Things aren't a poppin'

If you watch KCRG-TV sports much, you've invariably heard anchor John Campbell refer to Veterans Memorial Stadium as "The Popper." It's in reference to the Cedar Rapids Kernels, obviously, and the fact that the playing field at the stadium has been named Dale and Thomas Popcorn Field after a New Jersey popcorn company that shelled out a few bucks to have its name publicized locally.

The thing is there isn't much popcorn being popped at the old ballpark. Try and come up with another nickname, JC.

As part of the agreement with Dale and Thomas, the Kernels have agreed to only sell D&T products. In other words, if you're looking for fresh corn, don't come to the stadium. The only place you'll get any is if you're in a group that has the left-field picnic pavillion rented. And rumor has it, that'll come to an end perhaps as soon as next season.

Don't get me wrong. Some of Dale and Thomas' products are OK. The barbecue flavor isn't too bad, and the chocolate and caramel gets the job done. But it ain't popcorn, folks. It's pre-packaged stuff, and you could argue the chocolate and caramel flavor is more candy than popcorn.

Whoever heard of going to a professional baseball game and not being able to eat fresh popcorn? What's next, Kernels? No peanuts or hot dogs at the stadium?

What do you all think?