~by Dena Burroughs

4th OF JULY, 2008 AT RANDY'S

   Seriously, one has to be brave to undertake having such a massive bunch of people getting into every corner of one's home, but Randy does it every year on the 4th of July so that salseros can celebrate living "in the land of the free" by dancing to the music they love.  And so, Friday night, there were people inside his house, in the backyard, in the front yard and spilling to the street, tight quarters to walk or move, at least one accidental elbow to a face, but tons and tons of smiling faces. 

    This party is always a success, and it seems to grow in size every year.  What used to be Westside L.A. salsa party has turned into a huge gathering of folks from everywhere... like the group there last night from San Francisco, and Dale, all the way from the East Coast!  Not to take away from us folks from Azusa, Montclair and Pomona, not these days! with our gas prices! 

    I was there during Chino Espinoza y Los Duenos del Son's set, late in the day.  Lucky 7 and Son Mayor had performed earlier.  DJ Charlie Antillon was playing, and Super DJRobby, DJ Ricky El Gozador, DJ Ronnie, DJ Jaime and DJ Alex were scheduled throughout the day. 

    Randy gets another "A" this year for a great party.  His neighbors must be saints!  Following is a bit of what I saw.