Shampooch, a dog wash sponsored by Xiphium Salon was a huge success for every squeaky clean pooch, and all those in attendance either watching the fun or enjoying the great food and drink from Zest.  Vilma Subel, owner of Xiphium Salon, created the event to benefit Animal Haven, an animal shelter located in Merriam, KS.  Xiphium would like to thank all the sponsors who donated to the cause.  It takes a lot of folks for everyone to have a doggone good time!  Special thanks to:  Solutions Bank, Zest, Vico's, Imagery, Noel's Fine Gifts, Natasha's Mulberry and Mott, Blanc Burgers + Bottles, Room 39, Julia Shapiro Photography + Art (formerly Kandid Kids), Scoopy the Poo, Hawthorne Animal Clinic, and Animal Haven.   

Need a little help getting through the week?  Introducing Patio Wednesdays where you can relax and enjoy the season on the best patios in town.  Take a break after work with $5 martinis and appetizer specials from all the Mission Farms restaurants which include Blanc Burgers + Bottles, Blue Koi, Room 39 and Zest.  With beautiful spring days approaching, and flowers in bloom, these patios will help you get over the hump and enjoy the rest of the week and weekend.  Every patio is different, every appetizer special is different, but every martini is $5.  Enjoy! 

Get a jump on your weekend entertaining with a trip to the New Organic Farmer's Market at Mission Farms.  Located on the east end of the parking lot, the market features organically grown fresh produce, free-range meats, organically grown breads, eggs, herbs, greens, flowers, soap and more.  The market will be open every Thursday from 4:00-8:30pm until October 10.  Come introduce yourself to our local growers and eat fresh, local and healthy! 

Little Muddy Farms - produce, sprouts, wheat grass
Schenker Family Farms - beef, pork, lamb, honey, brats
Pearly Gates Organic Soap - soap, body care
Bread of Life Bakery - bread, produce, cane juice
Camp Creek Farms - eggs
Wild Goose Gardens - flowers, green plants
Hess Ranch - beef
Mission Gardens - produce, herbs
Foxfire Farm - produce, herbs, sweet corn
The Organic Way - produce
The Curious Canine - dog treats
Gasper Family Farms - vegetables, fruits, meat, grains

Surf online for all the wonderful merchandise from Noel's Fine Gifts and Ruth Barrone Interior Design.  This new site, www.noelsfinegifts.com, will entice you to come into their beautiful shop at Mission Farms to help celebrate 45 years in business in Kansas City. 

It's always exciting to have a fresh new store with new design, fixtures, and decor.  But, Vco's celebrated it's grand opening on April 4th without it's new front door.  The custom made wrought iron door, imported from Mexico, has finally arrived and was installed adding the final touch to the modern rustic feel of this wonderful boutique, locally owend by Stefanie Wilson.  The door is usually open.  Come in and say hello. 

Artist Mimi Taylors "Found it First"

In case you aren't sure how exhibits at ARTichokes come and go, we'll explain.  Selected local artists exhibit at ARTichokes for nearly 10-12 weeks with the show changing four times a year.  Throughout the exhibit, other artists might show their work temporarily, or special artists and exhibitors might be featured for a limited showing, but by and large, you can count on four fabulous local exhibits each year.  Having said that, don't miss the NEW SHOW opening on May 9.  The opening party, open to the public, will be that evening from 6-8.  Admission is free.  Visit www.artichokeskc.com for more information.