HRC TEAM
Anthony (TJ) Granata
In 2010, Anthony laid the foundation for Hot Rod Coalition Inc. in the heart of Fresno, California. What started as a fervent passion project swiftly blossomed into a consuming dedication, seamlessly woven into the after-hours of his teaching profession. Throughout the years, Anthony has steered the orchestration of over 70 magnificent classic car events under the banner of his esteemed events company.
Amidst the devoted hours invested in Hot Rod Coalition, Anthony treasures precious moments with his cherished wife, Layla, and their two delightful children: Sullivan Eddie, a daredevil of a 7-year-old, and Sutton Vaughn, a precious 4-month-old. Beyond the classic car community, Anthony finds solace in the rhythmic waves while surfing along the shores of Morro Bay. He finds solace in the camaraderie of friends at Midtown Church and in fostering meaningful connections with neighbors in the vibrant community of Old Fig Garden. Having the opportunity to serve the classic car community has been a blessing beyond measure. As a self-professed hater of car shows, Anthony sets out to continuously evolve HRC events and push on the traditions of a typical “lawn chair” car show model. We look forward to see what HRC has in store for the Valley car scene.
George Knott
In the early evening of that memorable Friday in April 2012, a parade of classic cars streamed into Park Place Shopping Center, overwhelming the HRC Parking Team. Amidst the chaos, a ruggedly handsome man stepped forward, offering assistance to Anthony with a hearty, "Hey! Looks like you could use some help."
Since that fateful night, George has dedicated countless hours to the Hot Rod Coalition and the cherished classic car community. Despite grappling with an undeniable addiction to cars and dirt bikes, George remains an integral part of our group—his passion driving our endeavors forward. Hot Rod Coalition owes much of its existence to George's unwavering commitment.
What began as a "work release program" has transformed into an enduring fixture in George's life. He effortlessly rallies his entire family to our events, from his supportive bride, "Cool Chick" Kathy, to his children and even his adoring grandkids. George's presence at the shows is a testament to his infectious enthusiasm—his smile a beacon of genuine joy, unless, of course, you're among the reckless few tempted to leave with a screeching burnout. For those individuals, George's disappointment is a force to reckon with—a lesson he imparts sparingly yet sternly.
The next time you cross paths with George, take a moment to express your gratitude for his invaluable service. He embodies the spirit of dedication and passion that defines the heart of our community.
Amidst a scorching summer's day, as HRC embarked on a jaunt to O'Reilly Auto Parts' newest spot in a quaint farming town, a magnificent 1962 burgundy Ford pickup caught the eye of many volunteers. Parking the convoy, a handful of us gravitated toward the vehicle, captivated not just by the truck's allure, but by its remarkably young and exuberant owner. In that moment, two things became clear: firstly, we absolutely needed that truck for our prized indoor show at the Valley Nationals, and secondly, this young individual had to be part of the Hot Rod Coalition to help us elevate the Valley's premier events.
Seven years have passed since the day we met Cody, and his presence alongside his wife, Candice, and their two boys, Corbin and Cohen, has become an integral part of our extended family. Balancing his role as a Firefighter Captain/Paramedic, Cody graciously dedicates what little free time he has to support HRC, lending his expertise in managing social media, coordinating events, and serving as the sole maestro behind our celebrated indoor showcase at the Valley Nationals.
In a poignant exchange with his late uncle years ago, Cody asked, "Why are you so into classic cars?" His response echoed with profound sincerity: "It's about nostalgia and making memories." These sentiments resonate deeply within HRC's ethos, shaping Cody's devotion to preserving his uncle's legacy through his love for cars. Notably, Cody boasts a fleet including a full-race Model A Roadster, a T-Bird (technically his wife's car), and, of course, his cherished 1959 Ford Pickup. Admittedly, we concur - he might just have a delightful obsession!
