THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT

Lake Mohawk is the largest private man-made lake in New Jersey - but what was the name of the meadow that was flooded to create it?

Township news Snippets and upcoming meetings

1. Sparta's 2026 Budget Brings Cuts and a 3.31% Tax Hike Sparta Township has introduced its 2026 municipal budget, raising the tax levy by 3.31%. For the average homeowner, that translates to roughly $250 more per year. To stay within state-mandated caps, officials are cutting capital projects, freezing hiring and non-union raises, and suspending township contributions to community organizations. A public hearing is set for May 26.
Source: tapinto.net

2. Girls Lacrosse Team Storms Into HWS Semifinals The Sparta High School girls lacrosse team is on a roll, defeating Vernon 15-4 on senior night to advance to the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex semifinals. Goalie Callie Maines reached a remarkable milestone in the win - her 200th career save. The Spartans, now 8-2 on the season, face North Hunterdon in their next home matchup as they chase their first win over the Lions since 2018. Go Spartans!
Source: tapinto.net

3. Sparta Honors Fallen Firefighters with Town Hall Lighting Sparta Township took a moment this past week to recognize National Fallen Firefighters Week, marking the occasion with a proclamation and lighting Town Hall in red. President Trump also issued a national proclamation designating May 2-3 as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, with flags flown at half-staff. Sparta's volunteer fire department has been serving the community since 1923 - a legacy worth celebrating and honoring.
Source: spartaindependent.com

4. Court Upholds Sparta's Zoning Ordinance, Protecting Route 15 Cornfield A Superior Court judge has sided with Sparta Township in a key land-use battle, upholding Ordinance 25-06 and keeping the Route 15 cornfield zoned strictly for agriculture and outdoor recreation. A developer had sought to build housing on the land, but residents pushed back, citing concerns about traffic, drinking water, and preserving Sparta's rural character. Township officials say the ruling confirms their authority to adapt zoning to protect what makes Sparta special.
Source: tapinto.net

5. Boys Tennis Team Places Second at Annual HWS Tournament Sparta's boys tennis team had a strong showing at the annual Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex tournament, finishing in second place. Senior Graham Mahoney led the way by capturing the second singles title - a standout individual performance on a competitive regional stage.
Source: spartaindependent.com

6. Sussex County Introduces $132M Budget, Focused on Affordability and Services Sussex County commissioners officially introduced the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget last month, a $132.2 million plan that focuses on public health, human services, and infrastructure while managing an 18.2% spike in healthcare premiums. The budget maintains the county's AA+ bond rating and doubles down on shared services to help keep costs down for all 24 municipalities.
Source: sussex.nj.us

7. Sparta VFW Announces $31,000 in Ralph Rojas Scholarships The Sparta VFW Post 7248 is offering 12 Ralph Rojas scholarships totaling $31,000 for the 2026-27 academic year. Eligible recipients include veterans, their families, active-duty personnel at Picatinny Arsenal, and ROTC or service academy students from Sussex County. Awards will be presented on May 20. The application deadline has passed, but recipients will be honored soon.
Source: spartaindependent.com

Stay Informed: Sparta Board Agendas & Minutes

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

Meeting Overview

• The Sparta Township Council meeting commenced on April 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Building.
• All meetings are live-streamed, ensuring public accessibility and transparency.
• Adequate notice of the meeting was provided on January 7, 2026.

Council Introductions and Pledge

• Roll call confirmed attendance from all council members, followed by a pledge to the flag.
• Mayor Wirths-Blumenfeld emphasized community care and the importance of respectful dialogue during discussions.

Manager's Report Highlights

• Manager Zepp reported on successful community events such as the Earth Day Fair, noting participation from environmental organizations and family activities.
• The council approved the appointment of two new volunteer firefighters, enhancing local emergency services.
• Ongoing upgrades to electrical systems aimed at reducing power outages on Main Street are expected to conclude by May 15, 2026.

Public Engagement

• Public comments addressed concerns regarding the proposed ordinance reducing disabled veterans' property tax benefits, highlighting emotional testimonies from veterans and community members.
• Several residents voiced strong opposition to the ordinance, emphasizing the sacrifices made by veterans and the need for continued support.

Budget Discussion

• The council introduced the 2026 municipal budget totaling $32,662,020, reflecting a 3.16% increase primarily due to rising healthcare costs.
• A significant portion of the budget is allocated for employee salaries and benefits, prompting discussions about potential cuts to other services.

Legal and Development Matters

• Members discussed ongoing legal issues facing the township, emphasizing that lawsuits have been initiated by developers rather than the township itself.
• The council is focused on maintaining community character while addressing development pressures, with plans for a master plan review to guide future growth.

Council Updates

• Council members provided updates on various committees, including the Business Development Committee, which is working on promoting local businesses through a new website.
• Discussions around public safety included the implementation of automated license plate readers, intended to aid in investigations and improve community safety.

Final Remarks

• The meeting concluded with a call for community involvement in local governance, urging residents to participate in committees and stay informed about council activities.

Next Steps

• The council aims to address community concerns regarding the budget, development, and veterans' benefits in upcoming meetings, fostering an environment of transparency and dialogue.

