THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT

Sparta Township was established in 1777 and officially incorporated in 1845. It was carved out of portions of four other townships. Which of the following was NOT one of them?

A) Byram Township

B) Hardyston Township

C) Frankford Township

D) Newton Township

E) Vernon Township

Township news Snippets and upcoming meetings

United Co-Op Hockey Repeats as NJSIAA State Champions - Sparta Skaters Lead the Way

Sparta High School players were a driving force as the United co-op hockey team captured a second consecutive NJSIAA Public Co-Op state championship at the Prudential Center. Junior Braydon Sisco delivered a hat trick to lead a 5-1 victory over North Hunterdon, capping a 16-7-2 season. The roster draws talent from Sparta, Kinnelon, and Jefferson, keeping the state's top co-op hockey title right here in Northwest Jersey.

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/sparta/

Sparta Girls Lacrosse Advances to HWS Semifinals

Sparta's girls lacrosse team dominated Vernon 15-4 on senior night to advance to the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex semifinals, with goalie Callie Maines recording a milestone 200th career save. Now 8-2, the Spartans face a tough North Hunterdon squad next as they chase their first win over the Lions since 2018 - and a shot at the program's second HWS finals appearance in as many years.

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/sparta/sections/sports/articles/sparta-girls-lax-dominates-advances-to-hws-semis-goalie-callie-maines-stops-200

Paper Shred & E-Waste Event Set for May 30

Sparta Township's Recycling Program is hosting a free Paper Shred and E-Waste drop-off event on Saturday, May 30, 2026. It's a great opportunity to safely dispose of sensitive documents and old electronics before they pile up over the summer. Details on location and accepted items are available at spartanj.org.

https://www.spartanj.org/

Sparta Summer Arts Workshop Registration Now Open

The beloved Sparta Summer Arts Workshop is returning to Sparta Middle School this summer, offering three weeks of high-quality music and art programming for Sussex County students in grades 5-12. Classes include band, orchestra, choir, piano, guitar, cooking, STEM, art, sewing, theater, and more. Registration is open now - spots fill fast.

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/sparta/categories/press-releases

Hike the Sparta Glen - June 6

The Sparta Trails Committee is inviting residents to join a guided hike of the Sparta Glen on Saturday, June 6 at 9:00 AM. It's a wonderful way to explore one of Sparta's most scenic natural preserves and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. All skill levels welcome.

https://www.spartanj.org/

VFW Scholarship Awards Ceremony - May 20

Sparta VFW Post 7248 will present $31,000 in Ralph Rojas Scholarships to 12 recipients on Tuesday, May 20 at the Sparta VFW. The scholarships support veterans, their dependents, active-duty personnel at Picatinny Arsenal, and ROTC or service academy students from Sussex County. Congratulations to all this year's recipients.

https://www.spartaindependent.com

Sparta Township 2026 Budget Hearing Set for May 26

Residents who want to weigh in on the township's proposed 2026 municipal budget - which includes a 3.31% tax levy increase adding roughly $250 per year for the average homeowner - have until the public hearing on May 26 to make their voices heard. The budget includes cuts to capital projects and a freeze on non-union raises to stay within state caps.

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/sparta/articles/sparta-township-introduces-2026-budget-with-cuts-and-3-31-tax-increase

Stay Informed: Sparta Board Agendas & Minutes

• Council Meetings
• Environmental Commission
• Planning Board Meetings
• Zoning Board Meetings

Meeting Logistics

• The Sparta Township Planning Board meeting took place on May 6, 2026, at the Municipal Building located at 65 Main Street, Sparta, New Jersey.
• The meeting was live-streamed on YouTube for public accessibility.
• Adequate public notice was provided in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, and the meeting was set to conclude by 10:00 p.m.

Agenda Overview

• The meeting commenced with a salute to the flag, followed by roll call to confirm the presence of board members.
• Minutes from the previous meeting on April 1, 2026, were reviewed, with members given the opportunity to discuss amendments.
• Key discussions included the approval of minutes and the introduction of new business, which was scheduled to follow the completion of the agenda.

Public Hearings

• The primary application discussed was PB number 26739, concerning Nicolock Paving Stones LLC, which involved a proposal for amended site plans with variances.
• The applicant's representative provided details regarding construction changes made to the site, including the addition of new buildings and silos for dust containment.
• Discussions included the necessity of variances for rear yard setbacks and building height, with testimony provided by engineers and planners regarding compliance with local zoning ordinances.

