Emilio Rivera
Celebrity Grand Marshal
Star of Collateral, On My Block and Sons of Anarchy
Emilio Rivera grew up in an impoverished neighborhood and struggled with recklessness in his youth, but his life changed when he discovered a passion for performing, developing his skills in improv and eventually finding discipline through acting. He has built an extensive career in film, appearing in projects such as COLLATERAL, A MAN APART, BULLET, VENOM, DON’T WORRY, and FLAMIN HOT. On television, he is widely recognized for his role as Marcus Alvarez on SONS OF ANARCHY and its spin-off MAYANS M.C., along with recurring roles in series like ON MY BLOCK, HAND OF GOD, Z NATION, THE UPSHAWS, and a guest appearance in LANDMAN and LAW AND ORDER: ORGANIZED CRIME. Rivera has also starred in the Emmy-nominated short RZR, demonstrating his range across genres. Beyond acting, he has expanded into production, co-founding Outside the Box Films with his wife, Yadi Valerio, where they focus on telling authentic Latino stories. His recent work includes producing the documentary GRIT, with additional projects in development that reflect his creative vision.
Follow Emilio on Instagram.
Hal Yoak
Theme Grand Marshal
U.S. Navy Veteran
Hal Yoak is a distinguished United States Navy veteran whose life reflects unwavering service, integrity, and dedication to both his country and his community. Serving during the 1940s, he took part in Operation Magic Carpet, the historic post World War II mission that brought American servicemen safely home. His leadership, courage, and commitment to duty earned him deep respect from those who served alongside him. Beyond his military service, Hal made a lasting impact in Garden Grove as a retired school teacher and craftsman who lovingly hand‑makes wooden toys for children, continuing his lifelong mission to bring joy and inspiration to young hearts.
David Bambrila
Theme Grand Marshal
U.S. Navy Veteran
David Bambrila is a United States Marine Corps veteran, business leader, and community advocate whose life reflects service, discipline, and dedication. After leaving the Marine Corps in 2001, he launched a retail business he operated for 24 years before transitioning to serve veterans and families as a licensed real estate broker and as the owner of a marketing and communications firm. Leadership and service came full circle as David Brambila was elected State Commander of the California American Legion, representing veterans statewide with distinction and continuing efforts to strengthen the organization.
Donald Marshall
Theme Grand Marshal
U.S. Navy Veteran, Astronaut
Don Marshall built a distinguished 41‑year aviation career across civilian, military, and intelligence sectors. Recruited by the CIA, he joined the U.S. Navy through the Officer Candidate Program and served both organizations from 1977 to 2012, flying more than 40 aircraft, piloting the SR‑71, and training for NASA’s Space Shuttle program before retiring as a Navy Commander (O‑5). He later worked as a test pilot/astronaut on the X‑3 and X‑4 suborbital projects, served in public liaison roles, and now consults and produces aviation documentaries while writing his second book.
Brenda Garcia
Lt. Commander U.S. Navy (Ret.), Presidential Video Documentarian, Actress
Brenda Garcia’s Navy career highlight was the coveted assignment as personal video documentarian to President Bush (41) and President Clinton where she covered thousands of events all over the world for the National Archives and Presidential Libraries. On numerous occasions, she was a passenger on the presidential aircraft Air Force One. Brenda retired from the Navy Reserve as a Public Affairs Officer with the rank of lieutenant commander.
Today, Brenda is an L. A. based SAG-AFTRA actress and author of a memoir depicting her amazing adventures at the White House. She plays a leadership role in Veterans in Media and Entertainment and recently joined the Geffen Playhouse advisory board.
Follow Brenda on Instagram: @iambrendagarcia
Yadi Valerio Rivera
Star of The Family Business
Yadi Valerio Rivera, a proud Dominican raised in Brooklyn, embodies the New Yorker go-getter mentality. A visionary writer and creator, she debuted with her short film Broken in 2009. She also co-executive produced, wrote the structure, and directed her upcoming 2026 project Grit under Outside-the-Box Films, which she co-owns with her husband, actor Emilio Rivera. On screen, she has captivated audiences—six seasons as Consuela in The Family Business and her powerful performance as Yvette in MAYANS M.C. You can catch her in the upcoming movie Body Man and a project in the works with Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias. Above all, she’s a dedicated wife and proud mother. With more writing projects in the pipeline, Yadi’s tireless, visionary drive makes both family and art thrive—this is just the beginning for this talented Latina!
Follow Yadi on Instagram: @yadi_rivera
Noel Gugliemi
Star of The Fast and the Furious
Noel Gugliemi is an American actor and producer best known for playing “Hector” across multiple films and television projects, including The Fast and the Furious, a role that made him instantly recognizable to audiences. He has appeared in more than 150 productions, including Training Day, The Dark Knight Rises, The Purge: Anarchy, and numerous independent films.
Raised in Southern California and of Italian‑Mexican heritage, Noel overcame significant early hardship, including homelessness, before discovering acting — a turning point that reshaped his life. Today, he is also a respected motivational speaker, sharing his story with schools, churches, and community groups to inspire at‑risk youth and discourage gang involvement. Noel is the founder of Entangled Entertainment and continues to champion positive change through film, mentorship, and community outreach.
