Sparta resident buys Upper Lake Deli

Sparta —The Upper Lake Deli in the Upper Lake Plaza at 270 Sparta Ave. has been bought out by life-long Sparta resident, Charlene Beebe. The mission statement tells all about how she plans to run the business, “fast, fresh and friendly” as the sign in the window says. Beebe has already added four new employees made changes to the shop to give customers a feeling they have just entered their own kitchen. She created a homey décor of autumn mums and ornamental trees. Grape vines adorn the windows, and once inside, topiaries, pumpkins and wall hangings make this hometown deli unique. Aside from the obvious changes in décor, Beebe has made some menu changes as well. While keeping customer favorites such as Boars Head products and fresh baked bread on the menu, she has also added to it, providing more variety for her customers. Items such as whole grain bagels, vegetable cream cheese, grilled chicken, garden Caesar salad, and whole wheat wraps to create your own, “wrap-it-up” are just some of the additions. “There’s something here for everyone. The menu appeals to everyone from heavy eaters to those who prefer to eat on the lighter side,” commented Beebe. To make entertaining easier, Beebe has also added a catering menu as an option. Although this is Beebe’s first retail adventure, she feels quite comfortable and confident in the business world. After graduating college with a degree in finance and economics, she worked on Wall St. for five years and then in Morristown at Merrill Lynch for another five, totaling ten plus years of business experience. In addition, her employment at the Sparta Athletic Club for a total of seven years, between teaching classes and working as Director of Sales and Member Services, has given her an opportunity to work with the public. Beebe saw the Upper Lake Deli as the perfect opportunity to turn a good business into a better one. “I saw a great location, my love for nutrition and dealing with the public all coming together in this business. It was a great opportunity for me to put it all together,” said Beebe. An open house is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28 to celebrate Beebe’s new adventure. Store hours are Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.