2009 Apple Dessert Contest Judges

We are looking for the best homemade apple dessert in Sparta! We’ll be judging the desserts on Wednesday, July 14th, 2010 at The Sparta Town & Country Days Concert in the Park in downtown Sparta. Please read the rules and complete the application if you would like to participate.

2010 APPLE DESSERT ENTRY FORM

Bring a finished dessert to Rogers Park (75 N Union, Sparta, MI 49345) near to the Band Shell for judging by 6 pm. Judging begins at 6:30 pm.

• The desserts will be judged according to the best tasting apple based dessert.
• A panel of community leaders will judge the event.
• All desserts must contain apples as their primary ingredient.
• All desserts become property of Sparta Town & Country Days. (Pans and dishes may be picked up at 8 pm at the judging table.)
• Winners will be announced at the Concert Intermission (approximately 7:45 pm)
• Winners will receive prizes!
• The winning submission may submit their recipe for promotion by the Sparta Chamber of Commerce and Sparta Town & Country days (if they so choose to submit).

Please send in this form by July 14th to:

Apple Dessert Contest

156 E. Division

Sparta, MI 49345

ddadirector@spartami.org

Michael Shuman, author of “Going Local,” doesn’t believe a resident has to cut big box stores altogether, rather, he advises to keep local businesses in mind.

“Going local does not mean walling off the outside world,” said Shuman. “It means nurturing locally owned businesses, which use local resources sustainably, employ local workers at decent wages and serve primarily local consumers. It means becoming more self-sufficient and less dependent on imports. Control moves from the boardrooms of distant corporations and back into the community where it belongs.”

On average, if you spend $100 at a local business, $73 stays in the local economy. If you spend $100 at a nonlocally owned business, only $43 dollars stay in the local economy.

The story of the circulation of a dollar

One dollar spent at a local business can go a long way. One example is Sparta Elevator, locally owned and managed by Ron Schantz. Not only does one receive a personalized education about certain brands of dog food and the unhealthy fatty fillers of other brands of dog food, Schantz makes sure to create a relationship with his customers.

“We want our customers to be able to bring their kids in here, and educate them on what types of bird seed bring certain types of birds or to experience the chicks in the spring time,” said Schantz. “Making a connection with a family, teaching them about planting seeds or feeding birds creates memories that those kids will pass on to their kids, hopefully.”

Although customer service and education do not have a price tag, a dollar spent at Sparta Elevator continues in the community when Schantz shops at local businesses such as Rogers Hardware, or when he eats lunch at a local restaurant, such as Angela’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria.

Angela’s Pizza is a family owned restaurant that features homemade Italian food with recipes from Italy. With a dollar spent from lunch from Sparta Elevator, Angela’s Pizza spends part of that dollar on purchasing bread products for baked subs from another local business, Tom’s Hometown Bakery.

Angela’s is saving time and money on shipping and delivery charges from Grand Rapids by using the products and services of another locally owned business. Plus, the product that is freshly baked just a few doors down is much fresher than any frozen bread on the market.

Angela Candela, namesake of Angela’s Pizza, said the main reason they support other local businesses is to “help Sparta grow.”

Tom’s Hometown Bakery also understands the importance of successful local businesses in a community.  “You can call here and talk to a person about ordering a large order of doughnuts or specialty cake order to make sure it is exactly as you want it,” said bakery owner Tom Penland. “We cater to our customers, even last minute orders. If we can fill it, we will do so gladly!”

Tom’s Bakery has three local restaurants in Sparta that buy bread or rolls from their bakery: Maxine’s, Garden Patch and Angela’s Pizza. Penland’s family is often found eating at those restaurants because they understand the value of spending their dollars at local businesses. “If I can find it in Sparta,” he says, “it is worth my time and gas money to buy it in Sparta, even if I am paying a little more for it.”

Every time you spend $1 at a local retail business, imagine how that dollar  make its way into a local restaurant, that buys product from a local bakery, that purchases services at a local salon, insurance office, or even to support a youth sports team.

