Meet our Cast

Fleet Manager

I was born in Los Angeles where I lived for 22 years. I moved to San Diego with my beautiful, loving wife, Lupe, because I wanted a better life and environment for my family. I have three kids: Kenneth, Anthony, and Priscilla. San Diego is a wonderful city, and I plan on living here permanently. My goal is to become a Certified Automotive Technician. I plan to accomplish this by hard work, dedication, and education. I am a hard worker and dedicated to my profession. My hobbies include going off-road biking, working on classic Hot Rods, and spending quality time with my family. I enjoy going to the amusement park, the zoo, and especially to Hot Rod shows. I like to go camping out in the woods. I also enjoy swimming at the beach and watching the sunset.

Depot Sales Manager

Although I’m from Santa Ana, CA, I am a proud San Diegan of over 25 years, as well as a musician, and dad of two. I’m the first American in a Cuban family, but not a great dancer (adopted?). I love the San Diego beaches, deserts, mountains, climate, and California burritos (sorry Howie)! I enjoy playing and teaching music, Astronomy, comic books, and raising (and annoying) two teenage boys.

Administrative Assistant – AR/AP

I was born in the Philippines, but moved around a lot as a kid since my dad was in the Navy. Out of all the places I’ve lived, San Diego has been my home for the longest. I’ve worked in Hospitality for five years. I may seem quiet, but once you get to know me, you can expect to hear a joke or pun out of me from time-to-time. I also like to dance, hike, play basketball, and hit the beach. Fortunately, San Diego is an amazing place to do it all!

Sales Representative

I grew up in Santa Barbara. I lived in Montana for a few years (I moved there as a vegetarian; moved away as a hunter). I have lived in the San Diego/Coronado area for over 15 years. I love to travel, and I have been to Italy many times. Sailing is a passion of mine. Two years ago, I sailed through the Panama Canal, where I received the name “Adventure Barbie.” What a blast!

Mechanic

My name is Bryan and I am a San Diego native with the hopes of becoming a school counselor. I have learned so much here at Old Town Trolley Tours and I am eager to learn more as time progresses.

Visitor Information Center Sales Representative

Born and raised in the small town of Kimball, Nebraska, I am the eldest of eight siblings! When asked how a Mexican got to Nebraska, my reply is, “my dad walked!” In 1970 with $40 to my name, I left for California in search of free education. Once there, I have worked in various job fields such as a proofreader, baker, hospital billing clerk, airport carrier, and much, much more! I came to Old Town Trolley San Diego in 1998 as a tour conductor, only to then move up to office manager. Nowadays, you will find me at the Visitor Information Center helping guide tourists throughout our wonderful city of San Diego, and as Mrs. Claus during our St. Vincent de Paul Toy Drive. When not working, I love to spend time reading, sewing, baking, and spending time with my amazing family, especially my beautiful great-grandchild.

Old Town Market – Maintenance Lead

My name is Christian. I was born in TJ, B.C in 1976. I have a nice family; one little princess, and a nice woman in my life. I like meeting new people and I am always helpful to others. This company is great and we have a nice crew. All is fun. I love to make carne asada on weekends with my family and friends. Mucho Macho.

Lead Administrative Assistant

My name is Cristina Valenzuela and I have lived in San Diego my whole life. I am the second oldest of five children. I am currently going to college to hopefully become a CPA. I enjoy baking, reading, and family gatherings. A new hobby that I have learned is crocheting and I have already completed two afghan quilts.

Mechanic

I started working here in November of 2007. I love working on vehicles and going camping.

Operations Manager

I was born and raised in Riverside, CA. After serving in the Marine Corps, I worked in the transportation industry for many years. In 2003, my wife and I moved to Hawaii to live the dream. I worked as a professional marine photographer and videographer studying humpback whales and dolphins for many years. I’ve published an educational book on Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins. I got my Captain’s license and drove boats for the tourist industry while in paradise. I love to dive and wander about seeking any new adventure I can find. I’ve been married to the love of my life for over 20 years, and we have two kids and four grandkids. Yeah! Life is GREAT!

General Manager

My name is David Thornton. I’m originally from a small town in Oregon. I graduated from the University of Oregon. GO DUCKS!!! I love to follow Pac-12 sports, especially the Ducks. Since graduating, I have lived in Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, Washington, and California. I moved to San Diego in June of 2002 from Denver. I love it here, but miss the four seasons of Denver.

Sales Representative

A summer visit to San Diego over 20 years ago made me fall in love with the city. I have been a resident for over 15 years now. I was born in Des Moines, Iowa, but I grew up in the hot desert of Tucson, AZ. In high school I was involved in numerous singing groups, and I practiced magic as a hobby. These days I like to spend time with friends, being outdoors, working in the yard, landscaping, and doing anything creative! I also love nature, and oh yeah, my big black cat, Bishop, too!

