Shows
The Leak Project Podcast#Breaking Mayor in NJ Breaks The Lid Wide Open on Mystery DronesExclusive Interview: Mayor Ryan Herd Breaks Silence on Mysterious Drone Swarms Over New Jersey
In this riveting episode of Leak Project, we sit down with Mayor Ryan Herd of Pequannock Township for a rare and candid conversation about the unexplained drone sightings haunting the skies of northern New Jersey. Mayor Herd recounts his own chilling observations—swarms of drones moving in uncanny formations, flying low and silently over residential areas, including his own backyard.
He pulls back the curtain on a confidential meeting of nearly 200 mayors convened to tackle the situation—yet shockingly, no one had...2025-06-041h 05
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasAI Student Discussion - Superintendent Podcast with Dr. PortasIn this episode, Dr. Portas discusses the educational use of AI with 6 students who are serving on the Pequannock AI Committee. Posted April 8th, 2025.2025-04-0856 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasYoung Man of the Year, Henry Struble - Superintendent SpotlightDr. Michael Portas and Coach Michael Moschella are joined by Henry Struble, PTHS senior and recipient of the 2025 Super Football Conference Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year Award. Henry is an accomplished student, athlete and entrepreneur. His company, Bikes By Hank, has donated over $25,000 to local, state and national charities. A total of 114 players were nominated from the 2024 season. Congratulations, Henry!2025-02-1427 min
Podcast UFOUFO Over Wanaque, New Jerseyby UFO History Buff & Author, Charles Lear
New Jersey, as everyone in UFO world is aware, was ground zero for a full-on flap involving what most witnesses reported as mysterious drones. What’s noteworthy is that this same region was where residents panicked during Orson Welles’s radio production of The War of the Worlds in 1938. It’s also the area where there were two flaps in 1966, one in January and another in October, with the most dramatic reports centered around the Wanaque Reservoir. In this blog, we’ll focus on the January flap. At that time, several di...2025-02-0209 min
The WOR Saturday Morning Show with Larry MendteLarry with former Pequannock, NJ Mayor Ryan Herd on the recent Government's confession to the Drones-over-New Jersey and more2025-02-0208 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasWelcome Mr. David Raffo - Superintendent SpotlightIn this episode, Dr. Portas introduces Mr. David Raffo, the new Assistant Principal of Pequannock Valley Middle School. Mr. Raffo chronicles his background as an educator and how his journey has brought him to Pequannock. He outlines his future aspirations as assistant principal for PV. Welcome, Mr. Raffo! 2025-01-3133 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasAI in Education - Superintendent SpotlightMr. Matt Shea, Chief Technology Officer, is back for an informative podcast with Dr. Portas on AI in education. Mr. Shea shares his involvement in AI not only for our district but at a state level. He outlines major concerns as well as the many benefits this new technology can provide to our school community. A parent university night is forthcoming.2025-01-2426 min
Schoolhouse ROX: A POGcastEpisode 88 - Morris County Vocational School District PartnershipIn this episode, Dr. Seipp has the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Shari Castelli, MCVSD Acting Superintendent of Schools, and Mr. Richard Hayzler, Pequannock High School Principal about the power of partnering with Morris County Vocational School District. Both Roxbury and Pequannock have incredibly strong partnerships with MCVSD where students are provided unique access to career pathways and authentic learning experiences.2025-01-2428 min
Talking with Tyler2024 Super Football Conference Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year AwardIn this episode of Talking with Tyler, I had the opportunity to speak with Nutley High School’s Athletic Director and Super Football Conference’s Young Man of the Year Commissioner, Joe Piro, the Head Coach of the Pequannock High School football team, Coach Mike Moshella, and the 2024 Super Football Conference’s Young Man of the Year recipient, Henry Struble. Give this a listen to learn more. 2025-01-1726 min
Talking with Tyler2024 Super Football Conference Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year AwardIn this episode of Talking with Tyler, I had the opportunity to speak with Nutley High School’s Athletic Director and Super Football Conference’s Young Man of the Year Commissioner, Joe Piro, the Head Coach of the Pequannock High School football team, Coach Mike Moshella, and the 2024 Super Football Conference’s Young Man of the Year recipient, Henry Struble. Give this a listen to learn more.2025-01-1726 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasCollege Application Process - Superintendent SpotlightIn this episode, Dr. Michael Portas sits down with Mr. Christopher Foglio, Director of Student Services 6-12+, and Mrs. Caitlin Fitzpatrick, School Counselor. They discuss the college application process and share strategies to make the process less overwhelming and more enjoyable for families. They share tips on how students can better prepare themselves for the process and how to ultimately make the best decision. Stay tuned for a follow up podcast focusing on the college application essay! 