In celebration of 35 years of service, the National Kidney Foundation of East Tennessee's 2nd Annual Playhouse Village Gala was held on May 3, 2008 on Market Square in the heart of downtown Knoxville. This fantasy-themed evening under the stars featured remarkable, imagination-inspiring playhouses built by local schools and businesses, food prepared by local chefs, and wines from around the world.

In addition to the exquisite menu, there was live entertainment and music, a fantastic silent auction, and very special guests. Lois McGinnis, her son Link McGinnis and daughter, Vicki Geist, have all received kidney transplants following kidney failure from polycystic kidney disease, a hereditary form of kidney disease and the fourth leading cause of kidney failure. The family will shared their remarkable story during the event.

Proceeds are used by the National Kidney Foundation of East Tennessee to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals and families affected by kidney disease. Since 1 in 9 East Tennesseans has kidney disease and many are not aware they are at increased risk, there is much to be done.

The event featured free parking in Market Square Garage.

Generous support of this event came from the following sponsors:

AAA East Tennessee

Amerigo

B&W Y-12

Bandit Lites

Blaine Construction

Cherokee Country Club

Community Tectonics

Connors

Hard Rock Café

Home Federal Bank

Jewelry Television

Kenjo Markets

Mark Moon

Nama

Oodles

Renal Medical Associates

Savellis

Smee + Busby Architects

Sound Ventures

Southern Graces

Stir Fry Café

Trio Cafe

University of Tennessee Medical Center

The Wilson Group