Stalco Construction donates $49,000 Gravesend Cycle Motorcycle to CFK

An episode of Discovery HD Theater cable network's new show "Two Wheel Thunder: American Icon" culminated in Stalco Construction, Inc.'s president Alan Nahmias donating a $49,000 Gravesend Cycles motorcycle to the Long Island charity Contractors For Kids (CFK). The motorcycle, named Gravesend Bklyn and custom manufactured by "Copper Mike" Cole of Gravesend Cycles, features a belt drive bearing Contractors for Kids' name, designed by N.Y.C. artist Carol Mittlesdorf. Nahmias said, "As a co-founder of Contractors For Kids, I'm very proud to have the opportunity to purchase this stunningly beautiful, American-made machine from Gravesend Cycles and donate it to CFK to be auctioned off. I would like to thank Copper Mike for donating a portion of his proceeds to CFK and express my gratitude to Discovery HD Theater network and WATV Productions for making Stalco Construction and CFK a part of the show." "Two Wheel Thunder: American Icon" is produced by WATV Productions and will be aired on Discovery HD Theater cable network's Motorcycle Mondays, starting in June. Model and "First Lady of Motorcycles" Michele Smith and motorcycle veteran, producer and writer Jay Barbieri co-host the show. The show presents the world of V-twin motorcycles at bike shows, rallies and other events across the country. Along the way, Michele stops off at historic locations, where she finds true slices of grassroots Americana and immerses the audience in the unique motorcycle lifestyle. Co-founded by Stalco Construction's principals Nahmias and Kevin Harney, Contractors For Kids is one the largest Long Island charities supported by the building community. Founded in 2005, CFK financially assists families struck by serious childhood illness and has attracted enthusiastic support from over 300 builders, architects, engineers, real estate firms, and other businesses. In the first five years of existence, CFK has raised approximately $2 million and assisted nearly 200 families by funding medical procedures, travel, equipment, long-term care, mortgage payments, and, sadly, funeral expenses. Information on CFK's activities is available at www.contractorsforkids.com. Gravesend Cycle's Michael Cole, a master builder of handmade bikes, is as passionate about riding as he is meticulous about engineering and fine finishes. Over the past five years, national and international collectors have begun to catch on to a talent that east coast motorcycle aficionados have known about for years. "Copper Mike," as he is known in riding circles, brings an artisanal touch to each of his one-off creations, infusing them with personality and flawless detailing both inside and outside. The results are perfectly tuned driving machines that are equally at home on the road or in a gallery. His client base comprises riders and collectors, who recognize the sophisticated blend of vintage authenticity with contemporary edge. Expanding beyond his roots in Brooklyn and Long Island, his bikes have been featured in exhibitions in France and Monte Carlo. Cole has attracted a growing following in Europe, where his bikes are seen as emblems of American style. His distinctive choppers and bobbers have also received honors at all major U.S. motorcycle shows.