Walkway dedicated to memory of school board president

More than 50 people gathered to dedicate a walkway at Gardnerville Elementary School in memory Connie Wennhold.

Wennhold, whose sons went to the Valley's oldest elementary school, was remembered as an advocate for the school and its children.

President of the Douglas County School Board when she died in April 2007, Wennhold was a member of the Gardnerville parent teacher association and a constant presence in the school's classrooms.

The walk consists of a gray brick path lined with laser-engraved donor bricks leading to a fenced off lawn with flowers planted next to the school.

The walk was built by Boy Scouts James Lawrence III and Steven Mathews. Wennhold was an active in both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.

"After everything that Connie did for us, we wanted to build a living memorial, so people won't forget her," Mathews said.

Mike Henningsen said Wennhold was a tireless supporter of the scouts.

Husband George and son Adam Wennhold attended the ceremony.

"Today we are grateful for all of you," Adam said.

George Wennhold thanked those who built and supported construction of the walkway.

"The young people present, Boy Scouts, Eagle Scouts and Life Scouts and their helpers and supporters put this park together," he said. "You the community aided them in these tighter money times with your checkbooks. This park, by its rock, brick, concrete, steel and mortar will be here as long as the people wish it."

Wennhold pointed out that the walkway will be a place for children.

"Its flowers will be picked and pulled," he said. "Its fence will be a crawling underplace, its grass will put grass stains on knees, maybe to a mom's chagrin and gentle scolding. May those hollyhock seeds be scattered by many little hands to bloom and grow."

A plaque stands next to the entrance of the walkway with a dedication written by Marshall Jessup, who read it aloud.

Lawrence and Mathews thanked Full Circle Compost and Florence Fences for supplies for the park. J.R. Beres received thanks for making the sign for the park and mounting the plaque.