What movement was launched in the 1980s to address domestic violence?

Dinner Delivery and Catering

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 thehungryhearth.com!

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

Sparta Township is tightening safety measures at public meetings, introducing metal detectors and bag checks for all visitors at the Sparta Municipal Building, 65 Main Street.

Uniformed Sparta Police Department officers will oversee these security protocols at the entrance, aiming to create a safer environment for residents and officials.

This initiative is precautionary and follows best practices—no specific threat prompted the change.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for screenings, as council meetings continue to welcome the public twice a month.

The next meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2025, at 7:30 PM.

Sparta also approved a 2.5% hike in its 2025 municipal budget and earned certification as a film-ready community, underscoring its dedication to public safety and local economic growth.

Sussex County Community College (SCCC) is taking a stand against student hunger by joining New Jersey’s Feed the Future: Fight Student Hunger campaign.

This statewide initiative, launched during National Hunger Action Month, brings together community colleges, the Future Alumni Support Team, and the New Jersey Council of County Colleges.

With nearly 40% of local community college students experiencing food insecurity, SCCC is rallying residents, alumni, and businesses in Newton and beyond to support its on-campus food pantries and meal services.

Community donations, accepted online, fund vital services so students can focus on their education rather than hunger.

Recent efforts are amplified by a $600,000 grant from the FirstEnergy Foundation, supporting food relief programs across New Jersey and helping provide millions of meals.

SCCC’s annual Funding Their Future fundraiser also broke records, raising over $89,000 for scholarships and support programs.

The momentum continues as the community unites to ensure students have the nutrition they need to succeed.

The Sparta High School girls tennis team powered to a commanding 5-0 sweep over Lenape Valley on September 27.

With this solid victory, the Spartans now hold a strong 10-3 season record.

Sara Schwarz dominated First Singles, securing a flawless 6-0, 6-0 win and showcasing her remarkable skill on the court.

Layla Boohoff staged a dramatic comeback in Second Singles, rallying from a set down for a gutsy 5-7, 6-3, 10-6 triumph.

In First Doubles, Maureen Gaines and Emilie Fagen combined sharp teamwork and aggressive play to post a 6-3, 6-1 win.

Second Doubles saw Molly Tomko and Juliet Shim dominate 6-1, 6-0, overwhelming their challengers.

Up next, the Spartans face West Morris on September 30, followed by Pope John at home on October 2.

Fans are encouraged to cheer the team onward as their impressive season continues.

The Sparta High School football team notched a decisive 34–20 victory over Vernon on Friday, September 27, 2025, in Vernon, NJ.

The Spartans surged ahead early, scoring 27 points through three quarters while keeping the Vikings to just 7.

Although Vernon mounted a late comeback with 13 fourth-quarter points, Sparta responded with another touchdown to secure the win.

Quarterback Shane Hoover starred by passing for 259 yards and four touchdowns, connecting with Christian Brevig for seven receptions, 106 yards, and two scores—including a 49-yard strike.

Brady Shagawat balanced the attack with 108 rushing yards, adding a touchdown on the ground.

Stone Herbison and Le-shem Little each added touchdowns, while Dean Kanceljack and Jacob Etro snagged interceptions.

Now at 4–1, Sparta looks ahead to hosting Dover at Cassels Field on October 3.

Quote Of The Day

The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. – Nelson Mandela

Day: Tuesday
Date: September 30
High: 75°F
Low: 49°F
Description: 🌤 Partly sunny and pleasant

Day: Wednesday
Date: October 1
High: 65°F
Low: 43°F
Description: ☀️ Sunny and crisp

Day: Thursday
Date: October 2
High: 64°F
Low: 43°F
Description: ☀️ Bright skies, cool breeze

Day: Friday
Date: October 3
High: 69°F
Low: 50°F
Description: ☀️ Sunny and mild

Day: Saturday
Date: October 4
High: 76°F
Low: 54°F
Description: ☀️ Warm sunshine

Day: Sunday
Date: October 5
High: 80°F
Low: 55°F
Description: ☀️ Sunny and warm

Day: Monday
Date: October 6
High: 79°F

Low: 59°F
Description: ☀️ Sunny with a few clouds

Adopt Me Today!

🐾 Meet Bud: Your Future Best Friend! 🐾

Adopt Bud Today!
Domestic Short Hair
Spayed/Neutered | Vaccinated | Microchipped

💙 Adult Male | Good with Cats 💙

Big Bud is a heartwarming hero on a journey to find his forever family! Rescued from a challenging hoarding situation with over 40 other cats, Bud has transformed into an affectionate, lovable companion. At just 3 years old, he’s ready to share his life with someone special!

Initially a bit shy, Bud has blossomed into a cuddle-loving mush. Now, he adores head pets and has recently discovered the joy of belly rubs! Just one glance into those soulful eyes and you'll be smitten—he’s practically irresistible!

