Bronx Week press conference spotlights borough culture and announces Walk of Fame honorees

Bronx leaders and community figures gathered at Storyland in the South Bronx to wrap up the Bronx Week 2026 press conference, with organizers urging residents to celebrate the borough's culture and attend parades and performances planned throughout the week.

Ashley Del Eon reported that a featured guest associated with the animated series Alma's Way spoke about personal roots in the borough, saying, "The Bronx is an amazing place to me. It means so much. I grew up in the Bronx and Puerto Rican and Nicaraguan. ... I want to represent the Bronx," remarks the reporter relayed to the audience.

The event took place at Storyland, which the reporter described as a fitting backdrop that puts the next generation front and center. Del Eon noted that Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson chose Storyland this year to highlight community assets and opportunities for residents.

Students from the School of Finance and Technology attended and shared personal stories, the reporter said, with organizers framing the appearances as inspiration for young people pursuing careers and creative work in the borough.

The press conference also included the announcement of this year's Bronx Walk of Fame inductees. The four honorees named were music executive Lenny S. Santiago; WNBC anchor Darlene Rodriguez; Roberto Escanio, also known as "Phantom"; and actor and choreographer Daren Henson. The honorees will be celebrated at the Bronx Ball on May 16, organizers said.

Organizers invited the public to join Bronx Week events, from parades to performances, and encouraged residents to come out and support neighborhood programming. Reporting for Bronxnet, Ashley Del Eon.