RSS 2.0 FeedThursday, December 1, 2011, Wantagh Seaford Citizen
Winter Ball honors three from Wantagh
Chamber gathers for annual event.
FAMILIES OF HONOREES: The families of Meenan Oil Executive, Jack Poyer; Nassau County Police Officer Michael Califano; and Nassau County Police Technician Steven Linzer gathered at the Winter Ball ceremony and dinner sponsored by the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce. Among the speakers at the event were County Legislator Dave Denenberg (left), and Winter Ball Producer and Wantagh Chamber of Commerce President Chris Brown (right). Photo courtesy of Rich O’Neil
Last week, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce and Meenan Oil hosted a “Winter Ball,” a ceremony and dinner at the Westbury Manor. Its purpose was to recognize and honor three Wantagh residents who died this year; all within months of one another.
They were Meenan Oil executive John “Jack” Poyer; Nassau County Police Officer Michael Califano, and Nassau County Police Technician Stephen Linzer. Each, in his own individual way, was exemplary in the life he led, in his love and devotion to his families and friends, and his commitment to his community and co-workers.
Over a 30 year career as sales executive with Meenan Oil, Wantagh businessman Jack Poyer was often recognized for his outstanding salesmanship and very special relationships he maintained with his customers. “Jack was among those members of the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce who was continually active and enthusiastic.” said chamber President, Chris Brown. “We could always count on Jack’s participation in virtually all chamber-produced events in the community. Simply put, Jack loved Wantagh!” As part of their Winter Ball ceremony, the Wantagh Chamber of Commerce and Meenan Oil honored Jack’s memory.
Police Officer Michael Califano was honored for his dedication and promise to keep Nassau County a safe place to live and work. There has been a lot written about his bravery and sacrifices. In his four years as a highway patrol officer, Michael was praised by his fellow officers for his bright, enthusiastic outlook and his loyalty and reliability, both on and off the job. He was a devoted husband and father of three. Michael’s bravery and memory was honored at the Winter Ball, with the John Murray Jr. Scholarship Award presented to his family.
Saving lives was the driving force behind County Police Technician Steven Linzer’s life. It’s not possible to calculate the number of lives Steve has helped save. He had certifications in EMT and AEMT early in life. His service included working with Mercy Ambulance, Long Beach Hospital EMS, and Lutheran Hospital, and the Nassau County Police Department’s Emergency Ambulance Bureau. He also volunteered with the Fire Departments of Long Beach and Wantagh. On March 15, Steve was admitted to Winthrop with a massive leg infection and later died. He was a loving and dedicated husband to Irene and father of three. Steven’s life and memory was also honored at the Winter Ball, with the presentation of the first annual John (Jack) Poyer Scholarship Award, presented to his family.
Chris Brown added, “There are many citizens in Wantagh and surrounding towns, young people and adults alike, who seem to devote much of their personal time for the benefit of their community and to those in need. The Wantagh Chamber of Commerce Winter Ball enabled our businesses and families in the community to recognize and applaud three of these heroes. It’s the thanks, praise and appreciation they may not have often heard, but certainly deserve.”