100 Years Ago: The Making of Lake Mohawk

This year marks a remarkable centennial hiding in plain sight right here in Sparta - it was exactly 100 years ago, in January 1926, that construction began on the dam that would create Lake Mohawk.

Before there was a lake, there was Brogden's Meadow - a lush, 2,300-acre valley named for a colonial judge who settled there, fed by the headwaters of the Wallkill River. Real estate developer Arthur D. Crane and his partner Herbert L. Closs had a bold vision: flood the valley and build a private resort community around the resulting lake. "Let's take a chance," Crane reportedly told Closs. "Don't worry about money, I'll find it."

The 600-foot dam on the Wallkill River was begun in 1926, and the lake was filled by 1928. On March 17, 1928, the first waters crept over the spillway, and Lake Mohawk was born. The community officially opened on June 26, 1927, with a young Mohawk performer named Princess White Deer in attendance - the lake and White Deer Plaza were both named in her honor. Original summer homes started at just $3,500 - a princely sum in the 1920s.

Here's the detail most Spartans don't know: in the mid-to-late 1930s, one of the architects was staying with his family in a seaplane on the lake when a fire broke out. They escaped by boat - but the plane sank to the bottom of the lake. A recovery team tried to retrieve it in the late 1990s, but the wreck was too damaged to bring up. It remains there to this day.

In 1988, White Deer Plaza and the Boardwalk District were added to the New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places, recognized for their unique architectural style known as "Lake Mohawk Tudor." Not bad for a meadow that used to be a farmer's field.
Sources: Wikipedia - Lake Mohawk | HMDB - Lake Mohawk Memorial | NJ Skylands

Quote Of The Day

"The secret of getting ahead is getting started."

- Mark Twain

7-Day Forecast - Sparta, NJ 07871 - Starting Tuesday, May 5, 2026 Source: weather.gov / verified May 4, 2026

Day: Tuesday

Date: May 5, 2026

High: 80°F

Low: 59°F

Description: Partly sunny with afternoon showers likely - warm but unsettled

Day: Wednesday

Date: May 6, 2026

High: 64°F

Low: 47°F

Description: Cooler with scattered showers - a good night to stay in

Day: Thursday

Date: May 7, 2026

High: 56°F

Low: 44°F

Description: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of showers - grab a light jacket

Day: Friday

Date: May 8, 2026

High: 61°F

Low: 43°F

Description: Partly cloudy and mild - a decent evening for the Descendants show!

Day: Saturday

Date: May 9, 2026

High: 68°F

Low: 50°F

Description: Mixed clouds and sun.

Day: Sunday

Date: May 10, 2026

High: 65°F

Low: 48°F

Description: Variable clouds, comfortable - good for outdoor events

Day: Monday

Date: May 11, 2026

High: 62°F

Low: 46°F

Description: Mostly cloudy, chance of afternoon showers

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

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!

Homemade Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Why this recipe this week: Tuesday hits 80 degrees, and by Wednesday we're down to the mid-60s with rain. This is the classic Sparta spring whipsaw - and a big pot of homemade soup is the perfect answer. Simple pantry ingredients, minimal effort, maximum comfort.

Vibe Pairing: James Taylor, Carole King, or any warm acoustic playlist. Something unhurried to match a rainy Wednesday evening.

Ingredients (serves 6):

• 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup egg noodles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add chicken and lightly brown each side, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Pour in broth. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 35-40 minutes.
5. Remove chicken, shred the meat off the bone, and return to the pot. Discard bones.
6. Add noodles if using, simmer 8 more minutes.
7. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve with crusty bread.

The mid-week reset: Cook Wednesday, order from Amy at The Hungry Hearth for Tuesday or Thursday - thehungryhearth.com.

And don't forget to treat yourself to something restorative at Haven of Harmony over the weekend: havenofharmonynj.com.

That is a Sparta week done right.

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

🐱 Meet Sunny - Your New Fur-ever Friend!

Adopt Sunny Today! 🐾 🧡

Breed: Domestic Short Hair

Age: 17 years young

🐱 Gender: Male

🏥 Health: Neutered, Vaccinated, Microchipped

💉 ✨ Temperament: Calm, content, adaptable, and always looking for a little attention when someone walks through the door 🐾

Meet Sunny! 🌟

His full shelter name is "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" - and honestly, that tells you everything you need to know about this guy's spirit. At 17 years old, Sunny came to Father John's when his family fell on hard times and was no longer able to care for him or his two friends. He spent his entire life with the same family. And then, almost overnight, everything he knew was gone.

What happened next is the part worth paying attention to. Sunny adapted. He settled into shelter life with a calm and quiet grace that most cats half his age couldn't manage. He roams his room contentedly alongside the other cats, and every time someone new comes in to meet them, Sunny makes his way over to say hello. He is relatively healthy for his age - some dental wear, which is expected - but overall doing well and living each day on his own relaxed terms.

The team at Father John's puts it plainly: cats can live into their 20s, so there may be more time with this sweet boy than you'd expect. What's certain is that he shouldn't have to spend whatever time he has in a shelter. Sunny just needs a calm home, a patient person, and a soft place to land for his golden years. 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!

