IMUS LOVES THE KIDS

Imus To Kick Off Return With Kids' Benefit.

DON IMUS is picking up where he left off -- raising money to help children with cancer, writes DAVID HINKLEY in THE NEW YORK DAILY NEWS. When he was kicked off CBS Sports WFAN/NEW YORK in APRIL, he was in the middle of the annual WFAN Radiothon that benefits child-related charities, including HACKENSACK MEDICAL CENTER, THE SIDS FOUNDATION and THE IMUS RANCH.

So when he returns DEC. 3rd to start his new 6-10a gig at CITADEL Talk WABC/NEW YORK, he'll use the first show to raise money for the Ranch, by charging $100 a ticket to see that show live at TOWN HALL.

The show will feature live music by LEVON HELM and should start to answer the question of what the new IMUS show will sound like.

His cast is expected back, though BERNARD MCGUIRK's role may change. It was announced yesterday that BOB GELB, eight-year producer of "MIKE AND THE MAD DOG" on WFAN, has resigned to join IMUS.

There could also be other new faces and a shuffled guest lineup. JAMES CARVILLE says he will be a first-day guest.