GEORGE WASHINGTON WILLIAMS ROOM

Sylvester Patton Jr., a lifelong resident of the City of Youngstown, has been a community activist, a family man and a political reformer in the neighborhoods of Youngstown. After attending South High School and Youngstown State University, Mr. Patton began his workplace career at Ohio Edison as a meter reader. After many years, his work ethic and dedication has awarded him the position of State Representative for the 60th House District of Ohio. A real life success story, Syl, as he is known to his friends and family, has won over a community to which he has dedicated his life.

He has held numerous appointments in Mahoning County, Vice President of the Family Services Agency; the Youngstown Board of Education Strategic Planning Commission; and the 911 Advisory Board, which brought a badly needed 911 service to Mahoning County. Mr. Patton was also appointed chairman of the Governor's Commission on African American Males.

In politics, Sylvester Patton joined a bold undertaking with many other citizens, to challenge the politicians that reigned in Youngstown for many years. In a hard fought battle, with Sylvester Patton as one of its leaders, the Democrats for Change movement swept out the old guard and installed political reforms that have made national news.

His dedication and devotion to the community has resulted in many friendships across the County and state of Ohio. Those friends, joined by the Mahoning County Democratic Party, supported Patton in his bid for appointment to the 64th District Ohio House seat. Patton adhered to a strong moral and ethical code and his dedication and commitment paid off. On November 3, 1998, over 71% of the citizens of the 64th House District communicated their trust in him when he was elected as the 64th House District State Representative.

He is the Recipient of the 2000 Friends of Family Planning Award from Planned Parenthood of Mahoning Valley, The Black Knights Police Association Award, and the 2004 Chairman's Political Achievement Award.

During his tenure as a state representative, Patton introduced House Bill 133, a bill created to equalize the penalties between crack cocaine and powdered cocaine sentencing; House Bill 46, Legislation that would increase gun safety and protect the children of Ohio; House Bill 237 to increase the penalty for illegal distribution of cigarettes or other tobacco products to minors; and HCR 8, which changed a portion of Black American History by granting the Black Brigade Civil War heroes, a joint Resolution recognizing their bravery during the Civil War. In the 126th General Assembly he introduced House Bill 238 which will designate the Month of May as "Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month".

Patton is the first African American to represent the 60th Ohio House District. He lives on Youngstown's Southside with his wife, Juanell, of 35 years. He is the proud father of two sons, Marcus and Sylvester III.

Sources:

• http://www.ohdemcaucus.org/
• 123rd General Assembly House Brochure.
• Personal Biography, 2005.