Sunday, December 03, 2006

Former NASA Astronaut, Charles Bolden, Concludes His Visits to Bonaire’s Schools

This past week, former NASA astronaut, Charlie Bolden, spent a week on Bonaire, visiting with Bonaire’s schoolchildren, and giving presentations to the general public.  His lectures were informative and engaging, and he gave inspiring messages to Bonaire’s youth:  “Work hard, and you can achieve your dreams!”

The Lt. Governor and his wife met Charlie and his family upon arrival at Bonaire’s Flamingo Airport on Saturday, November 25.  Sunday he met with trip sponsors, and Monday evening was a press conference, where Charlie announced the contest winners from the schools and presented their awards.

During the week, Charlie and his family (his wife and daughter were traveling with him) were kept busy visiting schools and meeting the youth of Bonaire.  In between school visits, he did manage to get in a bit of scuba diving.

The week’s events concluded with a presentation to the general public, where Charlie discussed his four space missions and explained various facets of space exploration. 

Thanks go to the organizers of the event, Ben and Laura Buchbinder, as well as the numerous sponsors who made the trip possible.  Click here to view images of the various events of the week which are available on the Bonaire Insider Photo Gallery. (Source:  Bonaire Insider reporter)