Cody Clem
Dierdra Williams
Dierdra, affectionately known as "DD," stands as the cornerstone of Hot Rod Coalition's food & beverage team, being the first paid employee to grace our ranks. Her value is immeasurable as she effortlessly wears numerous hats for our boutique auto events company. A virtuoso in her domain, she singularly manages the food booth at all our events, ensuring seamless operations even in the face of staff shortages. For over a decade, Dierdra has been tantalizing the hot rod community's taste buds with her delectable Polish dogs, and her dedication shows no signs of waning. Often flanked by her husband, Jeff, and a troop of teenage friends belonging to her two daughters, she orchestrates a delicious symphony at our events.
Yet, DD isn't merely a master of hot dog slinging; she has woven herself intricately into the very fabric of Hot Rod Coalition. Her role extends beyond tasks to decision-making, executed with unwavering precision, thereby imprinting her mark on the vibrant culture of HRC. Her presence is indispensable, shaping our collective identity, and we simply couldn't envision Hot Rod Coalition without her invaluable contributions.
Pete Gavrilis epitomizes dedication, not just through his remarkable 30-year tenure in ministry at The Peoples Church, but also as the curator of a meticulously restored green 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Pickup.
Pastor Pete's journey intertwined with founder Anthony Granata in the Jr. High department of the church. Alongside his radiant wife, Elaine, they led the Jr. High ministry, embarking on countless adventures with Anthony and a cohort of spiritual misfits. Pete orchestrated a highly successful car show boasting over 400 cars at The Peoples Church for years. Upon his retirement, the event slowed, and thankfully, we managed to coax him over to HRC.
Sharing his profound love for classic cars, Pastor Pete engages this passion with his wife of 55 years, his daughter Kellie, her husband Brad, and their four cherished grandchildren: Camden, Hunter, Kennedy, & Preston. At any HRC event, Pete is the welcoming face greeting attendees, managing gate fees, and ensuring everyone feels embraced as they arrive. Witnessing Pastor Pete's unwavering commitment to serving the classic car community is a true privilege for all of us at HRC, as we're incredibly blessed to share life's journey with him.
Pastor Pete Gavrilis
Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm proud to introduce the vibrant personality that is Lawn Chair Larry, the heart and soul of Hot Rod Coalition! Larry made his debut on our radar over a decade ago at Pastor Pete’s car show at Peoples Church, and from that moment, we knew he was destined to be the unmistakable voice of Hot Rod Coalition. Despite our persistent efforts to coax him away from the clutches of Pastor Pete, fate intervened when the Peoples Church car show concluded, paving the way for us to welcome Larry into the HRC family.
For the past six years, Larry has not only been the captivating voice of Hot Rod Coalition but also the charismatic face of all of our events. By day, he showcases his technical prowess as a technician engineer at K-LOVE Radio, part of the EMF Broadcasting family. Although Larry hails from a large and tight-knit family, he is currently single and ready to mingle.
Larry's infectious enthusiasm for his role at HRC shines through as he takes pride in spending quality time with spectators, forging connections, and making friends at every event. His genuine joy comes from witnessing the smiles and laughter of attendees in front of his DJ booth, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
When he's not immersed in his 8 to 5 job or commanding the stage as a master of ceremonies at our events, Larry generously dedicates his time as a volunteer pastor at Peoples Church. Be sure to swing by the DJ booth and extend a warm greeting the next time you attend one of our many local events – Larry would love to meet you and make your experience even more memorable!
“Lawn Chair” Larry
Layla Granata
In 2010, the seeds of Hot Rod Coalition were sown when Anthony Granata, our founder, shared his idea with his brilliant wife, Layla. With a wealth of experience and a keen sense for business, Layla is more than just a spouse to Anthony, our founder – she is a strategic mind contributing to the growth and prosperity of HRC. Her insights and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the culture of our venture, making her an indispensable part of our leadership team.
Over a decade later, Hot Rod Coalition stands stronger than ever, and a significant part of its success can be attributed to the invaluable advice and guidance Layla provides to her husband and the HRC team. Anthony's emotional nature is well-known, and Layla excels at being the calming influence, helping him refocus his energy and offering a fresh perspective.
