I love when the news focuses on ideas that get a second look. We comment about something and address its key issues, but when it gets further inspection, then we have accomplished a great deal.

Here’s a good one: The Connecticut Attorney General is investigating the Smart Choices program. This program received initial high praise, but after further inspection, there were questions. This is the product group that affixed so-called healthy nutrition information on packs giving certain foods the go-ahead. Foods like Froot Loops and mayonnaise roused the CT office. Yes.

How about all the attention on Starbucks and its high pricing policies. They came out of that tunnel and are now aggressively promoting the nationwide launch of their instant, yes, instant, paks of coffee. Via has already been positioned on the end caps at Costco. Expect big sales numbers for this product from that marriage: The Big Box and the Instant Darling.

Maybe the best news is the direction the government has taken in the realm of food safety. With one focused site we have half a chance of knowing what’s gone wrong within minutes of the first reports. No longer do we have to search for hours. They have food storage charts and food handling information: All pertinent data to insure food safety. As long as the site remains as it’s intended: A proactive information service, we will all be in a better place.

All the bits and bites come together with two final thoughts for now. The success of various cities’ restaurant weeks has spawned an offshoot: Delivery Week in New York City (Oct 19-31). Imagine other cities with strong neighborhood food delivery services will consider the concept. The price is certainly right for the appetizer, entree, and dessert: Lunch, $12.09; Dinner, $20.09.

Grocery stores continue to find strategies to keep prices in competitive balance as new markets open and challenge the old standbys. Grocery wars whether between Amazon and Wal-Mart or locally-based shops help consumers meet their budgets. Specials, double coupons, and affordable recipes need to continue.

Even on this the 4th straight day of dark, cold, gloomy, depressing rain, there are some positive newsworthy items to digest.