Riverdale News: Bronx Walk of Fame Inductees

Monday, May 21, 2012

Bronx Walk of Fame Inductees

(Photos by Gary Quintal & David Greene)

By David Greene

BRONX, NEW YORK, May 21- Four more Bronxites were inducted into the Bronx, "Walk of Fame," during the 22nd Annual Bronx Week celebration at the Bronx County Courthouse on Sunday, May 20.

Rapper Fat Joe, actor and Model Tyson Beckford, jazz musician Valerie Capers and cinematographer Sol Negrin were all immortalized with special street signs with their names on it, that will hang outside the courthouse on the Grand Concourse.

Born Joseph Antonio Cartagena, Fat Joe told a crowd of fans, "I'm happy to be honored today, proud to be from the Bronx. I love the Bronx, love to represent the Bronx wherever we go... I'm just honored, I don't know what else to say."

Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., explained to the crowd, "When we induct someone into the, "Walk of Fame," ... it's not only because their famous, it's not only because they've done well for themselves and their families, it's because regardless of their expertise, these individuals are all masters of their craft."

Diaz continued, "Yet they have worn, like a badge of honor, the fact that the Bronx was their home."

After the event, Beckford stated he often still visits the Wakefield section, where he grew up on E. 219 Street, adding it was an honor to be immortalized with a street sign, adding, "Man it's a good feeling, growing up I never thought this could happen."

Beckford offered a tip to youngsters, telling them, "Just follow-your dreams."

The 10-day celebration culminated with a parade along Mosholu Parkway that featured a live performance by Bronx rapper Dougie Fresh.