By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
The Amezcua family has lowered prices by 20 percent for all federal employees at their three Del Rio restaurants until the government shutdown ends.
The family owns Skillets, 2003 Veterans Blvd.; Wings and Rings, 3600 Veterans Blvd.; and Teriyaki Madness, 2409 Veterans Blvd., Suite 12.
“Our federal employees are a critical part of our community,” said Eddie Amezcua Jr. “Many of them are working and not being paid, many aren’t working and, of course, not being paid. Right now, we just have to do our part to take care of them.”
The Amezcuas announced the price reduction on their restaurants’ Facebook pages in a video featuring Eddie Sr. and Lety Amezcua; Eddie Jr. and his wife, Annie; and Liliana Amezcua Echavarria and her husband, Cesar.
The family opened Buffalo Wings & Rings in 2009, Teriyaki Madness in April 2023, and later purchased Skillets in a private transaction.
The trio is known for civic involvement and longtime support of local teens and military organizations.
“When we’re out at the soccer fields or watching a school play, the people sitting on our right or left are probably federal employees,” Eddie Jr. said. “The Del Rio way is to support each other during tough times. If you’re not getting a paycheck, this is a tough time—and the Amezcua family is going to stand alongside you.”
The federal government is the largest employer in the Del Rio region.
Blanca Larson, president and CEO of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce, said the ongoing shutdown is affecting businesses and families throughout the city.
“People are nervous right now, especially if they’re not getting a paycheck,” Larson said. “People are slow to go out and spend money on anything except necessities. As the shutdown continues, it’s going to impact our community more and more.”
Larson said the Amezcuas are setting a great example.
“I encourage all our local businesses to do what they can to support federal employees during this time,” she said.
She also noted that, when November arrives, more people will go without paychecks as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is paused.
“People are hurting,” Larson said. “It’s nice to see our community’s businesses stepping up. We all have to step up for our community!”
The writer can be reached at JoelALangton@gmail.com.
