Hoosier Popcorn at Its Finest

I don’t usually enter Twitter contests but when I saw that Indiana-based SKP-Popcorn was running one two weeks ago, I wanted to help spread the word. Each Friday they give away samples of their popcorn to lucky winners. You can find them at www.twitter.com/skppcrn.

I participated in the contest, was lucky enough to win, and then left town for a week. I completely forgot about the popcorn until I was going through the mail stack this morning and found the sample. When they say “sample,” they don’t mean handful. They mean enough for my whole family to try (if it’s still here when any of them get home today, which it might not be!).

I’m not a buttered popcorn girl. I don’t even eat it at the movies. But ever since I was kid, I have always loved flavored popcorn. I can actually remember going to a birthday party in Evansville in 6th grade where the mom bought different flavors and we stayed up all night snacking on them and watching movies. Ever since then, I have been hooked.

So of course I had to open my bag immediately. It turns out that I got a “test” of chocolate and banana. I can hardly think of anything more perfect! I headed to their site to find out what other flavors they have and ended up learning some great facts about the company. Here are just a few:

• Their popcorn is 100% Indiana grown
• They are the official popcorn of the Indianapolis Colts (this Steelers fan can forgive them for that)
• They donate a portion of the profits from their “TYE-DYE”Licious popcorn to Rupert’s Kids (a great charity run by the Survivor winner)
• They do custom labels, corporate promotions, and fundraisers

I just couldn’t be more tickled to see an Indiana company that not only makes a great product but is also supportive of our community. Now I just need them to start an affiliate program so that I can add them to all of my websites and introduce them to my national marketing friends!

You can visit SKP-Popcorn on their website. And be sure to start following them on Twitter so that you have a chance to win this Friday.

Fun in the Hoosier State

Looking for a little fun and adventure in Indiana? I’ve got great news! The other 49 states have nothing on us! We have beaches, zoos, caves, museums, sporting events, and more. You just have to know where to find them. While this is not an exhaustive list, it is a great start for those of you looking to try something new.

Bloomington has been called the “cultural pulse of the Midwest” by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Bloomington offers a little bit of everything–beautiful views in the fall and spring, NCAA sports, and frequent cultural events and festivals. When you are there, make sure you visit our favorite–Oliver Winery.

Holiday World in Santa Claus is a small amusement park with big heart. With great rides, reasonable prices, and free soft drinks, Holiday World is a local favorite.

Did I mention before that we have a beach? Indiana Beach in Monticello, Indiana is home to roller coasters, a water park, camping, shopping, and other entertainment.

Southern Indiana has terrific caves, some of which are national landmarks. Tour the Marengo Caves, Wyandotte Caves, or Squire Boone Caverns. You’ll admire their beauty while you appreciate the history behind their formation.

The French Lick, Indiana area is known for more than Larry Bird. It is home to the French Lick Springs Resort as well as the West Baden Hotel.

The Hoosier National Forest affords some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Gentle rolling hills and gorgeous foliage make driving down the highway seem like a treat. On the north of the Forest is Brown County, known for its splendor in the fall.

For the smaller set (preschool aged kids), Indiana has its fair share of zoos and museums. The zoos in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are both popular. Even more, the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis is one of the best in the country.

Although this is just a very short list, hopefully it will inspire you to go out and make the most of our state has to offer. I know that I will!

For more information on these and other Indiana tourism locations, visit www.enjoyindiana.com.