2025-01-1038 minThe WOR Saturday Morning Show with Larry MendteLarry with New Jersey's Pequannock Township Mayor Ryan Herd about the alarming number of Drone sightings over the U. S.'s Northeast CorridorRyan Herd is serving his second term as the Township's Mayor and his second term on Township Council. He views his responsibilities as a member of the Council as an extension of the community service that is a priority for himself and his family. Ryan is a technology entrepreneur, focusing his efforts on developing tools that make homes and communities safer and more enjoyable. He is the author of a book on innovations that provide “Smart” technology for homes, businesses and communities, and he lectures and consults on the subject. In addition to their careers, Ryan and his wife Jennifer are acti...2024-12-1508 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasStandards Based Report Card - Superintendent SpotlightDr. Michael Portas and Dr. Elissa Scillieri hone in on our elementary standards based report cards ahead of the completion of the first trimester. Dr. Scillieri speaks about her role in the development of the standards based report cards, the benefits they provide and how to interpret them.2024-11-2624 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasWhy Attendance Matters - Superintendent SpotlightIn this episode, Dr. Portas is joined by the Superintendent of Butler Schools, Dr. Daniel Johnson. Dr. Portas and Dr. Johnson discuss chronic absenteeism, a growing concern which is not only on the rise in New Jersey but around the country. They exchange strategies for districts and families alike to address common barriers that lead to students missing school and ultimately improve attendance.2024-11-2022 min
The Jersey Blitz - NJ.com's high school football podcast1st round playoff chaos and debating non-public seedsWe're breaking down a wild opening weekend of the public school playoffs, led by a handful of underdog teams that turned in surprising upsets. NJ.com beat reporters Luis Torres, Ryan Patti, Mike Kinney, Joe Zedalis, Kevin Minnick and Bill Evans — along with host Dan Long — also break down the sectional semifinals ahead and identify the brackets that could be the most exciting this weekend. Our crew also examines, analyzes and debates the seeds for the Non-Public brackets. We're talking what the committee got right, what they got wrong and how we would have handled it.Teams ment...2024-11-0650 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasThe Evolution of Math Instruction - Superintendent SpotlightJoin Dr. Portas for Season 2 of The Superintendent Spotlight! In this episode, Dr. Portas sits down with Ann Marie VanSickle, Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Pequannock Township School District. Mrs. VanSickle shares her extensive background in education and details how math instruction has evolved throughout the years. She also offers practical tips and advice to help students in their learning journey. 2024-11-0126 min
The Jersey Blitz - NJ.com's high school football podcastNorth Jersey playoff previewLuis Torres, Ryan Patti and Mike Kinney — along with host Dan Long — analyze all 10 state playoff brackets in North Jersey. From heavy favorites that have legitimate state championship aspirations to brackets filled with multiple title contenders, our crew breaks down all the intriguing storylines and things to know before the playoffs begin.Teams mentioned in this episode (listed alphabetically): Bayonne, Bernards, Bridgewater-Raritan, Butler, Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Chatham, Cranford, East Orange, Elizabeth, Glen Rock, Hanover Park, Hasbrouck Heights, High Point, Lakeland, Lyndhurst, Madison, Mendham, Montclair, Montville, Morris Knolls, Mount Olive, Mountain Lakes, New Providence, Northern Highlands, Old Tappan, Pasc...2024-10-3145 min
The Jersey Blitz - NJ.com's high school football podcastPlayoff projections, cutoff weekend drama & plenty moreThe playoffs are nearly here and NJ.com's high school football reporters are here to break down all the action — and what's to come. In this week's episode of The Jersey Blitz, we dive into all of the playoff projections, from the games that matter the most on cutoff weekend to the sections that will be the best come November. We also recap last weekend's chaos with a couple of ranked teams going down and look ahead to this weekend's championship game in the NJIC and a couple of marquee showdowns involving non-public teams.Teams mentioned in th...2024-10-231h 02