Variance Justifications

• Variances being requested were characterized as relatively minor, with the applicant arguing that the adjustments would not substantially detract from public interests or the overall zoning plan.
• The planner emphasized the positive impacts of the proposed modifications, citing enhanced safety measures and compliance with environmental standards.
• Concerns were raised regarding the visibility and aesthetic implications of the proposed changes, but it was noted that the site's topography would minimize these impacts.

Public Engagement

• The board opened the floor for public questions and comments, providing an opportunity for community members to express their views and concerns regarding the proposed developments.
• A member of the public raised inquiries about the criteria used for evaluating projects, suggesting a shift towards performance metrics over traditional use classifications.

Conclusion of the Meeting

• Following the public discourse, the board moved toward a vote on the proposed application, with a motion made to approve the amended site plan with stipulated conditions.
• The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting a cooperative effort to address community interests in local development.

The Iron Forge That Started It All

Before Lake Mohawk, before the railroads, before Sparta was even officially a township - there was iron.

When Robert Ogden arrived in what would become Sparta in 1778, he didn't just build a home. He built an iron forge on the land he had acquired along the Wallkill River, and in doing so, laid the foundation for the first permanent European settlement in the area. The region's geology made it ideal for iron production - the Franklin Marble and surrounding rock formations that geologists trace back some 1.25 billion years contained remarkable deposits of ore that drew European explorers and industrialists alike.

That forge set the tone for Sparta's early identity as a working, industry-driven community. The first public building - a Presbyterian Church - followed in 1786. Schools appeared in Ogdensburg by 1806 and in Sparta proper by 1812. By the time Sparta was officially incorporated as a township in 1845, it had already been a thriving center of iron production, farming, and community life for decades.

The forge is long gone, but the Glen where it once stood - Sparta Glen - remains one of the township's most cherished natural spaces to this day.

Quote Of The Day

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."

- Chinese Proverb

The Sparta market continues its steady spring pace. Zillow reports the average home value in Sparta Township at approximately $607,777, up 4.3% year-over-year, with homes typically going to pending in about 13 days - a strong indicator of ongoing seller's market conditions.

Movoto shows a current median list price of $508,500 with 96 active listings. With the public budget hearing approaching May 26, homeowners will want to factor the proposed 3.31% municipal tax levy increase into their planning. Despite the fiscal news, Sparta's desirability and tight inventory continue to support strong home values heading into summer.

7-Day Forecast - Sparta, NJ 07871 - Starting Tuesday, May 12, 2026 Source: foxweather.com/local-weather/new-jersey/sparta

Day: Tuesday

Date: May 12, 2026

High: 77°F

Low: 48°F

Description: ☀️ Mostly sunny and very warm

Day: Wednesday

Date: May 13, 2026

High: 72°F

Low: 50°F

Description: 🌦️ A couple of afternoon showers; otherwise warm

Day: Thursday

Date: May 14, 2026

High: 64°F

Low: 44°F

Description: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, cooler after midweek warmth

Day: Friday

Date: May 15, 2026

High: 64°F

Low: 48°F

Description: ☀️ Sunny; highs in the mid 60s

Day: Saturday

Date: May 16, 2026

High: 64°F

Low: 52°F

Description: 🌧️ Rain likely; plan indoor activities

Day: Sunday

Date: May 17, 2026

High: 62°F

Low: 48°F

Description: ⛈️ Chance of thunderstorms; highs in the low 60s

Day: Monday

Date: May 18, 2026

High: 75°F

Low: 55°F

Description: 🌤️ Partly cloudy; warming back up nicely

Holistic Spa

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!

Dinner Delivery and Catering

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
Website: thehungryhearth.com

Adopt Me Today!
Proudly Partnering with Father John's Animal House

🐱 Meet Gabriel - Your New Fur-ever Friend!

Adopt Gabriel Today! 🐾 🧡

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Age: 13 years young

🐾 Gender: Male

🏥 Health: Spayed/Neutered, Vaccinated, Microchipped 💉 ✨ Temperament: Sweet, gentle, a little shy at first - loves head scratches and a calm home 🐾

Meet Gabriel! 🌟

Thirteen years. That's how long Gabriel lived with his family - the only home he had ever known. Then life got hard for the people he loved, and through no fault of his own, this handsome boy found himself at Father John's Animal Haven, along with his friends Sunny and Gertrude.

It would be easy to let that story weigh you down. But Gabriel didn't. Shelter life isn't easy for a senior cat, yet he adapted with a quiet grace that says everything about who he is. He's found his footing in a free-roam room with his friends, started accepting affection from new people, and still lights up when someone comes in for a good head scratch. Thirteen years of love doesn't just disappear - it shows.

