Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA

"Ontario is the heart of the region!"

Nominated by Susan Oxarart

After 41 years, two long-lost brothers are reunited thanks to their love of rock music and the power of Facebook. (Credit: Susan Oxarart)

Founded as a model colony based on innovation, planned development, community service and family values, the City of Ontario has it all. Southern California’s Ontario is the gateway for visitors to stay, play, and discover major destinations at an affordable price. We’re friendly and we like to share our stories to help visitors learn about our hidden gems.

Citizens Business Bank Arena historical display helped reconnect two brothers after 41 years!

As the marketing director, I created a tribute to the historic California Jam concerts on the main concourse of the Citizens Business Bank Arena, which included a display of photos, newspaper articles and memorabilia. The land where Citizens Business Bank Arena was built in 2008 was the former Ontario Motor Speedway where two mega concerts occurred in 1974 (California Jam)  and 1978 (California Jam II). Over 250,000 music fans gather at each show for a stellar line up of artists including The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Foreigner, Deep Purple, Aerosmith, Santana, just to name a few.   

Last year while attending an Ontario Reign hockey game Patrick Winslow enjoyed reminiscing about the concerts he had attended. He took his photograph in front of the display and posted it on Facebook. That photo ultimately led to an amazing event. Patrick was able to reconnect and find his long lost brother that he had not seen in over 41 years.

Ironically, I was on site when the reunited brothers came to Citizens Business Bank Arena on Friday, May 12, 2017. I knew the story of both the California Jams would be an education for some and a memory for others, but I never thought it could impact anyone in this way. It was an honor to provide the tour for these brothers and witness them reliving an experience they had shared.

The two brothers took a photo together, shared a lot of hugs and tried to find the exact spot in the crowd on the aerial photograph where the brothers had enjoyed the concert. This was social media at its finest “connect and reconnect.” Big thumbs up!