Sparks Operates Own Business; Makes Flavoring

Sparks Operates Own Business; Makes Flavoring

From the Rutherford County News, Oct. 14, 1964

In 1962 W. M. [Marvin] Sparks of Cliffside set forth to fulfill a dream that practically every man has, to be in business for himself. After two years, Sparks describes his venture as “excellent” as far as success is concerned. This brave man started the Sparks Company which produces Sparkle flavorings and cleaning supplies. All of his flavorings carry the slogan “Diamond of Flavoring.”

Sparks now ships his flavoring throughout the United States. He says he is better known outside Rutherford County than he is in the county.

No one knows the formula for Sparkle flavorings but Sparks himself. His explanation of how to make flavoring is “you have to start with the necessary oils.” Sparks orders the oils for his flavorings from New York.

Sparkle flavorings cannot be bought in stores. Sparks says he caters exclusively to fund raising groups such as civic clubs, church groups and school groups.

His flavoring selection now consists of nine flavors: vanilla, butternut, mell-o-fruit, strawberry, lemon, black walnut, banana, almond and liquid spice. Sparks began his operation with only vanilla and butternut. Since that time he has added the other flavors and “deleted” a few which did not sell.