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Flame of Hope Runs Through Town & Henrietta Needs a Home - Sparta's Weekly Buzz
Flame of Hope Runs Through Town & Henrietta Needs a Home - Sparta's Weekly Buzz
Flame of Hope Runs Through Town & Henrietta Needs a Home - Sparta's Weekly Buzz
Plus: a rainy Wednesday recipe, your 7-day forecast, the hidden railroad history under the Sussex Branch Trail, and fresh real estate numbers.
Randy Booth
Jun 9, 2026
ATTENTION: |
Monday June 8th to Wednesday June 10th. Conestoga Trail from 181 to Sawmill Road will be closed for milling & paving. Officers will assist residents to enter & leave their homes. |
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THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT |
🗓️ Week of: June 9, 2026
In this issue:
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Trivia Question❓What year did Sussex County, NJ officially receive its county charter from the colonial government of New Jersey? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
Our Local News |
Township news Snippets and upcoming meetings |
COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR SPARTA FAMILY AFTER FATHER'S MEDICAL CRISIS Scott Feely, a Sparta husband and father of two young children, has been fighting for his life since a dangerous combination of flu, a sinus infection, and COVID struck him shortly after Christmas. By January, doctors discovered a blood clot in his brain and had to remove part of his skull to relieve swelling. The community has stepped up with support for his family's mounting medical bills - a powerful reminder of why neighbors matter.
LAW ENFORCEMENT CARRIES FLAME OF HOPE THROUGH SPARTA Sparta officers joined thousands across New Jersey on June 5 as part of the 43rd Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The "Flame of Hope" passed through town in a display of solidarity for Special Olympics NJ athletes - a meaningful tradition that continues to grow every year.
SPARTA BOOKS PARTICIPATES IN NJ BOOKSTORE CRAWL Sparta Books at 29 Center Street joined more than 70 independent bookstores across the state for the 2026 New Jersey Bookstore Crawl, held June 5-7. Shoppers could grab a Crawl Guide, collect stamps, and enter a raffle hosted by NJ Collective - no purchase required. Owner Jenn Carlson noted the event was a great opportunity to highlight Sparta's broader downtown community.
SUSSEX COUNTY CHAMBER HONORS WOMEN LEADERS The Sussex County Chamber of Commerce recognized an outstanding group of women professionals and community leaders at its annual honors event on June 5. Among those recognized was Lee Ellison, Executive Director of Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, who received the Mentorship Excellence Award. https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/business/sussex-county-chamber-honors-women-leaders-LL5915962
VOLUNTEERS RESTORE PAULINSKILL VALLEY AND SUSSEX BRANCH TRAILS Trail volunteers turned out to repair and maintain the Paulinskill Valley and Sussex Branch trails as spring hiking season picks up. Committee President Martin Grossman led crews in replacing aging wood sections using old pieces as templates. The trails are seeing increased use from hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders this time of year.
SCCC LAUNCHES NEW ACADEMIC PARTNERSHIP WITH WARREN COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Sussex County Community College and Warren County Community College have announced a new academic partnership establishing shared program pathways for students. The collaboration is designed to expand course options and career opportunities for students in both counties. https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/local-news/
SPARTA CELEBRATES SPARTA DAY The township held its annual Sparta Day celebration on May 31, bringing the community together for a day of local pride, recognition, and connection. The Junior Women's Club of Sparta was among those honored at the event. https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/local-news/township-celebrates-sparta-day-YG5901540 |
Stay Informed: Sparta Board Agendas & Minutes
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Quote Of The Day |
"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." - Chinese Proverb |
Sparta & Sussex County History Bite |
The Railroad That Built Sussex County - And Became a Trail You Can Walk Today
Long before the Sussex Branch Trail existed as a peaceful path for hikers and cyclists, it was a working railroad - and the story of how it got there is one of the most interesting in all of Sussex County history.
It started in 1847 when the owners of the Trenton Iron Company - including civic legend Peter Cooper, the man who later founded Cooper Union in New York City - reopened the long-abandoned iron mine near Andover. They needed a way to ship ore to furnaces in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Wagons on the Morris Turnpike were too expensive, so they did something bold: they chartered the Sussex Mine Railroad in 1848, one of the very first railroads in the entire county. That narrow-gauge line, originally pulled by mules, ran ore from the Andover Mine down to the Morris Canal at Waterloo Village, where barges carried it the rest of the way.