Follow Noel on Instagram: @actornoelg
Adan Correa
Star of Love On the Spectrum
Adan Correa is a 27-year-old cast member on the Netflix series “Love on the Spectrum,” which follows individuals on the autism spectrum as they navigate dating and relationships. He is Mexican American, speaks Spanish fluently, has a passion for graphic design, and is proud to bring awareness to the Autism community. He has happily returned for Season 3, where he continues his journey in finding love.
Follow Adam on Instagram: @mrcorreaadan
Kate Linder
The Young and The Restless
Kate Linder, a regular celebrity at the Strawberry Festival and is best known for her role as Esther Valentine on “The Young and the Restless.” She has portrayed this character for 43 years and continues to be a key member of the cast of this long-running, top-rated daytime drama.
In 2008, Linder received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in 2022, The Hollywood Museum honored her 40th anniversary portraying Esther Valentine on The Young and the Restless with a year-long exhibit.
Kate has also held the position of Governor for the Performers Peer Group at the Television Academy and served two terms as the Governor of the Daytime Programming Peer Group. Additionally, she has been a board member of SAG-AFTRA for multiple terms.
Her feature film credits include Hysteria, Erased, Miss Meadows, Mother’s Day, Voice from the Stone, The Charnel House, Echo Boomers, Book of Leah, and A Little White Lie.
Linder enjoys the best of both worlds, balancing her time in front of the camera with a career in the skies. “Acting is my life and my source of creative satisfaction,” she asserts. Remarkably, she has maintained her pre Y&R position as a weekend flight attendant with United Airlines, as it helps to keep her grounded.
Learn more about Kate at: katelinder.com
Kii Arens
Pop Artist, Director & Musician
Kii Arens is a critical driver in the creation of modern pop culture, and is one of the most credible and influential in Los Angeles. An award-winning contemporary American pop-artist, graphic designer, photographer, director, and musician, his personal work has been in art galleries all over the world. Kii credits Saturday mornings in the ’70s spent watching Sid & Marty Krofft as some of his main inspirations. Never formally trained, this St. Paul native grew up with a fascination for album covers, vintage logos, and has created over 500 pieces for artists such as Dolly Parton, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Radiohead, Paul McCartney, Kacey Musgraves, Bernie Sanders, Beck, DEVO, Diana Ross, Lana Del Rey, The Doors, PIXIES, Glen Campbell, Tame Impala, The Replacements, Hollywood Bowl, Coachella, and Desert Trip, widely considered the most successful festival ever to take place.
His recently directed music video for Elton John was featured prominently on the 2020 Oscars, ‘(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again’ has served well as the visual accompaniment for the heavily nominated and award-winning song. Other videos include DEVO, Queens of The Stone Age, PIXIES, Glen Campbell and more.
Learn more about Kii at: kiiarens.com
Don “Nuge” Nyugen
Professional Skateboarder and Actor
Don “Nuge” Nguyen is a renowned skateboarder, musician, actor, and entrepreneur who has left a lasting mark on the world of skateboarding. Nuge is best known as the first person to ollie down the iconic “El Toro” 20-stair set—one of the most infamous skate spots in the world. He also portrayed Shogo Kubo in the biographical film Lords of Dogtown and currently rides for Baker Skateboards. Beyond skateboarding, Nuge is a creative force in music and business. He plays bass in multiple bands, runs a music-inspired clothing brand, and recently launched his own craft beer company. He is also celebrated for helping to preserve Thrasher, the iconic skate magazine and apparel line, earning admiration from skateboarders worldwide.
As an Asian-American skater, Nuge has faced his share of challenges, but skateboarding has always been his outlet for self-expression. Nuge continues to inspire with his motto: “Live heavy, travel light.” Today, he remains a beloved and evolving figure in skate culture, constantly pushing boundaries and embracing new passions.
Follow Nuge on Instagram: @nuge666
Wing Lam
Wahoo’s Fish Tacos
Wing Lam is the eldest of the three founding Wahoo’s Fish Tacos brothers and widely recognized as the face of the iconic brand. A 37-year restaurant industry veteran, he is often in the public eye participating as a panelist/speaker at global events, in various tv commercials and often featured on Food Network shows. You can also hear him every Friday on 95.5 KLOS’ Heidi & Frank Morning Show, giving updates on his charity California Love Drop and his support of many national and local community-based events.
Follow Wing on Instagram: @wahooswing
Prestin Bueno
Miss California Volunteer
Prestin Bueno will represent California in June at Miss Volunteer America where she will compete for the national title. She is a graduate of California State Polytechnic University in Pomona where she received her Bachelors in Business Administration. She is currently applying to dental school to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery/Doctor of Dental Medicine degree.
Prestin has a passion for serving her community with a focus on her SERVE Initiative – Healthy and Confident Smiles, promoting the awareness of the connection between self-worth and proper oral health.
She is available for pubic speaking engagements, dancer appearances, volunteer opportunities, and singing the National Anthem.
