RCN to partner with University of Illinois Medical Center for Fall Rush campaign

RCN CorporationSep 3 2009

RCN Corporation (NASDAQ: RCNI), a leading provider of all-digital and high definition video, high-speed internet, and premium voice services to residential and small-medium business customers, as well as high-capacity transport services to carrier and large enterprise customers, announced today it will partner with the University of Illinois Medical Center as part of its Fall Rush campaign. This year's promotion includes two blood drives and three "True Blood" themed events where guests have an opportunity to enjoy music and refreshments as well as free tastings of Tru Blood, the highly anticipated real blood orange beverage from HBO.

The first "True Blood" themed event was held at Carmen's Pizza on August 19; an additional event was held at Qdoba Mexican Grill on N. Lincoln Ave., near The Biograph Museum on September 2.

"True Blood" fans will have an opportunity to meet star Nelsan Ellis, who will be making an appearance at the "Fangtasia" party scheduled for September 11. Hamilton's, located at 6341 N. Broadway St., will be the place to be from 9pm-12midnight.

Ellis is known for his role as Lafayette Reynolds, the short-order cook at the show's popular hangout, Merlotte's. Decorated to resemble Fangtasia, the show's popular vampire bar, the party will feature music, food and refreshments. The "Fangtasia" party is open to all fans, but requires an RSVP to www.rcn.com/fangs.

Continuing the theme, RCN will sponsor two blood drives that will be run by the University of Illinois Medical Center. The first will be held on September 17 from 10am-3pm at DePaul University, at Cortelyou Commons (2324 N. Fremont St). A second blood drive will be held on September 24 from 10am-3pm at Loyola University, at Bremmer Lounge of Centennial Forum Student Union (1125 Loyola Ave., across from the Gentile Center). Donors will receive giveaways as well as snacks and refreshments.

"By partnering with RCN, the University of Illinois Medical Center is better able to fulfill its mission of providing blood to patients in need, and we are grateful to RCN for helping to raise awareness about the constant need for blood," said Dr. Sally Campbell-Lee, Director of Transfusion Medicine, University of Illinois Medical Center. "The college community is very supportive of the Medical Center, and these blood drives will help to ensure that blood is on hospital shelves when it's most needed."

"Fall Rush promotions are special every year as it is always a great opportunity to meet and interact with our customers of all ages," said Tom McKay, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RCN Chicago. "We are pleased that this year's partnership with the University of Illinois Medical Center will help promote the importance of blood donation through sponsorship of the campus blood drives. RCN is committed to its customers and to the community, and these events are a great way to show our support."

RCN's Fall Rush promotion is aimed to connect with college students as they set up their television, internet and telephone service for the upcoming school year. In addition, RCN is offering three months of free HBO for new customers who sign up for its services now through October 31.