By 1853 the operation had grown into the full Sussex Railroad, eventually stretching 34 miles across the county. It became the economic backbone of Sussex County for nearly a century - carrying dairy products, zinc ore, and passengers until the last train ran on October 2, 1966. After the tracks came up, the right-of-way was transformed into what we know today as the Sussex Branch Trail. So the next time you or someone you know takes a walk or a bike ride on that trail, you're literally rolling over history.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sussex_Railroad https://www.traillink.com/trail-history/sussex-branch-trail |
Our Local Weather |
Sparta, NJ - Week of June 9, 2026
Day: Tuesday Date: June 9, 2026 High: 78°F Low: 56°F Description: Sunny with a few afternoon clouds
Day: Wednesday Date: June 10, 2026 High: 68°F Low: 48°F Description: Cloudy with rain likely
Day: Thursday Date: June 11, 2026 High: 61°F Low: 49°F Description: Showers possible
Day: Friday Date: June 12, 2026 High: 66°F Low: 47°F Description: Partly cloudy, clearing out
Day: Saturday Date: June 13, 2026 High: 75°F Low: 49°F Description: Mix of sun and clouds - verify
Day: Sunday Date: June 14, 2026 High: 81°F Low: 56°F Description: Mostly sunny - verify
Day: Monday Date: June 15, 2026 High: 83°F Low: 57°F Description: Partly cloudy, warming up - verify |
Support Our Local Sponsor |
Please Vote for Amy of The Hungry Hearth! |
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Indulge in a Culinary Experience
Whether you're planning a wedding, shower, milestone celebration, or in‑office luncheon, Amy - the creative force behind The Hungry Hearth - brings warmth, flavor, and unforgettable hospitality to every event. Her custom catering menus are crafted with the freshest locally sourced ingredients and tailored to your vision, making each gathering feel personal, delicious, and beautifully memorable.
From elegant bridal showers to cozy baby showers, from Communion and confirmation parties to polished corporate luncheons, Amy transforms your occasion into a feast worth celebrating. Every dish is infused with heart, comfort, and the signature homemade touch her clients can’t stop raving about.
And for busy families, Amy still delivers her beloved dinner‑delivery magic every Tuesday and Thursday - offering generous family‑style meals, individual portions, and irresistible add‑ons that make weeknights effortless.
Let The Hungry Hearth elevate your next event with food that feels like home and tastes extraordinary.
Contact Amy today! Email:thehungryhearth@gmail.com |
Fur-ever Friend Feature |
Adopt Me Today! |
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Meet Henrietta - Your New Fur-ever Friend!
Breed: Domestic Short Hair Age: Nearly 10 years young Gender: Female Health: Spayed, Vaccinated, Microchipped Good With: Cats Temperament: Outgoing, affectionate, attention-loving
Henrietta came to Father John's Animal Haven all the way from the Jersey City shelter - and from the moment she arrived, she made her feelings perfectly clear. She walked right to the front of the cage, looked every visitor in the eye, and started meowing for attention. That is just who she is: a lady who knows what she wants, and what she wants is you.
Her history before Jersey City is a mystery. She arrived as a stray, so nobody knows exactly what chapters came before. But what she shows every single day is a warmth and openness that suggests she has always known how to love. She is not holding back. She is not waiting to warm up. She is ready - right now - to be your cat.
Henrietta is on a kidney support diet, as many cats her age are, and she takes to the dry food well. She thrives in a quieter home where she can be the star of the show - or at least one of the stars, since she is perfectly happy with other cats in the house. She just needs a gentle, patient introduction to her new environment. One slow, steady hello. After that, you will be hers, and she will be yours.
Nearly ten years old, she has already proven she is a fighter. She deserves a warm home to spend every one of her remaining days feeling seen, loved, and exactly where she belongs.
👉 Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt
50 Father John’s Lane
Father John's Animal House is a no-kill, 501(c)(3) shelter supported entirely by donations. Every animal is spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before adoption. |
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Our Local Events |
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Please help support our local events: |
TUESDAY, JUNE 9 🎨 Toddler Tuesday Sparta 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM | 1A Main Street, Sparta NJ An immersive class for the youngest Spartans, blending art, music, and storytelling into one joyful hour. A wonderful Tuesday morning outing for parents and little ones.
📦 Grab and Go Kits 10:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Pick up a ready-made activity kit from the Sparta Public Library - perfect for keeping kids busy at home. No registration required.
🧸 My Grownup and Me Playtime 10:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ A drop-in play session for caregivers and young children at the Sparta Public Library. A warm, low-key way to start the week.
🔮 Psychic Readings - Tuesdays 10 AM to 4 PM 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta NJ - ISD Gift Shop Curious about what's ahead? Drop in any Tuesday for an intuitive reading at the ISD Gift Shop. Walk-ins welcome.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11 📚 Bi-Lingual Storytime with Mariana 11:45 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library A bilingual storytime experience for young readers and their caregivers. A lovely midweek outing for families.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12 🧘 Mat Pilates 6:30 PM | Sparta Parks and Recreation A great way to unwind mid-week with a focused mat Pilates session through Sparta Parks and Rec. One spot reported going.
