VVHETHER IT'S ROOTED in a Catholic saint's martyrdom or a Roman fertility rite — or both — Valentine's Day has moved so far from its roots that the Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately 1 billion valen- tines are sent each year worldwide. Even if we don't outright celebrate the holiday, the month of February has become synonymous with the expression of love. And whether your expressions are romantic or platonic, this issue of Platinum offers plenty of lovely options. Begin by reveling in the vibrantly colored photog- raphy of Angie Baan, who snapped our cover image — a single juicy rose — with her point-and-shoot camera while strolling with her baby, Leila, in their Royal MISSION STATEMENT Platinum is a monthly, glossy life- style magazine published by the Detroit Jewish News. It reflects all aspects of life in the Metro Detroit Jewish community, includ- ing 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 cov- ered. Our goal is to be a part of the fabric of the Jewish commu- nity and to reflect those who have created it — our readers. Oak neighborhood one afternoon last spring. Next, Birmingham's Matthew Below: The tissue-like layers of a pretty pink peony unfold beautifully through the lens of photographer Angie Baan, who shot a series of floral images to hang in her own home. Schwartz helps Jewish singles meet their match in "Love.com " (page 12). In "Isn't It Romantic?" (page 19), writer Megan Swoyer found four fabulous retreats to whisk your sweetie away for a weekend or even a night — all right here in Michigan. For a fabulous feast for all your loved ones, whether one or all, turn to page 22 for "The Food Of Love." And to top it off, get up close and personal with Dr. Terri Orbuch, aka the Love Doctor, in this month's "Member of the Tribe." Need more inspiration? Read on! Lynne Konstantin, editor Ikonstantin@thejewishnews.com Editor's Note: On page 29 of "Joie de Eve" in the January 2007 issue of Platinum, the recipe for Challah French Toast with Summer Berries should have included 1/4 cup (not 3/4 cup) of vanilla and 3 /4 cup (not 'A cup) of confectioners' sugar. \ATe regret the error. platinum JN LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE way A new winner every month! visit JNonline.us / for details Iasi month's 1p.ner FEBRUARY GIVEAWAY: $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM ART CRAFT Carmen, of West Bloomfield, won January's $50 gift certificate from Sea Grille. Congratulations! Redeemable for merchandise or services rt sunrqieF. Ff s9r\7 !r- ArtCraft is the best place to purchase all you need for projects ranging from fine art to blueprinting and everything in between! Custom framing is also offered for anything you would like to hang or display. $50 32410 Woodward Ave. I Royal Oak Phone: 248.549.9000 4185 Highland Rd. I Waterford Phone: 248.681.2400 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: VVinner's name will be printed in the following issue of Platinum. platinum • FEBRUARY 2007 • 3