Last summer, my daughter Antonia made it to the national semifinals in the National Geography Bee. This achievement qualifies her to compete in the International Geography Championships, held July 14-20 in Vienna, Austria. Antonia is already studying hard for international competitions and plans to give back to the sponsoring organization by serving as a question reader for regional elementary competitions, now that she has aged out of competing in them.

The total costs of the trip will exceed $5,000. I can't get her there alone; it will take a village.

We are asking friends and geography enthusiasts to chip in toward Antonia's flight and registration costs. Event registration alone costs $1875. Cheaper flights include a layover and that means she needs to travel with a parent. Poland's LOT Airlines has a sale now through Jan. 21. Our first goal is to raise $2500 to cover the plane tickets.

The sooner we can buy tickets, the better, since January is a great time to buy international flights for later in the year. Antonia and I appreciate all your support!