Each summer, Waterbury raises the Puerto Rican flag at City Hall and names a Puerto Rican Mayor for a Day — honoring a resident whose contributions have strengthened our community.
In 1987, La Casa Bienvenida established this proud tradition, and four decades on it still gathers families, students, elected officials, and community organizations for a morning of culture, pride, and service. This year marks the 40th annual ceremony. Everyone is welcome to attend as we celebrate our community and honor this year's Puerto Rican Mayor for a Day.
This year, the Coalition is honoring Frankie Batista, a retired CT Department of Correction Officer, as the 2026 Puerto Rican Mayor for a Day.
Free and open to the public.
Frank Ramos Batista was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, on February 16, 1961, to Joaquin and Hilda Batista. He attended Waterbury Public Schools and graduated from Crosby High School in June 1980.
Following graduation, Frank worked in the family grocery business, Ramos Superette, and at Waterbury Buckle Co. He later served as an L.S.M. Operator with the U.S. Postal Service in New Haven from 1981 to 1983 before continuing his work with the family business. On July 13, 1990, Frank began a new chapter in public service with the State of Connecticut Department of Correction. He started at the Bridgeport Correctional Center and retired in July 2011 from the Cheshire Correctional Institution after 21 years of dedicated service.
Frank's commitment to community began early in life. As a teenager, he was a member of the Puerto Rican Youth Organization (PRYO), Boy Scouts Troop 214, one of the largest troops in Connecticut, and an original member of the Puerto Rican Drill Team. At age 14, he also discovered his passion for music, beginning his DJ career with The New Breed, E&F Connection, and later Frankie-B and The Boss Production DJs.
Throughout his life, Frank has remained deeply involved in civic, cultural, and youth-focused organizations. He has contributed his time and leadership to the Spanish Action Council, the groundwork of what is today the Hispanic Coalition of Greater Waterbury, Inc., the Democratic Town Committee in the 75th District, Nuestra Comunidad, and St. Cecilia C.Y.O., where he served as an assistant coach. On September 13, 1983, he founded the Spanish-American League of Social Activities, widely known as the S.A.L.S.A. Club, creating a lasting space for fellowship, culture, and community connection.
Frank is married to his wife of 35 years, Luz Yvette Batista. Together, they have seven children: Veronica, William, Ashley, Frank Jr., Keyira, Brianna, and Joaquin, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is a proud Catholic and parishioner of All Saints, Todos Los Santos Parish, where he also serves as a volunteer with the Confirmation Program.
Above all, Frank is grateful for the love and support of his family and dear friends. He holds special appreciation for his mother, Hilda, who at 93 years old remains the rock of strength and pillar of the family. Frank's life reflects faith, service, family, culture, and an enduring commitment to the Waterbury community.
Join the Hispanic Coalition of Greater Waterbury in honoring Frank at the 40th annual Puerto Rican Flag Raising Ceremony, Friday, August 21, 2026, at Waterbury City Hall.
Families, students, and community organizations gather at City Hall in a sea of red, white, and blue.
This year's honoree is recognized for their contributions and presented before the community.
The Puerto Rican flag is raised over Waterbury City Hall in a moment of shared pride.
City and state officials join Coalition leaders in celebrating Puerto Rican heritage and community.
A look at the spirit of past Puerto Rican Mayor for a Day celebrations at Waterbury City Hall.
Nearly four decades of Waterbury residents recognized for their contributions to the Puerto Rican community.
A closer look at some of our most recent Puerto Rican Mayors for a Day.
Honored on September 6, 2025 for his dedication and contributions to the Greater Waterbury community.
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Born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Ms. Matos served as a bilingual educator in Waterbury Public Schools for 31 years, holding degrees from the University of Bridgeport and Southern Connecticut State University.
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A Waterbury native and former NFL wide receiver for the Patriots, Chiefs, and Giants, Chris is the founder and owner of CO Sports Academy.
Read the full story →Join us at Waterbury City Hall on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM as we raise the flag, honor this year's Puerto Rican Mayor for a Day, and celebrate four decades of Puerto Rican culture in Waterbury.
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