Appearing on Newsmakers

Comcast Newsmakers asked me to stop by this morning to film two segments for their program. Since I became an Assemblyman, I have worked with them about once every other month, and it's always an interesting experience.

Today I talked with the host, Jill Horner, about two topics: Abbott school districts, and Fort Monmouth. If you've been following the news on the Fort, you probably know that I introduced a bill last week that will put together the group that will decide the future of the property. The military installation is in the process of closing. Thanks to the help of local officials, other legislators, and a number of other stakeholders, I was able to draft something that seems like the best possible consensus. There will be representatives from all levels of government, and also some experts on employee relations/training, and environmental issues. The most important provision, I think, is the one that will prevent any level of government from acting unilaterally.

I'm doing a lot of research on the Abbott school district situation right now. For anyone who isn't familiar with that term, Abbott school districts are among the poorest in the state, and they are funded (largely with state funds) to the level of the wealthiest districts in New Jersey. Although it is important to make sure these districts are able to satisfy their needs, the current funding formula is putitng a major strain on taxpayers across the state. Through my research, I am looking to find a solution to this problem. I would love to hear your input.

This is the control room at the Newsmakers studio at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft. One of the best things about appearing on this program is working with the staff. It seems like everyone has a great sense of humor. I guess they would have to, since they listen to politicians talk all day.

In addition to being a very poised and professional host, Jill Horner is a former Miss New Jersey.

A Successful Fundraiser - Thanks Everyone!

Tonight we had a great fundraiser at Raccioppi's in Red Bank. There was an excellent turnout, with some people travelling from the far reaches of the state just to support the effort. These days it's difficult for me to find time to leave the 12th District, so I am very grateful to everyone for coming out on such a cold night. I think it was well worth it, though, between Joe Raccioppi's hospitality and the great conversation that was taking place in every corner of the room. Below are some photos my staff took while I was busy talking.

It was great to have a chance to thank everyone for their support, and to talk a little bit about some of the things that are on my legislative agenda, like tougher sentencing requirements for sex offenders, and reforming NJ's education funding formula.

Margie Donahue (center) talks with Monmouth County Democrats Executive Director Kate Burlett (left) and Fair Haven Democratic Chair Marti Egger. 

Rachel Weiner, who will begin working for Senator Karcher tomorrow, with NJEA representative and Monmouth Regional physics teacher David Pinkus

Senator Ellen Karcher was kind enough to attend, and to introduce my former 12th District colleague, Dr. Bob Morgan, to the guests. 

Kevin Monaco (left), Doug Hritz, and Larry Lewis (right)

I'm so grateful to everyone who came out to support me, particularly representatives from the labor community, who have been so helpful to me since 2003 

Here's my biggest fan, Jan Panter, with Dan Reilly. 

Dan Reilly (left) and Torry Watkins 

Raccioppi's is a perfect spot for a fundraiser. Joe Raccioppi and his staff make everyone feel at home, and the food they serve is excellent. Doug and Gus seem to be enjoying themselves.

A fundraiser is really a great place to network with people from a variety of different fields. 

Eric Larkin and Jarrod Grasso 

Animal Protection PAC representative, Stu Chaifetz, with his son, Akian

Reaching Out


Ever since I took office, I have been on the lookout for ways to keep in touch with 12th District constituents. Having mastered the e-newsletter, my staff has convinced me that it's time to expand my online presence by keeping a web log, or "blog." I'll use this space to give you more frequent updates on what I'm doing in Trenton and in the district, in addition to the news you can get through the newsletter, Panter Update. I would love to send a newsletter or e-mail out to you every day, but I realize that doing so might just overwhelm people, so I thought it would be good to give those of you who want to the opportunity to check in with me more often.

This medium will allow me to speak with you and your neighbors in a much less formal fashion than I might normally do anywhere else. I'm looking forward to sharing with you, and hearing your feedback, so feel free to use that "Comments" function (there's a link below every entry) and tell me what you really think.

Here I am with my mom, Jan Panter (right), my dad, Michael Panter Sr., and his wife Maureen, along with my sister Caroline (left). They were nice enough to come out and support me on January 10, when I was sworn in for a second term.