LPO Announces Details for Sept. 14 Gala

Details for the upcoming 3rd Annual Laredo Philharmonic Celebrity Chef Gala Benefit on Friday, September 14, 2012 at the Laredo Civic Center Ballroom reveal a decidedly Texas twist.

This year’s Celebrity Chef Gala features all chefs preparing Texas-style foods. Local Chef Pete Mims is this year’s Lead Chef.  Mims, who is readying to open a new Laredo restaurant, is looking forward to being part of what has become one of Laredo’s leading Culinary Events. Doors open at 7 p.m. with food sampling beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Adding to the fun will be music provided by Mick Cruz and Diamond Back.

“The foot stomping begins when Mick and the band start up at 8:30 p.m.,” explained LPO music conductor and director Brendan Townsend. Mike’s Western Wear will provide prizes for Best Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl.

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) president Dr. Ray Keck III is this year’s special event honoree. Dr. Keck, the founding president of the LPO, played a major role in securing the innovative LPO collaboration with TAMIU and Laredo Community College and in bringing Townsend to Laredo.

A staunch LPO supporter, Keck said he was extremely proud to be the honoree at this event.

“The Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra is near and dear to my heart, and has played a vital role in the evolution of this community,” Dr. Keck said.

Gala proceeds support the ongoing mission of the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra to enrich, enhance and educate the community through concerts and musical educational outreach.

The LPO Board is actively soliciting donations for the Live and Silent Auctions to be conducted by Robert Summers. Auction items include fabulous dining packages, hand-painted violins donated by artists Ginger Richter and Linda LaMantia, jewelry by Deutsch & Deutsch and selections from Cantú Interiors. 

For ticket information and advance reservations for the 3rd Annual Laredo Philharmonic Celebrity Chef Gala Benefit-Texas Style, please contact Angeline Townsend at laredophilharmonic@gmail.com or phone 956.236.7772

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu