Honoring Zach's Legacy: The Zach Peterson Memorial Scholarship Empowers Automotive Dreams

The Zach Peterson Memorial Scholarship Committee recently convened to discuss the overwhelming community support and exciting plans for the future. Established to honor the late Zach Peterson, a 2017 graduate of James A. Garfield High School, the scholarship aims to assist students from Garfield and Windham High Schools who wish to pursue post-secondary training in Automotive Service or Auto Body Repair.

Empowering the Next Generation of Automotive Professionals

Celebrating Zach's Legacy and Community Generosity

The Zach Peterson Memorial Scholarship Committee, composed of Dale Belnap, Michelle Zivoder, Kyle Heim, Dylan John, and Brandon Nutter, along with advisory roles held by Zach's family members – Dan & Jama Peterson, Krista Hardway, and Terry Peterson – expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the community's unwavering support. The committee's recent fundraising efforts, including sponsorships, donations, and the successful Labor Day car show hosted by Nelson Ledges Race Track, have laid a solid foundation for the scholarship program's future.

Expanding Opportunities for Automotive Aspirants

The scholarship will not only support high school graduates from James A. Garfield and Windham High Schools but will also aid incoming-juniors from these schools who are entering the automotive program at Maplewood Career Center during the 2025-2026 school year. This comprehensive approach ensures that the scholarship reaches a wider range of students, empowering them to pursue their dreams in the automotive industry.

Collaborative Efforts with Guidance Counselors

The committee is working closely with the Windham and Garfield guidance counselors to make the scholarship application process accessible to eligible students. This collaborative effort will help identify and support deserving individuals who are passionate about automotive service or auto body repair, ensuring that the scholarship reaches those who can truly benefit from the opportunity.

Celebrating Zach's Legacy through the Car Show

The Labor Day car show, hosted by Nelson Ledges Race Track, was a resounding success, providing a platform to honor Zach Peterson's memory. Trophies designed and fabricated by Zach's brother-in-law, Ron Hardway, were awarded to several participants, with Chris Hoge taking home the prestigious Best of Show prize for his 1969 Camaro. The event's strong attendance and the community's generosity have laid the groundwork for the committee to continue offering scholarships in the years to come.

Recognizing the Car Show Winners

The car show featured a diverse array of automotive masterpieces, with winners in various categories. Craig Strock's 1951 Truck took the GM Category, Dee Waters' 1971 Cuda won the Mopar Category, Joe Sisak's 1948 Ford Coup claimed the Ford Category, and Mike Branam's 1949 Jeepster triumphed in the Other Category. The Motorcycle Category was won by Roy Davis' 2010 Harley Trike, while Mike Pawles' 55 Chevy Truck took the 4x4 Category, and Ron & Nancy Learn's 1932 Coup was the Hot Rod Category winner.

Acknowledging the Contributions of Supporters

The Zach Peterson Memorial Scholarship Committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to Brian Ross of Nelson Ledges Race Track and all the car show participants, sponsors, and vendors who contributed to the event's success. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in establishing a solid foundation for the scholarship program, ensuring its continued growth and impact in the years to come.