Shake Shack turns 40

Photos by John Rech

Shake Shack turns 40

It was a time of celebrating the past and looking toward the future this past Saturday as one of Crittenden County’s oldest and most popular eateries, Tacker’s Shake Shack, also affectionately known as “Big John’s,” celebrated 40 years in business. Owner Loretta Tacker was all smiles as she shot video to commemorate the big event, attended by family, friends and well-wishers.

A capacity crowd lined up for the world-famous catfish, just one of the Shake Shack’s signature dishes.

One institution to another — Cliff Southern takes his first helping of the all-you-could-eat catfish and fixings at the Shake Shack Saturday. The auto parts store owner had a verse dedicated to him in a song heard before the party and did his part to put away the 100 pounds of fried fish.

Marion Mayor Frank Fogleman (right) joined the Tacker family, Jeff, Loretta, and Laura as they broke ground for an all-new Shake Shack building during the 40th anniversary celebration Saturday at the landmark eatery.