By Himmler Joachim
“We starting out mostly doing baseball trips,” says Gary Siegel of CD Trips, which provides day and overnight trips, while giving back to the community. “They tend to be fairly popular. They are our signature trip. This year, we have some great Yankees premium games.”
The inspiration for CD Trips, started by Gary and his wife, Judy, grew from the skills learned from their previous jobs.
“I’m a retired music teacher.” says Gary. “I taught in the Liberty Central School District. I used to take kids on field trips to Carnegie Hall. We used to go up to Rochester for music conferences every year. Trips have been what I do throughout my career.”
Judy was brought up in the hospitality business. “She adds a lot to the business, knowing marketing, sales and group sales,” says Gary.
“I’ve always been pretty good at putting together itineraries,” says Judy. “We do organized, fun and hassle-free trips. Senior citizens say they’re a little nervous going to New York City. We take care of them, making sure they’re safe.”
Gary takes great pride in the fact that every trip they plan benefits local organizations. “We were always brought up to give back,” he explains. “There’s a charity component to every one of our trips.”
Currently, CD Trips has expanded from baseball games to Broadway trips. Excursions are planned to see “Jersey Boys” and “Kinky Boots,” and in April, there will be an overnight trip to Washington DC. CD Trips does pickups in Orange County along the I-86 corridor (Circleville, Chester, Goshen, and Monroe Park & Rides).
When I asked what his most interesting trip experience was, Siegel says, “I would say they’re all interesting.” Judy notes that her highlights include going to the 9/11 memorial with firefighters and attending a baseball game with 90-year-olds.
“Every one of them is a heartwarming and moving experience,” Judy adds.
To learn more about CD Trips, visit their website at http://cdtrips.com/.