As a full-time mom to two children, Sullivan and Sutton, Layla wears many hats. In addition to her role as a top-producing real estate agent in Fresno County, partnered with Nader Assemi at SME Real Estate, she brings her wisdom and winning attitude to every aspect of Hot Rod Coalition – from events and meetings to vision casting sessions.
Despite having zero free time, Layla's commitment to HRC is unwavering. Whether she's multitasking with a baby strapped to her chest or keeping up with a seven-year-old and his car show buddies, Layla is always ready to roll up her sleeves and dive in. Her deep understanding of every nook and cranny of this local events company makes her an invaluable asset in every facet.
It's not an exaggeration to say that Hot Rod Coalition would have folded many times without Layla's encouragement and support. Her presence has been instrumental in steering the ship through various storms, and her commitment ensures that the legacy of Hot Rod Coalition continues to thrive.
Mary Aguirre
Mary Aguirre, the classic car community resident car show photographer and one of the vibrant faces of Hot Rod Coalition. Mary isn't just behind the lens; she's the creative force that captures the essence and excitement of our events.
Selfless, talented, and friendly, Mary brings a unique touch to her photography that goes beyond just pictures. Her lens tells stories, freezing moments in time that reflect the passion and energy of the Hot Rod Coalition community.
Mary's talent isn't just limited to technical skills; it's her ability to connect with people that sets her apart. Whether she's capturing the sleek lines of a classic car or the joyous expressions of event participants, Mary's work reflects not just the cars but the camaraderie and shared love for the automotive culture.
As one of the friendly faces you'll encounter at our events, Mary embodies the spirit of Hot Rod Coalition. Her dedication to showcasing the heart and soul of the community through her lens makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Next time you see Mary capturing the magic of a engine or the gleam of a custom paint job, remember that she's not just a photographer; she's a storyteller, weaving the narrative of Hot Rod Coalition through the art of her lens.
Mario Rivera, the unsung hero and one of the most indispensable members of the Hot Rod Coalition (HRC) family. Mario isn't just a staff member; he's the clutch performer ensuring the seamless flow of hundreds of cars at our events. With a wealth of expertise in traffic safety, his value is truly unmatched.
For over nine years, Mario has dedicated his passion and skill to HRC. His role goes beyond merely parking cars; he orchestrates the movement of a multitude of vehicles, turning each event into a well-choreographed spectacle. By day, Mario serves as a maintenance engineer, bringing decades of experience in handling industrial machinery. Interestingly, his connection with HRC runs deep, as he was friends with Anthony's father for over 20 years before meeting Anthony himself.
What Mario loves most about his position is the ability to witness every single car that enters through the gates and connect with the many fantastic individuals attending our events. His commitment extends beyond the asphalt, as he's been married to his beautiful bride for an impressive 38 years, and together they have two wonderful daughters who occasionally volunteer at our events.
Mario's dedication reached new heights this past year when he played a pivotal role in the success of our truck show within the Valley Nationals. As a proud member of the Central California C10 club, his Chevy long bed stands out as one of the cleanest pickups at any event, making appearances at numerous gatherings across the West Coast. Mario, with his meticulous attention to detail, contributes significantly to the aesthetic appeal of our events.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mario for all he does and sacrifices for the car community. His commitment and passion make him an invaluable asset to the HRC family.
Mario Rivera
Meet Andy Minassian, an integral part of the Hot Rod Coalition family, dedicated to our cause for over six years. Andy's infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for the diverse personalities within our team make him a standout member.
In his inaugural year with Hot Rod Coalition, Andy demonstrated his commitment by volunteering to distribute posters throughout the city of Clovis. Little did we know, his efforts would result in a citywide poster takeover! Andy's dedication to promoting his favorite hobby turned out to be a game-changer for us, showcasing his exceptional skills as a distributing machine.
