAN website.
MAZAL TOV on Rachel's recent CHUPPAH.
~ ~ ~
Read and listen to DAVID SACKS on the Happy Minyan website and hear him live at Happy Minyan.
~ ~ ~
Read YESHIVAT SHLOMO weekly Torah on website   http://www.happyminyan.org/

Contact all to receive their teachings.
 ~ ~ ~

My orthodox chareidi rebbe, YOSEF Ben SHLOMO HAKOHEN, sends out his Hazon - Our Universal Vision Torah teachings. Ask me for his e-address or click the link. For years I study with this Jerusalem based teacher and continue to be blessed and deeply inspired and supported in my spiritual growth by chesed-filled Reb Yosefwww.shemayisrael.com/publicat/hazon 
~ ~ ~

I love receiving the teachings from MIRIAM (AKA Mindy) RIBNER. Write to Miriam and ask for her deep holiday teachings. Mindy is a disciple of Reb Shlomo, z'l, and she has been journeying around the world sharing her Kabbalistic meditations and counsel.
~ ~ ~

SPIRITTALK LIVE! Journeys into Mind, Heart, and Soul. Weekly Internet radio program, hosted by Rabbi Dr. WAYNE DOSICK (Renewal rabbi, Reb Shlomo disciple) on HealthyLife.net Radio every Wed. 11 am Pacific, 1 pm Central, 2 pm Eastern. SPIRITTALK LIVE! is a worldwide conversation for exploring the great questions of existence, for joining in the quest to find meaning and worth in life, through intellectual inquiry and sacred spirit.
Listen: Go to HealthyLife.net on the Internet. PC users choose:
“Listen Live”, Mac users: Choose “For Mac Users” from the left column, and follow instructions. To call into the show and join in the conversation, 1-800 555-5453. Each show archived by Thursday evening for later listening. Go to HealthyLife.net, and choose “Archives.”
 ~ ~ ~

RAHMIEL HAYYIM DRIZZIN shares his English translations of Hebrew Kabbalistic texts. For mamash deep teachings and meditations write him to get on his list.

~ ~ ~

RABBI YITZCHAK SCHWARTZin Jerusalem, kindly sent me "Jewish Healing" information that I needed asap for my own work with another. It is always wonderful and appreciated when a stranger responds when you reach out looking for assistance. yitzchakSchwartz@msn.com , http://www.paradiseprinciple.com/
Brooklyn computer phone on Jerusalem, Israel time; 1 646 358-4434
Founder of Paradise Principle Institute ™, Sefirotic Alignment Therapy ™, and co-author of Gilgulei Yisrael, R. Yitzchak's area of expertise is the study of Kabbalah. He has been immersed in learning for up to 20 hours a day learning for most of the last 20 years with Jerusalem's leading Kabbalists. For the last 10 years Rabbi Schwartz has been researching and developing new techniques to help many young people grow with his skills as a counselor.
Rabbi Schwartz' passion is being a "bridge person." Bridging Torah to the world. In US he also presents Kabbalistic-based techniques for self-actualization. He has taught at LA's Happy Minyan.
~ ~ ~

CHANOCH, is a Spiritual Teacher who teaches YOU how to be your own Spiritual Guide. He authors a weekly Kabbalistic Parsha email. Telephone Conference Classes 3 times a week including direct readings from the Zohar, as well as other Spiritual Teachings. Contact: Chanoch at yeshshem@hotmail.com ; Blog at http://www.yeshshem.wordpress.com
Twitter - Facebook at yeshshem; web site is http://www.yeshshem.com/
I am excited reading Chanoch's deeper aspects of Torah. Take a look at Chanoch's interesting website and subscribe.
~ ~ ~

Rabbi AVRAHAM GREENBAUM teaches Torah spirituality, Chassidut and Kabbalah and mysticism when he comes to LA, and on his website: http://www.azamra.org/ . For 15 years the Happy Minyan, B'nai Horin, and now, JLE hosts Rabbi Greenbaum. I hope he returns again soon, as he just was here.
The rabbi has written and translated many books and is known for his work on Rebbe Nachman, and also healing. For a couple decades, I always enjoy learning with the former New Yorker now living in Israel, and also accompanying him on Tibetan singing bowls.
~ ~ ~

I resonate with poetic teaching from Rabbi LAIBL WOLF of Australia who visits LA. http://www.laiblwolf.com/
 ~ ~ ~

Rabbi AVRAHAM GINSBURG at http://www.inner.org/ For two decades I love learning with this Rav. Many times the Chai Center hosts him. What does he say about 5771?
~ ~ ~

