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"Mayor Blumetti Takes Sparta by Storm, School Cell Phone Ban Sparks Debate, and Local Events Thrive - Get Involved Today!"

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"Mayor Blumetti Takes Sparta by Storm, School Cell Phone Ban Sparks Debate, and Local Events Thrive - Get Involved Today!"

"Mayor Blumetti Takes Sparta by Storm, School Cell Phone Ban Sparks Debate, and Local Events Thrive - Get Involved Today!"
Exciting updates in Sparta: New Mayor elected, schools lead in cell phone restrictions, adorable pets up for adoption, and support local events! Get involved with Sparta Spotlight today. 🌟📱🐶🎉 #communitynews #supportlocal

Randy Booth

Jan 13, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE:

48-Hour Notice to Cancel Meeting


The Sparta Township Council Regular Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. is canceled.

Trivia Question❓

What is the elevation of Sparta?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Support Our Local Sponsors:

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!

 

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Your Healing Journey Begins Here

 

Welcome to Haven of Harmony, your serene sanctuary for holistic wellness. Our compassionate, trauma-informed therapists are dedicated to guiding you on your journey back to balance, offering a range of nurturing healing sessions.

 

Our Services:

  • Massage Therapy: Experience blissful relaxation with customized sessions, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Oncology massage.

  • Lymphatic Drainage: Enhance your body’s natural detox and boost immunity while addressing sleep issues and hormonal regulation.

  • Therapeutic Aromatherapy: Enjoy the restorative power of organic essential oils tailored just for you.

  • Energy Healing: Reconnect with your inner peace through Reiki, Chakra Healing, and Shamanic ceremonies.

  • Yoga: Join us for a variety of yoga styles that harmonize body and soul.

  • Psychic Readings: Gain clarity and insight with our intuitive guidance.

  • Coaching Services: Receive support through spiritual counseling, life coaching, and menopause guidance.

 

Explore our revitalizing treatments, engaging events, and transformative retreats designed to promote deep renewal. At Haven of Harmony, your well-being is our priority. Come discover your path to healing and harmony.

 

Contact Us Today!

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

 

Our Local News:

Dean Blumetti has been appointed Mayor of Sparta Township for 2026 after a decisive 4–1 council vote.

 

During the council’s reorganization, Blumetti took the oath of office and emphasized a vision of civility, respect, and fact-based leadership, calling for unity and respectful dialogue among council members and residents.

 

The council also showed solidarity by unanimously selecting Michael Sylvester as Deputy Mayor for the year.

 

Key appointments included reauthorizing an affordable housing agent, approving a $50,000 cap for a professional services consultant, and reappointing the township planner, though some members voiced concerns about budget limits.

 

In community news, a free rabies vaccine clinic for pets is set for January 24 at 15 Prices Lane, reinforcing a commitment to public health.

 

The RevolutionNJ committee is also seeking families with ties to early American history as Sparta prepares for the nation’s 250th anniversary, encouraging residents to celebrate and share their heritage.


Read More...

Sparta, NJ — Sparta Schools have implemented a sweeping K–12 cell phone ban, putting the district ahead of New Jersey’s upcoming statewide requirement.

 

The policy, in effect for the 2024–2025 school year, sharply limits student phone use during school hours and has been met with strong support from students, parents, and staff.

 

Board of Education President Kaitlin Gagnon cited improvements in school culture and fewer distractions, while Sparta’s leadership has encouraged neighboring districts to consider similar steps.

 

Statewide, Governor Phil Murphy has signed a new law mandating public schools ban cell phones by 2026–2027, with guidelines set by the Commissioner of Education.

 

The legislation allows exceptions for medical needs and does not require districts to use phone pouches or cabinets.

 

With this bold move, Sparta stands out as a leader in prioritizing focused, healthy learning environments across New Jersey.


Read More...