Gabriel is best suited for a calm, quiet home, ideally with another cat for companionship. He's lived only with other cats and adults, and since he can be a little reserved at first, a peaceful environment will help him blossom. He's not looking for excitement. He's looking for a soft spot on a couch, someone who will sit with him in the evening, and the chance to spend his golden years feeling safe and loved.

Older cats like Gabriel are so often overlooked, and that's one of the quiet heartbreaks of shelter life. But senior cats make some of the most devoted, low-key companions imaginable. He deserves a warm home to spend every one of those days feeling loved.

👉 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

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.

Household Hint of the Week!

Give Your Outdoor Cushions a Deep Clean Before Summer Hits

With the warm weather arriving this week and outdoor entertaining season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to refresh your patio cushions before they go into heavy rotation.

Most outdoor fabric cushions can be scrubbed with a simple solution of dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water using a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry completely in the sun before storing or using - trapped moisture is what leads to mildew and that musty smell later in the season.

Pro tip: Store cushions in a waterproof bin or bag on rainy nights like Saturday's forecast. It takes 10 seconds and adds years to their life.

Please help support our local events:

Tuesday, May 12

🎨 Toddler Tuesday Sparta 1:15 PM | 1A Main Street, Sparta, NJ An immersive class featuring art, music, and storytelling for the little ones. A perfect Tuesday outing for parents and toddlers who love to create.

🔮 Psychic Reading Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | 75 Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ Drop in any Tuesday for an intuitive reading session. A unique offering right in town.

Wednesday, May 13

🌿 Grab and Go Kits 10:00 AM | 45 Woodport Rd, Sparta, NJ Pick up a take-home activity kit for kids and families - quick, easy, and fun.

🎭 Little Actors Classes 4:00 PM | Sparta area Weekly performing arts classes for young actors. A great creative outlet for kids who love the spotlight.

Thursday, May 14

🎨 Intro to Studio Art @ The Art Project 7:00 PM | Sparta, NJ (Thursdays ongoing) Explore your creative side in a welcoming studio art class open to adults. A wonderful way to unwind mid-week.

Saturday, May 16

🐾 Storytime with Creature Comfort Pet Therapy 11:00 AM | Sparta Public Library, 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta Storytime with therapy animals in the room - a delightful Saturday morning for the whole family.

Sunday, May 17

💫 Learning from Loved Ones in Spirit 12:00 PM | Sparta, NJ A reflective and healing gathering for those seeking connection and comfort.

Wednesday, May 20

🏅 VFW Ralph Rojas Scholarship Awards Ceremony Sparta VFW Post 7248 Congratulations to the 2026 scholarship recipients - $31,000 awarded to 12 local students and veterans.

Saturday, May 21

🎵 Scott Ringle Live 6:00 PM | Lake Mohawk Golf Club, Sparta, NJ Live music at one of Sparta's most scenic venues. Grab a table lakeside and enjoy a beautiful May evening.

Tuesday, May 26

🏛️ Sparta Township 2026 Budget Public Hearing 7:00 PM | Sparta Township Hall, 65 Main Street Your chance to weigh in on the proposed municipal budget. All residents welcome.

Saturday, May 31

🍞 Sourdough/Learning Forks 12:13 PM | 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ Hands-on bread making and culinary learning - a wonderful way to close out May.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Emergency - Police, Fire & Ambulance Call 
911

UTILITIES:

Jersey Central Power & Light
(888) 544-4877

Sparta Water & Sewer 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) 729-4903

Recreation Department
(973) 729-2383

Public Works
(973) 729-7133

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Sparta Public Library
(973) 729-3101

Chamber of Commerce
(973) 579-1811

Board of Education
(973) 729-2155

Sparta High School
(973) 729-6191

Department of Public Works
(973) 729-7133

HEALTH & SOCIAL SERVICES

Sparta Township Health & Senior Services
(973) 729-8093

Sparta Senior Services
(973) 729-2383

Sussex County Division of Social Services (Newton)
973-383-3600

Sparta Community Food Pantry
(862) 266-0563

Question: Sparta Township was established in 1777 and officially incorporated in 1845. It was carved out of portions of four other townships. Which of the following was NOT one of them?

A) Byram Township

B) Hardyston Township

C) Frankford Township

D) Newton Township

E) Vernon Township

Answer: E) Vernon Township.

Newsletter Advertisements and Sponsorships Available!

Contact Sparta Spotlight:

SpartaSpotlight@gmail.com

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.