That same dollar spent at a big box store in Grand Rapids would most likely never see its way to any Sparta business, Sparta youth program, or employ a Sparta resident. Next time you spend $1, spend wisely.

1949

With Harry S. Truman as President of the United States, the Sparta division of the Muskegon Piston Ring Company is looking to donate $25,000 to the Sparta Community Foundation for the purpose of building a community building.  Building Committee chairperson, C. Laurence Johnson is working with Glenn Bradford, Roger Williams, John Feichtenbiner, Paul McFall, and Wm. A. Rogers on obtaining proposals for the new building.  The Building Committing will have a lot to consider to add to the building including large dining room, stage, foyer, and kitchen.  Sparta Rotary Club will be spearheading the fundraising efforts with the cooperation from other local clubs. 

Plans are being discussed that include the building costing approximately $75,000.  However after research of other community buildings and years of discussions, the decision is found that a building that expensive will not be practical. 

1955

The committee continues to consult with various architects and contractors, and in 1955, submits a plan costing between $30,000 and $35,000.  The committee members include Guy Curtis, Mrs. Joe Brooks, Mrs. Walter Ebers, Floyd Buege, and Robert Lee.  Private funds will most likely be raised from local businesses such as Extensole and private contributors.  If funds can be raised, construction may begin as early as the fall of 1955 by Gust Construction. 

Question have come up for the community for the policy and regulation of using the community building.  What will be the rental fee? Is the primary question on everyone’s mind.  Nominal charges will be expected to cover the cost of heat, light, and other expenses.  The maintenance and upkeep will be provided by rentals and the community foundation funds. 

Building will most likely be used by community groups such as the Ladies Literacy Club, Garden Club, Rotary Club, Senior Neighbors, Senior Meals Programs, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Brownies, Girls Scouts, as well as benefit dances, receptions, and family reunions. 

Last weeks edition of the Sentinel Leader, the February 22, 1956 edition, mentioned the fund drive has gone “over the top”.  Work on the building is well along.  They are planning an open house on Tuesday, May 15^th and are expecting a crowd of over 300 community members.  Comments that people have made who have had a chance to see the building include, “The Terrazzo floor is beautiful and the room is attractively decorated.”  Finally, the new Civic Center is ready for use.

1965

The building is coming in handy for the kindergartners this year, according to the Sentinel leader edition printed on 10/13/1965.  Due to the overcrowding of kids at Central Elementary, Kindergarten classes will begin meeting at the Sparta Civic Center.

1984

An addition to the Sparta Civic Center on the West side of the building is proposed for the Sparta Cooperative Pre-School.  Financing for the addition may be donated by the Sparta American Post 107 in exchange for lifetime lease of meeting rooms on the north side.

2007

Plans are underway to utilize Community Block Grant Money to add new handicap accessible restroom facilities to the Sparta Civic Center.  Funding for the building is sought solely on donations, rentals, and grant money as the Sparta Community Foundation was no longer allowed to own property once it joined with the Grand Rapids Foundation. 

Today

The Sparta Civic Center runs with the dedication of volunteer board members including Gary Moody, Deb Simons, Terry Hartman, Jane Bosserd, Greta Heugel, Rachel Shangle, and George Brown.  With all the renovations over the past few years including the bathroom addition, renovated kitchen and new equipment, window replacement and facade improvements, the Sparta Civic Center is looking better than ever! 

Unfortunately Community Block Grant Money is no longer available to the Civic Center either.  Current and future construction and maintenance projects must all be funded by community donations and rental fees.  The Civic Center is striving to keep rentals at their low price to cover the cost of utilities and maintenance for the building -$125 for week days, and $400 for a weekend day.  Currently, however, this community Civic Center that was built by our community forefathers is in need of donations to stay open to the community groups that currently utilize the building such as the Sparta Little League, Faith’s Walk, Sparta Chamber of Commerce, American Legion, Sparta Town & Country Days, and Lions Club to name a few.  Donations this year would cover the maintenance and repair of the parking lot, heating repairs, and roof repairs.  If you are interested in sending in a donation to the non-profit organization, the Sparta Civic Center to keep our community building available to community groups, please send donations to the Sparta Civic Center PO Box 403 Sparta, MI 49345.  Thank you for keeping our community building alive! 

