Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr. honored the late Grammy-winning musician and Bronx native Dave Valentin with a street co-naming ceremony on Fox Street in the South Bronx. Valentin, a renowned flutist and Musical Director for Tito Puente, was born and raised on Fox Street and remained deeply connected to his roots despite achieving global recognition in the world of Latin jazz.
The event celebrated Valentin’s legacy as a distinguished artist and community leader, highlighting his contributions to the Bronx and his dedication to giving back to the community that nurtured his talent. Council Member Salamanca emphasized that Valentin was more than just a musician; he was a beacon of hope for the Bronx, always remembering where he came from no matter where his career took him.
Casita Maria, a historic South Bronx arts and education center where Valentin was a former student, played a key role in organizing the street co-naming ceremony. The event was part of the school’s 90th-anniversary celebrations, honoring individuals who have helped shape its legacy. Valentin’s lifelong support of Casita Maria touched the lives of countless Bronxites, especially the children who saw him as both a mentor and an inspiration.
During the ceremony, Valentin’s family, friends, and fellow musicians shared stories of his passion for music and his unwavering commitment to the Bronx. A representative from Casita Maria highlighted how Valentin didn’t just perform for the Bronx; he gave back in meaningful, lasting ways, showing his dedication to uplifting the community.
Valentin, whose parents both hailed from Puerto Rico, passed away in March 2017 at the age of 64. The street co-naming ceremony served as a fitting tribute to his lasting impact on the Bronx and his enduring legacy as a musician and community leader. Through events like these, the Bronx community can come together to honor and remember individuals like Dave Valentin who have made extraordinary contributions to the neighborhood.
