THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT |
🗓️ Week of: October 13, 2026 In this issue:
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Trivia Question❓
Question: Did you know there is a volcano in Sussex County?
(Answer at the bottom of this newsletter) |
Our Local News |
Stay Informed:
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Sussex Tech Is One Vote Away From Big Things
New Cafeteria Opens at Sussex County Charter School for Technology
SCCC Expo Connects Families With Disability Services
Realtors’ Golf Outing Supports Family Promise
Coffee With a Cop at SCCC
Sussex County Firemen Parade Through Sussex Borough |
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Quote Of The Day |
"But in every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks.” - John Muir, Steep Trails |
Sparta & Sussex County History Bite |
The Zoo That Started in a Country Store
In 1927, Ralph and Elizabeth Space bought a quarter-acre in the hamlet of Beemerville and opened a small country store. Ralph had made his living trapping wild animals for the State of New Jersey and raising foxes, and neighbors began bringing him animals or he caught them alive. His first zoo permit is dated 1928, and the attraction began life as the Blue Ridge Wild Animal Farm and Indian Museum.
The family bought neighboring farms, including a dairy farm in 1939, and the property grew to 435 acres under the name Space Farms. Today the museum holds tens of thousands of artifacts, from antique cars and sleighs to clocks and dolls. The Space family, now in its fourth generation, still runs it. Space Farms is celebrating 99 years, so next year brings a big one. It’s open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM through Nov. 1, so there’s still time for a fall visit. |
Word of the Week |
Gossamer (GOSS-uh-mer) - noun and adjective
What does it mean?
Where does it come from?
Did you know?
Use it in a sentence:
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Our Local Weather |
Day: Tuesday
Day: Wednesday
Day: Thursday
Day: Friday
Day: Saturday
Day: Sunday
Day: Monday
Sources: NWS (forecast.weather.gov), Fox Weather, WeatherBug, Windborne. |
Support Our Local Sponsors |
Sponsored Ad The Hungry Hearth |
Winner of 2025 & 2026 NJ Herald's Favorite Chef of Sussex County
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 |
“The Binge‑Ready Universe”
Here in Sparta, we know what small towns are really like - the familiar faces, the quiet streets, the stories everyone thinks they already know. Maple Ridge feels a lot like that… until Jack Mercer starts fixing things. Every home he steps into reveals something unexpected: a hidden letter, a long‑buried truth, a secret someone hoped would never surface. And once Jack uncovers it, the whole town shifts, just like it would here when one discovery ripples through the community.
Jack Mercer’s Full 30‑Book Saga Is Complete - Start at Book 01 and Binge the Whole Journey.
For the first time ever, you can read the Fix‑It Mysteries straight through without waiting. Jack’s entire story is ready - every twist, every reveal, every moment that reshapes Maple Ridge.
And when you finish? Grace’s new series is waiting, opening the door to the next era of the Maple Ridge Universe.
If you love long cozy mystery arcs that grow deeper with every book, this is your moment.
If you love heartfelt small‑town drama, slow‑burn romance, and secrets that refuse to stay hidden, start with Book 1 and settle into a world that feels as familiar as home. |
Fur-ever Friend Feature |
Adopt Me Today! |
🐶 Meet Mishka - Your New Fur-ever Friend!
Age: 13 years Gender: F
She came to Father John’s with her sister, Jelly, after their previous owner could no longer care for them. Now Mishka is looking for a comfortable, loving home for her golden years. She gets along with other dogs and with cats, so she’d fit into a lot of households. Think soft bed, a sunny window and someone who appreciates a dog with real character.
Could Mishka be the best chapter of your story yet? Come meet her at Father John’s.
Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt
Appointments required Wednesdays & Fridays. Walk-ins welcome other days (appointments preferred). |
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Our Local Events |
FEATURED EVENT
Thursday Night Football Returns to Sparta Elks #2356 |
Football season is back, and the Sparta Elks #2356 are kicking things off with Thursday Night Football - a weekly tradition that brings friends, neighbors, and lodge members together for great food, great company, and great games.
The first game of the season kicked off on Thursday, September 10, and the lodge opens its doors at 7:00 PM. Guests can look forward to a relaxed, comfortable setting with big screens, plenty of seating, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every game night feel like a community celebration.
A delicious spread of food will be served throughout the evening, making it easy to settle in, enjoy the game, and spend time with familiar faces. Whether you’re a die‑hard football fan or simply enjoy gathering with friends, Thursday Night Football at the Elks is a perfect way to unwind and support your local lodge.
Good friends. Great football. Strong community. Come join us for an exciting season and help support the Elks’ ongoing mission of service and fellowship in Sparta. |
FEATURED EVENT
Annual Game Day Luncheon |
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 • 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. Lake Mohawk Golf Club • 471 W. Shore Trail, Sparta, NJ Tickets: $55 • RSVP by October 14th
Our community’s favorite fall tradition is back - the Annual Game Day Luncheon! It’s the perfect chance to gather friends, enjoy a delicious lunch, and spend an afternoon filled with games, prizes, and laughter. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply joining us to socialize, you’ll be part of a wonderful day that supports scholarships and local charities right here in Sparta.
🧩 Play Your Favorite Games
Plan a table of four and choose any game you love - Bridge, Mah Jongg, Scrabble, Canasta, Dominoes, Monopoly, or anything your group enjoys.
Prefer not to play? You’re warmly invited to come for lunch and great company.
🎁 Grand Raffle Prizes:
1st Prize: Dining Out Gift Certificates — $500 value 2nd Prize: Gift Certificate donated by J. Thomas Jewelers - $350 value 3rd Prize: Coach Purse & Wallet — $270 value
Space is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.
Reach out to Kim at swcteach999@gmail.com for a reservation form. RSVP by October 14th
Join us for an afternoon of fun, friendship, and community spirit — all for a great cause.
Thank you for supporting our community causes. |
Please help support our local events: |
Tuesday, October 13
Thursday, October 15 (and every Thursday)
Saturday, October 17
Sunday, October 18
🔮 An Afternoon of Messages with Cathy McCall
Monday, October 19
Thursday, October 22
Saturday, October 24
🛍️ Artisan Market
Friday, October 30
Sunday, November 8 |
Our Local Contacts |
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Answer to Trivia Question |
Question: Did you know there is a volcano in Sussex County?
Answer: It is the eroded remains of an ancient volcano, the last bit of plumbing left from a fiery chapter roughly 420 million years ago (estimates run from about 420 to 440 million). The volcano is long extinct. Time wore away the cone itself, and the hill sits on private land, so it’s a “look from the road” kind of landmark. |
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. |