A SIMPLE JEW. A spiritual blog  http://asimplejew.blogspot.com/
~ ~ ~

Rabbi DAVID INGBER, Romemu, NY. I have greatly enjoyed learning with R. Ingber at Elat Chayyim and LimmudLA and loved being at his NY Romemu Shabbat service with him. "Be your note!", he said. Sounds a little like Reb Zuscha. http://www.romemu.org/
~ ~ ~

Rabbi ARTHUR SEGAL invites you to write to him at: RabbiASegal@aol.com to subscribe at no fee to his on line Torah and Talmud teachings, filled with a compilation of clearly written material from many sources from basic to Zohar. He does mitzvot taking Torah out to the people where he lives and world-wide. You can google Rabbi Arthur and find his Tanach teachings.
~ ~ ~

Rabbi SHOLOM BRODT. Read HAPPENINGS above for his first week of Dec. LA schedule.
I love the mamash gevaldt deep teachings from his Jerusalem's Reb Shlomo Carlebach Yeshivah. I am grateful that Reb Sholom accepted my invite to teach here locally.   http://www.shlomoyeshiva.org/
http://www.onegtv.org/ for Shlomo teachings by disciples

Many great teachers and Shlomo disciples are heard/seen on this live and archive program Oneg TV including R. Shlomo Katz from the Happy Minyan, now in Jerusalem. I also loved learning with Morah Leah Golomb.
Write to Rabbi Sholom Brodt to receive his weekly teaching and see their video class schedules. Invite him to your community and hear about his yeshivah.
DONATIONS are requested to be sent to the Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo.
~ ~ ~

Rabbi YAAKOV FOGELMAN's amazing Torahs, A Jerusalem Jewish Voice, short or long versions filled with eclectic wisdom. Contact:
op@actcom.co.il  . www.israelVisit.co.il/top Latest e-mail studies archived at http://www.shamash.org/
I have been blessed to meet Rabbi Fogelman and have Shabbat in his home in the Old City. Ruth Fogelman, wife, is a divine poet.
~ ~ ~

MICHAEL JACOBS, former Jerusalem and LA Kabbalah Teacher, author, humorist, and fine Judaic artist, now living in the desert, for years has written a weekly Torah commentary. Interesting Torah points and gematria from a mystic and scribe's wisdom and point of view. Guess what country he is from. Author of  "Ten and Twenty - Two, A Journey Through the Paths of Wisdom" filled with Tarot and Kaballah, and an Omer Counting guide. Michaelojacobs@roadrunner.com Michael may still be on sabbatical.
~ ~ ~

Rabbi KALATSKY, Yad Avraham live on web and archives. Knowing Heart, Daat Tevunos by Ramchal. LIVE, Wednesday 10 am LA, 1 pm NY. Torah live, Tuesdays 9 am LA time. Rav translates all the Hebrew. I love learning on web with the Rav and he translates all Hebrew. He sends reminders. Watch more live video broadcasts online at:

To download this week's commentaries please go to: http://www.yadavraham.net/documents/Korach2009.doc
 ~ ~ ~

DAILY DOSE from http://www.chabad.org/ . You too can subscribe to this daily teaching of the Rebbe, revised by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. Receive reminders for magazine and live teachings. Videos, etc.
 ~ ~ ~

THE JEWISH WOMANhttp://www.thejewishwoman.org/ edited by Sara Esther Crispe, on Chabad's web site. I"m grateful they include my writings. Many fine writers in weekly journal.
I've been a Chabadnic ever since I met The Rebbe, zt'l, in 1970, and he gave me a dollar. When needed, The Rebbe sent blesSings.
I was blessed to be able to davven at The Lubavitch Rebbe's kever in Queens, N.Y. I made prayers for all our chevra. This was a mamash, deeply moving experience for me. I gave tzadakah at the grave site and followed the instructions for honoring The Rebbe.
Yes, I am a feminist and Renewal activist, and my deep Torah learning comes from Chabad. I had a Chabad wedding and continue to spend some holidays at Chabad, especially where I say Yiskor for my husband, z'l. Three Lubavitch rabbis (including Reb Zalman and Reb Shlomo, z'l, and my chuppah Rabbi Hecht) gave me my Hebrew names.
~ ~ ~

Cantor Michael Russ teaches B'NAI MITZVOT privately in the Valley. http://www.lchayimservices.com/ 818 360-3468. 


