July 19, 2008
12:00 pm	to	4:00 pm

Here’s a way to combine a science lesson with a tasty summertime treat. A new, futuristic ice cream store called Dippin’ Dots has recently opened in the Towne Center at Geist (in front of Kroger at 116th St. and Olio Road). The Geist location is the first free-standing store in the Indianapolis area.

“Kids from ages four to teens prefer Dippin’ Dots over the top two competitors of traditional ice cream, 2-to-1,” says Jeremy Westlund, who owns Dippin’ Dots with his wife, Kimberly.

If you’re not familiar with this scientifically exotic treat, get ready to experience tiny tingling beads of flavor. Dippin’ Dots was invented by Curt Jones, a microbiologist from Paducah, Ky., in 1988. Jones came up with the process of cryogenic encapsulation—a scientific freezing method of using liquid nitrogen to crystallize the ice cream into micro beads. This flash-freezing method locks in taste and quality and is winning the hearts — or rather, taste buds — of many ice cream lovers.

Some of the most popular flavors are banana split, chocolate, cookies ‘n’ crème, candy bar crunch, chocolate chip cookie dough, rainbow ice, cotton candy and liberty (similar to the red, white and blue bomb pops).

Dippin’ Dots will be celebrating its official grand opening on Sat., July 19. Come enjoy a fun-filled event for the whole family with these activities from 12-4 p.m.: face painting, temporary tattoos and pencils, D.J. tunes and photos with Mr. Packy, the mascot. Also, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., you may enjoy a very special offer, “buy 1 get 1 free” for everybody that walks through the door!

Kimberly and Jeremy Westlund believe in giving back to the community while fulfilling a lifelong dream of launching their own business. They have set up many fundraising programs throughout Indianapolis (including Geist, Oaklandon, Fortville and Fall Creek), aiming to improve youth sports facilities for baseball, softball, basketball and gymnastics. They also recently donated a percentage of their proceeds to a program sponsored by Oprah called “Free the Children,” which helps provide schools and running water in Africa.

Although Dippin’ Dots are made at the company’s headquarters in Paducah, Ky., they are shipped out worldwide (and carefully stored below 40 degrees to maintain the shape). Visit the Geist Dippin’ Dots and sample your favorite flavor of cryogenic encapsulation!
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