Press Release: PBA Gives Mikey A New Bike

 On April 1, 2011 the Cranford Police Department received a call from a local merchant reporting that a Cranford resident had his bicycle stolen while it was parked in front of a downtown business.  It was later discovered that the bicycle belonged to Michael Pfahler, a life-long resident of Cranford and a special needs adult.  “Mikey” is known to ride his trademark red bicycle with fitted cup holder and radio throughout the downtown.  Many years ago he had taken a special liking to the Cranford Police Officers, who have also grown quite fond of him. 

Cranford PBA President Matthew Nazzaro said, “When the men and women of the Cranford Policemen’s Benevolent Association discovered that his bicycle was stolen, we were heartbroken.  The troops realized that since being victimized, Mikey was riding an older, worn bicycle that his father had put together from scrap parts.”   Nazzaro added, “Mikey even stopped at an off-duty officer’s home and inquired about the status of his stolen bike.”

After the PBA members became aware of Mikey’s situation they unanimously voted to replace Michael’s stolen bicycle with a new, specially ordered bicycle with appropriate equipment Mikey needs to safely ride.   They took up a collection from each member and purchased him a new bike, specially equipped with custom brakes.   Additionally, “Vince and Mike” from the Cranford Barber Shop on North Avenue, one of Mikey’s “stops” downtown, purchased new accessories for Mikey’s new bicycle including a radio, cup-holder and water bottle cage.  Tom from the Cranford Bike Shop on North Union Avenue was instrumental in ordering this replacement bicycle and its new accessories.

On Thursday May 5, 2011 at 2 pm the Cranford P.B.A. presented Michael with his new bike on the front lawn of the Police Department.  Cranford Police Chief Eric G. Mason, President of the NJSACOP, was a part of the presentation and provided a “Boomerang It” national bicycle license to affix to Mike’s new bicycle.

Officer Nazzaro said, “Although I am pleased that our membership agreed to purchase a new bike for Mikey, I have to say that I am not at all surprised.  Our members care for Mikey as if he were part of our family.”

Mikey is regularly included in PBA events such as picnics, parades, and National Night Out activities.