Andy plays a crucial role in the success of our events. From collecting entry fees at the front gate to expertly parking cars and assisting in booth setup, he is a versatile and indispensable asset to our team. His contribution forms a vital piece of our successful puzzle.
Outside of his HRC duties, Andy wears the hat of a government analyst. When he's not immersed in his professional role, he cherishes moments with his bride of 35 years, four kids, and five grandkids. However, when the streets beckon, you'll find Andy tearing through them in his high school Firebird, adding an extra dash of excitement to his life.
Andy's dedication, enthusiasm, and multifaceted contributions make him a cherished member of the HRC family. We're grateful for the passion and energy he brings to every task, ensuring the continued success of our events.
Andy Minassian
Jovanna Tobar
Walking in on the red carpet is Jovanna, the driving force behind the extraordinary success of our HRC events as the orchestrator of our vendor market. With a history as a vendor spanning many years, fate took over and last year Jovanna assumed control of all our vendor organizing, leading to unparalleled success.
By day, she serves as a dedicated social worker, providing support to families with children of special needs. However, when the sun sets and the weekend arrives, Jovanna seamlessly transitions into the role of an event planner, lending her expertise to gatherings across the Central Valley.
The decision to extend a job offer to Jovanna brought immense joy when she accepted. Alongside her is her supportive fiancé, William, they both effortlessly blend into group of knuckleheads, adding a perfect touch of professionalism and camaraderie. Jovanna, a proud mother of four grown children, is part of a boisterous and close-knit family that engages in every activity together.
Jovanna thrives on the laughter and fellowship at all of our HRC meetings and events. Her meticulous organizational skills and dedication elevated our marketplace to unprecedented heights, marking a pinnacle in our 12-year history. As we look to the future, the sky is truly the limit for Jovanna, and we are eagerly anticipating the remarkable journey she will lead our HRC marketplace on.
With her passion and the unwavering support of our vibrant community, Jovanna's tenure promises to be a thrilling chapter in the ongoing success story of HRC events. We are excited to witness the incredible strides she will make, shaping the future of our vendor experience.
Chuck Long
Chuck Long, a dedicated member of the Hot Rod Coalition for over eight years. His journey with the classic car community began back in 2001 when he and founder, Anthony, shared the same obsession for full-size Chevy trucks and found ourselves in the same truck club, Insane Images. Years later we reconnected at church, Chuck hopped on board to contribute to the growth of the local Hot Rod scene.
By day, Chuck is immersed in the world of construction, working with one of the largest rebar distributors on the West Coast. Beyond his professional life, Chuck is a devoted family man, happily married with two beautiful children. He proudly represents the Cen Cal C-10 truck club when skating low down the street in his early sixties C-10 pickup.
Chuck's involvement extends beyond the scenes of construction and family life. At Hot Rod Coalition events, he takes charge of the apparel booth, ensuring that every hat or T-shirt purchase is handled with care. However, Chuck's commitment goes beyond transactions; he readily steps in to assist with any challenges that may arise, whether it's managing long registration lines or handling event logistics.
What sets Chuck apart is not just his role in the apparel booth but his genuine zest for life and dedication to helping others. With an understanding that tomorrow is never promised, Chuck approaches each day with enthusiasm, making every interaction with participants a meaningful and positive experience. In the vibrant world of Hot Rod Coalition, Chuck Long stands out as a passionate and helpful force, that points to Jesus each time he shows up.
Merle, the unsung hero of many Hot Rod Coalition events, stands as a dedicated volunteer staff member. In the hustle and bustle of event management, Merle shines as someone who takes charge and makes executive decisions to promptly resolve any issues that arise.
As retired corrections officer, Merle's demeanor is anything but the typical stereotype; he engages with participants at with a perpetual smile. Merle takes on crucial roles such as checking in registered participants at the Old Town Motorama, the Valley Nationals and he works with Pastor Pete at the front gate at Rods on the Bluff events.
