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COUNT DOWN TO THE IBGS IS HERE!!!!!
It's only five weeks away, but the first ever International Black Genealogy Summit is almost here. We will have first time conference attendees as well as the seasoned participant. With that in mind, the items below will cover some of the basics to help ensure that your IBGS experience will be enjoyed. Remember it's best with a two way communication, so if you need it and don't see it, ask a committee person to see if your need can be accommodated.
Over the last year, the IBGS committee members (scattered across the US) have been busy sorting through all the details required to put on an event of this magnitude. Although every effort has been tried to ensure your IBGS experience is enjoyable; because we want you to tell your friends what they missed and to see you return to the next summit. I also encourage that you give your sentiments to the volunteers of the appreciation you might be feeling as they are assisting your needs.
Is my name tag important?
YES for this summit because it will alert others (like the library security guards) that you have the privilege to go into certain areas. For example, you will need to show your name tag to gain entrance for the special library extended hours. Therefore, please treat these as top secret badges--for your use only. There will be no replacement badges so please protect the one that was given to you.
I haven't registered yet, can I still do that at the conference?
Yes, but you are taking chances that conference materials may not be available. To ensure the materials are available, please send an e-mail to . An immediate reply will be sent within 12 hours to give you instructions of what to do.
What will the weather be like in October?
You are encouraged to check the state or weather.com prior to your arrival to ensure you have the appropriate clothing. But I've been told it could be 60 degrees during the day and 40 degrees at night. No matter what, do not forget your coat, knit hat, gloves and a pair of thermals:).
First time participants-what should I expect?
When you visit the registration table, you will receive your name tag, door prize raffle ticket, meal tickets (if purchased), summit souvenir bag that will include the syllabus and goodies from sponsors and supporters. The syllabus will detail the schedule, lecture and speaker bios, maps of the venues, vendor information, names of the IBGS sponsors, details of where the lectures will held and so much more.
Remember to review the lectures to decide which workshops you will be attending. The lecture registration that took place over the last several months allowed the committee to place the speakers in the right size conference rooms. The only exception is the computer classes. These were pre-registered via the e-mail and only those 32 individuals on the class list will be allowed to attend.
Be sure to allow time to visit the exhibits and vendors. Feel free to ask questions and learn about the many tools that may help you in your research.
Also, don't forget to introduce yourself to other genealogists around you. You'd be surprised how small this world really can be. You may find that the person seating next to you is researching the same family line or can guide you to some special resources you're not familiar.
What do I do when I arrive on Thursday?
Starting Thursday morning, the Library is hosting a Pre-conference to introduce the IBGS to the local community and get them excited about the benefits of genealogy. There will be genealogy workshops featuring some of the community local speakers. It will start at 9:00 AM and all are welcome. Please check the ACPL web site.
For Thursday, starting at 3:00 - 8:30 PM, you can pick up your registration packets at the Grand Wayne Hotel Atrium, near the lobby, and look into purchasing ride passes, if desired. The packets will include the name tag, meal tickets, door prize raffle tickets, syllabus and additional information from our sponsors and supporters.
At 6:00 - 8:00 PM the networking reception will be held in the Hotel Atrium, please plan to join us to relax, renew old acquaintances, meet new friends, listening to some soft Jazz and enjoy a snack.
What do I do when I arrive at the Library on Friday?
Please plan to arrive around 7:00 AM, if you were not able to come Thursday night, to pick up your registration packet. The registration will be in the Library Globe Room. This will ensure you will not miss the continental breakfast in Conference A or any other special activity. Also, if you will need a ride from the hotel to the library, this will allow time so that you don't miss the opening session that will start promptly at 8:15 AM.
How do I know which rooms the workshops will be held?
The conference will be held at the Allen County Library. There will be a map in your souvenir bag detailing either Conference Room A, B, C - these are on the first floor or D which is the auditorium on the lower level. The stairs or elevators can be used. The computer classes, which are limited to the 32 pre-registered participants. The participants were notified by e-mail if they were registered or are on a waiting list. Please if you are no longer interested, please e-mail as soon as possible to allow an individual who would like to take the class the opportunity. Note: the 17A & B is one class over a two hour period (Tracks D & E). You must register for both.
My legs don't work like they use to, how can I get from the hotel to the library and back?
Transportation has been set up with Rockaway Carriage and the Yellow Cab Company to assist participants in going back and forth for a very reasonable price. Please check the transportation tables when you pick up your registration packets on Thursday and Friday AM. Note: Whatever you do, don't wait until the last minute to get to one of the destinations. We will be filling the cabs/carriages to max each trip. Most importantly, there is plenty of passing time and your patience will be required--so practice by taking a deep breath right now (smile).
For those who love to exercise or don't mind a short walk, the distance is about one long block - 15 minute or so. There is plenty of passing time allowed for everyone. If you are able to make this distance, you are encouraged to do so in order to allow those with true walking limitations access to the vehicle transportation.
How will I claim my door prize?
Approximately every hour, raffle tickets will be drawn for genealogy prizes donated from the speakers, sponsors and supporters. Reference your syllabus for their specific names. The winner's ticket number/name will be written on the board that will be placed in the library-- the exact location and how to claim the prize will be announced at the opening session.
During the reception, banquet and luncheon there will be a no host bar, how do I pay for my drinks?
These are cash only transactions. There's a pretty good bet that there are ATM machines near by, but if you want to reduce the chance of paying those transaction fees, be sure to take this expenditure into account.
What other things are available near the Ft Wayne Convention Center?
If you have a traveling companion that is not genealogy minded, the African/African American Historical Museum is close at 436 East Douglas Ave
There is a Fireman Museum across from convention center, 226 West Washington Blvd. Hours M-F 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
There is a botanical garden also within walking distance. The hotel staff can give you directions.
I have taken some really neat photos during the IBGS, is there someone I can send the pictures to share?
While during the IBGS you take any photos you wish to share, please send them to
And to keep the file size manageable, you can send separate e-mails with some picture in each.
Is there a parking fee at the hotel?
Yes, $7 per day for cars and $35 one time fee for buses.
Should I really take the time to fill out the evaluation?
The evaluation was kept as short as possible and yet get the information to assist the next IBGS planning committee. Your ideas, comments and suggestions will be taken seriously. This being the first Black summit had no baseline to reference, but the committee worked to try and meet the needs of all involved-no matter what part of the world you are coming.
I have additional questions to ask that aren't represented here, what should I do?
Please e-mail or with any question you may have. The question and answers will be posted here, so please check back regularly.
Refund Policy
The refund date was September 1st. IBGS is now financially responsible for many aspects of the conference. If possible, please find someone in a near society that can take your place.
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