🐱 Bud's Perfect Match: He’d love a kitty friend to help him continue his journey of trust and happiness. Bud’s best life is one filled with love—and he’s ready to pour his love back into your heart! While he hasn’t yet met kids or dogs, a little patience will allow him to thrive in a new environment.

✨ Fun Fact: Bud has FIV, which means his immune system needs a little extra love. Don’t worry—we’ll explain everything you need to know when you come to meet him!

Ready to welcome this sweet boy into your life?
Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt. You’ll receive an email to set up an appointment, and you can meet Bud in person!

Remember: Appointments are required on Wednesdays and Fridays, but walk-ins are welcomed on alternate days. Let's make Bud's dream of a loving home come true! 🏡💖

50 Father John’s Lane
Lafayette, NJ 07848

info@fatherjohns.org

(973) 300-5909

Household Hint of the Week!

Prevent avocado browning

Store leftover avocado with the pit and a sprinkle of lemon or lime juice to slow oxidation.

Book Signing | Richard Chizmar and W.H. Chizmar
Description: Meet the authors and get your books signed.
Date and Time: Oct 6 at 6:30 PM
Location: 29 Center St, Sparta, NJ, United States
Phone: Phone. (973) 729-6200

Boot Scootin’ BBQ
Description: A barbeque event with great food and entertainment.
Date and Time: Oct 10 at 6 PM
Location: 997 State RT 23, Sussex, NJ, US
Phone: (973) 875-5213

Garlic Festival at The Shoppes at Lafayette
Description: A celebration featuring garlic-themed foods and activities.
Date and Time: Oct 11 - Oct 12
Location: 75 State Route 15, Lafayette, NJ, United States
Phone: (973) 255-9044

Newton Fall Festival & Car Show
Description: Celebrate the fall season with family activities and car displays.
Date and Time: Oct 12 at 11 AM
Location: Newton, NJ
Phone: 973-383-3521

Cousins Maine Lobster at Sparta Dairy
Description: Enjoy delicious lobster dishes.
Date and Time: Oct 13 at 12 PM
Location: 28 Sparta Ave, Sparta Township, NJ 07871
Phone: (973) 383-3521

BINGO
Description: Join us for a fun night of BINGO!
Date and Time: Oct 18 at 6 PM
Location: Lafayette House Restaurant
Phone: (973) 579-3100

Fall Market at Horseshoe Lake
Description: Explore local crafts and produce.
Date and Time: Oct 25 at 11 AM
Location: Horseshoe Lake Park, 72 Eyland Ave, Succasunna, NJ 07876

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

Savory Chickpea & Tuna Salad

Ingredients (likely in your pantry):

• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can tuna (in water or olive oil)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder or a minced garlic clove
• Dried herbs (parsley, oregano, or basil)
• Optional: chopped celery, onion, or pickles if available

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash chickpeas slightly with a fork for texture.
2. Add drained tuna and mix gently.
3. Stir in olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Serve on whole grain toast, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers.

Why it works for older adults:

• 🧠 Omega-3s from tuna support brain health
• 💪 Chickpeas offer fiber and plant protein
• 🕒 No cooking required—just mix and serve
• 🧂 Easy to customize based on taste or dietary needs

 Emergency Services

• Emergency: 911
• Sparta Police (non-emergency): (973) 729-6121
• Sparta Fire Department: (973) 729-8433
• Sparta Ambulance Squad: (973) 729-2100
  
  Utilities
• Jersey Central Power & Light: 1-888-544-4877
• Sparta Water Utility: (973) 729-7133
  
  Township Offices
• Township Manager's Office: (973) 729-4471
• Township Clerk: (973) 729-4471
• Planning & Zoning: (973) 729-4471
• Building Department: (973) 729-4471
• Tax Collector: (973) 729-4471
• Recreation Department: (973) 729-2383
  
  Community Resources
• Sparta Public Library: (973) 729-3101
• Chamber of Commerce: (973) 729-6811
• Board of Education: (973) 729-8151
• Sparta High School: (973) 729-6191
• Department of Public Works: (973) 729-7133
  
  Health & Social Services
• Sussex County Health Department: (973) 579-0370
• Social Services: (973) 383-3600
  

Sparta Spotlight is your trusted source for everything happening in Sparta, NJ, from neighborhood stories to local news and events.

Our weekly newsletter delivers what matters most, keeping you updated on community life.

For questions, connect with our committed publisher, Randy Booth.

Reach us by email at newsdesk@spartaspotlight.com.

Prefer the phone? Call (570) 858-8163.

Local businesses interested in advertising or sponsoring with Sparta Spotlight are encouraged to partner with us.

Let us help you connect with the Sparta community and highlight your services in exciting ways.

Stay engaged and celebrate what makes Sparta, NJ thrive.

Newsletter Sponsorship Available!

Contact Sparta Spotlight:

Newsdesk@SpartaSpotlight.com

Call or Text: (570) 856-8163

Question: What movement was launched in the 1980s to address domestic violence?

Answer: The Battered Women's Movement