December Circumbits

Dec 012014

More Circumnavigators join our ranks

As the year 2014 comes to a close, it is worth noting that it was a banner year for membership. The number of new members nearly doubled from last year. The membership activity was helped by the Wall Street Journal story featuring the Circumnavigators Club. This story on Round the World travel brought the Club to the attention of a number of circumnavigators who inquired about joining. Membership was also aided by the spouse discount as noted below.

Discounted initiation fee for spouses extended

The Board of Governors has voted to extend the discount through 2015. An applicant sponsored by a spouse will pay an initiation fee of $50 instead of $150. This discount also applies to a married couple that joins at the same time. One spouse pays $150 and the other pays $50. Also, a new member applicant sponsored by a spouse will not require a seconding letter, in order to streamline the process.

Our newest members

The circumnavigators who join the Club always impress us. Every one has an interesting background and special talents and achievements. However, two new members have unique and outstanding accomplishments that need to be pointed out.

Amelia Earhart: circumnavigation record holder

Yes, you heard that right. Unrelated to her namesake, Amelia circumnavigated this summer by piloting her own plane—an achievement that, along with her name, garnered widespread international media coverage. At 31, she now holds the world record for the youngest woman to circumnavigate in a single-engine aircraft. She closely followed the route of the “original” Amelia Earhart who disappeared in 1937. Our new member lives in Denver and heads the Fly With Amelia Foundation. Members will be hearing more about her story in The Log.

Matt Guthmiller: Youngest pilot to solo circumnavigate

A 19-year-old MIT student, Matt made it around the world by himself this summer and now holds the Guinness World Record for his fund-raising mission. He logged more than 30,000 miles on this 44-day trip, taking him to 15 countries and six continents. He flew a 1981 Beechcraft A36 Bonanza on this arduous journey. Members will learn more about the trip in The Log.

The Last Shot

Circumbits will feature a great photo each month to share with our members. This shot was taken by Sophie Classen, Naples Chapter member, in her backyard in Bonita Springs, Florida.