🌳 Sparta's Mighty Oak, Pet Blessings & Meet Willie

🌳 Sparta's Mighty Oak, Pet Blessings & Meet Willie - Sparta's Weekly Buzz

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🌳 Sparta's Mighty Oak, Pet Blessings & Meet Willie - Sparta's Weekly Buzz

Plus a new Word of the Week, trivia on New Jersey's largest lake, and a warm midweek forecast.

Randy Booth

THIS WEEK'S SPOTLIGHT

🗓️ Week of: September 29, 2026
📰 Issue: #96
⏱️ Estimated Read Time: ~5 minutes

In this issue:

Sparta's Van Kirk White Oak climbs to third among New Jersey's biggest, two churches plan pet blessings, we meet Willie, a dog who has come a long way, trivia on New Jersey's largest lake, and a brand new Word of the Week.

Trivia Question❓

Question: Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey's largest lake, sits on the Sussex and Morris County line. It was made bigger in the 1800s to supply water to what historic waterway?

(Answer at the bottom of this newsletter)

Our Local News

Stay Informed:
Sparta Board Agendas & Minutes

Zoning Board Meeting Wednesday September 23, 2026

Sparta Zoning Board Meeting Summary:

Meeting Administration and New Appointments

* The Sparta Zoning Board meeting on September 23rd, 2026, began with a call to order and was live-streamed on YouTube.

* Strict rules were in place regarding new business and testimony, with no new matters to be considered after 9:30 p.m. and a firm adjournment time of 10 p.m.

* The board welcomed newly appointed members Brian Romaneski and Isabella Artisone, and swore in Phillips Price LLC as the new professional planner for Sparta Township.

Executive Session and Board Attorney Discussion

* The board entered an executive session for personnel and attorney matters, with no public members present.

* A motion to enter this session was unanimously approved by roll call.

* No vote was taken on appointing a board attorney during this session, with a future vote pending clarification on compensation; the board was split four to four on the matter.

7-Eleven Project Review

* The meeting resumed with a discussion about the 7-Eleven project, which was described as looking great and having undergone substantial investment.

* A board member inquired about the project's compliance with its initial approval from four years prior.

* The project was praised for aesthetic improvements, including the addition of a standing monument sign and a side sign.

Sparta 15 LLC Application (Display Area)

* Application 7-26 for Sparta 15 LLC, a proposed display area for cemetery monuments, was carried over from a previous meeting.

* The applicant clarified that no retail sales or on-site finishing would occur; items would be personalized and finished elsewhere, and shipped directly from manufacturers.

* The proposed use was argued to be a good fit for the area, with a reduced intensity of use compared to prior businesses, and plans included cosmetic updates to the building and paving repairs.

Richard Miner Application (Generator)

* Application 8-26 for Richard Miner concerned the placement of a generator on the property.

* The applicant proposed placing the generator in the front yard due to proximity to the gas meter, requiring a variance for its placement.

* Conditions for approval included adherence to the engineer's report, synchronized exercise times with a neighbor's generator, and additional sound mitigation to meet township limits.

Application Approvals and Adjournment

* Two resolutions were presented and approved: Resolution 4-26 concerning Mark and Samantha Fagerstein for C variance relief, and Resolution 2026-6 appointing Phillips Price LLC as the zoning board planner.

* Application 7-26 for Sparta 15 LLC was approved for a use variance and minor site plan, with conditions including no inventory or retail sales on site and specific operating hours.

* Application 8-26 for Richard Miner was unanimously approved by the board with stated conditions.

* The Sparta zoning board meeting was adjourned at 9:54 p.m.

Van Kirk White Oak Climbs to Third Place in New Jersey
A fresh state measurement moved Sparta's Van Kirk White Oak from 11th to third among New Jersey's largest white oaks. Over the past ten years its trunk grew from 19 to 21 feet around, its height went from 98 to 104 feet, and its canopy spread from 103 to 108 feet. The state forestry assistant who measured it put the tree's age at about 410 years.
https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/local-news/van-kirk-white-oak-ranks-third-among-new-jersey-s-largest-white-oaks-AE6215561

Sparta Teen Earns Both Eagle Scout and Girl Scout Gold Awards
Abigail Weisbeck has earned the top honor in both Scouting America and Girl Scouts. For her Eagle project she helped renovate the Sparta Community Food Pantry, where she has volunteered for years. For her Gold Award she interviewed local agencies and made a video to help families find services for adults with disabilities.
https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/local-news/sparta-teen-earns-both-eagle-scout-and-girl-scout-gold-awards-BD6216322

Two Chances to Get Your Pet Blessed
Our Lady of the Lake Church welcomes animals of every size on Sunday, October 4 at 2:00 PM for the Feast of St. Francis.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church follows on Saturday, October 10 at 10:00 AM, with pets welcome leashed or in a carrier.

