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Harold
- Head Conductor - CAST member since 1994 |
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I was born and raised in our Nation’s Capital. I left to join the Navy and wound up in Vietnam for two tours of duty 1966-67. Once out of the Navy, I went back to D.C., and then joined the Metropolitan Police Dept. as a patrol officer. Five years later, I packed up and headed West back to San Diego, where I was stationed in the Navy. A great variety of jobs followed, until I found my bliss as a Trolley Conductor and now Head Conductor at Old Town Trolley Tours. |
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John
- CAST member since 1998 |
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I
was born and raised in Riverside, CA, and came to San Diego
in 1984. I attended the University of San Diego and Majored
in Psychology, played football and graduated in 1987. After
graduation I had many opportunities to accept employment
out of the San Diego area, but couldn’t imagine living
anywhere else. Good thing I stayed because the next year
I met my wife. We spent the next few years enjoying our home
in Mission Beach, trips to Europe, the Virgin Islands and
ski trips. Recently we have been on our greatest adventure
raising our two children, Johnny (15) and Jessica (3). Learning
about San Diego will be a big part of that adventure. |
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Larry
- CAST member since 2000 |
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Hello!
I’m a native San Diegan. I’ve recently completed
my degree in music education, and I’m currently pursuing
a teaching credential at SDSU. Last summer I studied at a
world center in Bali. I enjoy all types of music, salsa dancing,
model railroading and trout fishing in northern California.
I’m looking forward to an enjoyable time at Old Town
Trolley Tours. |
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David “Chef” CAST member
since 2004 |
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Born
and raised in Pennsylvania, mostly in Philadelphia, graduated
Central high school: then Temple University, College of Education.
Majored in History, English, and Psychology. My wife, Mimi,
and I celebrated our 47th anniversary in September 2006.
We have two sons, Dan & Mike. Our family moved to San
Diego in 1974, after a career in sales/management, I decided
to switch fields and attended Mesa College in Food Service & Culinary
Arts. The highlight of my hospitality career was as a manager
of Ida Bailey’s Restaurant and the Palace Bar at the
Historic Horton Grand Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, where
I had several vivid encounters with the resident “ ghost”.
My hobby is gourmet cooking, and I have always been interested
in San Diego’s History. |
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Deb
- CAST member since 2005 |
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A little bit about myself: I am a native Californian who was introduced to San Diego by my two High School oceanography teachers, and I have loved San Diego ever since. So much, that I went to UCSD and flew sailplanes along the cliffs of Torrey Pines, oh, and by the way, got a degree there, too. I am also an animal fanatic and grew up a horse-crazy kid. Fortunately, I had horse-crazy parents. Through an assortment of really magnificent creatures I have learned great patience. Right now, I have 2 dogs, 25 plus rabbits, fish, & birds. Careful, my rabbit population just went up! Speaking about population, San Diego sure has grown since I first came here, even with the growth, I still see wonderful bits & pieces of history- and these are what I like to share with visitors here in San Diego. Here’s hoping I learn even more and can share this with thousands of visitors as an Old Town Trolley Conductor! |
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Gordon “Lee” CAST member
since 1997 |
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Born and raised in Tacoma, Washington. I attended college in Yakima, Washington, and US Air Force Medical Services 1965 to 1969. Spent the 70’s in the department store business, the 80’s as a manufacturer’s representative, the 90’s as a Designer/Sales Rep for the portable trade show exhibit industry. Transferred to San Diego in 1994. Currently I live on a 40’ houseboat in Chula Vista with the love of my life, Leonora. |
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Bill “Doc” CAST member
since 2005 |
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I
was born in 1950, in Ohio to loving and supportive parents.
There was always laughter in our house. I attended elementary
and high school both in the same small town. Joined the Navy
in 1968, and my first duty station was Japan, while over
there I learned the art of massage, Tai Chi, Reiki, and healing
touch. I’ve worked in shipbuilding, aircraft building,
assembly, real estate, and notary public.
My real joy lies in working with people. My name became hyphenated
in 2004, when the man I call “Dad”, for whom
I was caregiver throughout cancer, adopted me into his family
also. I consider myself “lucky” for all of the
friends and wonderful people I have in my life. |
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Bob
- CAST member since 1998 |
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They say the native Californians are rare, if that is true then I am an endangered species. I am a 2nd generation San Diegan, with roots dating back to my grandfather’s arrival in the early 1900’s. I grew up in the quaint hamlet of Ocean Beach during the golden age of surfing, spending my summer days listening to Beach Boys music and dreaming of tasty waves. I attended Point Loma High School where my friends and I would celebrate our football victories by jumping the moat and ringing the friendship bell on the end of Shelter Island. After a term of service in the Army as a medical specialist, I graduated from SDSU (the only four year University to be in existence for one year). Playing the banjo, singing folk music and flying my airplane fills out this rather eclectic person package. I have traveled to many parts of the world but keep coming back home. I am San Diego & San Diego is me. |
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Bob “Capt.
