ADVA District Service Officer takes home top honors at local car show

Pete Peterson, a District Veteran Service Officer with the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA), won “Best in Show” with his 1964 El Camino on Saturday, March 29, in Conway, Arkansas.

 The event was sponsored by the Arkansas Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association and held at the Toad Suck Harley Davidson.

 “My aunt and uncle initially bought this car in 1964 and sold it to my father in 1977. I joined the Navy in 1981. The car had been sitting in the barn for my entire enlistment, of 26 years,” Peterson said.

The truck was written off as junk as it rusted in an outdoor barn. In January 2019, a childhood friend helped Peterson perform a complete restoration. 

“I didn’t know how to weld, so I learned a lot about mechanical operations. We completely rebuilt the motor and rewired the car. We added air conditioning and upgraded digital features, such as a backup camera and stereo system, Peterson said.

The truck still has the original nostalgic look but now includes modern features.

This year marks the 5th year for the Car and Bike show. The public was treated to live music, food, and a raffle for prizes.

“I think what people appreciate about this car is that it wasn’t bought. Each nut and bolt was replaced on that car. It’s an incredible honor to have been chosen out of dozens of other show cars.”

All proceeds from the event were donated to Arkansas veteran charities.

Story by Mark Woodall