[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 122 (Monday, July 17, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E682]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING VENANCIO ``BENNY'' CATALA, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RITCHIE TORRES

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 17, 2023

  Mr. TORRES of New York. Mr. Speaker, Venancio ``Benny'' Catala, Jr., 
known affectionately as ``Big Ben'' and ``Benny from the Block,'' was a 
pillar of the Bronx community, touching thousands of lives through his 
political activism and outreach.
  A proud Puerto Rican, Mr. Catala immigrated from San Juan to New York 
City at just 4 years old. He attended New York City public schools 
throughout his childhood and later enrolled and graduated from Monroe 
College.
  By age 16, he was already serving his community via his numerous jobs 
through the Summer Youth Employment Program. At 18, he began his career 
in public service as a Constituent Services Representative for the 
office of the Honorable Aurelia Greene, connecting constituents to 
resources such as education programs, housing, and state social 
services. He was promoted to the Constituent Services Director and 
later District office Liaison to the Albany Legislative Office. From 
2002 to 2006, he served as Director of Constituent Services for the 
Office of Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr., helping 
residents reach city agencies and services.
  During the construction of the new Yankee Stadium, a beloved Bronx 
landmark, Mr. Catala oversaw community engagement, arranging local 
hiring provisions, contracts with minority and women owned businesses, 
and small business partnerships. In 2012, he became Director of 
Diversity Initiatives for the Yankees, building relationships between 
the Yankees and local community leaders, schools, nonprofits, and 
cultural organizations.
  In a return to politics, Mr. Catala was appointed researcher for the 
State Democratic Assembly Campaign Committee in 2016 as well as serving 
as the Vice Chair and Sergeant at Arms of the Bronx Democratic County 
Committee, working with members of the Bronx Democratic party and New 
York State assemblymembers. He was also the Male District Leader of the 
77th Assembly District serving Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner and the 
president of the Rev. Jerome A. Greene Democratic Club, running voter 
registration drives, and supporting district leaders.
  Mr. Catala's lasting impact on his community is truly immeasurable. 
We will never forget his tireless dedication to the Bronx; may he rest 
in peace.

                          ____________________