Hydrant Flushing Notice

Sparta Township Water Utility Fire Hydrant Flushing Program

The Water Utility will be conducting hydrant flushing starting October 1, 2025 in the Highlands, Sunset Lake, and Lake Mohawk water systems.

Click Here for Details

What significant societal movement began in the 1960's advocating for women's rights?

Dinner Delivery and Catering

Indulge in a Culinary Experience

Tired of the dinner grind? Let Amy, the culinary genius behind The Hungry Hearth, rescue your evenings with unforgettable, home-cooked meals delivered right to your door in Sussex County!

Why spend another night in the kitchen when you could be savoring a flavor-packed masterpiece? Every Tuesday and Thursday, Amy crafts a new, mouthwatering menu using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. From generous family-style platters to perfectly plated individual meals, she delivers a dining experience that's pure passion on a plate

.

Don't just eat - indulge! Elevate your meal with delectable add-ons like soups, salads, and desserts that will have you counting down the minutes until your next order.

Your taste buds are begging you. Your schedule is thanking you. Experience the magic that everyone is talking about. Check out this week's irresistible menu and let Amy handle dinner tonight!

Order now and taste the love at thehungryhearth.com!

Planning an event? Let Amy's personalized catering turn your special occasion into a legendary feast. Gift the joy of incredible food with an e-gift card!

Contact Amy today!

• Email: thehungryhearth@gmail.com
• Website: thehungryhearth.com

Quote Of The Day

Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.
- John D. Rockefeller

Adopt Me Today!

🌟 Meet Ace: Your New Best Friend! 🌟

Adopt Ace Today!
Breed: Bernedoodle
Status: Spayed/Neutered | Vaccinated | Microchipped
Age: Young Male

Hello, future family! Get ready to fall head over paws for Ace! This charming Bernedoodle is on the lookout for a forever home where he can spread his love and joy every single day. After coming from a partner rescue where his previous family could no longer care for him, Ace is all set for a fresh start filled with fun and love!

Ace is not just any pup - he's a bundle of energy with a tail that wags like a furry metronome! His playful spirit is contagious, and whether he’s chasing after a ball in the yard or zooming around in delightful doggy antics, Ace is always ready for action. But don't let his energetic side fool you; after all the excitement, he loves nothing more than curling up next to you for some quality cuddle time.

If you’re searching for an affectionate companion who's ready for adventures and lazy afternoons alike, Ace is the one. Come meet this delightful boy today, and get ready to welcome endless love and happiness into your home! 💖🐾

Isn't it time Ace found his forever family? 🏡✨

50 Father John’s Lane
Lafayette, NJ 07848

info@fatherjohns.org

(973) 300-5909

What's Going On Here?

Submit your responses as to what you think is being built in our center, and next week, we'll publish your responses!

Send your responses to: Newsdesk@SpartaSpotlight.com

Sparta Public Library in Sparta, New Jersey, stands as a cornerstone of community life, blending rich tradition with innovative resources for residents of all ages.

Established in 1841, the library boasts a collection of over 60,000 items and offers free Wi-Fi, modern technology, and spaces for quiet study.

Patrons enjoy access to digital databases like EBSCO and Consumer Reports, plus global news and magazines through PressReader.

Language learners can thrive with Mango Languages, while creative minds benefit from 3D printing resources and training sessions.

The popular Museum Pass Program expands cultural access, giving families entry to museums at no cost.

Upcoming events, including Storytime with Creature Comfort Pet Therapy, highlight the library’s commitment to community engagement.

More than just books, Sparta Public Library invites locals to discover connection, learning, and inspiration.

Sparta, New Jersey, in Sussex County, is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities tailored to the changing seasons.

In spring, temperatures rise into the 70s°F and blossoms brighten the trails at Sparta Glen Park, welcoming hikers and birdwatchers eager for nature’s early spectacle.

Summer ushers in warm, sunny days with highs in the 80s°F, ideal for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding on Lake Mohawk.

Locals beat the heat with morning or evening outings, as humidity and summer storms are common.

Autumn cools the township, painting forests in vivid color and offering breathtaking hikes along the Appalachian Trail.

Families flock to apple orchards and harvest events as the weather grows crisp.

Winter transforms Sparta with snow, turning it into a playground for sledding, snowshoeing, and nearby skiing.

Whatever the season, check the forecast and enjoy the year-round charm of Sparta’s great outdoors.

Day: Tuesday
Date: September 23, 2025
High: 72°F ☀️
Low: 55°F 🌙
Description: Sunny with clear skies.

Day: Wednesday
Date: September 24, 2025
High: 70°F 🌤️
Low: 53°F 🌙
Description: Partly cloudy.

Day: Thursday
Date: September 25, 2025
High: 68°F ☁️
Low: 50°F ☔
Description: Mostly cloudy with a chance of light rain.

Day: Friday
Date: September 26, 2025
High: 65°F 🌧️
Low: 48°F 🌙
Description: Rain showers likely.

Day: Saturday
Date: September 27, 2025
High: 60°F 💨
Low: 45°F 🌙
Description: Breezy and cooler.

Day: Sunday
Date: September 28, 2025
High: 62°F ☀️
Low: 47°F 🌙
Description: Sunny and pleasant.

Day: Monday
Date: September 29, 2025
High: 67°F ☀️
Low: 50°F 🌙
Description: Clear and mild.

Household Hint of the Week!

Use a spoon for peeling ginger

Scrape ginger skin off with the edge of a spoon—it’s faster and wastes less.

Book Signing | Richard Chizmar and W.H. Chizmar
Description: Meet the authors and get your books signed.
Date and Time: Oct 6 at 6:30 PM
Location: 29 Center St, Sparta, NJ, United States
Phone: Phone. (973) 729-6200

Boot Scootin’ BBQ
Description: A barbeque event with great food and entertainment.
Date and Time: Oct 10 at 6 PM
Location: 997 State RT 23, Sussex, NJ, US
Phone: (973) 875-5213

Garlic Festival at The Shoppes at Lafayette
Description: A celebration featuring garlic-themed foods and activities.
Date and Time: Oct 11 - Oct 12
Location: 75 State Route 15, Lafayette, NJ, United States
Phone: (973) 255-9044

Newton Fall Festival & Car Show
Description: Celebrate the fall season with family activities and car displays.
Date and Time: Oct 12 at 11 AM
Location: Newton, NJ
Phone: 973-383-3521

Cousins Maine Lobster at Sparta Dairy
Description: Enjoy delicious lobster dishes.
Date and Time: Oct 13 at 12 PM
Location: 28 Sparta Ave, Sparta Township, NJ 07871
Phone: (973) 383-3521

BINGO
Description: Join us for a fun night of BINGO!
Date and Time: Oct 18 at 6 PM
Location: Lafayette House Restaurant
Phone: (973) 579-3100

Fall Market at Horseshoe Lake
Description: Explore local crafts and produce.
Date and Time: Oct 25 at 11 AM
Location: Horseshoe Lake Park, 72 Eyland Ave, Succasunna, NJ 07876

Experience love with every sip from our "I Heart U Mug".
Only $9.20 +S&H

French Onion Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 24 medium cremini mushrooms (about 1 pound)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, sliced (about 6 cups)
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
• ½ cup unsalted beef broth
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 2 tablespoons dry whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   
   
2. Prepare Mushrooms: Remove and discard stems from the mushrooms. Use a spoon to scrape and discard the gills. Toss the mushroom caps with 1 tablespoon of oil and ¼ teaspoon of salt on a large baking sheet. Arrange cap-side up and bake until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
   
   
3. Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring often, until deeply golden brown, about 40 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sherry vinegar, scraping up any browned bits, and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute. Add ½ cup of beef broth and cook, stirring often, until the onions are glazed and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 3 minutes.
   
   
4. Stuff Mushrooms: Fill each mushroom cap with about 2 teaspoons of caramelized onions. Top the mushrooms with 1 cup of Gruyère cheese and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
   
   
5. Bake and Broil: Bake until the cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Increase the oven temperature to broil; broil until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden, about 3-5 minutes.
   
   
6. Garnish: Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Quick Contacts:

 Emergency Services

• Emergency: 911
• Sparta Police (non-emergency): (973) 729-6121
• Sparta Fire Department: (973) 729-8433
• Sparta Ambulance Squad: (973) 729-2100
  
  Utilities
• Jersey Central Power & Light: 1-888-544-4877
• Sparta Water 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) 729-4471
• Recreation Department: (973) 729-2383
  
  Community Resources
• Sparta Public Library: (973) 729-3101
• Chamber of Commerce: (973) 729-6811
• Board of Education: (973) 729-8151
• Sparta High School: (973) 729-6191
• Department of Public Works: (973) 729-7133
  
  Health & Social Services
• Sussex County Health Department: (973) 579-0370
• Social Services: (973) 383-3600
  

Question: What significant societal movement began in the 1960s advocating for women's rights?

Answer: Feminism

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Contact Sparta Spotlight:

Newsdesk@SpartaSpotlight.com

Call or Text: (570) 856-8163