WFAE is raking you over the coals

I've always said Mike Collins is smokin' hot: Out of all the subjects "Charlotte Talks" has covered, the 30th anniversary show, which airs Aug. 22, is on grilling and smoking. They're looking for grilling stories and techniques to read during the show and post online afterward. The show also will be taped during a special open house Aug. 19. Get a link to submitting your questions and stories and get a chance at a ticket to the open house on their food blog, WFAEATS.

Eat and Tell: Ribs Day on Monday

What are you cooking on the grill Monday?

I will be eating ribs. But I won't be cooking them (not that day, anyway). I'll be judging ribs, at the Rib Burnoff at the Patriot Festival at Symphony Park at SouthPark.

The festival raises money for wounded members of the military and their families. It's 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and includes music, big trucks like firetrucks and Humvees, miltary maneuvers, a 5K, a Scout and service club challenge, and ribs. Tickets to the festival are $10 at the gate and $8 in advance at Harris Teeters with a VIC card. Children 5 and younger get in free, while military with ID are $5. Details: www.patriotcharities.org.

The Burn Off is a contest for restaurants and backyard cooks, beginning at 11 a.m. We of the judging team will give out awards for best rib and best sauce, while you of the eating team will get to name a People's Choice Award. If you're there and you spot me, say hey. Pardon me in advance if my mouth is full.

If you're not going to the festival, I'd love to hear what you end up cooking on Monday. Drop me a comment here and let me know.