HANOVER — The Salem Drive School PTA will host an exciting “Roaring 20s” Basket Raffle Fundraiser on Friday, March 8, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The highly anticipated event will bring together parents, teachers, and community members for an evening of fun while raising funds for a meaningful cause: new playground equipment for the school.

The fundraiser, designed to create a lively and engaging atmosphere, will feature a basket raffle with a variety of themed prizes. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on donated items, enjoy refreshments, and take part in the community-driven event, all while supporting the students of Salem Drive School.

To make the evening a success, the PTA seeks donations in items, themed baskets, or cash contributions. Additionally, local businesses and individuals can participate as event sponsors, with their contributions earning them a place in the event’s welcome booklet:

• Platinum Sponsor – $200 (Full-Page Ad)
• Gold Sponsor – $100 (Half-Page Ad)
• Silver Sponsor – $75 (Quarter-Page Ad)

“This event is a great opportunity for our community to come together, have fun, and support the school in a big way,” said a PTA representative. “The new playground equipment will provide a safe and engaging space for our students, and we’re grateful for the generosity of everyone involved.”

Those interested in donating, sponsoring, or learning more about the event can contact [email protected]. The PTA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, can provide information for donors wishing to claim their contributions as charitable donations.

With a festive 1920s theme, a wide range of raffle prizes, and a strong community spirit, the “Roaring 20’s” Basket Raffle Fundraiser promises to be an evening to remember—all for a great cause.

HANOVER—The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices will host its highly anticipated Annual Law Enforcement Night on Friday, March 7, at 7:00 p.m. at Mennen Sports Arena, 161 E. Hanover Avenue, Morristown. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., welcoming families, students, and community members to an evening of interactive engagement with law enforcement from across the state.

The event, recognized as one of the Coalition’s most impactful initiatives, fosters positive relationships between law enforcement officers and the community. Attendees will have the chance to interact with officers in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, reinforcing the idea that law enforcement professionals serve as protectors, mentors, and role models.

One of the highlights of the evening is the incredible display of law enforcement and emergency response equipment. Young and old attendees will be amazed by the variety of vehicles on display, including ambulances, emergency response units, and the Morris County Hope Van. Children will even be able to try on riot gear, test out handcuffs, and explore various police and rescue equipment.

The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has led Morris County. It has worked tirelessly to provide resources and educational programs to keep youth away from drugs and alcohol. By promoting substance-free activities, the Coalition helps strengthen self-esteem and confidence in young people, giving them the tools to make positive life choices.

For many attendees, Law Enforcement Night will be an eye-opening experience as they learn about law enforcement and explore potential careers in public service. The event has inspired teens to consider careers in law enforcement, emergency response, and related fields—paths they may have never imagined.

“Too often, people only interact with law enforcement and first responders on their worst days. This event provides an opportunity to connect with them on a very good day,” said Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher.

An evening full of hands-on experiences, engaging conversations, and exciting displays, Law Enforcement Night 2025 will surely be memorable and impactful for the entire community.

Don’t miss this opportunity to meet local heroes, explore cutting-edge equipment, and learn more about law enforcement’s positive role in our communities!

HANOVER — On January 30, Hanover Township Police Officer Timothy Dalgauer arrested Samuel Mantone, 25, of Madison, on multiple weapons and drug-related offenses following a motor vehicle stop.

Officer Dalgauer initially stopped Mr. Mantone’s vehicle for a traffic violation but suspected criminal activity. He requested assistance from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, which alerted him to narcotics.

A subsequent vehicle search uncovered a fully loaded handgun with hollow point ammunition, a holster, an additional loaded magazine, a cap gun, 10 bags of suspected methamphetamine, and pipes containing suspected drug residue.

Mr. Mantone was taken into custody and charged with:

• Unlawful possession of a handgun
• Persons not permitted to possess weapons
• Possession of a weapon while committing a CDS crime
• Possession of hollow point ammunition
• Possession of a large-capacity magazine
• Possession of CDS with intent to distribute
• Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute
• Possession of CDS

Following his arrest, Mr. Mantone was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to state that the charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

HANOVER — On January 25, 2025, Hanover Township Officer Patrick Thompson charged Brian Coombs, 55, Carolyn Coombs, 54, and Danielle Ploenes, 40, all residents of the Red Carpet Inn, with disorderly conduct and a noise violation.

Police responded to the hotel after receiving reports of screaming coming from one of the rooms. Upon arrival, officers located the three uncooperative individuals. While officers were preparing charges, Brian and Carolyn Coombs falsely reported a disturbance on a different floor in an apparent attempt to mislead police.

After confirming the report was fabricated, the Coombs’ were additionally charged with making a false report to law enforcement. All three individuals have a pending court date.

Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to state that the charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

HANOVER — On January 17, 2025, Hanover Township Police Officer Daniel Foesel arrested Rafael Mejia-Maldonado, 34, and Iveliz Rivera, 32, both residents of the Red Carpet Inn, following a package theft investigation.

Police responded after a victim reported the theft of a recently delivered package. Officer Foesel quickly identified Ms. Rivera as the suspect and located her inside her hotel room. When officers attempted to have her surrender, she refused to comply, while Mr. Mejia-Maldonado actively obstructed the investigation.

After some time, Ms. Rivera exited her room and was taken into custody. Meanwhile, Mr. Mejia-Maldonado resisted arrest, leading to additional charges.

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.