What would Christmas be without a new release from Yes Virginia? That's what we were asking ourselves just a couple of weeks ago. But recording new Christmas music is easier said than done.

First off, let me mention the Toys for Tots benefit CD that we put together this year. The guys from Yes Virginia, along with dozens of other artists from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region (and thanks to the generous support of 93.7 WSTW and Ken-Del Studios), put out the CD "Let Them Know It's Christmas". All proceeds from the sale of the disc go to the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Foundation. The disc covers everything from original tunes to traditional carols, rock to jazz to opera (Mario), truly something for everyone. Over an hour's worth of music for only $10 (it makes a great gift, too!). For more info, check out www.ken-del.com/christmas.html.

Next up, a bit of sad news. Our drummer for the last three years, Gregg Hoffmann, will be leaving us and relocating to Florida. Gregg is an exceptional talent whose playing has really taken Yes Virginia's music to the next level since his first appearance with us on 2001's "My Favorite Things". He will be missed and we wish him well in his future endevours. (We do, however, have a few tracks of his in the can that will surely show up on future releases).

Of course, we couldn't let this Christmas go by without releasing something. We enlisted the help of Joe's brother, Mark Merkel, on drums and recorded the single "Christmas Is The Time To Say I Love You" b/w "Do You Hear What I Hear" (unplugged). We will be back in full force next year. In the mean time, if you need more Christmas music than these two songs, pick up a copy of "Let Them Know It's Christmas".

To all who include Yes Virginia as a part of their holiday celebrations, thank you. We hope you enjoy this year's offering as much as we enjoyed making it.