22nd Annual Mary Bridge Children's Hospital Festival of Tree's Gala Auction

A Benefit for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital & Health Care Center

Friday,December 5th, 2008 Greater Tacoma Convention & Trade Center

Over 60 Tree's went on display this year at the Tacoma Convention & Trade Center. Tree's are on display for public viewing for a few dollar entry donation. All proceeds from the 2008 Festival will benefit Tree House-A Place for Families.When a child is in the hospital facing a medical crisis this will allow the family to be nearby. Currently MultiCare only has 12 apartments nearby, but with the 100's of thousands of dollars donated this year Frances hall Apartments currently under renovation will provide a place for 44 families.

Auctioneers Jeff Stokes & Jeff Randall kick the auction into full gear on center stage about 7:30PM. Tree's not sold during the silent auction go on the bidding block and recieve bids anywhere from $500.00 to $38,000(one tree included a 2005 convertable lexus).

Other evening entertainment included a 14K earring raffle valued at $4,125. Buy one of 250 keys for $25.00 and if it fits the first box your in the finals. Only 25 keys fit the first box so I have to say when I was one of those with a key I was pretty excited for my wife. We didn't win the earrings but how can you feel bad about donating $25.00 to a great cause. Other entertainment included Enjoy Productions. This Combination of Contortionist, Trapeze Artist, and actors was unique and fun to watch.

Special Thanks to my Aunt and Uncle, Ed and Madonna Arnold this years Festival Sponsor. You can get more information by clicking this link http://www.multicare.org/home/festival-trees