Oct. 29, 2007

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - One of the best-kept secrets on Purdue's campus is the End Zone Café.

It shouldn't be.

The End Zone Café is situated at the northeast corner of Ross-Ade Stadium and is an ideal hang-out spot for students featuring Arni's pizzas, sandwiches and salads and Starbucks beverages.

It is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays and on home football and basketball game days.

"The End Zone Cafe offers a great atmosphere for students," says Jamie Hartwick, a sophomore apparel design major who co-manages the End Zone Café with Val Castillo, a junior management major. "You can get some good Starbucks coffee while relaxing, studying, playing games or watching television."

Associate athletics director Barb Kapp, who oversees the End Zone Café, has been impressed with the students' management.

"Val and Jamie worked in the Café last year and did a great job," Kapp said. "We decided to try and run the Café this year using students to handle all aspects of the business. They have been great. Both are hardworking and very dedicated. Choices regarding food, hours, employees, etc., all have been made by them."

With the operation in good hands, the goal now is to increase awareness and attract more customers.