Looking For Heart-Pounding Passion? By Darcy Alexandra LOOKING FOR HEART-pounding passion, explosive chemistry and an emotional high this Valentine's Day? How about a potentially life-saving musical force that sweeps you off your feet? "Salsa saved my life. My first year in Tucson I was stuck in an all-white department at the University of Arizona. Salsa was my only outlet; it reminded me of home. It's a connection to my roots," says Maria Alonso, Cuban-American sociology graduate student. Whether you're connecting with your roots or growing new ones, salsa beckons the Latino Diaspora and everyone else interested in getting down to its mesmerizing, joyous rhythms. El Parador, El Charro, Jaime's and Club Congress are center stages where the drama unfolds. Salsa is make-believe, serious fun. The higher the heels the better. Body conscious, glittery clothing is best, and a good, solid attitude is essential in the salsa world. "I love salsa dancing", said Melissa, a Parador regular, gulping long sips of ice-water in recovery from a dance frenzy. "Even though you have to deal with traditional paradigms, you can do it in a creative, playful way. You can be very sensual, but not cross boundaries. Besides, salsa has the best beat, and some of the best-looking women in Tucson." Karim Abanami, a recent salsa enthusiast, says he dances for the positive energy and connection he feels with others on the dance floor. "When you're dancing, there's something amazing going on between you and your dance partner. It's all about emotions." Born in the Latino barrios of New York City, the musical exuberance known as salsa embraces a vibrant array of Latin and African rhythms and styles. Of course, Cubans believe their musical heritage is the most essential ingredient in the salsa soup; Puerto Ricans will tell you the same, but why argue when you can get up and dance? Sunday night you'll have your chance. Just back from playing at the Seventh Annual International Jazz Festival in Havana, Tucson's own Aché Pa' Ti is joining the Salsa, Samba, Soul Explosion at Club Congress, with a special Valentine's Day set of Afro-Cuban expressions. Incorporating different Latin jazz/funk/soul and samba styles into the Valentine's Day festivities will be Club Congress DJs Howie Ramirez (Manuelito), Rose Bud (Rosemary Sheridan) and Hella Strong (Tasha Bundy). According to Ramirez, the trio just wants people to have fun and "get down with their Latin self." "If it sounds good, get out and move to it," Howie says. Straight out of Havana, Cuba, master dancer Ernesto Cárdenas offers salsa (casino) dance lessons from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, February 12, and from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Saturday, February 13, at Heart 5, 51 E. Congress St. Cost is $10 per person, $18 per couple. Call 327-3663 for more information.

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