Read Hall enlists radio station to promote dining center

The sounds of popular music could be heard booming from a Cadillac Escalade Wednesday outside of El Bistro, a dining center in Reed Hall. \nBloomington’s B97 radio station played music and broadcast live outside of the new dining facility from noon to 2 p.m. to help promote El Bistro’s menu and get students’ attention. The event also featured several giveaways. \nB97 broadcast marketing specialist Libby Hiple said she is excited to be doing an event like this.\n“It’s all about creating a fun atmosphere and help promote RPS,” she said. \nResidential Programs and Services convenience store consultant Brian Barker organized the event.\n“El Bistro didn’t get an initial grand opening, so this is like a re-grand opening,” he said. “We wanted to have fun and attract students.” \nAnd attract students they did. RPS worked in conjunction with B97 and the Union Board to give free stuff away to students. A Coke representative handed out free Vitaminwater and Smartwater. Greg Martz, program coordinator for the Union Board, manned a booth that passed out free hats, T-shirts and pens. He also sold “Live from Bloomington” CDs, which featured local artists, for $5. The proceeds from the sale of the CD will benefit Hoosier Hills Food Bank, Martz said. \nSenior Eric Radoux is a guitarist from the CD and was outside of El Bistro playing a few songs.\n“I’m really excited about this,” he said. “It helps get the word out about the CD, which is helping a good cause.” \nFreshman and Read resident Felix Birman said he was enjoying the atmosphere and free stuff.\n“It’s very creative,” he said. “Even if I didn’t live in Read, seeing the B97 van would have made me stop by.” \nOn-air morning show co-host Marzi Poppins was also there broadcasting.\n“This is just so much fun, and it’s such a great day outside,” Poppins said. “When I get off work, I’m going to try El Bistro’s food.” \nEl Bistro features many menu items that aren’t offered anywhere else on campus, said Dan Siddons, general manager of El Bistro.\n“We just want to spread the word to students and attract them to the new dining,” he said. \nEl Bistro features a type of deli system that allows students to choose from breakfast food, bakery items, deli sandwiches, burritos and many other a la carte items. \n“This is just a great opportunity for student appreciation for RPS dining services,” Barker said.