Sparta Spotlight
Latest News
|Sparta Spotlight
Latest News

Subscribe

"Animal Shelter Fire, Student Art Exhibit, and Adoption Opportunities in Sparta! Support Local Events - Advertise with Sparta Spotlight today!"

|
Sparta Spotlight

Sparta Spotlight

Archives

"Animal Shelter Fire, Student Art Exhibit, and Adoption Opportunities in Sparta! Support Local Events - Advertise with Sparta Spotlight today!"

"Animal Shelter Fire, Student Art Exhibit, and Adoption Opportunities in Sparta! Support Local Events - Advertise with Sparta Spotlight today!"
Sparta Spotlight: Animal shelter fire response, student art exhibition, adoptable pets, local event support opportunities available now! Contact us to advertise or sponsor. #SpartaStrong

Randy Booth

Feb 17, 2026

Trivia Question❓

What is the population of Sparta as of the 2020 census?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Support Our Local Sponsor:

Haven Of Harmony Holistic Spa

 

Welcome to Haven Of Harmony, your sanctuary for holistic healing and well-being. Our compassionate, trauma-informed therapists offer a heart-centered approach to healing, guiding you gently on your journey to harmony.

 

Our Services

  • Massage Therapy: Experience customized sessions including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Cupping, Prenatal, Hot Stone, Oncology, and more, designed to relieve pain and support healing.
  • Lymphatic Drainage: Gentle treatments to promote detoxification, reduce swelling, boost immunity, assist with hormone regulation, and post-op recovery.
  • Therapeutic Aromatherapy: Enjoy therapeutic benefits with the integration of organic, custom-crafted essential oils.
  • Energy Healing: Discover energetic alignment through Reiki, Chakra Healing, Crystal Therapy, Shamanic Healing, and Energy Clearings.
  • Yoga: Explore Chakra Yoga, Vinyasa, Somatic, Pelvic Floor, and private sessions to restore harmony to body and soul.
  • Psychic Readings: Receive compassionate guidance through intuitive card readings, mediumship, and past life sessions.
  • Coaching: Access spiritual counseling, life coaching, and support through peri/menopause for holistic growth and well-being.
  • Pain & Detox Treatments: Relieve pain and cleanse with TDR Heat Lamp and Foot Detox therapies.
  • Events & Certification: Join wellness events and energy healing certification programs to learn, grow, and connect.
  • Retreats: Rejuvenate with thoughtfully crafted retreats for deep renewal, self-discovery, and sacred healing space.

 

Contact Us Today!

Rev. Denise Saracco-Zoppi
Owner and Founder of
Phone/Text: 862-268-3213

 

Our Local News:

Township news Snippets and upcoming meetings

  • Route 15 fatal crash under investigation – A 63‑year‑old man died after being struck by a commercial vehicle on Route 15 northbound in Sparta on the night of Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026. Police closed part of the highway while investigators reconstructed the scene and are reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert on this busy corridor.

 

  • Stay NJ senior tax relief checks coming – Sparta is reminding eligible residents age 65+ that the Stay New Jersey property tax relief program will begin issuing benefit checks after Feb. 15, 2026, helping seniors stay in their homes despite rising bills. Details and links to state applications are posted on the township website and through the “News Flash” section.

 

  • Mystery stomach illness likely solved – After a wave of short‑term stomach illnesses across Sussex County, including the Hopatcong–Sparta area, health officials say they have identified a likely cause, though lab confirmation is still limited. Residents are urged to keep reporting recent gastrointestinal symptoms and dining locations to the county as part of the ongoing investigation. 

 

  • Public health nursing update for Sparta – A new “Public Health Nursing January–February 2026” notice outlines services available to Sparta residents through the local Health Department and the Sussex County Division of Health, including clinics, screenings, and outreach. The update lists contact details for Sparta’s Health Department at 973‑729‑4493 and directs residents to online resources for more information.

A destructive fire tore through One Step Closer Animal Rescue (OSCAR) in Andover, New Jersey, on February 11, 2026, devastating the kennel area and claiming the lives of six dogs.

 

Four dogs went missing during the incident but were soon located unharmed.

 

Emergency calls for help drew strong community response, though authorities quickly limited access for everyone’s safety.

