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Florida Blue Foundation 2025 Mental Well-Being Grant Applications – Now Open

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Mental Well-being

Watch an informational webinar on the Mental Well-being grant program.
Click here to access the online application for the Mental Well-being grant program.

Important Dates/Deadlines
• Application open date: On or about Monday, March 17, 2025
• Application due date: Monday, May 5, 2025, by 3:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
• All applicants will be notified of their status: Between August – September 2025
• Required orientation: Between September – October 2025

Florida Blue Foundation’s programs are focused on improving health by impacting food security, advancing mental well-being, growing healthy communities, and addressing health disparities. This funding opportunity is focused on Mental Well-being.

Description of the 2025 Mental Well-being Grant Program
Goal: Advance mental well-being for families and community members to mitigate the stressors associated with issues that often impact entire families and/or communities.

Background
At Florida Blue and the Florida Blue Foundation, we believe there is no health without mental health which guides how we support the people and communities we serve.

The Foundation seeks to fund programs that support children, teens, adults, and/or seniors that are struggling to manage life’s stressors, including social isolation and loneliness; as well as programs that are increasing the pipeline of mental health professionals.

We recognize that mental health is essential to overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, the United States is facing a mental health crisis that affects people of all ages.1

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in five adults and one in six youth experience a mental health episode each year, resulting in 20% of adults/seniors and 16.6% of young people facing a mental health issue annually.2

Furthermore, rural communities are disproportionately affected, with approximately one-fifth of the US population living in rural areas, and about one-fifth of those individuals, or around 6.5 million people, struggling with a mental illness.3

This highlights the need for targeted support and resources to address the unique mental health challenges faced by rural communities. Social isolation and loneliness are pervasive problems in the U.S., posing a significant threat to our mental and physical health. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, declared loneliness a public health epidemic, emphasizing its profound consequences for individual and societal health.4

The mental health crisis is further exacerbated by a severe workforce shortage.5

Dr. Nick Dewan, Vice President of Behavioral Health for GuideWell and Florida Blue, notes that “we do not have enough psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers to efficiently address the current demand, and are facing a significant behavioral health workforce shortage over the next decade.”6

As of December 2023, over half of the U.S. population (169 million people) lives in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area (Mental Health HPSA).7

Mental Well-being
Florida ranks 35th among all states for prevalence of mental illness and is one of the five worst states for mental health care.8 Moreover, over 6 million people in Florida live in communities with inadequate mental health professionals.9

To make matters worse, Florida has a severe shortage of mental health providers, with a staggering 550-to-1 ratio of residents to mental health providers, ranking 43rd in the nation.10 Rural counties are particularly affected, with a shortage of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, psychologists, social workers, and counselors.11

This critical shortage of mental health professionals intensifies the challenges of
accessing care, leaving many Floridians without the support they need to manage their mental health.

In response to these challenges, Florida Blue Foundation is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations that provide mental well-being services or increase the pipeline of mental health professionals. Through our Mental
Well-being grant program, we will award three- and four-year grants to organizations with documented expertise and experience in delivering mental well-being services or training mental health professionals.

