HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Mayor Gallagher met with more than 18 State officials, including representatives from the Governor’s Office, in response to residents’ concerns regarding the influx of children to the Hanover Township school system that has resulted from the placement of families in transition by the State and other government agencies. The group discussed strategies to address the growing need for transitional family housing, the current state of family placements, and the financial impact on the Township’s schools and municipal services.

The August 21 meeting in Trenton was organized by Senator Pennacchio, Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock, and the Township Attorney Fred Semrau.

Mayor Gallagher summarized the meeting by stating the following “I am pleased to advise our residents that we have been heard by the State officials, and we believe that the discussions will lead to changes that benefit Hanover Township, our residents, and the families in transition. We will have a series of follow-up meetings with the Office of the Commissioner of Education and the Department of Community Affairs and look forward to continuing to work with the Governor’s staff to address the concerns shared by Township officials and residents. I want to thank the State officials and Senator Pennacchio for spearheading this meeting on short notice and seeking a path of real solutions for our residents.

The Governing Body of Hanover Township continues to hear residents’ concerns and will continue to take the necessary steps to have our voices heard and protect the health, safety, and welfare of our residents. We will  continue to apprise you of our progress. ”

HANOVER — The Whippany Park Marching Band will be hosting a car wash fundraiser this Saturday, August 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Whippany Park High School, located at 165 Whippany Road, Whippany.

This community‑centered event presents a prime opportunity to help support the students’ musical endeavors while getting your vehicle sparkling clean. Residents are encouraged to bring their cars by the school during the four‑hour event to show support for the local marching band and enjoy light-hearted fun—and maybe even some spirited Wildcats pride.

All proceeds will go toward funding the band’s upcoming activities, including music supplies, uniforms, travel, and other essential resources. Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the area, this fundraiser is a great chance to contribute to the arts in our community.

Event at a Glance:

• What: Whippany Park Marching Band Car Wash Fundraiser
• When: Saturday, August 23 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Where: Whippany Park High School, 165 Whippany Road, Whippany

For questions or further details, feel free to contact the school’s main office at (973) 887‑3004

HANOVER — Several individuals, including juveniles, have been charged in connection with a widespread graffiti vandalism case that police say caused an estimated $500,000 in damage across Hanover Township over the past several years.

The Hanover Township Police Department announced the charges on Monday, noting that graffiti was discovered on buildings, businesses, public property, railroad property, bridges, and other locations throughout the township.

Investigators linked the suspects to multiple graffiti “tags,” including GMAIL, SCATE, CHEAK, TEDY, BILLY THE KID, BANDIT, GAZZY, and DOVE, among others. Damage estimates attributed to the individuals range from under $100 to several hundred thousand dollars.

The most significant portion of the damage—approximately $300,000—was tied to two juveniles accused of tagging under the names GMAIL, GMAIL8, SCATE, and SCATE5. Both face multiple counts of criminal mischief, conspiracy, trespassing, and promotion of organized street crime.

Other individuals charged include:

• Peter Runge, 28, Sarasota, FL — accused of tagging CHEAK ($2,000 damage)
• Dennis Melendez, 21, Morristown — tagged as BILLY THE KID ($700 damage)
• Christopher Escobar, 25, Montclair — tagged as DOVE and DOVE6 ($54,000 damage)
• Alexa Lipke, 30, Somerville — tagged as INKI ($1,000 damage)
• Marco Dapaz, 33, Elizabeth — tagged as EVOL ($5,400 damage)
• Kenneth Tharaldsen Jr., 33, Deptford — tagged as SUCIO ($5,400 damage)
• Omar Carrillo, 22, Morristown — tagged as ZEX and ZENOTT ($600 damage)
• Danny Mazariegos, 18, Morristown — tagged as GAZZY ($5,000 damage)
• Several others linked to graffiti in Morristown, each with estimated damages of $800

Hanover police said that identifying and charging suspects provides victims with the opportunity to pursue restitution for repair costs.

“We hope these investigations demonstrate our commitment to solving crimes in our jurisdiction and serve as a deterrent for those who wish to cause damage,” the department said in a statement.

Residents and business owners who have been victims of graffiti vandalism are encouraged to report incidents by calling (973) 428-2512.

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.