APPLICATION FOR PARKS, RECREATION AREAS
AND FACILITIES AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FACILITY NAMING
As a policy, parks, recreation areas, and facilities and Redevelopment Agency features indigenous to the park site or to the immediate vicinity of the site. Parks, tacilities shall be named in accordance with geographical, historical or ecological for an individual (s) under the following conditions: recreation areas, and facilities and Redevelopment Agency facilities may be named
1. 'Where the individual has made a significant gift of land to the City of Merced and/or the Redevelopment Agency, or
2. In memoriam for an individual who has made a significant contribution to the City of Merced/Redevelopment Agency. for a corporation or an individual, living or deceased, who: Recreational facilities or resource management areas within a park may be named
1. Has made a significant contribution to the protection of natural, cultural, or horticultural resources of the City of Merced, or
2. Has made substantial contributions to the advancement of Merced, or commensurate types of recreational opportunities within the City of
3. Has made significant contributions to the betterment of a specific park, consistent with the established criteria and standards for the designated facility.
In support of this policy, nominations for naming parks, recreational areas, and facilities and Redevelopment Agency facilities, shall be evaluated on the basis of the above criteria and upon appropriate documentation.
Person making nomination:(required) Tony Slaton
Address:(required).
Contact Phone Numbe
E-mail: (not required).
Suggested Name:(required) Slatan Family
5 Biographical Information: (Explain)
Sex Atlahments.
Civic Involvement: (Explain)
Connection to Facility: (Please explain in depth)
Reason for Nomination: (Required)
Additional Comments: (required)
Date received By City staff: 8/17/23
Reviewed by: Christopher Jensen
Approved by: (Department Head) Chastache Jense
Submit to City Council for Direction:
Date scheduled for review by Selection Committee: 9/25/23 Date person submitting nomination notified:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
MAY BE ATTACHED
7 Attachment
Biographical Information
Mr. John Slaton settled in the Merced area in the 1930s where he thrived as a businessperson and farmer. Notably, he resided on and managed a labor camp on the site that is now Flanagan Park. His remarkable journey, accompanied by his 17 children, led to the establishment of a family legacy deeply ingrained in business, agriculture, education, healthcare, community service, and sports which significantly contributed to the City of Merced and Merced County.
Among Mr. Slaton's sons, Jack, Arthur, and Walter stood out as industrious individuals in the trucking industry. Their reputation was so esteemed that the Department of Motor Vehicles would refer people in the community seeking truck driver's licenses to Jack for training and certification.
Furthermore, Arthur dedicated himself to hauling hay and raising livestock, making significant contributions to the local economy through his agricultural endeavors.
Walter's tenure at N&S Tractor spanned many years until his well-deserved retirement during which he made significant contributions to the community through his dedication and expertise in the field of agricultural machinery.
He played a crucial role in providing essential equipment and services to local farmers, contributing to the efficiency and productivity of agricultural operations in the Merced area.
Two other sons, Frank and James, pursued successful careers in education, making significant contributions to the community through their dedication to shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning.
Mr. Slaton's daughters, Annie, Fannie, and Ruth, made notable contributions as well, initially working in canneries before branching out to surrounding communities. They expanded their work in homemaking, beautician services, and public service which left a lasting impact on the community, embodying the Slaton family's commitment to service and community engagement.
Application for naming the shelter at Flanagan Park
The Slaton family boasts a diverse array of accomplished individuals, including published authors, college professors, attorneys, college and professional athletes, leaders of nationally recognized nonprofits, businesspersons, and entrepreneurs.
Civic Involvement
The descendants of the Slaton family have been instrumental in shaping the civic landscape of Merced. Their contributions extend to the founding of St. Matthews Church, Second Baptist Church, and Friendship Baptist Church-establishments that have become pillars of the community.
Furthermore, family descendants played pivotal roles in the Weaver School PTA and the establishment of Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops, nurturing the growth and development of the city's youth.
Another noteworthy accomplishment involves the instrumental role the family played in the establishment of "The Study Center," an adult learning facility situated that was located in Flanagan Park.
The Slaton family actively participated in the creation of Weaver Pre- School, with two family members proudly being part of its first graduating class.
Family members have served on both city and county boards and commissions, contributing to the governance and decision-making processes that shape Merced.
Moreover, their commitment to community service has manifested in roles as volunteer tax preparers at city hall, the senior center, and "The Study Center," embodying their dedication to supporting and assisting fellow community members.
Today, the Slaton family continues to be represented by members who have achieved remarkable success in educational leadership, healthcare, business, and finance domains.
Application for naming the shelter at Flanagan Park
Connection to the Site
The significance of the site under consideration is deeply intertwined with the Slaton family's history and connection to Merced. Once owned by family members, the land continues to be associated with the family. The Slaton's retain ownership of 5 acres adjacent to Flanagan Park, as well as parcels of land across the street
The park has served as the central gathering place for family events throughout the years. It holds particular importance as the venue for two annual family reunions: May Day, commemorating Mr. Slaton's arrival in the Merced area, and Labor Day, for the Annual Slaton Family Reunion.
This park serves as a historical and sentimental anchor, solidifying the Slaton family's connection and contribution to Merced. It represents a place of belonging and cherished memories within the Merced community.
Reason for Nomination
Our nomination to name the shelter at Flanagan Park after the Slaton family stems from our profound desire to commemorate the place we have long called home. We seek to honor the rich 100-year history of the pioneering Slaton family, which embodies the values of hard work, dedication, family, community, spiritual growth, education, and ultimate success.
We deeply recognize and appreciate our roots and the historic significance of being committed members of the Merced community, and we are driven by our ongoing dedication to its prosperity.
By naming the shelter at Flanagan Park after the Slaton family, we aim to preserve and celebrate not only our family's legacy but also the shared history of Merced itself. The Slaton family's contributions, spanning multiple generations and encompassing various fields, demonstrate a profound connection to the community. This naming of the shelter would serve as a lasting tribute to the collective efforts and accomplishments that have shaped Merced into the vibrant city it is today.
Application for naming the shelter at Flanagan Park
Moreover, the naming of the shelter at Flanagan Park would inspire future generations to uphold the values that the Slaton family embodies. It would serve as a symbol of pride, unity, and shared history, fostering a sense of belonging and aspiration among all who visit the park. The Slaton family's story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and community engagement, and by honoring their legacy, we create an enduring reminder of these values for generations to come.
In conclusion, we request your thoughtful consideration for naming the shelter at Flanagan Park after the Slaton family. This nomination represents not only a desire to honor our family's history but also a recognition of the indelible impact the Slaton family has had on the City of Merced.
By bestowing this honor, we celebrate the deep-rooted connection between the Slaton family and Merced, paying tribute to the values, achievements, and ongoing commitment that have shaped our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Thank you,
Tony Slaton
Application for naming the shelter at Flanagan Park