🎨 Intro to Studio Art @ The Art Project 5:00 PM | 1A Main Street, Sparta NJ Thursdays are for creating. This intro session at The Art Project in Sparta opens the door to painting, drawing, and hands-on studio work for adults and teens.
🌿 Moss & Mingle 6:00 PM | Greene's Beans Cafe, Sparta NJ A social craft night at Greene's Beans combining good coffee, good company, and the surprisingly meditative art of moss arrangement. A fun, low-key Thursday evening.
👶 Lapsit Storytime for Babies and Toddlers 10:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library Songs, rhymes, and stories for babies and toddlers. A beloved weekly drop-in at the Sparta Library.
📖 Family Storytime 11:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library A classic family storytime session for slightly older little ones. Bring the kids and settle in for a good story.
FRIDAY, JUNE 13 🔤 ABC Storytime 1:00 PM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library A fun, alphabet-themed storytime session for young children at the Sparta Library. A perfect Friday afternoon outing.
SATURDAY, JUNE 14 🖼️ Saturdays at the Library: Art Cart 11:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library Drop in for a drop-in art activity at the library's Art Cart station. A relaxed creative experience for kids of all ages every Saturday.
SUNDAY, JUNE 15 🍦 Free Ice Cream Day! 12:00 PM | Sparta Dairy, Sparta NJ Sparta Dairy is giving away free ice cream, brought to you by Infinite Outdoor Designs. 47 interested and counting - arrive early!
🎲 Family Bingo 2:00 PM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library Bingo for the whole family at the Sparta Public Library. Four people interested with one already going - should be a fun afternoon.
⛪ New Members Class 10:00 AM | 246 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Interested in joining the congregation? This Sunday morning class is a welcoming first step.
MONDAY, JUNE 15 🦞 Cousins Maine Lobster at Sparta Dairy 12:00 PM | 28 Sparta Ave, Sparta Township NJ The famous Cousins Maine Lobster food truck is rolling into Sparta Dairy for lunch. Fresh lobster rolls, bisque, and more. Mark your calendar now.
TUESDAY, JUNE 16 🥂 Member Mixer 5:00 PM | 45 Lake Ter, Sparta NJ A mixer for members - a great networking and community connection opportunity right on the lake.
✂️ Seasonal/Holiday Drop-In Craft 3:30 PM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library A drop-in crafting session tied to the season. No registration required.
THURSDAY, JUNE 18 🩸 Community Blood Drive 2:30 PM | Sparta VFW Post #7248, Sparta NJ The VFW is hosting a community blood drive. Give the gift of life - appointments encouraged, walk-ins as available.
🎵 June Industry - Scott Ringle at Industry Kitchen + Bar 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Industry Kitchen + Bar, Sparta NJ Scott Ringle brings pop from the past to rock your present at Industry Kitchen + Bar. A fun Thursday night out.
FRIDAY, JUNE 19 🍦 Chill Out - School's Out! Ice Cream Social 3:00 PM | 60 E Shore Trail, Sparta NJ - Lake Mohawk Summer kicks off with an ice cream social at Lake Mohawk. A perfect lakeside way to celebrate the end of the school year.
🎉 School's Out Party 4:30 PM | Cedar Falls Terrace, Lake Mohawk NJ An end-of-school celebration at Cedar Falls Terrace on Lake Mohawk. Five interested and counting.
SATURDAY, JUNE 20 🐾 Storytime with Creature Comfort Pet Therapy 11:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ - Sparta Public Library Storytime gets a furry upgrade when therapy animals from Creature Comfort join the session. A magical experience for animal-loving kids. |
Our Local Contacts |
EMERGENCY SERVICES |
Emergency - Police, Fire & Ambulance Call |
UTILITIES: |
Jersey Central Power & Light Sparta Water & Sewer Utility |
TOWNSHIP OFFICES |
Township Manager's Office Township Clerk Planning & Zoning Building Department Tax Collector Recreation Department Public Works |
COMMUNITY RESOURCES |
Sparta Public Library Chamber of Commerce Board of Education Sparta High School Department of Public Works |
HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES |
Sparta Township Health & Senior Services |
Answer to Trivia Question |
Question: What year did Sussex County, NJ officially receive its county charter from the colonial government of New Jersey?
Answer: Sussex County received its official county charter in 1753, named after Sussex, England. |
How To Contact Us |
Newsletter Advertisements and Sponsorships Available! Contact Sparta Spotlight: Call or Text: (570) 856-8163 |
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. |