Rachael Ray, Boscov's girl

Rachael Ray has taken more lumps than bad gravy lately, a backlash of bashing from folks who are annoyed by the Queen of Quick's perennially perky personna (say that three times fast).

I hope the people who come to meet Ray at Boscov's at Moorestown Mall on Wednesday are all nice people, kindly citizens who don't begrudge Ray her perfect hair and spectacular success.

Personally, I LIKE RACHAEL RAY. So there. I enjoy watching her dash off 30-Minute Meals on the Food Channel. I find her warm and approachable, as well as a font of food knowledge. Thanks, hon, for the tip about adding salt to grapefruit while cooking a topping for grouper. It elevates the fruit to a new level of sophistication.

Most important, I have a friend who worked as a freelance prep guy on Ray's show. And he says she is truly as nice (and funny) as she appears -- and working with her was a true pleasure. Take that, meanies.

Ray will be signing autographs (for free, praise be) from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. If she has a little time, she also can pick up some bargains. Boscov's is selling sleek lampskin leather jackets for $129. If Ray needs a cocktail dress, she can pick up a special occasion frock at 30 percent off.

After all, busy gals need to multi-task.