The building is currently managed and cleaned by volunteers in the community, Terry & Diane Hartman.  If you are interested in renting the building please contact Terry or Diane Hartman at (616) 887-1224.  Support our community building by hosting a meeting, reunion, or shower at the hall!

Sparta Fire Dept teaching kids about fire safety at Sparta Town & Country Days.

Join us on Friday, June 25 at the Sparta Town & Country Days Pig Roast Fundraiser in front of the Michigan Beer Cellar (located between Tom’s Hometown Bakery and the BP Gas Station at 500 E. Division).

Friday, June 25th from 5 – 8 pm

Pig Roast Fundraiser at Michigan Beer Cellar

Adults $7.00 & Kids $3.00

Pig roast, potato salad, baked beans, lemonade!  Enjoy a great family feast while supporting the Fire Work Fundraiser!   Food will be served under the tent outside and can be brought inside to go along with your favorite Michigan Beer Cellar Beer.

Stop in to see the new Micro-brewery in Sparta, enjoy your meal, and support the fire works!  Pick up your program at the Pig Roast. 

Check out the entire fair schedule of events at www.spartafair.com!

Click here:

Sparta Town & Country Days

July 15 – 18, 2010

www.spartafair.com

2010 Theme

[googleMap name="Sparta, Michigan" description="Downtown Sparta just 10 miles north of Grand Rapids. " width="350" height="250"]75 N Union Sparta, MI 49345[/googleMap]

August 13, 2010

Shotgun Starts at Noon!

Moss Ridge Golf Course

Golf Outing Sponsor /Team Registration Form (PDF)

Raising money for Sparta Community Events!

Not a golfer?  Contact Chris about getting involved in other ways!  Network your business with Sparta business leaders!  Sponsor non-golfing contests such as “Best Dressed Golfer” or other creative awards!

Contact Chris Nadeau from Majestic Landscapes for sponsor information!

(616) 887-3320

E-recycling:

Meadowlark in Sparta has become an official e-recycle center.  Electronic waste is harmful to our environment. When we put it in our landfills, e-Waste can leak harmful toxins into our soil and water. You can help make a difference! Recycle your electronics (most any item with a cord or battery) and Comprenew will wipe all computer hard drives.

Comprenew is the recycle company and their mission is to inspire our community to live and work in a sustainable manner.  Any item you would like to recycle you can bring in and drop off in the tub by the washing machines in the beauty shop.       Meadowlark is located at 65 Ida Red (located behind McDonalds).

 Acceptable Items

Recycle Newspaper!

Visit the Sparta Lions Newspaper Recycle Truck to drop off your discarded newspapers!  Help the environment and help the Sparta Lions.  All the proceeds from the Recycle Truck are donated to children in the community that need eye-glasses.  The Recycle Truck is located at 108 N. State Street (across from Sparta Lanes).  ONLY Newspaper material may be collected at this site. 

Participate in Rotary Environmental Creek Clean Up Day! 

Each year, Sparta Rotary invites community members, business leaders, and organizations to lend a hand in cleaning up garbage and litter from the banks of Nash Creek.  By removing the potential contaminants from the banks of Nash Creek, they are stopping the potential pollution that affect aquatic ecosystems.  Nash Creek eventually pours into larger streams and rivers, like the Rogue River.  Eventually water from Nash Creek will make its way into Lake Michigan.  Any reduction in pollutants that we can do in Sparta, will make the waterways of West Michigan cleaner, too.  Take time to visit your favorite creek or rivers and clean up the garbage that will end up in our waterways.  Rotary Creek Clean up Day is Monday, April 26, 2010 from 3 – 6 pm.  Meet behind Rogers Hardware and bring gloves, boots, and prepare to help the environment!

RECYCLE Everything you can!

Where Can I Take Recyclables?

Kent County operates recycling drop off sites for their residents. The North Kent Transfer Station accepts plastics, paper, glass, metals, and cardboard. For more information call 1-888-217-2850 or 616-336-2570.