Derek Jeter - Audio Biography"The Captain's Voyage: Derek Jeter's Path to Greatness"Derek Sanderson Jeter was born on June 26, 1974, in Pequannock Township, New Jersey. The son of a biracial couple, Sanderson Charles Jeter and Dorothy Connors Jeter, Derek's early life was shaped by a unique blend of cultures and a strong emphasis on education and achievement. His father, an African American, worked as a substance abuse counselor, while his mother, of Irish descent, was an accountant. This diverse background would later influence Derek's approach to life and his role as a unifying figure in baseball.The Jeter family moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, when Derek was just four years old. It...2024-10-1505 min
The Jersey Blitz - NJ.com's high school football podcastA new No. 1 public team, midseason analysis & Week 4 recapNJ.com's high school football reporters break down all of the action from Week 4 and look ahead to Week 5 in this week's Episode of the Jersey Blitz. We're recapping Bergen Catholic's big win over Don Bosco Prep and Winslow's triumph over Millville. In other news: Ferris ends a five-year losing skid, two players in the Big Central have monster touchdown performances and Toms River North survives a war with Point Pleasant Boro.Teams mentioned in this week's podcast (listed alphabetically): Atlantic Tech, Bergen Catholic, Bridgeton, Caldwell, Camden, Cedar Grove, Central Regional, Cherry Hill East, Colonia, Delbarton, DePaul...2024-10-0246 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasSummer Slide - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 17, the final podcast episode of the 23-24 school year, Dr. Michael Portas talks about the "Summer Slide" and what students and their families can do to prevent learning loss during the summer break. 2024-06-1905 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasUnderstanding Substance Abuse - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 16, Dr. Michael Portas is joined by Pequannock Township High School Student Assistance Counselor (SAC), Mrs. Jennifer Basilone. With over 20 years of experience as a counselor, Mrs. Basilone shares tips for educators and family members to recognize, understand and ultimately prevent substance abuse.2024-06-0742 min
Between Over and NextHow To Bloom Where You’re Planted With An Entrepreneurial Spirit
Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTube
In this episode of “Between Over & Next,” hosts Holli & Robert welcome Donna Fillweber, a vibrant entrepreneur who has showcased a remarkable ability to pivot across diverse professional landscapes. Donna shares valuable life lessons from her success in direct sales with Lia Sophia to becoming the Publisher of Pequannock Magazine. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on self-belief, overcoming challenges, finding joy, and living authentically.
Donna recounts her transition from a stay-at-home mom to a business leader in the competitive realms of scrapbooking, jewelry, and nail products. She emphasizes the importance of networking and passi...2024-06-0400 min
Between Over & NextHow To Bloom Where You're Planted With An Entrepreneurial SpiritIn this episode of "Between Over & Next," hosts Holli & Robert welcome Donna Fillweber, a vibrant entrepreneur who has showcased a remarkable ability to pivot across diverse professional landscapes. Donna shares valuable life lessons from her success in direct sales with Lia Sophia to becoming the Publisher of Pequannock Magazine. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on self-belief, overcoming challenges, finding joy, and living authentically. Donna recounts her transition from a stay-at-home mom to a business leader in the competitive realms of scrapbooking, jewelry, and nail products. She emphasizes the importance of networking and passion in achieving financial independence and p...2024-06-0442 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasSRO Bill Juliano - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 15, Dr. Michael Portas sits down with Pequannock Township Police Juvenile Detective and School Resource Officer, Bill Juliano. Ptl. Juliano explains his responsibilities as the dedicated Pequannock Township Schools SRO and the integral role he plays in school security. 2024-05-3136 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasGovernment & Politics - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 14, Dr. Michael Portas meets with Mrs. Jana Cohen, PTHS Social Studies teacher, PTHS seniors Liam and Thomas, and Dr. Portas' son, Andrew Portas, to discuss their interests in US Government and Politics. 2024-05-2443 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasAV Club - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 13, Dr. Michael Portas joins the students of the Hillview AV Club to talk about their favorite 5th grade moments. They also look ahead to middle school and share what they're most looking forward to. Thanks to Carly, Courtney, Hailey, Jackson J., Jackson R., Lucas, Lucy and Matthew for participating!2024-05-1724 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasSchool Safety - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 12, Dr. Michael Portas sits down with Mr. Ron Lucas, Director of Security, and Mr. Matt Reiner, Stephen J. Gerace Elementary School principal. Mr. Lucas and Mr. Reiner explain their roles within the greater school security team and how everyone in the community can help to