Let's Dance

Salsa Mambo club back in swingThe Salsa Mambo club, one of the largest and longest running Latin clubs at CCNY, is back in action. More students than ever are using their club hours to dance away their classes, tests, homework and other responsibilities.“I would say this is one of the biggest turnouts we’ve had in the last two to three years,” says Angel Piña, the president of the Salsa Mambo Club. “We let ourselves more out there, especially during welcome back week.  I think that got people interested.”Club hours are from four to six on Thursdays, followed by a social hour where some beginners try out their new steps. “I think it’s a really great idea; a completely positive experience,” says Edgar Stuger, a 22-year-old senior. He is just starting to learn how to dance salsa and went to the club for the first time recently. “See, I have to get into that flow,” he says as he looks at the dance floor. “But I can get into that idea. It won’t take long if I keep on coming.”While some are taking baby steps, others return to refine their skills. David Munoz, a 19-year-old sophomore, says, “Salsa is a way of life. It is my life!” When asked about the club, he added, “I love it. It’s the greatest club they have at City College and definitely better this year.”Munoz, who was part of the Salsa Mambo dance team last semester, adds that he’s ready to get back on stage. He worries that last semester the team “flaked out.”“It wasn’t what I had hoped for, but hopefully this year, we’ll have a few more people for the competitions in Philadelphia.” (The dates for the competitions are still being scheduled.)Other students, like Manny Acosta, a 22-year-old “super-duper senior,” are simply in it for a good time.  “A lot of people get together, and we all have fun,” he says.For more information, e-mail: salsamambo@ccny.cuny.edu