North Kent Transfer Station
2908 Ten Mile Rd., Rockford.

Monday thru Saturday
7:30 am to 5:00 pm
(excludes holidays)

Recyclables are not garbage; they are commodities we must sell to be made into new products.

Dirty materials cannot be sold and will become trash. Make sure recyclables are clean and free of liquids and food. Please follow all directions and include only those items listed below.

Glass

Clear and colored food and beverage glass containers.

Food and beverage containers.

Preparation: Rinse clean. Remove metal and plastic rings. Recycle lids separately.

Glass items not accepted: dishes, ceramics, light bulbs, mirrors, windowpanes, automobile glass, and other non-food and beverage glass.

Metal

Steel Cans

Food and beverage containers, empty aerosol cans.

Preparation: Rinse cans clean. Aerosol cans must be completely empty. Remove and discard caps and nozzles.

Steel items not accepted: bakeware, pots, pans, utensils, hangers, car parts or scrap metal, fencing, propane cylinders.

Aluminum Foil And Cans

Food and beverage (non-deposit) containers, foil, pie tins.

Preparation: Wash foil very clean, no food deposits or residue can remain. Rinse cans clean.

Aluminum items not accepted: foil backed paper, gum wrappers, foil wrapping paper, pots, pans, lawn furniture, siding, window frames and doors.

Recyclable Plastics in Kent County

Plastic

Plastic items are often stamped with a number, 1 thru 7, placed inside a recycling triangle. The numbered triangle is usually located on or near the bottom of the plastic item. The number indicates what kind of plastic the item is made of, allowing us to sort the plastics accordingly.

Plastic Containers #1 through #7 (NO Styrofoam)

Milk jugs; water, detergent and shampoo bottles; butter tubs; yogurt cups; microwave food trays; plant flats & flower pots; peanut butter jars and other plastic containers stamped #1-#7 (excluding Styrofoam).

Preparation: Remove caps to allow the container to dry out. Wash all containers clean.

Plastic GROCERY BAGS #2 and #4

Preparation: Bags should be clean, dry and empty (no coupons, store receipts, or items inside bags). Grocery bags have the #2 or #4 printed on them, telling us what kind of plastic it is made from. Other plastic bags do not, so they should not be recycled.

Plastic items not accepted: bottles containing automotive fluids or hazardous materials (they cannot safely be rinsed); Styrofoam (cups, plates, peanuts, packaging materials); plastic film and other non-rigid plastic (like garbage bags, Ziptop bags, drycleaners bags, etc.)

Paper

Newspaper, Magazines, Brown Paper Bags, Junk Mail and Paperboard

Newspapers (including inserts); typing, writing, and computer paper; junk mail, envelopes, fliers; magazines & catalogs; brown paper bags; shoe boxes, cracker boxes and cereal boxes (paperboard).

Preparation: Place paper items in brown paper bags or place loose in appropriate drop site bin. Please do not put paper in plastic bags or cardboard boxes.

Paper items not accepted: pet food bags, milk & juice cartons, wrapping paper, tissue, Kleenex, napkins, paper towels, wax paper, used paper plates, paper with food or food stains, telephone books.

Corrugated Cardboard

Heavy shipping and packaging boxes with a ‘wavy’ inner layer.

Preparation: Remove all plastic liners and inserts, strapping, staples and wrapping. Flatten boxes.

Box types not accepted: boxes with glued-in Styrofoam or plastic packing; boxes with heavy staples; boxes with metal or plastic strapping.

Telephone books are not accepted for recycling because of the weight, bindings and space limitations in our sorting facility.

Electronics

Computers & accessories (keyboard, mouse, etc.), monitors, televisions, printers/plotters, fax machine, scanners, VCR, DVD, video game machines (Play Station, Game Boy), microwave, audio equipment, video camera, digital camera, networking gear, cordless telephone.

Electronic devices can be dropped off at the North Kent Transfer Station, the South Kent Landfill and the Materials Recycling Facility during normal business hours. This program is free of charge for Kent County residents.