keep our schools safe. 2024-05-1035 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasHillview's 60th Celebration with Mrs. Munro - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 11, Dr. Michael Portas is joined by Mrs. Valerie Munro, Media Specialist at Hillview Elementary School. Mrs. Munro reveals that she has spent much of her life at Hillview; as a student, classroom teacher and media specialist. As Hillview turns 60, Mrs. Munro shares what inspired her to plan such a grand celebration for the staff and students.2024-05-0324 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasA Portrait of a Graduate - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 10, Dr. Michael Portas is joined by Dr. Daniel O'Keefe, Supervisor of Social Studies, Business and World Language and Mr. Richard Hayzler, Pequannock Township High School Principal, to explain a district goal, the 'A Portrait of a Graduate' project. 2024-04-2629 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasSchool Budgeting - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 9, Dr. Michael Portas and Mr. Gordon Gibbs, School Business Administrator, discuss the role of a business administrator and the process of creating a school budget.2024-04-1922 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael Portas1984 - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 8, Dr. Portas and six senior honors English students delve into one of their latest classroom reads, the book 1984. Adam, Alyssa, Alex, Juliana, Sean and William share what engaged them about the book, the projects they chose to work on in response to the book and how their insights could help shape future assessments. A special thanks to Mrs. Rodriguez and her students!2024-04-1238 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasTotal Solar Eclipse - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 7, Dr. Portas is joined by Mr. Edward Kopp, K-12 Supervisor of Science, STEM and Aviation, to uncover what we need to know about the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Mr. Kopp outlines why solar eclipses happen, what the community can expect to see and safe viewing practices. Solar Eclipse Eye Protection Information2024-03-2815 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasWork-Life Balance - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 6, Dr. Portas is joined by Mr. John Seborowski, Principal of Pequannock Valley Middle School, to chat about the challenges and rewards that come with juggling the roles of educator, administrator and parent. Mr. Seborowski and Dr. Portas share their perspectives on how being a parent has impacted their job as an administrator and vice versa. 2024-03-2242 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasWomen in Sports - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 5, Dr. Portas sits down with Ms. Emily Ringen, Assistant Principal of Pequannock Valley Middle School, to discuss women in sports. Ms. Ringen describes the positive impact that athletics has had on her personal and professional life.2024-03-1534 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasMusic Education - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 4, Dr. Portas is joined by Mrs. Ann Marie Finnen, elementary band teacher, and Mr. Anthony Streifer, Pequannock Township High School Band Director, to discuss the importance of music education. Don't miss a special guest appearance by 12th grade band student, Rafael Fajardo.2024-03-0646 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasSchool Culture - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 3, Dr. Michael Portas and Pequannock Township High School Principal, Mr. Richard Hayzler, discuss the importance of culture in a school community.2024-03-0433 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasOnline Safety - Superintendent SpotlightIn episode 2, Dr. Portas spends time with our CTO, Mr. Matt Shea, discussing how Pequannock keeps our staff and students safe online. Mr. Shea shares tips and tools for parents as well!
Resources:
securly.com
commonsensemedia.org
families.google/familylink/
support.apple.com/en-us/HT201304
nintendo.com/us/switch/parental-controls/2024-03-0422 min
Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael PortasPreschool Program at North Boulevard - Superintendent SpotlightPlease join Dr. Michael Portas, Dr. Elissa Scillieri and Ms. Helena Branco as they discuss the PreK program at North Boulevard Elementary School.2024-03-0420 min
Beyond The Beacon36: How music ministers draw us closer to the LordSend us a textWhat is Bishop Kevin Sweeney's favorite Christmas carol? Tune in to find out! This week, for episode 36 of Beyond The Beacon (a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey), Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish are joined by two gifted music ministers for a discussion about music's impact on our faith. Preston Dibble is our long-time Director of Music for the diocese. He also works full-time at Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange in our neighboring Archdiocese of Newark. As he likes to say, he’s a dual citizen of...2023-12-2147 min