Dan Sparks, a loan officer at Farmers & Merchants State Bank in Austin, announced Monday his intent to seek the DFL nomination for the state House of Representatives seat that will be vacated by Rob Leighton, DFL-Austin.

Tuesday, March 19, 2002

Dan Sparks, a loan officer at Farmers & Merchants State Bank in Austin, announced Monday his intent to seek the DFL nomination for the state House of Representatives seat that will be vacated by Rob Leighton, DFL-Austin.

Sparks, a lifelong resident of Austin, has said his experience at working different jobs and meeting many people has given him insight on numerous issues that affect local residents. Sparks has been employed in real estate sales and has also worked at Hormel Foods.

"I’ve labored with men and women on the line at the plant. I’ve worked with my grandfather on his farm and I’ve also worked with small businesses in the real estate and banking world," Sparks said. "I have developed relationships with folks in all walks of life and truly believe that I can successfully represent their interests in the House of Representatives."

Sparks, 33, graduated from Austin High School and attended St. Cloud State and the University of Minnesota. Sparks serves on the YMCA’s board of directors as is a member of the Lions, the United Way of Mower County and is involved locally with the March of Dimes.

He is also on the Austin Youth Hockey board of directors and coaches traveling hockey teams and Little League baseball. Sparks has two daughters and resides in Austin.

Dan Fields can be reached at 434-2230 or by e-mail at dan.fields@austindailyherald.com