Cabela's stockholder meeting underway today; thousands attend last night's kick off concert

The Cabela's stockholder meeting, which started in earnest today, will be filled with music, food, recreation and celebration.

The annual meeting kicked off last night with a special concert featuring Luke Bryan and John Pardi, held for the company's employees and shareholders at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds. Thousands attended the event, despite threatening clouds.

"The festivities are getting bigger and better every year," said Joe Arterburn, Cabela's corporate communications manager.

The rest of the events got underway this morning, beginning with a continental breakfast at Sidney High School, followed by a meet and greet with Dick and Mary Cabela.

The official stock holders meeting portion of the event began at 10 a.m. at the high school, hosted by Cabela's CEO Tommy Millner.

"We expect the auditorium to be full and will have overflow seating in the middle school," Arterburn said.

Most of the stockholders attending were expected to come from the Nebraska panhandle and the surrounding region, Arterburn said.

After all the business is through, it'll be time for Cabela's employees and stockholders to have some fun.

Home Free Vocal Band, an a cappella group, will perform in front of the high school following the meeting. After that, attendees can enjoy meals or treats provided by Cabela's food vendors. Available goodies will include shaved iced, kettle corn, root beer, ice cream bars, fudge and deli options.

Although the day is meant to be fun filled, there will also be informative speeches and demonstrations, including the Women in Diversity and Leadership speech, hosted by Beth Pritchard. Other demonstrations include a presentation by Frank Thompson, of the USA Olympic shooting team and an archery and shotgun event at the Sidney Shooting Park which will feature Jon Kruger, eight time U.S. open sporting clay champion. The shooting park will also be host to a Cabela's product exhibition.

Other features at the event will include a local DJ, a wildlife and land management display exhibit, a safari club international booth and the Wyoming Air Force.

Cabela's staff starts planning for the yearly share holders meeting as soon as the previous one is finished. They've been working vigorously to prepare for this year's event. This one is a little different, because it's a special tribute to Dick and Mary Cabelo.

"I think everyone is putting their hearts into it a little more this year," Arterburn said.