Depot Sales & Visitor Information Center Supervisor

I was born in Vancouver, WA, but have lived in Denver and now live in San Diego. My background is in retail, merchandising, sales, hospitality, and I thrive on guest service. I attended Disney University “putting a smile in guest service.” I worked aboard the Grand Princess when it was the world’s largest cruise ship, and I was also the store director aboard the USS Midway. I like to sing karaoke and travel. I have golfed with Bob Hope, and sang the National Anthem before a Johnny Cash concert while also spending time with him on his tour bus. In Winter 2020-2021, I operated the ice rink at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Tennessee and drove a Zamboni!

Dispatcher

My name is Doug and I am from Toronto, Canada. This is my retirement job! I love the weather in San Diego. I enjoy bbq-ing, gardening, golf, ice hockey, and craft beer.

Lead Mechanic

Hi, my name is Heleodoro Teran G, but you can call me Elliott. I was born on January 16 in TJ, Baja California. I enjoy camping, fishing, and I also like music. I’m very friendly and I like to help people.

Maintenance Detailer

I am from Jalisco, Mexico. I am a friendly person. Even if I don’t look like it… Yes, I am. I love everything about the city of San Diego. I enjoy surf-fishing and playing soccer when I have the time.

Administrative Assistant

I’m originally from Los Angeles. I’ve been married for over 30 years, and have two sons. I used to work in radio & TV in Northern California, and L.A. I later moved to San Diego to work for a radio station and I haven’t left the city since. The weather here is amazing! Some of my hobbies/interests include gardening & camping.

Mechanic

I was born in TJ, Mexico on December 15. I come from a family of three generations of mechanics. I love camping. I am currently a crew chief for a Baja winning team of Road Racing.

Lead Maintenance Dealer

Hi, my name is Frankie, and I am from Mexico City. I have three beautiful kids and a wonderful wife. I love reading and learning about archaeology and history. I enjoy fishing and dancing. I like making new friends and I work here because I really like it.

Sales Representative

I was born from loving parents and have been living in San Diego since the 7th grade. I love the distinct communities throughout the city that bring a unique cultural diversity. I have earned three degrees, and I am currently working on my fourth. I strive to be present and don’t wait for things to get better to be happy. I enjoy fixing my boat, sprouting my foods, and writing a personal book of my life thus far.

Visitor Information Center Representative

I was born and raised in San Diego. I have two younger sisters. My favorite color is black. I lived in O.C. for a few years, but had to move back. I missed the people from San Diego, and their laid-back attitudes. People here, for the most part, mind their own business and let you do your thing. I’ve also missed the weather. I used to live by the beach, and it was too chilly for my taste. Living in Southeast San Diego, you can pretty much drive 25 minutes in any direction and have something fun to do! I enjoy hiking; it’s a good way to de-stress, and get in touch with myself. I also enjoy photography, but nothing professional; I have a drone to experiment with aerial photography. I’m also into technology, reading about upcoming devices, how they’re changing the world, and sadly spending my money on them! If I had unlimited money, I’d travel the world and photograph my adventures.

Charters & Vendor Administrative Assistant

I was born & raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in San Jose. I worked for a tech company and relocated to Orange County, then San Diego. San Diego feels like “home” since my entire family lives here. I love the weather, as well as the wide variety of people. I also love to travel with favorite destinations including Mexico, Hawaii, Italy, and Australia. I like boating, crocheting, and reading.

Mechanic

My name is Inocente, but I go by “Ino”. I am very friendly but I have a serious look like I am angry (I’m really nice.) I was born in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

Mechanic Helper

My name is Isaias Velazquez. I was born in TJ, B.C., Mexico on July 6. I finished high school and came to the USA in May 1981. I am married to my wife, Alma Amor. I have had only one boss since I started working here in the USA. I work in leather production and I enjoy that. My family is most important in my life.

VIC & Charter/Group Sales Manager

As a native San Diegan, I never take one day for granted living in our beautiful city. I’m at my absolute happiest when my three sons, two daughters-in-law, four “practically perfect in every way” grandchildren, and my husband & I are all together. In my free time, you can find me anywhere outdoors, usually on a hiking trail with my dog, biking one of our scenic views, or simply in my yard with my hands in the dirt (yes, I talk to my flowers and plants!). I’m the first person to laugh at my silly self, and I try to live life by these basic principles: Live simply. Love seriously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.

