 |
Hillside Road Closed between Vibernum Terrace and Springbrook Trail for Tree work. Tuesday 9/22/26 between 9am - 3pm. |
THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT |
🗓️ Week of: September 22, 2026 In this issue: Sparta hosts the Tri-County Senior Olympics, our girls tennis team keeps racking up wins, we climb to the highest point in New Jersey for trivia, meet Stone the cat who's waited 150 days for her turn, and a full slate of fall events from Toddler Tuesday to a Psychic Fair. |
Trivia Question❓
Question: Sussex County is home to the highest natural point in all of New Jersey. What's its elevation, and how many other states can you see from the top on a clear day?
(Answer at the bottom of this newsletter) |
Our Local News |
Stay Informed:
|
Planning Board Meeting Summary:
The Sparta Township Planning Board meeting was called to order on September 16, 2026.- The meeting commenced at 7:02 p.m.
Public notice for the meeting was provided in accordance with the open public meetings act.
The minutes from the September 2nd meeting were presented for approval.
An amendment was made to the minutes regarding Mayor Blumetti's statements.
A public hearing was opened for application 26-740, Two Towers LLC.
Mr. Ron Day recused himself from the Two Towers LLC application discussion.
Mike Pugli, owner of Two Towers LLC, presented the application.
Francois Nicholas, a project manager from SJ Cooper Architects, detailed the project.
Variances were required for front yard setback, impervious coverage, lot frontage, and lot area.
The board engineer's report highlighted several variances and conditions.
The applicant agreed to comply with the board engineer's report conditions.
The purpose of the deck and walkway was stated as safety and aesthetics.
The board discussed the Lake Mohawk Country Club ordinance revisions.
A discussion ensued regarding the permitted uses within the Lake Mohawk ordinance, specifically daycare.
The board voted to approve the Lake Mohawk Country Club ordinance with agreed-upon changes. |
Sparta Seniors Shine at Tri-County Senior Olympics
SCCC Launches Free Speakers Bureau for Local Groups
Polo Classic Raises Funds for Sussex County Families
SCCC Faculty Art Exhibition Showcases Creative Work
Sparta Girls Tennis Tops Morristown |
This week in Sparta NJ brings a mix of fall traditions and community events that highlight the heart of our town.
Our Lady of the Lake Church and Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church are hosting their annual Blessing of the Animals, giving families a chance to celebrate the pets they love.
Sussex Christian School held its Fall Festival at the Sussex County Fairgrounds, followed by Sussex County Day, a lively celebration of local pride.
Sparta also hosted the Tri County Senior Olympics, welcoming athletes from across the region for friendly competition.
A Barre and Bubbly fundraiser supported the Sparta Volunteer Fire Department, and Sussex County Community College launched the Skylands Speakers Bureau, a new resource for local groups.
These events offer connection, tradition and community spirit for women 45+ who enjoy staying involved in local life. Read More... |
 |
Quote Of The Day |
"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." - Albert Camus |
Sparta & Sussex County History Bite |
Did you know the New Jersey State Fair didn't start out as a state fair at all — or even in Augusta?
It traces back to 1919, when the Branchville Riding Club put on a small local horse show. The Depression put things on hold for a few years, but by 1933 the club was back with the Branchville Community Horse Meet, held right on the grounds of an insurance company whose founder happened to be a horseman himself. It grew steadily from there, becoming the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show - the very fair where a Sparta Township family's draft horses set that heavyweight pulling record we mentioned in this week's trivia, back in 1936.
The fair didn't move to its current 150-acre home on Plains Road in Augusta until 1976. It picked up its "New Jersey State Fair" trademark in 1999, and today draws roughly 220,000 visitors every summer.
Next time you're walking the fairgrounds, you're standing on more than a century of county tradition. |
Our Local Weather |
Day: Tuesday Description: 🌧️ A little morning rain, otherwise a thick cloud cover
Day: Wednesday Description: ⛅ Considerable morning cloudiness, then clouds and sun in the afternoon
Day: Thursday
Day: Friday
Day: Saturday
Day: Sunday
Day: Monday |
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 |
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.
What makes Maple Ridge even more special is how deep the world goes. Jack’s 30‑book Fix‑It Mysteries are only the beginning. New series' will include other beloved characters and will step forward into their own spin‑off series, expanding the universe to nearly 100 cozy mysteries.
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 Stone -Your New Fur-ever Friend!Adopt Stone Today!
Breed: Domestic Short Hair Age: Young Adult Gender: Female
Meet Stone!
Stone has been waiting a long time for her turn - about 150 days, to be exact. She first came to Father John's as a young mom, and she spent months doing what moms do: caring for a litter of kittens who needed her. Once they were weaned and ready for homes of their own, Stone still couldn't relax just yet - a stint in quarantine kept her waiting even longer before she was finally cleared for adoption.
Through all of it, the shelter says Stone has stayed exactly who she is: calm, sweet, and quietly grateful for attention. She's done her job as a mother and then some, and now it's simply her turn to be the one who's looked after for a change.
Stone has given so much already - now she deserves a home that gives it right back to her.
Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt |
 |
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 EVENTThe 5th Annual Red Shoe™ Event |
❤️ Step Into Purpose: The Red Shoe™ Gala Lights Up Lake Mohawk!
Sparta is about to sparkle in red! On October 14, 2026, the BW NICE Sussex County Chapter invites everyone to the Red Shoe Gala at Lake Mohawk Country Club - a dazzling evening of celebration, connection, and compassion.
💬 A Message from Amy, Event Organizer:
Amy’s enthusiasm captures the heart of this event: community coming together to lift others up. As a paid sponsor of this newsletter, BW NICE’s mission deserves our spotlight - and your support.
✨ What’s Happening That Night
Every ticket sold and every sponsorship secured helps fund DASI’s life-changing programs for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
👉 Register or learn more: Red Shoe Gala Registration
📣 How You Can Help
To Contact Amy for ways you can help: Amy Griffin, Owner/Executive Chef at The Hungry Hearth
Winner of 2025 & 2026 Favorite Chef of Sussex County in the NJ Herald
973-229-9530
|
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: |
🎨 Toddler Tuesday Sparta
🖌️ Intro to Studio Art @ The Art Project
🔮 Psychic Fair
⛳ 9th Annual Winter4Kids Golf Outing
⛳ Sparta UNICO Annual Jack Schaaf Golf Outing
🐾 Storytime with Creature Comfort Pet Therapy
🎳 Girls-Only Junior Gold Qualifier - New Jersey
🎸 Eli Lev at Krogh's Restaurant & Brewpub
🍁 Annual Fall Vendor & Craft Fair
🧺 Artisan Market |
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: Sussex County is home to the highest natural point in all of New Jersey. What's its elevation, and how many other states can you see from the top on a clear day?
Answer: High Point, in Wantage and Montague Townships, tops out at 1,803 feet above sea level.
On a clear day, from the 220-foot monument at the summit, you can see all the way into New York and Pennsylvania - two other states besides our own. |
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. |