* * * * MORE PRESS 

TRIBE, Jewish Journal supplement.
~ ~ ~
MISHPACHA JEWISH FAMILY WEEKLY and MISPACHA FAMILY FIRST, are two magazines I just discovered, thanks to Reb Yosef.
In Family First, I very much enjoyed reading, "In the Shadow of the Beis Hamikdash", a wonderful pictorial tour of Jerusalem's Old City, through the eyes of long-time resident, Bracha Slae, with text and location photos by Libi Astaire.
Included also are Health, Recipes, Advice, Short Stories and Parshah Perspectives.
Other contents include: religious and political news, as well as articles on our history, all filled with photographs of our Holy Land, and people in the news. Photos of ONLY men in the entire Family Magazine. (Where are the women?) Insiders view into Orthodoxy in these well-written informative stories.

MISHPACHA also publishes KOLMUSThe Journal of Torah and Jewish Thought. I enjoyed the artistic layout, and found fascinating all the articles including, "Fingers in the Wall", about placing notes in the Kotel stone crevices, and also the article, "What Brachah Do You Make on Moshiach?"MISHPACHA JUNIOR,  is a colorful, attractive magazine for the younger set. The cartoons include both genders. http://www.mishpacha.com/  info@mishpacha.com
~ ~ ~
Tablet Magazine http://www.tabletmag.com/  daily online magazine of Jewish news, ideas, and culture, launched June. Tablet Magazine offers up-to-the-minute reactions to the day’s news, sophisticated cultural coverage, and in-depth investigations of broad trends in Jewish life. It combines a newspaper’s skepticism, a journal’s thoughtfulness, and a blog’s immediacy.
~ ~ ~
JConnectLA weekly Jewish calendar and community. http://www.jconnectla.com/
Please direct your 20 and 30 year olds to this community e weekly and their activities.
~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~
JEWISH WORLD REVIEW http://www.jewishworldreview.com/
Published by my Brooklyn cousin, Binyamin Jolkovsky.
 ~ ~ ~
Read the LA Jewish Journal web calendar for LA listings and news. http://www.jewishjournal.com/
They publish a new journal. See TRIBE magazine. OLAM magazine is reborn on internet, published by David Suissa, weekly writer in Jewish Journal.
I love reading Suissa's JJ stories, mostly about the 'Hood'. (OK, I'm a wanna be 'hood' resident.) I'm thrilled that he rebirthed OLAM, filled with spirituality.
~ ~ ~
See what LA's Samuel K. puts in his wholistic oriented website, http://www.sacredfriends.com/


Shalom and BlesSings to you for joy (gila, rena, ditza, simcha, chedva, sason, tzachala),
Joy
.
* * * INTRODUCTION for NEW READERS

Dear Chevre,

"Chai Lights" was birthed in the "Jewish Calendar Magazine" (published by Isaac Nathan Publishing) in 1983 and my spiritual ARTS monthly column lived there in hard copy for about a dozen years. I then reclaimed Chai Lights, and continue to write the way I began my column and also my newsletter "Kid Kulture" (birthed in 1980, THREE DECADES AGO).
.
A benefit to JOYous-CHAI-LIGHTS- single or doublemonthyear.blogspot.com, joy-zine format vs. my e-mailing form for the past years, is that I can and do add to site during the month, so if YOU want something included, feel free to let me know. Send news in Press Release format (plain type, no flyers). In web-blog, joy-zine form, the benefit is that you can also access this updated info at any time.
.
You are welcome to "COMMENT" at end of this long POST or else write directly to me. You may have my personal address and phone.  I always love reading what YOU write. (My other BLOGS (PR memos mostly, and stories, poetry, not daily diaries) are visible by clicking above on VIEW MY PROFILE.)

Feel free to use any of the info in CHAI LIGHTS for your shul's website info. (Credit sources.)  Let's JOYOUSLY bring "Community into Unity."
.

I am happy to share with you my JOYous CHAI LIGHTS of upcoming Shabbats, Chagim/holidays, mostly LA Jewish RENEWAL and post-denominational spiritual events, classes & the ARTS, plus... I only write about the events that I know and love. Not usually the shuls I used to go to-but sometimes I do, nor the ones I haven't yet gone to, nor the ones I intentionally don't go to. Thus mine is a partial listing and not 'impartial'. They are where I love to be, and invite you to join me there in joy along the Four Worlds (Spirit, Mind, Heart, Body) path to The Tree of Life.
.

