Every year with the help of "some amazing friends" we put together an annual dinner with the purpose of having a nice evening for our staff and students, creating a different experience and when possible raising funds for scholarships at AEC. This year's theme "Al Fresco" was under the direction of Eduardo Fernandez with the assistance of Tania Nuñez. Eduardo is our Manager in Chinandega, who year after year proves his passion for cuisine and event planning. Tania is our "money boss lady" who helps us to stay grounded when dreaming of events like this and actually make them happen. 

November was an absolute super-busy month for all of us so we were not able to host a bigger event or prepare with enough time to send out invites to everyone we wish could have made it, so we apologize about that, we promise next year there will be an invitation in your inbox. 
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​In the end, we were able to create a crafted and unique boutique event we are proud of, and again the key factor here was: Teamwork! We never get tired of highlighting the importance of it and how thankful we feel with everyone in our team for all their hard work. 

We picked Plaza Santa Ana in Chinandega, a shopping center with a beautiful and well taken care of tiny-pretty promenade with a fountain, greenery and other beautiful details that went in line with the concept we had. Should out to its owner, Gloriana Paniagua, who was totally down with our idea and whose super kind staff helped us in many practical ways. 

The day came and 3 types of wine, sangria and non-alcoholic beverages were served. We had  an assortment of 5 types of cheese and multiple delicious tapas and snacks to choose from (savory, sweet and fruity). Olive oil and basil were superstars in our food line-up. Like one of our attendees said: "It was like going on a trip of flavors". Dessert was served and it included chocolate cheesecake and caramel flan. 

Live music was in charge of a long-time friend who was there at the very beginning when we started Active English in 2012, the talented musician and writer, Joshua Meek. He came out of his way with his wife Esther from Villanueva where they help as volunteers of Bible education. He sang beautiful covers of songs such as "Good riddance", "She will be loved" and "I'm Yours". Evening was hosted by Jefte Morazan this year (me again haha), and although everybody "loved it" we are already looking for a new host for next year's dinner.

We also had the pleasure of having Chelsea Quezergue sing for us a couple of songs with her beautiful, soothing and unique tone of voice. She requested an extension as a Peace Corp volunteer and has been now assigned to Bluefields for a year. We will miss her in Chinandega but are extremely proud of her for her love, courage and passion in everything she does. 

As any beautiful thing in life, our Al Fresco Evening came to and end in what it felt like minutes (It really went from 7pm-10:30ish). Events like this take a lot of work to put together, and also some extra work and help is needed after they are finished, so again, thank God for the kind humans who expecting nothing help us to bring all these ideas to life. (Check out our amazing gallery below thanks to Katherine Cortez Santeliz). 

Thank you again to all those who help in any way and ultimately to those who attended and made this evening another great one to remember. We are looking forward to create new beautiful things with all of you next year. 

Love and peace, 
Team Active English

Blog Post by Jefte Morazan
Creative Director of AEC  

On January 27 we held a small and intimate evening accompanied with our adult's group of the Conversation Club, our staff, and other great friends. The evening was full of live music, excellent food, and great company.

Big thanks to everyone who participated and made this event possible.