The Executive Director of Hot August Nights is resigning, effective immediately, and his wife's marketing agency has given 30 days' notice that they will stop handling marketing for the event.

In an email obtained by 2 News Nevada sent late Wednesday night, Executive Director Deny Dotson said he was stepping down with what he called "mixed emotions."

"While I am stepping away from my role, my commitment to the mission and vision of Hot August Nights remains steadfast," Dotson said.

A reason for his resignation was not provided, but Dotson discussed the event's achievements during his tenure, including the growth of the event and bringing stakeholders together.

In a separate email obtained by 2 News Nevada, Dotson's wife, Ronele Dotson, said her marketing agency, RAD Strategies Inc., has put in a 30-day notice that they are resigning the Hot August Nights account.

Over the next 30 days, the company will stop proactive work immediately and pivot to compiling and delivering all materials and original files to Hot August Nights.

"This decision reflects the current environment, priorities, and direction of the organization, which no longer align with our values," said Ronele Dotson. "While RAD is proud of our contributions and results we have delivered since 2020, our professional standards, ethics, and expectations for current leadership are not consistent with the approach being taken by this Board and organization as a whole."

Dotson later added, "The business model for the organization is outdated, and it’s a conversation I’ve been having with the board for the past three years. As a mostly free model, it needs to change to survive. From everything I’ve heard, and from those who reached out to me directly during and after the event, it was a success. Since Sunday, my phone has been ringing off the hook with sponsors wanting to be involved. We crowned the top car in the world during our HAN Event Series as our Grand Champion. This car has been featured on many television programs. It was a game-changer for Reno, and we were right there. While I’m not sure exactly what the Board will do next, I could not support the direction being taken. I’m sad for the organization and the classic car community.”

In response, Hot August Nights released a statement regarding recent departures:

"Hot August Nights is a storied celebration of Americana and classic car culture, fostering a deep sense of community for all involved. While we appreciate the efforts of our departing staff and board members, we are very much invigorated by the prospects of the future.

Our 2025 season was a wonderful testament to the classic car community and our region as a whole. Additionally, 2026 will be our 40th anniversary, allowing us to celebrate in an even grander way than ever before, and we’re excited for those announcements to come over the next few weeks and months.

We are keeping the pedal to the floor as we move forward with efforts already underway for a new Executive Director to lead this important event into the future. Hot August Nights continues to be integral to Reno Tahoe’s social fabric and is a large economic driver for the region, and we fully plan to not only continue but build on that momentum in the coming years.

For nearly four decades, Hot August Nights has been made possible by our incredible volunteers, the heart and soul of this event, and dedicated sponsors. As we prepare for our 40th anniversary in 2026, our focus is on honoring that legacy, celebrating our car culture community, and delivering the best Hot August Nights yet.

While we do not comment on personnel issues, we are thankful for the efforts of Deny, RAD Strategies, and our board members and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors."