Sparta South Cemetery

We are hoping to put in a new fence or refurbishing the old one which is rusting.  One member of the community has offered a substantial donation towards this fence and we are seeking other donations so we can do the whole fence. If you want to make a donation please contact Sally Martyn, Pete Monteith or Marie Roberts. We may try to install it ourselves to save money. If you would be able to help out please contact any one of the three above.

 Benches and Rest Area

We have installed the benches and patio in memory of Debbie Corner, Brenda Louws and Bill Fishleigh beside the Church Museum. Next year we will landscape around them. This would not have happened with out the help of Allen Fish, Ron Molyneux, Jonathan Martyn, Brian Campbell and Mike Corner. A special thank you to our great helpers.

 Annual Crafters' Sale

Once again there will be a large number of crafters offering their wares at the Sparta Community Hall on Saturday, December 7 from 10:00 to 5:00. This is a great place to find unique Christmas gifts, from wood carvings, quilted items, jewellery, art, etc. Come out and support these crafters. 

 New Streets and Lights for Sparta

This project was postponed until 2020 due to the lack of reasonable quotes for the work. It will be tendered late this fall to be completed next spring and summer.

 Museums Open

Our Church Museum will be open on weekends until Thanksgiving. The featured display this year is “Historical Costumes by Elizabeth Brandeau and antique sewing machines from Sandy Minor”.  Make sure you take a look if you haven't already.

The Forge and Anvil Museum will stay open on  weekends only until Thanksgiving as well.

 Newspaper “The Echo”

Melissa Schneider is publishing a newspaper for Sparta, Union and Port Stanley as well as the Shedden and Fingal area. It covers local news and events. She needs our support to make it financially viable. If you want to advertise contact Melissa at melissa_e_schneider@hotmail.com.

 New Mini Library

Try using our new mini library in front of the Sparta Community Hall. The idea is to take a book and leave a book. This project was the idea of Melissa Schneider and she got John Shahan to build it and Julia Hansford to paint it like the mad hatters hat from Alice in Wonderland. Thanks Melissa, John and Julia for this nice contribution to the community.

 Sparta Stitchers Donate Quilts

Last December the Sparta Stitchers donated over 25 lap quilts to our Elgin County nursing homes. This year they are planning to donate a similar number to our Fire fighters and other outreach charities. If you know of a charity that could use lap quilts please let any member of the group know. Barb Burns or Marilyn Smith are good contacts for the group.

Scouting News

The Scouting groups are hosting an open house to give children and chance to see what all the groups do. Come and check them out on Saturday, September 7 from 1:00 to 3:00 at the Community Hall. Remember that both boys and girls are welcome. Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and Venturers are all being offered in our community this year. All groups meet at the Community Hall at 6:30. Beavers and Cubs meet on Wednesdays and Scouts and Venturers on Thursdays. All groups are for both boys and girls. Call Pam Helmer for more information 519-775-2265.

 \Christmas Trees Available from Sparta Scouting Groups

The Sparta South Cemetery has to thin the spruce trees around the new south section and will be having the Scouting groups sell them. If you are interested in reserving a tree, please contact Pam Helmer (519-775-2265)

 Santa Visits Sparta

Saturday and Sunday November 23, 24 2019 Santa will be in the side room of the Sparta House Tearoom. For more information call Mary Muscat at 519-775-0054 or visit their website www.spartacandles.com

 Open House at Sparta County Candles

Enjoy a Sparta Country Christmas on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday November 28 to December 1. There will be draws, goodies and Christmas specials 10:00 to 6:00 on Thursday and Friday and 10:00 to 5:00 on Saturday and Sunday.

Community Newsletter

 We  now publish  in February and September The newsletter will be available at the Village Market and on our web site. Get your news to Sally Martyn by the end of the previous month if you wish it included.

Garbage Collection

Central Elgin has taken on Garbage collection for a two year trial to see if we can do it for less money and do a better job. Let the municipality know if you've noticed a difference in the level of service.

 

Regular Events at the Community Hall

Sparta Stitchers meet every Tuesday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the hall to quilt, knit, crotchet, tat, smock, embroider, etc. Cost is $5.00 per session which is considered a donation and receives an income tax receipt. Come learn a new skill or just bring whatever you want to work on and have a good time visiting with your fellow stitchers. Call Sally Martyn (519-775-2292) for more information or just show up.  We have really grown in the last year and now have 19 participants.

 

Community Society Executive

President: Pam Helmer (519-775-2265)

Vice President: Barb Burns

Secretary: Yvonne Campbell

Treasurer: Ron Molyneux

Directors at Large: Dr. Robert Burns,

 

 Less than 3 hours - $150; Less than 3 hours + alcohol - $200; More than 3 hours - $200 / day; More than 3 hours + alcohol - $250; The basement is also available for rent at a lower price for smaller events.  Call Sally Martyn at 519-775-2292 to make your reservation.