Bob” - CAST member since 2002 |
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Hi there! Wow! It’s such a great feeling
to be part of the wonderful family here at Old Town Trolley
Tours. My name is Bob.
I grew up in a Navy family. I found a home on my seventh & final
move here in San Diego. In 1985, I joined Invader Cruises as
crew and by the summer of 1988, I was licensed Captain. In 1990
Hornblower Cruises purchased Invader Cruises, and I captained
yachts for Hornblower for over 10 years. Now after a brief sprint
with Catalina Classic Cruises, I have once again found a home
here at HTA. |
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Chris “Curly” -
CAST member since 2004 |
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A California native born & raised in San Francisco, I grew up working in the family grocery business in a typical European, Greek/American atmosphere, broken dishes everywhere. I grew up next door to my grandparents, two sets of aunts & uncles, and three cousins, so I tend to be a little neurotic. I was told I’d fit right in here. I spent the last 18 years in Reno, Nevada working in sales and as a radio disc jockey. Now I’m back in California with my wife and two small basset hounds and glad to be here. |
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Bill
- CAST member since 2007 |
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I was born in Los Angeles when it was a “village surrounded by Indians”. Most of my childhood was spent in Southern California. After failing a tryout in professional baseball, I joined the U.S. Navy and “retired” after 22 years as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. My “civilian work” included three years at Sea World. |
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Hatch
- CAST member since 2007 |
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The youngest of five sons born and raised in Anaconda, Montana. Came to San Diego to attend boot camp for the U.S. Navy in Nov. 1972. Loved the weather and decided to make S.D. my home. Have one daughter who I raised myself. Have worked for over 30 years with abused children. Recently retired from the County of San Diego where I worked with Child Protective Services. |
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Bob
- Safety Officer - CAST member since 1999 |
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Born outside of Chicago, Illinois – moved to San Diego at age 4 and never looked back. After 30 years in the automobile and truck rental industry, I came to Old Town Trolley as a Conductor in 1999. In addition to driving the City Tour, I also served as a Ghost Host, Script Development/Documentation Researcher, and Trainer on my way to becoming the full time Safety Officer. Since about 1985, my spare time has been spent maintaining and sailing Tall Ships, including the world’s oldest active sailing ship “Star of India”, the official tall ship for the state of California, the “Californian”, and a representation of a vessel from R.H. Dana’s ‘Two Years Before the Mast’, the “Pilgrim”. |
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Don
- CAST member since 2007 |
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Originally from the quiet town of Las Vegas, I have real interest in History – I have a degree in History. I have worked in the hotel business and most recently, I have sold cars for Mazda and trained people/sales people on Mazda products. I have a 14-year-old son who lives for skateboarding – who has got me back into skateboarding after a “37 year break”. I collect HO scale trains and trolleys (model trains). |
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Frank
- CAST member since 2001 |
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I have lived in San Diego for 56 years and love every day. I am happily married to my wonderful wife of 40 years (Sydney), have 3 children and 4 grandchildren. I have worked in the paper, art supply, and trade show industries. In 1999, I realized a life-long dream – I bought a 40’ boat named “Island Time” in which I now live aboard. The search for a career compatible with my personality and lifestyle led me to Old Town Trolley Tours® of San Diego. Other activities I enjoy include paddleball, scuba diving, flying and of course sailing. |
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Jeff
- CAST member since 2007 |
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I am a native San Diegan, born and raised, so coming to Historic Tours of America® (San Diego) was a natural thing for me to do. I graduated from SDSU back in that misunderstood decade known as the 80’s. So do the words “wake me up before you go go” mean anything to you? I mostly work as a substitute teacher, but I needed an outlet for my affection for San Diego. I’m married to my best friend Jenny. We’ve been together 15 years. We definitely enjoy traveling, walking, and hanging out around the homestead together. I like to laugh and find the humor in most things and situations. |
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Terri
- Trainer/Tour Conductor - CAST member since 2000 |
