On Sunday, March 21st, 2004, Assemblyman William Colton (D-47th AD) received the Distinguished Legislator Award from the Council of Jewish Organizations of Flatbush (COJO) at their 25th Annual Community Legislative Breakfast held at Le Marquise, 815 Kings Highway.

Over 700 COJO members, dignitaries and community leaders were present to hear Senator Chuck Schumer give accolades to fellow legislators Assemblyman Colton and City Councilman Bill de Blasio for their leadership and dedicated service to their constituents as well as New York City.

Assemblyman Colton was praised for his Hate Crime Bill as well as his strong support in fighting hate symbols, e. g. swastikas. The Bensonhurst/Gravesend Legislator has always been at the forefront of maintaining peace and harmony in his district, as well as preventing threats to public safety in the community. He is one of the first to speak out against acts of discrimination and bias.

Assemblyman Colton has held several meetings with religious leaders, clergy and Police to monitor situations whenever racial or anti-Semitic problems emerged in the community.

Assemblyman Colton, a former schoolteacher, keeps a watchful eye on education and the environment. The legislator is one of the first to speak against any actions that would disrupt the quality of life for his constituents, and is a harsh critic of the inadequate transit service of the MTA. .

Presently Assemblyman Colton is setting up a small business forum with COJO and is offering free income tax assistance at his community office, located at 211 Kings Highway.