Genesis Quiette
Miss California Teen Volunteer
Genesis Quiette is a 17-year-old senior at Mater Dei High School with a 4.3 GPA. She is an entrepreneur, student leader, and passionate advocate for literacy. Genesis is the founder of Activate Reading, an initiative providing literacy kits and story time support to children in shelters and foster care across California and Nairobi, Kenya. She is also the creator of The Cards, a handmade clothing brand that donates its proceeds to fund her service work.
Genesis has led book drives, hosted community pop-ups, and partnered with libraries and nonprofits across the state. She believes service can create real change and that every child deserves access to books and a chance to dream big.
In the spring, Genesis represented California at the Miss America Teen Volunteer competition, placing in the top 20 and earning a non-finalist award. She will compete again next year and is honored to continue serving her state.
The Poppies
California Music Group
The Poppies are inspired by the upbeat grooves of the late 1960s/early 1970s, and bring their own twist of girl power to rock ‘n’ roll! These spunky California girls fuse together British glam rock, classic Laurel Canyon Americana, and blues elements to create a raw, energized sound with a good timin’ feel. The music is pure Southern California summer, 365 days a year.
Follow The Poppies on Instagram: @poppiestheband
Byron Gonzalez
Radio Host 88.5 The SoCal Sound
Byron “The Curator” Gonzalez creates an eclectic playlist every night on 88.5 The SoCal Sound to best represent the vibrant, unique, and diverse bilingual and culturally rich communities of Southern California and across the United States. Byron Gonzalez was born in Guatemala City and raised in Los Angeles. He started to pursue radio broadcasting during his time at Santa Monica College. This decision turned into a passion that carried him to further his education at Cal State Northridge. Soon after graduating, 88.5 FM offered him a position as the Brand Manager of The SoCal Sound’s HD3 station, Bilingual Sounds 88.5 HD3. As brand manager, he assumed the role of program, music, & social media director for the station. In this role, Byron has dedicated himself to showcasing alternative music from across Latin America, including Central America and Mexico, as well as from various cultures around the world.
Lynn Hackman
KWAVE Radio Host
Lynn Hackman is an on-air host at KWAVE and host/producer of KWAVE Community Connection. Prior to joining KWAVE, she was a senior reporter and director of community and government relations at The Epoch Times and CaliforniaInsider.com. Lynn’s career spans 30 years as a marketing communications and public affairs executive, and she is actively involved in her community, serving on the City of Newport Beach General Plan Update Committee, and the City’s 1st Battalion, 1st Marines Foundation, among other organizations.
Frank Kramer
KLOS Heidi & Frank Show
Frank Kramer has developed into one of American radio’s most outspoken, quick-witted, and funny talk show hosts. He has topped the airwaves, dominating the AM/FM and Podcast markets for decades. He currently hosts the top-ranking Heidi and Frank Show on 95.5 KLOS FM.
Starting his radio career on HOT 102 WLUM Milwaukee in 1993, he captivated listeners with his infectious charm and quick wit. His dynamic presence helped propel his radio career and his move to the City of Angels in 1997. Frank was part of the iconic Jamie, Frosty, and Frank Show on Star 98.7 (KYSR). In 2000, Frank continued as part of the Frosty, Heidi, and Frank Show on 97.1 The FM TALK Station (KLSX).
Since 2012, Frank has been the cornerstone of mornings on 95.5 KLOS Los Angeles. Frank and his co-host Heidi were members of the cast on the entertainment news television show DISH Nation. In 2010, Frank showcased his visionary spirit by launching the Toad Hop Network, a podcast network that revolutionized the digital landscape. With over 40 podcasts, including his own The Heidi and Frank Show and Let’s Be Frank, Frank’s forward-thinking approach to broadcasting continues to solidify his status as a trailblazer in the industry.
You can catch Frank, Heidi, Johnny and Jordan, weekday mornings on 95.5 KLOS FM.
Johnny Ice
KLOS Heidi & Frank Show
Johnny Ice is a co-producer and on-air host at 95.5 KLOS FM. He hails from New York with an edgy and sarcastic attitude to match. He has been entertaining the radio airwaves, creating memorable bits and performing on-air stunts for over 20 years. He is most known for being on the Heidi and Frank Show on 95.5 KLOS, living here in Southern California since 2010.
Johnny’s home life is like a family sitcom. His dad joke personality was established even before he had his 2 young kids. Also a loving husband to his wife who is always nagging him to do some project she found on Pinterest. You can most likely catch him shopping at your local hardware store. People have given him the nickname “MacGyver” for his crazy invention he works up in his garage with the most random recycled objects.
You can catch Johnny along with Frank, Heidi, and Jordan, weekday mornings on 95.5 KLOS FM.
Jordan Fitzpatrick
KLOS Heidi & Frank Show
Jordan Fitzpatrick is an on-air producer for the Heidi and Frank Show, mornings on 95.5 KLOS FM. Fitzpatrick is a California native, and continues to call Southern California his home. He has worked and dj-ed for KLOS since 2006. He lives to promote local and timeless rock n’ roll to our local communities. His 2nd passion is playing in a Long Beach rock band.
You can catch Jordan along with Frank, Heidi, and Johnny, weekday mornings on 95.5 KLOS FM.