 

All surviving dogs are now being cared for in foster homes, temporary housing, and by partner rescues.

 

OSCAR thanked the local community for outpouring support and launched a GoFundMe campaign for veterinary and foster care expenses.

 

Those wanting to foster or adopt can apply through the OSCAR website.

 

The shelter urges the public not to visit during recovery, and is not accepting physical donations at this time.

 

OSCAR remains dedicated to rebuilding and rescuing animals in need.


Read More...

Sparta’s Hilltop Country Day School will host its annual Pen & Brush Exhibition on Thursday, February 20, at 6:30 PM, inviting the public to explore student artwork and poetry inspired by the theme "Art of Independence."

 

Guided by Elena Zelenina, students created pieces reflecting their unique perspectives on independence as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of American freedom.

 

The exhibition showcases not only historical interpretations, but also deeply personal themes—like courage, friendship, and resilience—highlighting the next generation’s growing sense of creative freedom and community.

 

Admission is free, encouraging community members to engage and support these young local artists.

 

Meanwhile, Sparta Township gears up for the RevolutionNJ 250 Celebration and welcomes residents to join in historical activities and interactive events.

 

Looking ahead, the Sparta Special Olympics Vendor & Craft Fair returns to Sparta High School on March 21, 2026, spotlighting local creativity and supporting area athletes.


Read More...

Quote Of The Day

If you want something you’ve never had you must be willing to do something you’ve never done - Thomas Jefferson

Our Local Weather:

Day: Tuesday
Date: Feb 17, 2026
High: 44°F
Low: 32°F
Description: 🌤️ Partly sunny

 

Day: Wednesday
Date: Feb 18, 2026
High: 38°F
Low: 32°F
Description: 🌧️🌨️ Rain and snow

 

Day: Thursday
Date: Feb 19, 2026
High: 37°F
Low: 31°F
Description: ☁️ Cloudy

 

Day: Friday
Date: Feb 20, 2026
High: 34°F
Low: 31°F
Description: 🌧️🌨️ Rain and snow

 

Day: Saturday
Date: Feb 21, 2026
High: 39°F
Low: 29°F
Description: ☁️ Cloudy

 

Day: Sunday
Date: Feb 22, 2026
High: 32°F
Low: 22°F
Description: 🌨️ Light snow showers

 

Day: Monday
Date: Feb 23, 2026

High: 28°F
Low: 20°F
Description: ☁️ Cloud

Support Our Local Sponsor:

Indulge in a Culinary Experience

 

Tired of the dinner grind? Let Amy, the culinary genius behind The Hungry Hearth, rescue your evenings with unforgettable, home-cooked meals delivered right to your door in Sussex County!

 

Why spend another night in the kitchen when you could be savoring a flavor-packed masterpiece? Every Tuesday and Thursday, Amy crafts a new, mouthwatering menu using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. From generous family-style platters to perfectly plated individual meals, she delivers a dining experience that's pure passion on a plate.

 

Don't just eat - indulge! Elevate your meal with delectable add-ons like soups, salads, and desserts that will have you counting down the minutes until your next order.

 

Your taste buds are begging you. Your schedule is thanking you. Experience the magic that everyone is talking about. Check out this week's irresistible menu and let Amy handle dinner tonight!

Order now and taste the love at The Hungry Hearth!

 

Planning an event? Let Amy's personalized catering turn your special occasion into a legendary feast. Gift the joy of incredible food with an e-gift card!

 

Contact Amy today!

Email:thehungryhearth@gmail.com
Website: thehungryhearth.com

Fur-ever Friend Feature:

Adopt Me Today!

 

Here's Babushka-  Your New Fur-ever Friend!

 

Adopt Babushka Today!

🐾 Domestic Short Hair
💗 Female • 4 years 4 months
Spayed/Neutered • Vaccinated • Microchipped
🐱 Good with Cats

 

Meet Babushka, the soft‑spoken sweetheart who traveled all the way from Jersey City in search of a gentler life. She came to us as a stray, and while we don’t know her full story, it’s clear this tender little soul wasn’t built for the rough-and-tumble streets.

 

Babushka is shy, quiet, and wonderfully delicate - the kind of cat who blossoms slowly, like a flower opening in the morning sun. Give her patience, calm energy, and a cozy spot to feel safe, and you’ll discover the sweetest girl with a heart full of love.

