Annual Family Fest will help benefit the South Texas Food Bank

 (Laredo, TX )  The City of Laredo is once again hosting this year’s annual 4^th of July Family Fest celebration and thanks to their partners, including: V Parade Company; R Communications; Budweiser; AB Cattle co, by Ana & John Galo; Dannenbaum Engineering; Casa Raul, Cricket; Lone Star Autoplex; and UETA, this event promises to be a sizzling celebration. 

 For only a $1.00 suggested donation entrance fee, which will benefit the South Texas Food Bank, attendees will be able to enjoy: music; food; vendors, entertainment; kiddy activities; Loteria; a bike display; watermelon and Jell-O eating contest and even, help judge the rib and brisket cook-off; dance groups; an Elvis impersonator; a moonwalk; rides; and fireworks, to close out the evening. 

 A separate concert area, hosted by R Communications and sponsored by Budweiser/ Bud Light will require a $10 entrance fee.  This event, the 5^th Annual Batalla de Talento “La Voz de Laredo” which benefits STARS and the UISD/LISD school uniform fund will be held during the festival. 

 For a limited time, the concert tickets are on sale now at the Civic Center Box Office.  Get your tickets now and avoid the rush.  For $10, you get to enjoy the following line-up:

 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.  Budweiser/Bud Light La Ley/Digital Batalla del Talento “La Voz de Laredo”

7:00 p.m.        Paty y Sonora

8:00 p.m.        Grupo Mazz

9:00 p.m.        Salomon Robles

10:00 p.m.      Presentation of Colors and National Anthem by U.S. Border Patrol

Fireworks Display

10:30 p.m.      Grupo Duelo

 “The City of Laredo’s 4^th of July celebration has become a Laredo tradition and gives our community an opportunity for area families to enjoy food, music and activities all the while supporting the South Texas Food Bank,” said Ana Rivera Soto, general sales manager for R Communications.  “Additionally, it is a great way for R Communications to kick-off our two week radio drive for the food bank.”

(Laredo, Tx)_Born in 1941, Carlos “Chale” Atkinson grew up in Brownsville, the southernmost tip of Texas, along the Rio Grande River and Mexico and only 30 minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico.   A blend of two countries, locals here proudly combine their Texas and Mexican heritages, as can be seen through the delectable Tex-Mex food.  Inspired by his roots and love for food, Chale captivated family and friends alike with his traditional down home local dishes we all grew up enjoying, from his award winning Frijoles ala Charra and mouth watering Fajitas, to his flawless Arroz, to his one of a kind Menudo and appetizing Caldos.  It’s no wonder why all his dishes keep you wanting more! Chale’s passion for Tex-Mex cuisine is second to none.  Having retired after 37 years with the U.S. Customs Service, co-workers knew first-hand of his lip smacking Carne Asadas.

Chale is known for several things: his devotion to service for his country and God, his undying love for Frances Atkinson, his wife of 50 plus years, devotion to his family, and sharing food as a way to make people happy.  Without a doubt, Chale’s legacy for conventional South Texas cooking has been passed on to their eight children, all of whom share the same appreciation for authentic, down home South Texas comfort food.

And now, Chale’s second oldest son Ricardo and and his wife Nancy Atkinson are happy to introduce to Laredo Chale’s Mexican Grill. It is with great enthusiasm that they step into the world of Tex-Mex dining to continue and share the legacy Chale started over 50 years ago.

Conveniently located on 4401 McPherson Road inside Pano’s Bakery, Rick and Nancy provide a variety of appetizing made to order breakfast tacos to start your day.  True to Chale’s manner, special requests are always welcome!  At lunch, the Atkinson’s are delighted to introduce the huge ½ pound Chale burger.  Fixings include Chale’s favorites such as avocado, bacon, chorizo, beans, and jalapenos. And don’t forget the delicious homemade hand cut fries.  Other lunch options include tempting Tortas, Tostadas, and Flautas.  Remember to ask about the special of the day.  Selections include Mole and Green Chicken Enchiladas.  Every weekend, you can look forward to succulent Lengua and Barbacoa, and Menudo that’s seasoned just right and full of flavor with every bite. Phone orders are encouraged and walk ups are welcomed.  Visa and Mastercard are accepted.  During Lent, you can expect to find golden extra large fried shrimp plates and heavenly Capirotada.  Catering for all occasions is available.

At Chale’s Mexican Grill, you can expect your choice of really good South Texas comfort food, friendly service, and reasonable prices.

Mariscos El Pescador is open seven days a week.  All major credit cards are accepted.

Lunch specials are El Pescador are Monday thru Friday 11a.m. to 3p.m. enjoy Filete al Gusto for only $4.99 or Camaron al Gusto for $5.99.  Al gusto includes A La Mexicana, A La Veracruzana, Al Mojo de Ajo, A La Mantequilla, A La Plancha, A La Diabla, and Fried.  All plates are served with your choice of sides (French Fries, Steamed Vegetables, or Cole Slaw) and a roll.  Click here to print coupons.