Established in honor of Antonio “Bear” Saltalamacchia Macri, an incredibly talented Automotive Technician and avid car enthusiast, Bear’s Cars Memorial Fund will award trade school scholarships annually to graduating seniors from Orange County high schools.  Preference will be given to students in the BOCES Automotive program who are looking to take the next step towards their career.  Applicants of any trade interest are welcome.

Antonio, also known as “Bear” or “Tony”, passed away at the age of 24 in a tragic car accident.  Bear was a decorated Volkswagen technician with skill well beyond his age.  Loved in his community, Bear could bump into someone he knew at car events up and down the East Coast.  With the talent he held, many members of the local car community are able to say that Bear played a part in the building or maintenance of their vehicle.  He was the go-to guy for great work, done right the first time. Eager to learn more and expand his skills by the day, and always willing to lend a helping hand, seldom was there a job he’d turn away.

Bear was the person you’d call day or night when you needed a helping hand, a word of advice, or a shoulder to cry on. Truly a selfless, honest, and trustworthy human being who would give the shirt off his back for anyone in need.  A shining light of kindness and caring. We’re blessed to call him a son, a brother, and a friend. This fund will carry on his values and legacy for years to come.

Bear’s Cars Memorial Fund is looking for students with a passion for their trade that resembles the passion Bear held for automotive service and repair.

Applications not yet available.

The 2024 Bear’s Cars Season Opener is April 28th from 11am-4pm at Thomas Bull Memorial Park! Visit the link below to support this event!