Sales Representative

I was born and raised in San Diego. I am currently in school working on a degree in Graphic Design at San Diego City College. I previously studied Hospitality & Tourism Management at San Francisco State University. I love San Diego because of the beaches, burritos, and baseball games. It’s also close to Mexico and the Tijuana airport. My favorite things to do are cooking, traveling, concerts & festivals, and the San Diego Padres.

Customer Service Representative

Spoiled by being raised with five sisters and two brothers, I started working at the age of 7 building recreational ice rinks in Detroit. While playing high school varsity hockey, I won local and national writing awards. While graduating from the University of Michigan and beyond, I worked in the media – radio, TV, and the newspaper, including exclusive interviews with the U.S. Chief of Interpol, Gov. George Wallace, et al. Later, I coasted into child development, teaching at preschool facilities and kindergarten in San Diego. On Christmas in 1985, I met Senorita Giselle on the San Diego Trolley and we’ve been married for over 15 years.

Safety Officer

I’m from San Diego and this place is great for the weather, Mexican food, and many other activities. I worked for the Navy Marine Mammal Program for 31 years and I have many stories of adventures with marine mammals in San Diego Bay. I’m also an avid racing fan (NASCAR & Dirt Track).

Whaley House Museum Service Manager

I am originally from Carson, CA, but I moved to San Diego to attend SDSU and just never left! My creative outlet has led me to producing sketch comedy, creating hiking vlogs, and even working in a haunted house for almost 20 years! Other than that, I’m pretty boring. I love the diversity of San Diego. The landscape from the beaches to the mountains & deserts are all within an hour from each other. Not only that, but the cultural diversity in this city is truly a melting pot! I also enjoy boxing, hiking, and doing absolutely nothing with my two dogs.

Safety Officer

I was born 1 score and 14 years ago along the Atlantic Ocean. The place of my birth had the clear myrtle waters along the coast of South Carolina. My father served in the Armed Forces for much of my young life. Because of this, we moved about every two years until I was eight years old. I have lived in the dry salt lakes, the humid Texas heat, and the delta of the mighty Mississippi River. I graduated from high school in the Land of Lincoln, attended the University of Mississippi and Hawaii for my undergraduate degree in History. I attended the Southern University at New Orleans for a Master’s in Museum Studies with a focus on technology. I have worked in the museum field now for ten years. I was an educator for four years in the Department of Education when I lived in Hawaii. I enjoy nature, hiking, fishing, cooking, and hope to one day travel the world.

Customer Service Representative

I was born in Jacksonville, FL, but grew up in San Diego, CA. I love living in San Diego and taking advantage of all it has to offer such as the sun, surf, parks, night life, sports, people, and of course the history of California, which is what brought me to Old Town Trolley Tours. My interests include traveling, reading, enjoying the outdoors, local live theatre & music (especially jazz).

Sales Representative

Hi, there! I was raised in San Diego; I moved here when my Dad was transferred to San Diego with the United States Navy. However, I spent many years in NYC as a professional actress. I relocated back here in 2009 and returned to school to finish my B.A. in history at UCSD. I am thrilled to be a part of Old Town Trolley, where I can share my love and knowledge of San Diego history, and to welcome people to the San Diego experience.

Customer Service Representative

I was born and raised in a small town in Minnesota. In 1979, I moved to San Diego and instantly fell in love with this beautiful city. I worked in the restaurant business for over 25 years. I was over-do for a change, and joined OTT in may 2012. My hobbies include arts and crafts and making silk bridal bouquets. I am blessed to have wonderful people in my life. I am so happy to be part of the OTT Family.

Visitor Information Center Representative

I was born in Brazil and studied in Rio de Janeiro. I lived in Italy for five years, and now call San Diego “home.” I’m always passionate about history and have a thirst for knowledge. I love to share my experiences with all of those who will listen. When my daughter got married, I found myself free to live the California Dream, and the Southern California lifestyle that I’ve longed for since my youth. My experience as a professional tour guide, translator, and the ability to speak five languages has prepared me for my new role as an Information & Sales Specialist at the Visitor Center. I am excited to make a difference as I look forward to working with all my CASTmates.

Old Town Market – Maintenance

Hi, my name is Martin Baez. I was born and raised in San Diego, CA. I have two boys and one girl. I also have a lovely wife who somehow always manages to fix me a lunch even though she works full-time. My hobby is to modify my Chevy S10 Blazer for off-road use. That has been hard to do lately while raising the little ones at home.

