Jan. 22, 2009 - Marketing & Advertising at the Citizens Business Bank Arena

11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario

This was an absolute blast... what a way to start the year. After finding our way to the north end of the building, we all entered VIP entrance and stepped into the San Manuel Club. Wow, what a room! The room featured 6 eye-popping TVs, granite cocktail tables, comfy chairs, bistro chairs, private bar and lavatory.

After registration, everyone started to mingle and network. Although it was sprinkling outside, the conversation was lively. Many AAF-IE members were in attendance. Bill Houck president of the AAF-Palm Springs Desert Cities stopped by. We had a member or two from CICAMA and many non-members from all over the Inland Empire. We also had a few students.

You can download or print these pictures from Picasa Web Albums.

Just before noon the buffet table was stocked full of drinks, a local organic green salad, grilled vegetable platter coleslaw, and a smoked pulled pork sandwich. Desert featured a tasty carrot cake. Thank you Levy Restaurants - in particular Denise Thompson, the catering manager.

As everyone was enjoying their meal, Susan Oxarart marketing director at the AEG-operated facility gave a wonderful presentation of the Citizens Business Bank Arena. We learned about the history, in particular how the city of Ontario had a vision of such a facility and purchased the property years earlier. We learned about the numbers - cost to build, the total square foot of the facility, the number of seats, the number of suites, the number of restrooms, the number of elevators, the number of floors, the number of parking spaces, etc.

We also learned about the numerous events at the Arena. Los Angeles Lakers basketball. Ontario Reign professional hockey. Family programs. Music concerts. Private parties and community events.

Of course, we also talked marketing and advertising. Susan shared how the Arena works with businesses of all sizes in terms sponsorships and advertising. We all learned alot.

After lunch concluded, Susan provided the group with a private tour of the facility. We walked the permiter of the building. Road the elevators. Visited the suites including the private balcony from the skybox area.

We also saw many views of the ice. Initially we were all a bit chilled but after 10-15 minutes we all warmed up.

The luncheon ended about 1:30 pm and the light rain had passed as we trickled out to the parking lot. All-in-all, everyone had a great time.

Thank you again Susan for your time and AEG. We hope to be back soon!

If you missed this great luncheon, register now so you don't miss another.

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