Explaining popcorn/Cracker Jack

We're organizing a couple of public education program for Chicago Science Week in the fall that look at the science behind some Chicago institutions/phenomenon. The first program will look at the science behind some experiences at a baseball game - the physics of the curve ball, the anatomy of the stretch (7th inning stretch )and the food science behind popcorn and/or Cracker Jack. Does anyone know a food scientist that can explain the science behind popcorn/Cracker Jack to lay audiences? They would need to be fun, engaging and good at talking about science with a general public. Any leads you have would be much, much appreciated. Thank you.

Re: How Popcorn Pops.

The authoritative On Food and Cooking by Harold McGee has a good explanation starting on page 479 of the new edition. McGee grew up in Elmhurst and visits periodically -- he would be the best possible speaker on this topic (though, admittedly, it will be tough to schedule him).

Hammond