Mechanic

I was born in TJ, B.C.; after 13 years, I moved to the U.S. where I have now lived for over 30 years. I started junior high in the Serra Mesa area, graduated from Madison High, and continued my education at Mesa College. I then started working at my father’s Auto Shop as a Mechanic Helper and was working on my own by the time I was 20. By the late 90’s, I was helping with office work, customer service, body work, estimates, shop foreman, and mechanics. I also attended Southwestern College for three years studying Automotive and earned a few certificates. My father passed away in 2000, and I took over his shop until 2008. I have a wife with no kids, and we love to spend quality time together.

Old Town Market – Maintenance

I grew up in San Diego and currently reside in the North Bay Terraces area. I graduated from San Diego City College in 2015 with an Associates degree in Science. What I love most about San Diego is the many different craft breweries there are to choose from. I’m into bicycling, open-source technology, and also tabletop games such as Battletech, Flames of War, Dungeons & Dragons, and more.

Sales Representative

I have lived in beautiful San Diego for 40 years. In my spare time I love to explore the city. The beach is always calling my name. I love to hike, camp, and just be in nature. I was volunteering at the San Diego Visitor Center when I first learned about Old Town Trolley Tours. I was amazed by what they did for our visitors, and I would highly recommend them and sell their tickets. I just knew I wanted to be a part of Old Town Trolley Tours so that is what I did. I have been with the company for over three years. It is a challenging job, but I love helping guests see our beautiful city. I started off as a CSR, and now I am a Sales Rep.

Maintenance Detailer

Hi, my name is Reyes Avalos. I have lived in California since 1970. I enjoy the beach and soccer. I have a family that I like to spend time with. I am very happy to have my job here. I am a hard worker and thank you for the opportunity.

Customer Service Representative

I was born in Southern California and was raised right here in San Diego. My parents raised three boys and two girls. I graduated from Chula Vista High School and attended Southwestern College. I worked for several years with Maytag in sales and marketing; seven of those years were on the East Coast. I eventually returned to my roots right here in “America’s Finest City.” My hobbies are Harley Davidson and traveling to places I’ve never been to either by motorcycle, car, boat (cruise ship) or plane. Hawaii is my favorite travel destination. In my spare time, I enjoy Balboa Park, the museums, San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and all of the other amenities that living in San Diego offers.

Director of Travel Industry Sales

I was born in Concord, New Hampshire, and I am very fortunate to be part of a set of twin boys. I graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Communications, and after graduation, I followed the sun to San Diego. My first job was at SeaWorld for the summer, and then I worked as a concierge at the Sheraton Harbor Island for almost 10 years. I also served as the President of The San Diego Concierge Association for two years. I have been with Old Town Trolley Tours for over 20 years and can honestly say that I love my job and truly enjoy coming to work every day!

HR & Office Manager

I’ve been in HR for over 30 years (I started when I was 10). I was born in Washington, D.C., but grew up in Coronado as a Navy brat. I graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, with a degree in Human Resources. I have one daughter, and two grandkids; they are the loves of my life. Scrapbooking and the beach are two of my favorite things! My most favorite thing of all is the contest I have with my brother on how many Major League baseball parks we can go to in a lifetime…I’m ahead! Guess how many I’ve been to?

Sales Representative

I was born and raised in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico, and I have a career in Graphic Design. I am happy to say that I love being a creative person, as I enjoy making ideas come to life. I am a mom of two girls; Lucia and Maia, and a beautiful English Lab, Brody. My family is my priority above all things! I moved to San Diego in 2010 when I married my husband. I was the Graphic Designer/Manager at SOHO, where I worked for four years. I also helped with the design of the new book for the Whaley House Museum. San Diego adopted me as its own, and I am definitely in love with this city, its weather, and the beauty of everything around it. I am very grateful for the opportunity that Old Town Trolley of San Diego has given me to help customers have a great experience while traveling our beautiful city. This is me, and I look forward to working with you.

Sales Representative

I am from Sao Paulo, Brazil. I used to travel a lot – which I miss. I love everything about San Diego. The weather is always good. The people are very down-to-earth. The beaches and parks are beautiful. There is a lot to see. As a quiet person, I enjoy silence and meditation. I am into yoga, dancing, exercising, relaxing on the sandy beaches, and playing with my cats.

Old Town Market Leasing Manager

I am a San Diego/Tijuana native. I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University. I worked with juvenile delinquents handling suicide prevention cases and crisis intervention. Eventually I left the Criminal Justice field and went into Tourism. I became Director of Interpretive Services for a historic preservation organization where I managed six historic sites, including the famous Whaley House Museum. I studied music in the conservatory of Baja California and studied piano, drums, guitar, and singing. When I am not performing with my band, Rogue Pilots, I do session-work recording or performing with different acts locally and internationally as a hired gun.