Individuals may also drop off working electronics and non-working computers at a local Goodwill donation center.

Before you try to recycle an item not specifically addressed on this page, call our office at (616) 336-2570 ext. 0 to determine if the item can be recycled.

Including materials that are not listed can make the recyclable material unusable. For example, broken window glass thrown in with the other clear glass bottles and jars ruins the whole load. Manufacturers cannot process different types of glass together and there is no way to sort out window glass from container glass.

Do not take a chance on ruining valuable materials. When in doubt, throw it out!

Thank You for Recycling!

If you have additional Recycling Questions or would like more information on services and programs available through the Kent County Department of Public Works, please call (616) 336-2570.

Dispose of Hazardous Waste Correctly!

The average U.S. household can have as much as 100 pounds of hazardous waste stored throughout their house and garage. Improper disposal of these materials can contaminate drinking water, harm the environment, and create health hazards for you and your family. Simple alternatives can replace many hazardous substances. However, if you choose to use commercial products, make sure to dispose of them properly!

What Household Hazardous Waste Can I Dispose?

• Oil based paints and stains
• Paint thinner
• Pool chemicals
• Weed killers
• Insecticides & pesticides
• Cleaners
• Household batteries
•  Gasoline & kerosene
• Mercury & acids
• Automobile liquids
• Solvents

Where Can I Take My Household Hazardous Waste?

 To drop off your household hazardous waste, schedule an appointment with the Kent County Department of Public Works to participate in the free Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program for Kent County residents. To schedule an appointment, or for additional information, call 1-888-217-2850 or 616-336-2570. Appointments can be made at any of the four centers located in Kent County. For more information on this program visit: www.accesskent.com.

Hazardous Waste Center nearest to you: 

2908 Ten Mile Road, Rockford

Fridays, 9am-12 pm

The introduction of the new line of gasoline engines has Sparta residents excited, especially the farmers.  The Holm Machine Manufacturing Company, located in Sparta, Michigan, is manufacturing the first Sears Economy Engines.  Production began last year in 1909. Local farmers are being charged $100 to $150 dollars for a 2-horse power engine that the Sparta Company will sell for $42.95.  A gallon of gas this year costs between 15 and 18 cents today, but the locally manufactured engine will give local farmers the power to do more work in less time.  There is talk that the Hercules Company may purchase the Sparta based company and move the facilities to Evansville, Indiana, probably in 1913 or so.

Fruit in Grand Rapids

Even with unemployment fluctuating from 2.7 % in 1907 to 8 % in 1908, Sparta farmers are still waking up at two or three o’clock in the morning to begin their eighteen mile journey by horse and wagon to the Grand Rapids Market with their fruit.  One farmer, Henry Kraft and his son George, built an apple storage of tile which is 36’ x 30’ holding 9,000 bushels of apples to keep his apples the freshest. 

Making “Change” in 1909

Many of the farmers will probably be making change on the trip and will receive the first Lincoln Head Penny that has just been issued for the first time in 1909.  To date, the other 1 cent coins have been minted as the Flying Eagle (1856–1858) and the Indian Head (1859–1909).  The 1909 Lincoln Wheat Penny will replace the Indian Head Penny.  What is special about this minted coin is it will be the first coin to bear a portrait other than the mythical Liberty, which appears on most pre-1909 regular coins.  This is also the first time the motto “In God We Trust” appears on a coin of this denomination. 

Ford is Here

Changes are happening in Sparta.  The paper states the first Model T automobile was developed last year in 1908 by Henry Ford.  It was sold for $850.  It might be a while before an automobile is driven by people in Sparta.  A relative of someone in town sent over a photograph of the car through the mail.  The postage for the first class stamp was 2 cents. 

Creamery in Sparta

New businesses are opening up in Sparta.  With the number of cattle increasing in Sparta and surrounding towns, small creameries are popping up.  Justin Spangenberg, who has moved here from Warren, Ohio, just opened one on North Union Street last week.  Town folk are excited to spend hot summer days eating ice cold treats in front of the store. He plans on selling numerous favors of ice cream and different types of shakes.