Shepherd of the Hills is also collecting dog and cat food for Father John's Animal House in a box at the church entrance.
https://ourladyofthelake.org/
https://www.sothnj.org/dedicated-service-09-27-26/

Sussex County Day Fills the Fairgrounds
Families gathered at the Sussex County Fairgrounds on Sunday, September 20 for a free day of live music, a magic show, food trucks and a beer and wine garden. Kids had inflatables, a Teddy Bear Clinic, first responder vehicles, and free bike helmets. A traveling RevolutionNJ exhibit marking America's 250th anniversary was also on display.
https://www.spartaindependent.com/news/local-news/sussex-county-day-brings-families-to-fairgrounds-for-community-celebration-KF6214628

Live Music Around Town This Week
On Friday, October 2, Brian St. John plays Krogh's Restaurant & Brew Pub at 8:00 PM, while Alan Gross performs at The Lafayette House at 6:00 PM. Saturday morning, Mingo Lodge plays the Sparta Farmers Market at 10:00 AM. David Kraai brings his country, folk and rock mix to Krogh's on Friday, October 8 at 6:30 PM.
https://www.spartaindependent.com/entertainment/brian-st-john-to-perform-at-krogh-s-restaurant-brew-pub-HG6228108

Quote Of The Day

"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."

- L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables (1908)

Sparta & Sussex County History Bite

Did you know the big white oak we just mentioned grew up on land that has been in the Van Kirk story since 1780?

That was the year Thomas Van Kirk of Middlesex, New Jersey bought the property on Main Street. He went on to serve as a justice of the courts and helped found the First Presbyterian Church of Sparta. The land was once a 96-acre farm, it ran as a dairy farm from the 1920s into the 1970s, and the house was last lived in as a home in 1995.

The Sparta Historical Society took ownership in November 2013 and turned it into the Van Kirk Homestead Museum. The museum is free and open the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month from 1 to 4 PM through December, so October 11 and October 25 are both open days. You can walk the grounds and see the oak for yourself.
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=299401
https://www.vankirkmuseum.org/

Word of the Week

Gloaming (GLOH-ming) - noun

What does it mean?
Twilight, the soft light in the sky just after the sun goes down.

Where does it come from?
It traces back to the Old English word glōm, meaning twilight, which is a relative of our word "glow." The word faded from everyday English, but Scotland kept it alive, and Scottish writers including Robert Burns brought it back into wider use after 1785.

Did you know?
Gloaming literally means the glow of the sky at sunset. With the sun setting a little earlier each evening, it is the perfect season to use it.

Use it in a sentence:
We took our coffee out to the deck and watched Lake Mohawk turn silver in the gloaming.

Our Local Weather

Day: Tuesday
Date: September 29, 2026
High: 68°F
Low: 50°F
Description: ⛅ Variable clouds

Day: Wednesday
Date: September 30, 2026
High: 74°F
Low: 57°F
Description: 🌤️ Pleasant with some sun, then turning cloudy

Day: Thursday
Date: October 1, 2026
High: 77°F
Low: 59°F
Description: 🌤️ Pleasant with sun and some clouds

Day: Friday
Date: October 2, 2026
High: 77°F
Low: 56°F
Description: ☁️ Thin high clouds in the morning, mostly cloudy by afternoon

Day: Saturday
Date: October 3, 2026
High: 67°F
Low: 47°F
Description: ☀️ Less humid with plenty of sunshine

Day: Sunday
Date: October 4, 2026
High: 65°F
Low: 50°F
Description: 🌦️ Mostly cloudy with rain possible

Day: Monday
Date: October 5, 2026
High: 64°F
Low: 48°F
Description: ☀️ Plenty of sunshine

Support Our Local Sponsors

“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!
Proudly Partnering with Father John's Animal House

🐾 Meet Willie -Your New Fur-ever Friend!

Adopt Willie Today!

