Stories,photos

168 results total, viewing 131 - 140

Backyard bird buffet brings joy to winter

For as long as I can remember, wherever I have lived, there have been bird feeders in my backyard. My current home is no exception. Backyard birds have always been a source of endless fascination. You start to recognize their songs and their … more

Fran Ostendorf | 1/7/16

Travel with meaning

For more than 30 years, at this time of year, my husband and I have traveled to visit his family in Chicago. It hasn’t mattered where we’ve lived, what our work or financial state. I’ve been pregnant; children have been sick. We’ve gone. The … more

Fran Ostendorf | 12/25/15

’Tis the season

When I was working at daily newspapers, we used to have an unspoken competition to see who would write the first “ ‘Tis the season’ ” headline. Trite and predictable, nonetheless, in a headline writer’s world it was one of those … more

Fran Ostendorf | 12/11/15

Best weapons against hatred? Bravery, togetherness, inspiration and forgiveness

A lot has happened in the world since the last issue of The Jewish Voice. Right around the time our community here was celebrating Shabbat, terrible things were happening in Paris. The aftermath of those attacks was horrible. More than 100 killed … more

Fran Ostendorf | 11/27/15

A public Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday whose origin is entwined with the very roots of our country. Even its centerpiece at the holiday table – the turkey – is native to North America. Most Americans, no matter their … more

Fran Ostendorf | 11/13/15

Don’t let the haters have the last word

Hate is a horrible thing. It touches all communities – anywhere that there are people who are perceived as “different.” It’s been around for as long as there have been people who think that theirs is the only way of thinking. … more

Fran Ostendorf | 10/29/15

Bucket of things to do in New England

Everyone I know has a bucket list. I have to admit, I have a small one. It’s perhaps not as extensive as some of my peers. I’ve kept my list small so it will be manageable. It’s especially focused on New England. At one time, … more

Fran Ostendorf | 10/15/15

Falling into a comfortable routine

A walk in the woods. A stroll on an empty beach. A ride out of town to get pumpkins. An afternoon spent picking apples. The next afternoon making applesauce. Fall has always been my favorite season. I was the kid who always liked to go back … more

Fran Ostendorf | 10/1/15

Whew! It’s done!

There’s a hefty insert in today’s paper. We’re welcoming 5776 at The Voice with our popular Guide to Jewish Living. When you picked up your paper, you probably noticed the annual guide to all things Jewish in Rhode Island and Southeastern … more

Fran Ostendorf | 9/17/15

The season of introspection

Introspection is such a difficult concept. What does it really mean? According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, it’s a noun meaning the examination of your own thoughts or feelings. Not too complicated; easy to understand, right? … more

Fran Ostendorf | 9/3/15