The Food Network is looking for the “Next Food Network Star” and will be casting in Philly on October 29th, 2008 from 10am-3pm. I’m a big fan of the show and was very happy for Camden’s Aaron McCargo, Jr., a 36-year-old executive catering chef for Thomas Jefferson University Hospital who won last season and got himself a fine show.

I know absolutely nothing about cooking, but for some odd reason I love the cooking competition shows, especially “Top Chef, ” “Last Restaurant Standing” and “The Next Food Network Star.” When 10pm rolls around, I’m ready to go with a nice big glass of red, a bowlful of pretzels and lots of ill-informed opinions …

“I’ve won some smaller intergalactic competitions sponsored by the United Federation of Planets, and this earth-based victory will definitely add to my ongoing education and skill set. I’m only 127 years old and I really want to open my own place while I am still young. I’m thinking a Vulcan/Asian fusion place in San Fran or my home province of Raal.”

Looking to offer something new and exciting to its ever-growing customer base and to get a leg up on the heated competition, McDonald’s announced today it is now offering a new “Dime Menu” at all of its restaurants around the country. Everything on this extensive menu will be value priced at ten cents.