Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, he has lived here for more than 25 years. Making friends, started a family, making connections… this is home. 

Most of his background has to do with Customer Service, either in retail or other sales. He has his own DJ company, Sound Impressions and has been providing music and entertainment for weddings, birthdays and many other events through the city and other companies for over 20 years. While working for a Freight Delivery company based here in the Verde Valley, Daniel saw an opportunity to drive and be a part of the school community…  as a Bus Driver. Starting in 2018, he is getting kids to school and home safe as Mr. Bear. 

After being the first recipient of the Stephen Novak Legacy Award in 2023, Daniel took over as the Transportation Dept Manager for the following school year and then promoted to Director later in December, 2023. Driven to make sure the Transportation Dept is the safest means of travel around, Daniel and his colleagues are determined to continue providing transportation for kids to get to school even through the obstacles put in their way.

Daniel’s focus on helping make sure this community is one his family can live in has him on the board for the Verde Village Community Connection. Daniel has worked with several organizations providing music and entertainment for their events, including the City of Cottonwood. 

With love of music, Pop Culture, reading and kids… Daniel continues to strive in helping schools with getting kids to their classes, field trips, sports and other extracurricular activities.