FEBRUARY 2008

FEATURES

Blood Diamonds
Who wants to walk into a jewelry store wondering whether or not the diamond you’re buying for your Valentine might be fueling a bloody war halfway across the country? Fortunately, there are fewer “blood diamonds” on the market than just a few years ago, and while the problem isn’t solved, local jewelers are making efforts to keep your romantic purchases conflict-free. Contributing writer Frank Bures gives us both the global and local scoop on the story.

Best New Ethnic Dining
Contributing writer Maggie Ginsberg-Schutz traveled to Fitchburg, Sun Prairie, down State Street and other places to taste the foods people are enjoying in and around our culturally rich city. And while the tour wasn’t exactly whirlwind, the authenticity of what she found will make you feel like you’ve been around the world and back.

Health Care Directory 2008
Madison is chock-full of individuals making a difference in medicine, and you’ll meet some of them in our annual Health Care Directory: An activist on a new crusade—battling Alzheimer’s. Volunteers running a specialty-care clinic for the area’s uninsured. Local leaders in the alternative-medicine movement. A trio of health-care professionals just arriving on the scene. You’ll also find two very personal takes on LASIK surgery, as well as a directory of clinics by specialty.

Feel the Love
In honor of Valentine’s Day, we celebrate all things romantic.

YOUR TOWN

For the Record Doing Business With You By Neil Heinen
New! Style Sheet Cool metallics take center stage.
Window Shopping Fontaine offers design services and impeccable taste.
On the cover: Blood Diamonds Are gems from local jewelers conflict-free?
Politics
Get Outta Town Savoring Sauk Prairie
Web Exclusive: Building Hope Interfaith Hospitality Network kicks off housing campaign

MADISON BUSINESS

On the cover: Meeting and Event Planning Local experts tell us how to get the party started.
Big Shot Dean’s new CEO Craig Samitt
The New Progressives By Kay Plantes

HABITAT

House of the Month This Bergamont home is high-tech, yet functional and family-friendly.
Pro Profile Longtime orchid biz and nursery is expanding its offerings.
On the cover: Dining In Chili for chilly temps. By Nancy Lynch
Garden Talk An unlikely source for rich compost.
On the cover: Habitat Handbook Let there be light, and how to create an amorous abode. By Jennifer Garrett

OVERTONES

Arts Profile A star on stage and behind the scenes.
This Month A Broad-way star’s homecoming and American Girl fans delight.
A&E Calendar

DINING OUT

Restaurant of the Month Delight in freshly baked goods at Madeleine’s Patisserie. By Dan Curd
Restaurant Listings Guide to good food in the city.
New! Hip Sips On the cover: Bartender secrets: Make your own Flirtini.
Bottle Half-Full Try a fruit beer. By Kent Palmer
Off the Vine Five food and wine pairings to woo your valentine. By Michael Kwas
Genuine Articles What the politicos are eating - it’s not pretty. By Nancy Christy and Neil Heinen

Out There As God Is My Witness By John Roach