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I was born in a “Norman Rockwellian” town to two loving and supportive parents. Although it may be hard to believe, I did actually walk two miles to school…up hill…both ways and since it was Pennsylvania, there was occasionally snow (but I had shoes). I was an avid Partridge Family Fan Club member and suffered the normal “Jan Brady-esque” trauma of being a middle child, except my older sibling was a brother, but that didn’t stop me from wearing his clothes. After graduation from Penn State with a BS in Business Management, I worked for IBM before joining the Navy, which brought me to San Diego. I have a wonderfully talented and intelligent daughter, Megan, who shares my joy of reading, writing, and acting. At this point in my life, I’ve decided to go for what brings me joy – entertaining, informing, and helping people and according to some people…talking! |
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Richard
- CAST member since 2005 |
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Born in San Diego in 1947. I graduated from Sweetwater High School, then U.C. Santa Barbara. From 1969 to 2002, I lived away from our fair city, in the northwest, Midwest, and New England. For the past 30 years, my driver’s seat has looked a lot like a pulpit. I’m the delighted father of “one of each”, both of whom live in San Francisco. My commute is from Rancho, San Diego, so be kind to me in the morning. |
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RJ |
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I was born in Jacksonville, FL (a Navy brat) and have lived all over the country. During my travels, I was lucky enough to spend time in many states including ten years in Honolulu, Hawaii. I moved to San Diego in 1975 and for the next 20 years called California my home. I became the proud father of twin boys (Brian & Brittan) in 1986. A career change in 1995 took me to Connecticut and the world of radio broadcasting. I have just recently returned to California to be close to family, and another career change brings me to Historic Tours of America® and the Old Town Trolley. |
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Eleanor
- Balboa
Park Tram Driver |
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I
moved from Pennsylvania to California to be nearer to my son.
For 20 years I took care of a retired Army Major. As part of
her therapy for an accident, she built a pool into her house
so she could swim six days a week. It was fun to wave at the
man who shoveled snow as we swam in the 90 degree water! I also
drove a school bus, taught dance classes and went to school
to receive various certificates. When I moved to San Diego,
I took the trolley tour and thought “I’d like to
do that!” It was entertaining and I learned so much about
San Diego. I love being outdoors, seeing the sun shine every
day. I look forward to seeing the most beautiful parts of San
Diego and getting paid for it! |
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Mike |
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I
have mainly worked as a teacher and as a professional driver,
so working at Old Town Trolley Tours of San Diego is a good
way to combine the two. I’ve always been athletic and
continue to do some running a few times a week. One unique thing
that I’ve done in my life was to live in Mexico for over
five years and helped raise five very poor children. |
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Todd |
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Let’s
see. Professionally: an ad man, writer, producer, director,
account executive, account service director, office manager.
Semi-professionally: an actor, playwright, community service
volunteer, and very rusty guitar player. Athletically: life
long body surfer, struggling tennis player, semi-regular power
walker. Proudest accomplishment: raising 3 wonderful kids. I’m
a “Native Son of the Golden West”, born and raised
in Southern CA; graduated from Oceanside High School and SDSU.
Performed with San Diego’s Starlight Musical Theater while
in college and as recently as the summer of 2002, in “1776”.
Toured with the folk singing Border Singers in the 60’s.
Married and moved to Oklahoma City, where I was in the ad agency
business for many years, performed occasionally with Lyric Theater
(OKC’s Starlight), served on annual Miss Rodeo America
Pageant for 10 years, and co-authored an original musical, “Appleseed”;
Produced twice, almost made it to Broadway. What a trip! |
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Alan
- Valet |
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I
was born in the Chicago area many years ago! After high school,
the Navy decided that they needed my services and expertise,
so I sailed around the Pacific Ocean for a while! College beckoned,
but so did the golf course! I enjoyed quite a love affair with
the golf business, first as a player, then instructor, then
course designer, before completing my golf career in sales,
both retail and wholesale. Upon retiring from the real estate
business, I did extensive community volunteer work. |
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Diana
- Valet |
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I
have lived in California for the past 47 years. I am a native
Californian. I reside in Chula Vista with my wonderful husband
and my adorable 81 year old mom. I am a fourth generation “Heinz
47 variety” American. Most of my family still live in
Texas, my maternal grandparents decided to move to California
and I can’t imagine myself living anywhere but San Diego.
San Diego is such a wonderful town that I often play tour guide
with family, friends and even perfect strangers because I just
enjoy sharing all the neat things there are to do in town. From
the shoreline to the desert there is so much to see and do.
