OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – The Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholder weekend kicks off today.
It draws people from all over the world. With this year being the first without Warren Buffett leading the shareholder’s meeting, there are questions about how many people will actually show up.
A Thursday afternoon doesn’t haul in the biggest crowd at the Havana Garage cigar bar in the Old Market.
Bartender Jim Rusk knows today is a precursor for what’s to come.
“I’ve had people in here from Cuba before. I’ve had people in here from Asia,” Rusk said. “Basically, internationally, Berkshire’s name is so huge that everybody wants to come and experience it.”
Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder weekend is one of Jim’s favorite times of the year.
“That big wrought iron table out in the front really opens people up, because if you’re just sitting there enjoying a cigar, it’s a welcome time to meet people, learn more about them, talk about Omaha,” Jim said.
It’s also good for business in the Old Market, especially with locals hesitating to come downtown because of construction.
Jim is optimistic about turnout.
A few blocks away in the Capitol District, Let it Fly has been a bit slower than expected so far.
General manager Melia Miller says the weekend should be busier.
“I think it’ll be pretty, a little bit more intense,” Melia said. “I’ve staffed up a little bit more than normal just to make sure everyone has an amazing experience.”
Back in the Old Market of glasses clinking Jim’s hopeful, he’ll play host to more out of towners.
“Just the diversity of people, the backgrounds, the different places where they come from… Everybody just raves about they love coming here,” Jim said.
If the crowd hauls in like he hopes it will, this weekend is his chance to share his hometown with the world.
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