Breed: Mixed Breed

Age: 3 years

Gender: Male
Health: Neutered, Vaccinated, Microchipped
Temperament: Friendly, energetic, affectionate, loves other dogs

Willie Declan, Willie for short, is a 3-year-old, roughly 50-pound sweetheart, and he has been through more than any dog should have to face. He was found in Virginia in very rough shape, with deep wounds from ropes that had been wrapped tightly around his body.

Two kind people got him to safety, and he received the emergency veterinary care he needed. Through all of it, Willie never lost his warmth or his happy spirit.

Today his wounds have healed and he is ready for the good part of his story. Willie is full of energy, loves attention, and gets along wonderfully with other dogs, so a home with a canine buddy could be a great fit.

Willie has already proven how resilient he is. Now he just needs a family to show him how good life can be.

Fill out an adoption questionnaire at www.fatherjohns.org/adopt
Appointments required Wednesdays & Fridays. Walk-ins welcome other days (appointments preferred).

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

The 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.

This event isn’t just about glamour; it’s about giving back. BW NICE (Business Women Networking in Charity and Education) raises vital funds for DASI - Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Intervention Network, supporting survivors right here in Sussex County.

💬 A Message from Amy, Event Organizer:

“We’re looking for ticket sales, program ads, tricky tray baskets, and sponsorships - every contribution helps us make a difference.”

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

Elegant dinner and lively entertainment
Silent auction, raffles, tricky tray, and wine pull
Networking with local leaders and entrepreneurs
Presentation of Businesswoman of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year awards

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

Buy tickets for the gala
Sponsor the event or donate a basket
Advertise in the program to showcase your business
Nominate an inspiring woman for one of the awards

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

thehungryhearth.com

973-229-9530

thehungryhearth@gmail.com

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 14^th

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
Tuesday, September 29 at 1:15 PM | 1A Main Street, Sparta
An immersive little class of art, music and storytelling for the crawlers-to-age-4 crowd. A sweet way to spend an afternoon with your smallest Spartan.

🖌️ Intro to Studio Art @ The Art Project
Thursdays at 5:00 PM, starting October 1 | 1A Main Street, Sparta
A weekly studio session for anyone who has been meaning to pick up a paintbrush. No experience needed.

⛳ Sparta UNICO Annual Jack Schaaf Golf Outing
Monday, October 5 at 10:30 AM | Lake Mohawk Golf Club
The chapter's annual outing on the green, named for Jack Schaaf.

🐾 Storytime with Creature Comfort Pet Therapy
Saturday, October 17 at 11:00 AM | 22 Woodport Rd, Sparta
Cold noses, warm hearts. A cozy storytime where the kids get to meet visiting therapy animals.

🎳 Girls-Only Junior Gold Qualifier - New Jersey
Sunday, October 18 at 10:00 AM | Sparta Lanes
A girls-only bowling qualifier with a shot at 2027 Junior Gold. There is also a scholarship for the highest-finishing non-qualifier in each division.

⛳ 9th Annual Winter4Kids Golf Outing
Monday, October 19 at 11:00 AM | Lake Mohawk Golf Club
A morning on the course for a great cause, honoring this year's Community Partner of the Year, Todd Thomas.

🎸 Eli Lev at Krogh's Restaurant & Brew Pub
Thursday, October 22 at 6:30 PM | Krogh's Restaurant & Brew Pub
Live music at one of Sparta's longtime favorites.

🍁 Annual Fall Vendor & Craft Fair
Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 246 Woodport Rd
An 8th-year tradition with indoor and outdoor vendors, kids' crafts, and food donations benefiting the local food bank. Rain or shine, free admission.

🧺 Artisan Market
Saturday, October 24 at 10:00 AM | Sparta
A market supporting Rebecca's Homestead and Peace by Piece NJ, with handmade goods from local artisans.

🔮 Psychic Fair
Friday, October 30 at 7:00 PM | 15 Sparta Ave, Sparta
An evening for the curious, with readings and a little mystery just in time for Halloween week.

Our Local Contacts

Emergency - Police, Fire & Ambulance Call	911
Jersey Central Power & Light	(888) 544-4877
Sparta Water & Sewer Utility	(973) 729-7133
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

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
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) 266-056

Answer to Trivia Question

Question: Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey's largest lake, sits on the Sussex and Morris County line. It was made bigger in the 1800s to supply water to what historic waterway?

Answer: The Morris Canal. The lake covers about 2,500 acres and stretches roughly nine miles, and a dam built to feed the canal helped give it the shape we know today.

How To Contact Us

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.