In a recent meeting of the board of commissioners, the agenda was set against the backdrop of technical difficulties, as the Internet was down due to a Microsoft cloud issue. Despite this setback, the commissioners proceeded with their regular business, starting with a presentation from Gary Gibbs, the executive director of the Lorain County Visitors Bureau.

Gibbs provided an enthusiastic recap of the recent Discover Aviation Airplane and Car Show held at the Lorain County Airport, which attracted an impressive turnout of approximately 3,000 to 5,000 attendees. The event featured over 300 classic cars and 46 aircraft, including notable military planes from World War II and Korea. A highlight was a Mitchell B-25 bomber that honored local veterans by carrying flags that had draped their coffins during a flight to a nearby war memorial.

Gibbs expressed gratitude for the commissioners' ongoing support, noting that the event was funded entirely through hotel and occupancy taxes, which are reinvested into community activities. He also mentioned upcoming events, including a barbecue cook-off at the Lorain County Fairgrounds, and encouraged residents to stay informed about local happenings through the county's official website.

Looking ahead, Gibbs announced that next year's air show is scheduled for July 12, 2024, and will feature a display from the Tuskegee Airmen, which is expected to draw significant interest.

The meeting concluded with a light-hearted exchange about the effectiveness of marketing efforts, particularly in light of previous criticism regarding promotional billboards for the eclipse. Gibbs emphasized that all advertising is beneficial as long as it raises awareness of Lorain County as a destination. The commissioners thanked him for his presentation and the successful event, highlighting the importance of community engagement and tourism in the region.