COHCC Presents An Evening With Esai Morales

From “La Bamba” to “NYPD Blue” to his latest role in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,” actor Esai Morales continues to shine in projects that enthrall generations. He’s also committed to advancing and elevating the place of fellow Hispanic actors in Hollywood. Know what? He’s a really down-to-earth, nice guy, too. Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce continues to knock it out of the park with this year’s Sabor Denver events, a celebration of the Americas.

On Friday, Aug. 26, Stanley Marketplace was the place for a relaxed, entertaining evening and the launch of the Minority Small Business Fund. COHCC says it’s “…a groundbreaking collaboration between the Hispanic Chamber, Village Exchange Center, the NAACP and Adams County. This initiative is dedicated to empowering minority businesses, offering them the resources and support they need to thrive.” This event was second in the 2023 Sabor Denver series, which began with this month’s multicultural, delicious Botanic Gardens extravaganza. (https://photos.blacktie-colorado.com/event/sabor-a-summertime-banquet-of-multicultural-delights/)

Family, friends and business partners

Before the program, a VIP reception welcomed congenial Esai Morales to Denver, then all guests made their way to The Hangar for the evening’s program. Speaking to the crowd: Mike Ferrufino, COHCC’s president and CEO; board chair Paulette Tate; KBNO owner Zee Ferrufino; U.S Rep. Jason Crow of Colorado’s Dist. 6; representatives from Adams County; and Amanda Blaurock, founder/CEO of Village Exchange Center. Chimbangle revved up the crowd before Morales’ entrance with a spirited performance of “La Bamba,” then entertained at the after-party.

Adams County Commissioner Emma Pitner (left), with Amanda Blaurock, founder-executive director of Village Exchange Center

Morales was both entertaining and enlightening as he addressed the audience in English and Spanish, discussing topics from Hispanic actors’ challenges in Hollywood to what he does in his spare time. The video that accompanies these photos and this article is the longest one in the history of this platform, entirely because of the substance provided by Morales. And that video is only the tip of the iceberg for the articulate actor.

From the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce website: “The Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (COHCC) is a membership-driven organization that supports the growth of Hispanic businesses. With over 2,500 members, we are the state’s largest minority Chamber and among the top four chambers in Colorado. Our initiatives encourage economic development and provide access to information, business leaders, procurement opportunities and education training. Established in 1978, we have been a leader in minority business development, advocating for legislation and winning recognition for our achievements.” For more information, go to: https://www.hispanicchamberdenver.com/.