 

She adores other cats and lights up around confident feline friends, so she’d be happiest in a home with a friendly, outgoing kitty who can show her the ropes. A peaceful household that matches her gentle spirit is ideal.

 

She hasn’t been around dogs or young kids, and they may be a bit too much for her, but older children (10+) who understand how to go slow would be a lovely fit.

 

If you’re looking for a quiet companion with a tender heart and a soft, soulful presence, Babushka is ready to come home.

 

👉 Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt
📅 Appointments required Wednesdays & Fridays
🚪 Walk-ins welcome all other days (appointments preferred)

 

50 Father John’s Lane
Lafayette, NJ 07848

info@fatherjohns.org

(973) 300-5909

Household Hint of the Week!

Reheat rice with water

Add a spoonful of water and cover when microwaving rice to keep it moist.

Our Local Events:

Please help support our local events:

🎉 Pen & Brush 2026: The Art of Independence
🕐 Fri, Feb 20 at 6:30 PM
📍 32 Lafayette Rd, Sparta, NJ, United States
Description: An art event focused on themes of independence.

 

🎉 Friday Night Line Dancing at the Elks
🕐 Fri, Feb 20 at 7 PM
📍 Sparta Elks #2356
Description: Join for a night of line dancing and fun.

 

🎉 PANACHE PEEL PARTY
🕐 Thu, Feb 26 at 11 AM
📍 14 North Village Blvd, Suite A, Sparta, NJ
Description: An event offering skincare treatments and fun.

 

🎉 Mahlon Winter Donut Trail Run – 5 & 10 Miler
🕐 Sun, Mar 1 at 9 AM
📍 Saffins Pond, Jefferson
Description: A winter trail run event along the donut trail.

 

🎉 SpartaMania: Live Pro Wrestling for Sparta Schools
🕐 Sun, Mar 1 at 2 PM
📍 Sparta High School
Description: A wrestling match to support local schools.

 

🎉 An Evening to Die For: Masquerade Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser
🕐 Fri, Mar 6 at 6 PM
📍 141 Woodport Rd, Sparta, NJ, United States
Description: Enjoy a themed dinner while solving a murder mystery.

 

🎉 Fund-Raising Dinner for those Impacted by the Barn Fire

🕐 Fri, Mar 20 at 6 PM
📍 85 Conestoga Trl, Sparta, NJ, United States
Description: A dinner to raise funds for affected individuals.

 

🎉 Sparta Special Olympics Spring 2026 Vendor & Craft Fair
🕐 Sat, Mar 21 at 10 AM
📍 Sparta High School
Description: A fair featuring local vendors and crafts.

Support Our Online Advertisers:

This charming 11oz mug is perfect for sipping your favorite hot beverage as you start your day with positivity and love.

Made of high-quality ceramic, this durable mug features a sleek design with the inspiring words "Live, Love, Laugh" in a bold and colorful font.

Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding with a soothing cup of tea, this mug is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Add a touch of joy to your daily routine with this delightful ceramic mug.

Our Local Contacts:

Emergency Services

How To Contact Us:

Newsletter Advertisements and Sponsorships Available!

Contact Sparta Spotlight:

Newsdesk@SpartaSpotlight.com

Call or Text: (570) 856-8163

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

QuestionWhat is the population of Sparta as of the 2020 census?

Answer: 19,600

Note: We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of event details, business updates, and local news. However, plans can change! Please confirm with organizers or official sources before attending. We appreciate your understanding as we strive to keep our community informed and connected.

/>
Sparta Spotlight
"Stay Informed and Inspired with Sparta Spotlight Newsletter"

Special Links

Subscribe to Newsletter

Latest News Article

Latest Newsletter

Archived Newsletters and Articles

Facebook

Facebook Page

Facebook Group

© 2026 Sparta Spotlight.


"Welcome to Sparta Spotlight – Your Ultimate Guide to Everything Sparta! Discover the pulse of our vibrant community with the latest news, exciting events, and local happenings that matter most. From township updates to business highlights, we’ve got your finger on the heartbeat of Sparta. Stay informed, get inspired, and celebrate everything that makes Sparta special – all in one place!"

© 2026 Sparta Spotlight.

THIS PUBLICATION SPONSORED BY