Convention makes large impact in FW

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - The sign on the front of the Grand Wayne Center says it all. Fort Wayne certainly welcomes the Indiana Farm Bureau and all its business.

"Big convention probably the biggest we've ever done," said Michael Coffeen, Grand Wayne Center.

The biggest convention in the Grand Wayne Center's history looks like this. 1,700 delegates are visiting the Summit City. The convention runs Thursday through Saturday.

At least three hotels are being used by the attendees. That means anywhere from $700,000 to a $1 million is coming back to Fort Wayne.

"The facilities and the people here have really made us feel welcome, the Grand Wayne Center is working out well," said Andy Dietrick, Indiana Farm Bureau.

The IFB normally holds its annual conference in Indianapolis. This year however the IFB decided to bring the farm to Fort Wayne.

"We're in the heart of agricultural territory so a lot of our members are up here, but the size of the facilities really fit our size convention," said Dietrick.

Delegates are getting to see a lot more than just the facilities. They're getting a chance to see the city through bus tours and concerts at the Embassy Theatre downtown.

"We've got outstanding service, we've got testimonials that attest to that and we don't treat any group any differently than any other group because we want them all to come back," said Coffeen.

"People are having the opportunity to walk around downtown take advantage of some of the nice restaurants and see downtown Fort Wayne," said Dietrick.

The IFB will return to Indianapolis for its convention next year.

The Grand Wayne Center expects it to come back to Fort Wayne in 2012.