I graduated from Chula Vista High School; I am a Poway Beauty
Academy graduate and a licensed Esthetician. I also studied
at IPSB in pursuit of becoming a Massage Therapist, however
that is a work in progress. I have many pastimes and naturally
my #1 favorite is spending quality time with my family. I also
enjoy attending church and spending time with my extended church
family and friends. I love being in nature; it’s very
grounding-seems to put everything in perspective. I like hiking,
bon fires, collecting shells, reading, crafts, BBQ’s,
organizing trips to Bahia de Los Angeles in Baja, power walking,
mountain biking with my husband and star gazing. |
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Jim |
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Raised with 5 sisters and 2 brothers, Jim started work at age 7, building recreational ice rinks in Detroit. While playing high school varsity hockey, he won local and national writing awards. While graduating from the University of Michigan and beyond, he worked in the media – radio, T.V., and newspaper, including exclusive interviews with the U.S. Chief of Interpol, Gov. George Wallace, et al. Later he coasted into child development, teaching at pre-school facilities and kindergarten in San Diego. On Christmas day, 1985, the Trolley “smiled”. He met Senorita Giselle on the San Diego Trolley and they’ve been married 18 years.
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Rodge |
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Born in 1930, son of a Naval Officer and his wife. The family moved about every 1 to 2 years until I went to the Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD in 1949, graduating in 1953. U.S. Naval Officer for 20 years, serving on various ships and shore stations including cruisers, aircraft carriers, and then aboard diesel/snorkel fast attack submarines. I was on one tour overseas in Vietnam while serving in the Army. Married to my sweetheart, Jeanette in 1958 and have four children, two of each, all college grads and married. We now have 6 grandchildren. Upon retiring from the Naval service in 1973, I was in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Consulting for about 5 years. In 1978, I got a CA Real Estate License along with an MBA from National University. I am currently still in the Real Estate market with my own company. My hobbies and interests are golf, Optimistic Club of Coronado (35 years and past president), Barbershop Quartet Singer for the Sun Harbor Chorus, and a volunteer at Sharp Coronado Hospital and am currently the Treasurer of the Auxiliary.
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Victor |
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I was born in Connecticut in a town called Yalesville! New England was a wonderful place to grow up in the 50’s. By the time my family moved to San Diego in the early 60’s, snow was becoming more work and less play for me. By 7th grade, I was playing saxophone in a six-piece band. Getting paid to do what you love is “sweet”! In my twenties, I was working six nights a week at the hottest clubs in town and several other states as well. I met my wife in San Diego and we have been married for 33 years. When my daughter was three months old, I went on the road again with the band. Upon my return, I barely recognized my now six month old and realized that music was no longer the source of my happiness. Six years later our son was born. After 30 years in the “baker’s union”, I found myself unexpectedly retired when Wonder left southern California. Now San Diego is my stage. Welcome aboard for a fun and historical tour of this fantastic city. |
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Paul - CAST member since 2008 |
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I am “nearly” a native of San Diego, having immigrated here at age 3 from the Netherlands. My parents were looking for a “sunny paradise”. They definitely found that here in San Diego. I attended local public schools and was accepted at San Diego State University in the early 70’s. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work from SDSU in the mid-70’s. I have held several interesting and challenging positions during my professional career, which included working as a counselor/psychiatric social worker with both the mentally and developmentally disabled. My most challenging position was being the “Child Care Czar” for San Diego county. I was appointed by the County Board of Supervisors to oversee the development of affordable, accessible and high quality child care for San Diego families transitioning off Public Assistance. I also held the positions of child care ombudsman for the state of California and was the chair for the City of San Diego’s Advisory Board to the Mayor’s office for three years. Since retiring, I have volunteered with several groups. I have also enjoyed traveling, gold, and trying to stay fit. I especially enjoy spending time with my two married daughters and four grandchildren. |
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Tiny - CAST member since 2008 |
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My name is Steven. I was born at San Diego Naval Medical Center, also known as Balboa Naval Hospital, on August 21, 1973. I lived in San Diego until I met my wife and now reside in Chula Vista. I have one older brother. I attended Boone Elementary, Bell Jr. High and graduated from Morse High in 1991. I met my wife on the bus on the way to work in 2003. She did not realize how tall I was until our first date. We got married on April 4, 2004 and are still married. We are in the process of adopting my wife’s nephew. I have two aunts, one lives in Bay City, MI and the other lives in Hampton, Iowa. I started bowling at the age of 3 and have continued since. I have bowled one 300 game and one 800 series. |
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