As Bob Rogers Travel begins their 25th Year Celebration, some of you may be wondering, “Who is Bob Rogers?”
Give us some background on you?
I grew up in River Grove, and I was the oldest of 3 children. My brother’s name is Bill, and he passed away in 1995 at 43 years old. I have a sister named Kim, and she has a son in the Conant Band. I played the trumpet in the band, starting in 3rd grade at Rhodes Elementary School. I went to East Leyden H.S. I continued my education at Eastern Illinois University where I received my bachelor and masters degrees in music education. I received the Outstanding Student Teacher Award. My first job was assistant band director at John Hersey H.S. from 1970-1973 where I had the privilege of preparing my band for Mr. Arthur Fiedler of the Boston Pops. I opened up Buffalo Grove H.S. at the Director of Band from 1973-1977. I had the honor of having Mr. Peter Nero as our guest artist for 2 concerts. From 1977-1979, I was the Director of Bands at Wheaton Warrenville H.S.
How did Bob Rogers Travel begin?
I worked for a year for ABC in their Travel Network division. I then was the Chicago Sales Manager for Pacific & World Travel out of Minneapolis and both of these positions provided me the impetus to start Bob Rogers Travel in 1981.
Your family consists of...
My daughter, Tami Chinnici, my son, Todd Rogers, my son-in-law, Pete Chinnici and my 2 granddaughters, Isabella and Gabriella.
What do you enjoy most about being a grandfather?
Being the playmate to both my granddaughters and being looked up to as their Papa.
How do you keep music in your life today?
I am a subscriber to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. I continue to own a substantial collection of classical music that I listen to often.
What are you most proud of in your life?
My 2 kids, Tami and Todd.
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Hobbies are...
Flying my airplane, avid model train enthusiast, Disney collector, swan Collector, and an avid proponent of personal growth.
Most memorable experience on a student tour is...
Being able to conduct the fine Libertyville H.S. Symphonic Band at the American Garden Stage at Epcot Center.
What do you admire about Walt Disney?
He was an innovator and he had a great imagination.
What is your favorite Walt Disney quote?
”If you can dream it, you can do it.”
What do you enjoy most about Walt Disney World?
Being transformed to an imaginary world.
How many times have you been there?
Over 500.
What is your favorite destination for leisure travel and why?
Carmel, California for the beauty, grandeur, and wonderful sightseeing opportunities.
Best advice you have ever given...
To my children, to always put customer service and relationships first in the business.
A dream that has come true...
The ability to be the pilot of my own airplane and fly wherever I choose to go.
A goal for your future...
To live a healthy and productive life.
Where would you like to see Bob Rogers Travel 10 years from now?
I would like to see it as a National Company with diversification in the areas of Leisure Group Sales and Educational Travel. |