The Rubber Band Jar Trick

Struggling to open a stubborn jar lid? Wrap a wide rubber band around the lid before you try to twist it. The added grip gives you dramatically more traction than bare hands alone - works on pickle jars, pasta sauce, salsa, you name it.

Keep one rubber band in your kitchen drawer and you will never wrestle with a lid again.

Please help support our local events:

🎁 Grab and Go Kits Tuesday, May 5 - 11:00 AM Sparta area - check local listings for exact location Stop by and grab a free take-home activity kit. A fun and easy way to kick off the week with the kids!

🆕 New Members Class Thursday, May 7 146 Stony Lake Dr, Sparta NJ Curious about getting more involved locally? Stop in for a new members orientation and find out what this organization has to offer.

🎭 Disney's Descendants - Friday Night Performance Friday, May 8 - 7:00 PM 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Disney magic comes to life on stage! A fantastic Friday night out for the whole family.

💃 Line Dancing at The Sparta Elks (Recurring Fridays) Lessons: 7:30-9:30 PM | Open Dance: 8:00-10:00 PM 33 Lafayette Rd, Sparta NJ Beginner or two-step veteran, Friday nights at the Sparta Elks are always a great time. All are welcome!

🎭 Disney's Descendants - Saturday Matinee Saturday, May 9 - 2:00 PM 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Perfect for a family afternoon - catch the Saturday matinee performance!

🎭 Disney's Descendants - Saturday Evening Saturday, May 9 - 7:00 PM 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Missed the matinee? The Saturday evening show has you covered.

🥾 Hudson Farm Byram Charity Hike Saturday, May 9 279 Stanhope Rd, Byram NJ Lace up for a good cause and enjoy the spring air. A great way to give back while getting outdoors.

🍶 Mystery Bourbon Day 11 Saturday, May 10 - 11:00 AM 16 N Village Ave, Sparta NJ Blind tasting, good company, and great bourbon. Mystery Bourbon Day 11 is a Sparta tradition - gather your friends and go!

👧 Children's Business Fair - 3rd Annual Saturday, May 10 - 1:00 PM 52 Main St, Sparta NJ Young Sparta entrepreneurs take center stage! Come support the next generation of local business owners.

🐾 Sparta: Paint Your Pet - A Pawsome Experience Saturday, May 10 - 4:00 PM Sparta NJ (check Facebook for exact venue) Bring your pet's photo and paint your own portrait. Lighthearted fun for all skill levels!

🏎️ HKRS Sparta, NJ Race Day Sunday, May 11 - 2:00 PM Winding Creek Event venue, Sparta NJ Competitive or spectator - Race Day brings the energy to Sparta every time.

🌸 Sparta Mothers Day Weekend Family Hunt Sunday, May 11 Sparta NJ A fun family scavenger hunt to celebrate Mom! Perfect for all ages.

🌐 Bi-Lingual Storytime with Mariana Monday, May 11 - 11:00 AM Sparta Public Library, 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Storytime offered in two languages - warm, welcoming, and wonderful for young readers and families.

🎨 Intro to Studio Art @ The Art Project Thursday, May 14 - 1:00 PM The Art Project, Sparta NJ Try something new in a relaxed, beginner-friendly environment. A great afternoon out!

🧒 Raising a Confident Child Through Art Saturday, May 14 - 4:00-5:30 PM 32 Lafayette Rd, Sparta NJ A thoughtful workshop using art to help children build confidence and self-expression. Great for parents and caregivers.

📚 Art Cart at the Library - S.T.E.M. Station Saturday, May 16 - 11:00 AM Sparta Public Library, 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ Hands-on S.T.E.M.-themed activities for curious young minds. The Art Cart never disappoints!

🎵 Sound Healing with Tuning Forks Saturday, May 16 - 11:00 AM 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta NJ A calming, restorative sound healing session - a perfect way to recharge heading into the week.

👻 Messages from Loved Ones in Spirit Sunday, May 17 - 12:00 PM 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta NJ A heartfelt mediumship event for those seeking messages and connection from loved ones who have passed.

🔮 PSYCHIC Readings - Every Tuesday (Recurring) Tuesdays, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta NJ Walk-in readings available every Tuesday. A uniquely Sparta way to spend a Tuesday afternoon.

👶 Toddler Tuesday (Recurring) Tuesdays - 11:00 AM 14 Main Square, Sparta NJ Art, music, and storytelling for the littlest Spartans. A weekly favorite for toddlers and caregivers!

🏑 Sparta Field Hockey Camp Starting around May 11 Sparta High School, 70 W Mountain Rd, Sparta NJ Field hockey camp season is underway! Contact Sparta High School for schedule and registration details.

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: Lake Mohawk is the largest private man-made lake in New Jersey - but what was the name of the meadow that was flooded to create it?

Answer: The meadow was called Brogden's Meadow - a lush 2,300-acre valley named after a colonial judge who settled there. Work on the dam began in January 1926, and on March 17, 1928, the first water finally crept over the spillway. Lake Mohawk has been the heart of Sparta ever since.

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.