In the merit / zechus and light of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l, I mamash love helping to make our universe a smaller world, one with more spiritual consciousness, connection, compassion, and chesed / lovingkindness. With spiritual Guidance, I make instinctual connections and serve as spiritual guide for others. I believe that music helps to cross boundaries and brings us closer to the Holy One. I emphasize here those events, as well as inspirational, uplifting, joyous learning and prayer opportunities.
.
Please see my Reb Shlomo story http://www.rebshlomocarlebach-ztl.blogspot.com/

Monthly or bi-monthly, I write this growing, very large mailing, my gift to Chevra, from my Porter Ranch kitchen table looking East to Jerusalem, and no one but I write and proof it. If you see an error, please let me kniow.  I hand click each recipient-- no lists. I consciously think of each person,YOU, our connections, as I click YOUR name. UNSUBSCRIBE-- Let me know. Information is subject to change. Please call events to confirm specific locations, times, fees and accessibility.
.

PLEASE FORWARD monthly JOYous CHAI LIGHTS TO YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY so they, too, can enjoy with you, spiritual Renewal Judaism and learn about traditional Judaism. Most of what I include here is NOT included in other local media. This is the only Jewish spiritual Renewal oriented LA events and shuls list. Click on underlined LINKS for full updated stories of events & some photos. I love it when at an event, I hear out loud, or I meet someone and they tell me they are present because a friend had forwarded JOYous CHAI LIGHTS to them. People stop and tell me they have joined shuls because of these invites. Amayn.
.
Having Publisher's privilege, I invite you to my many activities, and share them here. You can book me for Kabbalistic workshops, rituals, poetry readings, and for me to play passionate percussion and Miriyahm HaNeviah for Rosh Chodeshes, Women's Passover Seders, simchas, Reb Shlomo Carlebach, zt'l memorial concerts or other spiritual events. I play for shuls, farbrengens and events mostly throughout greater LA.

 I'd love to play percussion for your organizations.
.
Contact me if you want to invite KINDRED SPIRITS, my 18 member percussion ensemble of REMO friends to join you, http://www.kindredspirits.blogspot.com/ or if you want OPEN TO WONDER, my divine band, http://www.opentowonderband.blogspot.com/ for your spiritual services.

If your community/shul desires a sound healer, I'm available-- SOUNDS OF JOY  ~ SOUND SPA.  http://www.healingsoundsofjoy.blogspot.com/
I travel with my crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, bells and gongs that I brought back from Tibet. I love playing them for meditation, vibrational massage, yoga, dance, and homeopathic healing.


JOY SHAKERS. As percussionist for LA synagogues and events, I'm offering a little workshop on small percussion. See PR in link. Please contact me, Joy, for bookings. http://www.joyshakers.blogspot.com/
~

SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH ~ JOY OF WISDOM   http://simchatchochmah.blogspot.com/
AriellaShira Lewis and I loved offering SIMCHAT CHOCHMAH ~ JOY OF WISDOM at ALEPH's last week-long KALLAH retreat in Ohio, and local shuls, AJU, and Jewish Federation. Call me to book a workshop.

In addition, I, Joy, continue to offer G*D's HOLIEST #7 and Kabbalistic Four World workshops on "Joy."

ABOUT ME: CLICK: VIEW MY COMPLETE PROFILE for all sites. 40+ blogs.
"Joy breaks through all barriers." The Lubavitch Rebbe.


When I am drumming, connecting to the Source of All BlesSings, I truly love seeing YOUR smiling hearts radiating from Hashem and illuminating and reflecting Divine light, and then mine drums in joy with your heart. I always love hearing from YOU and hearing about your spiritual path.
~

Please ask The Compassionate One for healing blessings / MiSheberach for all those you love, for healing comfort in Four Worlds of spirit, mind, body and soul. Remember to try to use the Hebrew name both of the one in need, along with the mother's Hebrew name. Torah.org offers MiSheberach lists you can use and you can pray for those listed. http://torah.org/services/cholim

Another source I like for Jewish prayer community is, "Daven For Me And I'll Daven For You". info@davenforme.org  http://www.davenforme.org/  718-437-8812. No charge.
.

BlesSings for health and joy always. See you in shul,

Joy Krauthammer
"Ivdu Et HaShem B'Simcha" Psalm 100:2
Serve G*D in Joy
.
* * * CDs
YUVAL RON. Searching for the Inner Soul, and Seeker of Truth.
I'll write about them in the next issue.
Yuval Ron is one of the finest LA musicians playing Middle-Eastern and mystical music.
He has a series of classes at Valley Beth Shalom at this time.

Coming, more Reviews by Joy Krauthammer

See Archives in MY PROFILE for past Reviews.

Love and blesSings until next month,
Joy


Joy, Brett, Aviva

Joy Krauthammer  http://joyous-chai-lights-dec-2010.blogspot.com//. Powered by Blogger.