A special dedication was held Saturday at the Slatington D&L Trailhead Pavilion to honor the memories of two visionaries for the Slatington area.

A plaque was unveiled in the pavilion, dedicated to Peter J. Papay, by his wife, Karen Papay.

The plaque reads, “This building is dedicated to his memory, whose vision has become reality. Peter J. Papay.”

“This means so much to me,” Karen Papay said, “because he gave everything heart and soul to this project. Thank you so much for all your love and dedication and helping him make this possible.”

Two plaques were unveiled in the restroom facility next to the pavilion, dedicated to Kenneth “Buzzy” Rabenold. Buzzy’s wife, Pat Rabenold, and daughter-in-law Amanda Rabenold uncovered the plaques.

Both plaques read, “Bathroom Accessories donated by family and friends in loving memory of Kenneth “Buzzy” Rabenold.”

The pavilion and bathrooms are maintained by the Venture Group, which is made up of volunteers from many of the nonprofit organizations in the Slatington area, including the Lions, Rotary, Masons, the Walnutport Playground Association, the Walnutport Canal Association, and others.

“Pete (Papay) came up with this idea for the pavilion in 2003 and we formed the Northern Lehigh Venture Group because of it,” explained Nancy Treskot. “Without the dedication of these people in this community, we would not have anything as beautiful as this.”

Treskot thanked everyone who helped in the projects, including Jeffrey and Crystal Hausman; the Penn Big Bed Slate Company, Slatington; the Borough of Slatington; Mayor Jeralyn Schoch; and all the members of the Venture Group.

Buzzy Rabenold’s wife, Pat, also announced that this year would be the 2nd Cruising Classic Car Cruise in Memory of Buzzy, will be held June 11 beginning at Becky’s Drive-In.

“Last year we donated the money raised to the Venture Group,” Pat Rabenold explained. “Thank you Venture Group, and the Borough of Slatington for all you do.