The Manhasset Park District held a cocktail party at Port Washington Yacht Club on Sunday, Sept. 12, to honor Commissioner Charles Jenkins. Commissioner Jenkins resigned from the Park District this summer and longtime civic activist Patricia Roberts was named to replace him on the board. At the cocktail party, Commissioner Jenkins was honored by state, county and town officials for his long service to Manhasset. Also honoring him were the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Manhasset Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club of Manhasset and the Manhasset Kiwanis Club.

Mr. Jenkins is a lifelong resident of Manhasset. He is the president and third generation owner of a family business, Snedeker-Jenkins Insurance Agency. He and his wife, Barbara, are the parents of a grown daughter and son.

"Commissioner Jenkins' departure from the board marks the end of an era at the park district," said Commissioner Michael C. Adams, chairman of the district's board. "His distinguished career spanned three decades and his expertise in both financial and technological matters were an extraordinary asset to the district."

Speaking for the Manhasset Chapter 5063 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Commander Selwyn (Gerry) Rudnick said that Commissioner Jenkins had worked hard for the VFW in its efforts, eventually successful, to establish a park dedicated to the Coast Guard ship, the Manhasset, which served in World War II. The park is located at the southwest corner of Northern Boulevard and Shelter Rock Road.

Brenda Damiani, president of the Rotary Club of Manhasset, told Commissioner Jenkins that the club had made a $500 contribution in his name to Children's House, a charity for which Mr. Jenkins had worked over the years. Making him an honorary member of the Kiwanis Club, Mr. Rudnick invited Commissioner Jenkins to join the club for lunch as their guest any Wednesday he is free.

A lighthearted touch to the evening came when Commissioner Adams invited Jenkins to cut the cake. The cake, which was commissioned by the Park District at Steiner's Bakery, was made in the shape of a Manhasset Park District parking meter. Never mind, it was delicious all the same.

Commissioner Jenkins thanked the community and all of Manhasset. "It has enabled me to have a good life, a good business and a wonderful wife and children."

- Brennan