Quote Of The Day

Whether you think you can or you think you can’t you’re right - Henry Ford

Our Local Weather:

Day: Tuesday
Date: Jan 13, 2026
High: 44°F
Low: 38°F
Description: 🌤️ Mostly sunny, turning cloudy at night

 

Day: Wednesday
Date: Jan 14, 2026
High: 45°F
Low: 36°F
Description: 🌧️ Light rain during day and night

 

Day: Thursday
Date: Jan 15, 2026
High: 37°F
Low: 20°F
Description: 🌦️ Light rain showers, clearing to partly cloudy overnight

 

Day: Friday
Date: Jan 16, 2026
High: 27°F
Low: 18°F
Description: ☀️ Mostly sunny, partly cloudy overnight

 

Day: Saturday
Date: Jan 17, 2026
High: 37°F
Low: 26°F
Description: 🌤️ Partly sunny, mostly cloudy at night

 

Day: Sunday
Date: Jan 18, 2026
High: 31°F
Low: 17°F
Description: ❄️ Light snow during the day, mostly clear overnight

 

Day: Monday
Date: Jan 19, 2026

High: 30°F
Low: 18°F
Description: 🌤️ Partly sunny, partly cloudy at nigh

Fur-ever Friend Feature:

Adopt Me Today!

 

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

 

Adopt Dorothy Today

Domestic Short Hair

Spayed/Neutered  Vaccinated  Microchipped

12 weeks. Female

 

Adopt Dorothy – Your Little Yellow Brick Road Explorer

Dorothy is a 12-week-old Domestic Short Hair sweetheart, spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped, just waiting to click her tiny heels into your heart. She and her sister Glinda had a rough beginning, abandoned in a trap at the end of a driveway, but their story quickly turned around when they became Facebook famous and landed safely in our care.

 

Dorothy sports an adorable little “wink” that we’re currently treating - she takes her medicine like a total champ and doesn’t let it slow her down one bit. At first, she may be a touch shy, but give her a moment and she’s zooming around, chasing toys, and happily melting into your arms like a baby.

 

Two of her siblings have already found loving homes, and now it’s Dorothy’s turn to follow the Yellow Brick Road to hers. She would be over the moon to be adopted with Glinda, but she’d also be a perfect best friend for a young cat who needs a playful, gentle buddy.

Open your home to Dorothy today - because there really is no place like home for this precious little girl.

 

👉 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!

Use vinegar for cleaning

White vinegar is excellent for removing stains, disinfecting surfaces, and even unclogging drains.

Our Local Events:

Please help support our local events:

🎉 Paint & Sip
🕐 Friday, January 16th at 6–8 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: Enjoy painting while sipping a beverage.

 

🎉 Toddler Tuesday
🕐 Friday, January 16th at 1:15 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: A special event for toddlers and their caregivers.

 

🎉 Family Paint Date
🕐 Saturday, January 17th at 12 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: A family-friendly painting event.

 

🎉 Figure Drawing – Female Model
🕐 Saturday, January 17th at 7:30 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: Figure drawing session featuring a female model.

 

🎉 Chunky Hand Knit Blanket
🕐 Sunday, January 18th at 9 AM–12 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: Workshop to create a chunky knit blanket.

 

🎉 David Kraai at Krogh's
🕐 Thursday, January 22nd at 6:30 PM
📍 Krogh’s Restaurant & Brew Pub
Description: Live music performance by David Kraai.

 

🎉 Sound Healing
🕐 Friday, January 23rd at 6:30 PM
📍 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: A calming sound healing session.

 

🎉 Pink Cottage Company's 1st Birthday
🕐 Saturday, February 14th at 10 AM
📍 2 W Shore Trl, Sparta, NJ 07871-1826
Description: Celebration of the first anniversary of the Pink Cottage Company.

 

🎉 Pen & Brush: The Art of Independence
🕐 Friday, February 20th at 6:30 PM
📍 32 Lafayette Rd, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: Art event showcasing creative independence.

 

🎉 Creative Group Therapy
🕐 Mondays at 1–2:30 PM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871
Description: Group therapy session focusing on creativity.

Support Our Online Advertisers:

Experience love with every sip from our "I Heart U Mug".
Only $9.20 +S&H

Kids Corner:

Lake Mohawk with Boardwalk and Swans

Click on image to download and print out for a fun coloring experience!

Our Local Contacts:

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Contact Sparta Spotlight:

Newsdesk@SpartaSpotlight.com

Call or Text: (570) 856-8163

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

QuestionWhat is the elevation of Sparta?

Answer620 feet

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.

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"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!"

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