EDITOR'S LETTER

MISSION STATEMENT

Platinum is a monthly, glossy

lifestyle magazine published

by the Detroit Jewish News.

It reflects all aspects of life in

the Metro Detroit Jewish com-

munity, including decor, fashion,

food, health, spirituality, books,

shopping and more. Whether

profiling a unique member of

our community or the latest hot

spot or trend you should know

about, Platinum's got it covered.

Our goal is to be a part of the

fabric of the Jewish community

and to reflect those who have

created it — our readers.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Biking. Hiking.
Boating. Summers in Michigan offer a world of activi-
ties to those who choose to take advantage
of them.
For those, like myself, who plan to take that great
camping trip, someday, but never quite get around to
actually pitching the tent, there are many options that
allow us to think of ourselves as outdoorsy but still
retain a certain level of comfort. Lounging poolside, for
example!
Those are the things to which this issue is dedicated.
We are invited to peek into the yard of Ron Lipson,
who transformed his home's back space into an outdoor
kitchen, replete with a stainless and granite cooking
enclave, fireplace and poolside dining area overlooking
Cass Lake (see "Garden Gourmet"). Next question:
What to serve? Local foodie and regular Platinum con-
tributor Annabel Cohen offers ideas for dressing up a
barbecue. In "Let's Have a Picnic!" Cohen includes all
the details, from how to create an inviting environment
to an exotic twist on the familiar hot dog and more
outdoor-friendly recipes. Just want to relax? Tastes &
Trends columnist Erin Schwartz searched high and

low to compile a roundup of restaurants, cafes and bars
with alfresco options. For even more ideas on how to
enjoy the summer, turn to Platinum Planner.
The days will get shorter — and cooler — all too
soon. So fire up the grill. Let the kids splash in the
sprinklers. Most of all, enjoy these heavenly dog days
with friends and family while you can.

Lynne Konstantin, editor

lkonstantin@thejewishnews.corn

My son, Charlie, then 1 1/2, bonds with nature last July.

PLATINUM

giveaway

A new winner every month!

visit JNonlinee

for details

last month's
winner

July giveaway:

Jodie, of Walled Lake,
won June's
royal ceramic platter.
Congratulations!

gift certificate to

SPOSITA'S
RISTORANTE

Fine Italian dining
in a casual atmosphere

(248) 538-8954
33210 W. 14 Mile Road

In Simsbury Plaza
Just East of Farmington Road
West Bloomfield

4 • JULY 2006 • JNPLATINUM

our giveaways

are donated by local advertisers. To be considered for a spot
in our giveaway page, please contact us at 248.351.5164.

how to win

Enter to win at JNonline.us and press the Platinum giveaway
button. This contest opens at noon on the first Thursday of the
month and closes at 3 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month.
Winners will be chosen and notified by the end of each month.
No purchase is necessary to enter or win. One entry per person
per month. Please note: Winner's name will be printed in
the following issue of Platinum.