As promised, here are the totals from the 4th annual "Byrd For Birds" food drive. This year another 10 tons of food and more than $5,000 in cash donations were donated by Loyal Loopers... enough to provide meals for some 33,000 Chicagoans in need! As you might imagine in these times of economic challenges, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is being called upon to provide meals for significantly more people than in past years. If you were unable to get by the Merchandise Mart with a donation, but would still like to contribute a frozen turkey, non-perishable food item or simply to donate some money to have these items purchased in your name, you can contact the Greater Chicago Food Depository directly at 773-247-FOOD or log onto www.chicagosfoodbank.org.

Once again, my heartfelt thanks to the Loyal Loopers who took the time to share with others and my fellow Loop staffers who helped make it all possible again this year. You guys and gals are the best!

This Saturday, the hottest holiday show of them all, Trans Siberian Orchestra makes their triumphant return to the Allstate Arena for 2 shows at 2pm and 7pm. Both shows are nearly sold out, so grab your tickets while you still can through www.wlup.com! I will be broadcasting live from 2pm-6pm Saturday afternoon from the venue. Stop by and say hello!

(See a sample of the Trans Siberian Orchestra's incredible performances here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR3CKEC3lbs)

This week on my show from 6am-10am: Win Trans Siberian Orchestra tickets and much more contained in each "Byrd's Santa Sack", and a sampling of Christmas music releases that rock Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning!