Tunes@Tapps toy drive to support local families

Bring a toy to Allan Yorke Park this Wednesday for the annual “Salute to Armed Forces” concert.

If you’re attending Tunes@Tapps this week, make sure to bring a toy or two.

The fourth annual Salute to Armed Forces concert with Heart by Heart is once again hosting a toy drive for local kids and families during the concert.

The drive — which, in this case, is somewhat literal — begins with a motorcycle ride at 4:45 p.m. at the Sumner Winco at 6621 166th Ave. East and ends at Allan Yorke Park in time for the concert to begin.

The toy drive benefits Santa’s Castle and the National Guard Holiday Magic programs. While these programs benefit kids and families around the state, this particular toy drive will keep all donations local, said Debbie McDonald, an administrative specialist with the city of Bonney Lake and USO volunteer.

Last year, the toy drive doubled its goal of 100 toys, and organizers this year are hoping to reach 250 toys this time around, McDonald said.

This special event also comes with a high-flying surprise — Skydive Kapowsin will once again be literally dropping into the concert area with the American flag before Heart by Heart takes the stage at 6:30 p.m.

Various military groups will be attending the event, including the USO Mobile Unit, Dogs On Deployment, American Legion, Friends of Kilroy with Military Vehicles, Family Assistance Specialist with Washington National Guard, and the Caregiver Support Program.

The Bonney Lake Art Commission will also be attending with a special “patriotic” art project for kids, as well as the Taps@Tapps beer garden, which raises money for the Bonney Lake Lions Club.

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