While Merle occasionally misses some shows due to his love for sunny days at his vacation house in Pismo Beach, his dedication to Hot Rod Coalition remains unwavering. His correctional background comes to the forefront when dealing with car owners attempting to sneak in for free or demand discounts at the front gate in their six-figure cars.
Beyond his organizational prowess, Merle is a skilled classic car builder. His beautiful Nova, has stacked up countless trophies, stands testament to his craftsmanship. Recently, he completed a full restoration on his wife's Nova, and together they cruise all over the valley in the central coast.
The Hot Rod Coalition in the San Joaquin Valley owes much of its success to Merle's exceptional leadership and servants attitude. His multifaceted contributions, from event management to classic car craftsmanship, make Merle a cornerstone of the Hot Rod Coalition movement.
Merle Heggen
Gabby Carder
Gabby Carter is a zesty and feisty hotdog slinger that is always ready to back up her girl DD in the HRC food booth. Who would have known that when Anthony’s son, Sullivan, started preschool back in 2018, that his teacher would be Mrs. Gabby Carter. In no time at all, between pickups and drop-offs, Anthony convinced her be a part of our events. Since then, her husband has been hired part-time by HRC and they’ve moved across the street from the Granata’s. Gabby and her husband Andrew are important pieces to Hot Rod Coalitions success. When DD, our food booth coordinator, has had to be absent for for events due to different reasons, Gabby has jumped in to assume responsibilities in the food booth. She is always willing to help out where she is needed and you can count on her to bring the party. Events can be stressful and sometimes a bit overwhelming but when Gabby is in the house, she makes everything feel safe and light. Thank you for your continued support of the local hot rod scene
Mr. Andrew Carder is our invaluable Director of Maintenance for our team. Andrew's role extends far beyond just towing trailers and setting up event grounds – he ensures that every venue we touch looks even better when we leave than when we arrived. When Anthony was feeling the weight of burnout, Andrew stepped in, and the relief was palpable.
Andrew's proactive approach to handling various tasks, from setup to tear down, has had a transformative impact. His efficiency not only elevates the overall quality of our events but also liberates volunteer staff to focus on their passions within the Hot Rod Coalition.
Beyond his contributions to our events, Andrew shares a wonderful marriage with Gabby, who is also an integral part of our team. As neighbors to the Granata family, they’ve form a tight-knit community that has spilled over into Hot Rod Coalition.
Looking ahead, we anticipate the continued growth and evolution of Andrew's role within HRC. His dedication, combined with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, promises a bright future for both Andrew and the Hot Rod Coalition. We're grateful for his service and eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will continue to make in the days to come.
Andrew Carter
Melissa McKenney
There's a certain spell that Anthony must put on people that draws many into the HRC fold, especially if you work at the same elementary school as he does. Before you know it, you'll find yourself employed or volunteering at Hot Rod Coalition car shows. Just ask Melissa, who can't quite pinpoint how she became the go-to person for all registrations coming through the Hot Rod Coalition website and snail mail.
Processing over a thousand registrations annually, Melissa has taken on the crucial responsibility of managing this influx. From communicating with participants to providing them with the essential information they need before each show, Melissa has become the linchpin in the registration process.
While Melissa's role doesn't demand a substantial time investment each week throughout the year, the approach of shows unveils her meticulous attention to detail. When the pressure is on, Melissa rises to the occasion, ensuring that every registration is handled with precision and participants are well-informed.
In the whirlwind of activity that Anthony seems to generate, Melissa stands out as the organized force that keeps the registration process running smoothly. Her dedication and knack for managing details make her an indispensable part of the Hot Rod Coalition, ensuring that each event unfolds seamlessly
Andy McTavish
Andy McTavish, a true enthusiast whose addiction to old cars is simply unshakeable. Despite being with us for just three years, Andy has proven to be a standout volunteer staff member, showcasing his unique talents across a spectrum of tasks. His versatility knows no bounds, as he seamlessly transitions from setting up the night before an event to running errands during the week, all while juggling responsibilities like working the front gate at major events with his two kids, Titus and Riley. Oh and did I mention that Andy holds an upper level management position in Industrial Automation Sales?
