Mudbug munchers shell out for historical, cultural legacies
About 700 pounds of crawfish along with shrimp, corn on the cob and boiled potatoes were served up May 7 at Argenta Plaza in North Little Rock for Preservation Crustaceans. The mudbug event is held during Arkansas Heritage Month each May by the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas.
VIP guests met for a pre-party at the North Little Rock History Commission, which is housed in the former Argenta City Hall and Fire Station. They enjoyed brats, wings and beer from Diamond Bear Brewing Co. as well as Hurricanes, the famous drink from New Orleans.
Outside, Cajun music played over speakers as volunteers scooped the tasty crawfish and all the sides onto the cardboard trays carried by the hungry guests. Jeff Shepherd with Delta Crawfish kept the coolers full of crustaceans and Sally Mengel with Loblolly Creamery scooped out ice cream for dessert, with flavors including the beloved Bourbon Pecan and Mint Julep Sorbet.
The event raised about $10,000 and had about 225 guests, said alliance Executive Director Vanessa McKuin: “Proceeds will support the Historic Preservation Alliance of Arkansas’ mission, to build stronger communities by reconnecting Arkansans to our heritage and empowering people to save and rehabilitate historic places.”