The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) urges residents to join an anonymous survey about PFAS—the persistent "forever chemicals" found in local water supplies.

PFAS contamination has been discovered in over 500 water systems statewide, fueling growing health and environmental worries.

Exposure can cause serious conditions, such as liver damage, thyroid disorders, and certain cancers.

NJDEP is seeking public feedback to better understand community concerns about PFAS and improve state response efforts.

Survey results will shape health strategies and educational outreach across New Jersey.

The survey remains open until Sunday, November 30, 2025, and only takes a few minutes to complete.

Residents’ participation is vital in guiding policies for safe, quality drinking water.

Help protect your community’s water and ensure a healthier future for New Jersey.

Who was the first woman to run for president of the United States in 1972?

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 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

The 'Be the Change' club at Helen Morgan School in Sparta, NJ celebrated winning the Center for Prevention’s Red Ribbon Week contest by planting 100 red tulip bulbs.

Guided by advisor and fifth-grade teacher Laura Tedeschi, students joined the 'Plant the Promise' campaign to encourage a drug-free lifestyle.

With help from Principal Doug Layman, the bulbs found a home in the school’s freshly restored courtyard — a visible reminder for everyone passing by.

Students dug in with gloves and shovels, some brought from home and others provided by the Center for Prevention.

Come spring, brilliant red tulips will represent the importance of healthy, drug-free choices.

Helen Morgan’s students also support the Sparta Community Food Pantry and use the evolving garden for interactive, nature-based learning.

These projects empower students with community spirit and a strong message of anti-drug awareness.

Quote Of The Day

Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.
- William Butler Yeats

Day: Wednesday
Date: November 5, 2025
High: 58°F
Low: 43°F
Description: ⛅ Partly sunny with a chance of evening showers

Day: Thursday
Date: November 6, 2025
High: 53°F
Low: 33°F
Description: 🌞 Mostly sunny and breezy

Day: Friday
Date: November 7, 2025
High: 54°F
Low: 45°F
Description: 🌤 Mostly sunny with mild winds

Day: Saturday
Date: November 8, 2025
High: 62°F
Low: 50°F
Description: 🌞 Warm and mostly sunny

Day: Sunday
Date: November 9, 2025
High: 59°F
Low: 43°F
Description: ⛅ Partly sunny with evening showers possible

Day: Monday
Date: November 10, 2025
High: 52°F
Low: 37°F
Description: 🌧 Light rain showers throughout the day

Day: Tuesday
Date: November 11, 2025
High: 49°F
Low: 34°F
Description: ☁️ Mostly cloudy and cooler

Adopt Me Today!

Looking for a loyal companion who’s equal parts adventure buddy and couch cuddle king? Say hello to Camo, a 6-year-old hound with a heart as big as his floppy ears! This 53-pound gentleman came to us from an overcrowded shelter in Virginia, and he’s been charming everyone with his gentle soul and easygoing vibe ever since.

Camo is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, so he’s ready to roll into your life with tail wags and gratitude. He’s great with other dogs, loves sniffy strolls and yard play, and knows how to kick back like a pro. Whether you’re hiking trails or binge-watching your favorite series, Camo’s the kind of guy who’ll be right by your side — paws crossed, heart open.

He’s a senior pup with a young-at-heart spirit, and he’s dreaming of a forever home where he can be your shadow, your snuggle buddy, and your reason to smile.

🐾 Come meet Camo today—and let love pounce into your life!

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

Let’s make Camo's next chapter his happiest one yet. He’s ready to meet you — paws crossed! 🐶💫

50 Father John’s Lane
Lafayette, NJ 07848

info@fatherjohns.org

(973) 300-5909

Household Hint of the Week!

Preheat sheet pans

For crispier roasted vegetables, preheat the sheet pan before adding them.

Please help support our local events:

🎨 NOV 4TH NO SCHOOL MINI CAMP
🕐 Tue, Nov 4 at 10 AM
📍 1A Main Street, Sparta NJ 07871

🖍️ FAMILY DRAWING ADVENTURE
🕐 Tue, Nov 4 at 1:15 PM
📍 32 Lafayette Rd, Sparta, NJ

🎅 THE SANTA EXPERIENCE
🕐 Sat, Nov 8 at 10 AM
📍 AF Christmas Tree Farm

🔮 HALLOWEEN PSYCHIC FAIR
🕐 Fri, Nov 10 at 7 PM
📍 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ

🧶 HILLTOP’S HOLIDAY CRAFT AND VENDOR SALE
🕐 Sat, Nov 15 at 9 AM
📍 32 Lafayette Rd, Sparta, NJ

🕯️ CANDLES & SEA GLASS
🕐 Sat, Nov 15 at 6 PM
📍 75 US 15, Lafayette, NJ 07848

🦃 TURKEY TROT
🕐 Thu, Nov 27 at 8:30 AM
📍 White Deer Plaza, Sparta, NJ 07871

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

Savory Maple Chickpea Toast with Caramelized Onion & Smoked Paprika

Perfect for brunch, a cozy lunch, or a snack that feels gourmet but uses everyday ingredients.

🧂 Ingredients (makes 2 servings):

• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 2 slices hearty bread (sourdough or whole grain)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a dollop of plain yogurt or cream cheese for extra creaminess

🔥 Instructions

1. Caramelize the onion: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-low. Add sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, until golden and soft (about 15 minutes).
2. Mash the chickpeas: In a bowl, mash chickpeas with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and maple syrup. Leave some texture.
3. Toast the bread: Toast slices until golden and crisp.
4. Assemble: Spread mashed chickpeas generously on toast. Top with caramelized onions. Add a swirl of yogurt or cream cheese if desired.
5. Finish: Sprinkle with extra paprika or a drizzle of maple syrup for flair.

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: Who was the first woman to run for president of the United States in 1972?

Answer: Shirley Chisholm

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.