Daily food news hit a new low this morning with yet another attack on bacon as a "possible" carcinogen. It coincides with the annual dull parental advice on how to handle the kids and all that Halloween candy. I had to laugh when it was suggested parents switch the bag of candy for a Halloween gift sans sugar. I laughed because my parents could not have pried my candy from me with a crowbar. Like it's a burden for heaven's sake. Was there ever anything sweeter than FREE candy? My own bulging trick-or-treat bags were gleefully dumped out on my bed as soon as I got home, ready for inventory. A homemade popcorn ball was appreciated but I coveted the brand names. My sisters would bargain, trading less-loved treats for favorites. A missing Milky Way was evidence of parental theft for their own sweet teeth. But it was a fair trade.There was never a downer of a lesson about hurting our teeth or getting overly stimulated. What kid isn't stimulated by Halloween? My folks just let us enjoy our once-a-year jackpot they didn't have to buy. Halloween gifts? Give us a break.