Andy is the epitome of a hands-on team member, contributing to various aspects such as the food booth, judging cars, tearing down, registration, and ensuring the orderly parking of classics. His dedication and diverse skill set make him the kind of staff member who could easily run an event like Rods on the Bluff in the absence of leadership.
Now, you might be wondering about the dynamics at home. Andy openly acknowledges his wife's patience and understanding amidst the whirlwind of his car-centric lifestyle – from the constant buying and selling to late-night garage sessions and weekend events. Over a cold beer, Andy proudly professes that he's a lucky man to have such a supportive bride.
The McTavish crew have become an integral part of the HRC family. Their involvement brings not just skills and dedication but also a sense of fun and camaraderie to our team. We feel incredibly blessed to have Andy and his family with us and eagerly anticipate fun we’ll all have together.
Carl Bicshel
Carl "The Mopar Man" Bischel, a dedicated member of HRC for over six years and a prominent leader in the esteemed San Joaquin Valley Mopars car club. Carl's extensive knowledge and leadership in the car community are valuable assets, enhancing our event team meetings and guiding executive decisions.
Beyond his contributions to HRC, Carl successfully manages his local small business, Glass King. The lessons learned as a sole proprietor add a unique perspective that makes him even more invaluable to the Coalition.
As an events company specializing in hot rods, Carl's expertise becomes pivotal when judging the rarity of various muscle cars. Brother Bischel, as he is affectionately known, provides judges with enlightening history lessons on each model, Mopar or not. Despite being a relatively young member in the car community, Carl's decades of experience make him well-connected and respected among fellow gearheads.
Carl's influence extends beyond our immediate community, allowing us to connect effectively with the muscle car community. His involvement ensures that we navigate the intricacies of the car world without appearing out of place. So, if you happen to spot a shirtless hunk, casually holding a Coors original can, sporting a wicker cowboy hat, chances are it's Brother Carl Bischel making his distinctive mark.
Lauren Noviielli
Introducing Anthony Granata’s boss at work, seriously, Mrs. Novi is the Vice Principal and gets to call the shots from 8 - 5. When not leading the charge for Clovis Unified, Lauren is one of the friendly faces you'll find at our registration booth. Beyond being a welcoming presence, Lauren is the organizational wizard who ensures that everything runs smoothly, from spreadsheets to behind-the-scenes coordination.
Proficient in all things Google, Lauren leverages her tech-savvy skills to streamline our registration process. Her ability to navigate the digital realm with ease translates into a seamless and efficient experience for participants, making the registration booth a hub of efficiency.
With a passion for precision and a knack for keeping things in order, Lauren is not just a registration booth attendant; she's a key player in the orchestration of our events. Thank you Lauren for all of your time and effort over the years, we wouldn’t be nearly as dialed in if it wasn’t for you and the talents you share with us..
Copper Berrios
Cooper Berrios slays at raffle ticket sales, consistently outperforming the other HRC volunteers with his exceptional sales skills. In 2023, Anthony, our founder, presented Cooper with a challenge, acknowledging his potential. As one of Mr. Anthony Granata's favorite students from back in fourth grade, Cooper received a special proposition: he could earn 25% of his earnings from the raffle ticket sales, with the condition that it would contribute towards him purchasing a new bike. This “want” was born out of necessity, as his previous bicycle was stolen while locked up at school.
To everyone's amazement, within just two hours of the event, Cooper had already surpassed the total number of raffle tickets sold throughout the entirety of 2022. His talent transcends the classic car community; he is revered on his school campus as a natural leader, a friend to all, and a shining example of exemplary character.
At Hot Rod Coalition, we take immense pride in Cooper's achievements and the way he embodies our values. We eagerly anticipate many more years of collaboration with Cooper and his family at HRC events.