Exchange Visitors play pool. (Submitted photo)

BY SHERI TRUSTY

PORT CLINTON – The strong thunderstorms that rolled into Port Clinton on July 28 forced the annual Exchange Visitor Welcome event indoors, but it didn’t hinder the fun. The annual event is hosted in honor of college students participating in the BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel Program. About 650 Exchange Visitors are helping to fill summer tourist season positions at local businesses.

Exchange Visitors enjoy the Welcome event in downtown Port Clinton. (Submitted photo)

About 75 Exchange Visitors attended the event in downtown Port Clinton. When the rain dampened plans to grill burgers and hot dogs for attendees, Port Clinton Mayor Mike Snider ordered pizza instead. Several local churches provided side dishes and desserts.

The school bus ride was a highlight of the Welcome event. (Submitted photo)

The event was moved indoors where attendees enjoyed dinner and enjoyed activities like pool. They also had the opportunity to enjoy a truly American experience: riding a school bus.

“One of the highlights was the school bus ride,” Snider said. “It’s something we just don’t think about, but it was a very special event for all the kids.”