TOYS FOR KIDS + FREE APPS = HOLIDAY SPIRIT >>>

"For the past twelve years, I have collected toys that are later delivered to the many sick kids at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital on Christmas Day," says Silvia Cordova-Tapia. "It warms my heart to know that these kids will realize they are loved and that life is precious. I feel honored to have the opportunity to serve these kids each year."

Yes, for 12 years Santa Silvia, as she is known throughout the halls of Mary Bridge, has collected toys for the kids. Friday, Dec. 7 at the Varsity Grill in downtown Tacoma, Santa Silvia taps into the holiday spirit again. From noon to 7 p.m. Santa Silvia and her elves will begin collecting donated toys, supporting children in our community who often can't be at home for Christmas.

"On Christmas Eve, two other people and I - and I'm hoping I can get a Santa Claus, too - will be delivering the toys to the ER at Mary Bridge. That's the good part," she says. "It's breathtaking."

Tapia has organized this toy collection every year since 1999, when a chance encounter with a doctor at Children's Hospital in Seattle inspired her to do something to help. At first, she collected toys for Children's Hospital, but later began a collection for Mary Bridge instead, to better serve her own community.

As an early present, Varsity Grill will serve a free happy hour appetizer or offer 50 percent off a regular menu item to those who donate toys.

Also Friday at Varsity Grill, KIRO TV and Toys for Tots will kick off their toy drive. Bring a toy and donate to either cause - or both! There will be donation boxes for both, side by side. Or bring cash, which will go to Toys for Tots.

After the kick-off, Santa Silvia's toy drive will continue through Dec. 23. To donate, bring a new, unwrapped toy, ideally for a child ages 5 to 12. There's a shortage of toys donated this year, so please donate.

VARISTY GRILL, 1114 BROADWAY, TACOMA, 253.627.1229