1Protecting the Nation’s Mental Health. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). https://www.cdc.gov/mental
health/about/what-cdc-is-doing.html. Accessed August 8, 2024.
2Individuals With Mental Illness. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). https://www.nami.org/your-journey/individuals-with-mental
illness/#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20a%20mental,to%20let%20it%20stop%20us. Accessed February 7, 2025.
Mental Health: Get the Facts. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) .https://www.samhsa.gov/mental
health/what-is-mental
health/facts#:~:text=Myth:%20Mental%20health%20issues%20can,bipolar%20disorder%2C%20or%20major%20depression. Updated April
24, 2023.
3A call to action to address rural mental health disparities. Journal of Clinical and Translational Science Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration (SAMHSA). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7681156/. Published May 4, 2020.
4New APA Poll: One in Three Americans Feels Lonely Every Week. American Psychiatric Association.
https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/new-apa-poll-one-in-three-americans-feels-lonely-e. Published January 30, 2024.
5Behavioral Health Workforce. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Workforce Brief.
https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/Behavioral-Health-Workforce-Brief-2023.pdf. Published December 2023.
6Dewan, N. (2023, May). Mental Well-being Drives Our Ability to Flourish. Op-Ed. Multiple media outlets.
https://www.floridablue.com/blog/mental-well-being-drives-our-ability-to-flourish.
7Behavioral Health Workforce. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Workforce Brief.
https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/Behavioral-Health-Workforce-Brief-2023.pdf. Published December 2023.
8Behavioral Health Data Profile for Florida. Data Brief. Florida Hospital Association.
https://fha.org/common/Uploaded%20files/FHA/Health%20Care%20Issues/Increasing%20Access%20to%20Behavioral%20Health%20Care/
Issue%20Brief%20on%20Behavioral%20Health%20Data%20Profile%20for%20Florida%202024.pdf. Published May 2023.
9Mental Health in Florida Fact Sheet. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FloridaStateFactSheet.pdf. Mental health statistics as of 2021.
10 Policy Document, Behavioral Health Profile. Data Brief. Florida Hospital Association.
https://www.fha.org/common/Uploaded%20files/FHA/Health%20Care%20Issues/Updated%20Briefs%200525/Issue%20Brief%20on%20Be
havioral%20Health%20Data%20Profile%20for%20Florida%20FINAL.pdf. Published May 2023.
11 Behavioral Health Workforce. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Workforce Brief.
https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/Behavioral-Health-Workforce-Brief-2023.pdf. Published December 2023.

 

ICYMI: UAW Praises President Trump’s Auto Tariffs

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Today, President Donald J. Trump imposed a 25% tariff on foreign automobiles imported into the United States — a continuation of President Trump’s Made in America renaissance.

The move was immediately hailed by the United Auto Workers — one of the country’s largest labor unions — as a “victory for autoworkers.”

“We applaud the Trump administration for stepping up to end the free trade disaster that has devastated working class communities for decades. Ending the race to the bottom in the auto industry starts with fixing our broken trade deals, and the Trump administration has made history with today’s actions. … The UAW and the working class in general couldn’t care less about party politics; working people expect leaders to work together to deliver results. The UAW has been clear: we will work with any politician, regardless of party, who is willing to reverse decades of working-class people going backwards in the most profitable times in our nation’s history. These tariffs are a major step in the right direction for autoworkers and blue-collar communities across the country, and it is now on the automakers, from the Big Three to Volkswagen and beyond, to bring back good union jobs to the U.S.”

Read the UAW’s full statement here.

Media Release: The White House, Office of Communications

Brainstorming and Brilliant Minds, Flagler-Palm Coast High School’s Future Problem Solvers

By
Flagler News Weekly
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Wrapping up an incredible journey of growth, learning, and problem-solving! From brainstorming solutions and connecting with brilliant minds, our outstanding students did it all!

Senior GIPS Magic Team Awards
4th Place: Emma Gilbert, Laura Herrera, Eva Sites
3rd Place: Lorraine Wilson
2nd Place: Kashvi Sagar, Karolyn Whitney
1st Place: Aaradhana Moluguri and Nicki Hollis
Senior GIPS Individuals Awards
2nd Place & AN INVITATION TO INTERNATIONALS: Desmond Akmentins
Senior GIPS Team Awards
2nd Place & AN INVITATION TO INTERNATIONALS: Victoria Da Silva, Liam Lafferty, Ava Mello, and Arianna Slaughter
Senior Circus Maximus Team Awards
2nd Place: Ava Mello, Aasi Bharucha, Eva Sites, Laura Herrera, Victoria Da Silva
1st Place: Abigail Blumengarten, Liam Lafferty, Daniel Payne, Jack Mikutel, Lily Ames, Annabelle Machado
Senior Skits: Presentation of Action Plans
5th Place: Jesus Rodriguez, Ethan Zverinsky, Xander Lascano, Kashvi Sagar
4th Place: Alex Whaley, Desmond Akmentins, Muhammad Khawaja
Middle Storytelling Awards
3rd Place & AN INVITATION TO INTERNATIONALS: Holden Carleton
Middle Creative Writing Awards
6th Place: Oliver Esquivel Novek
2nd Place & AN INVITATION TO INTERNATIONALS: Holden Carleton
Senior Creative Writing Awards
5th Place: Emma Gilbert
4th Place: Liam Lafferty

Senior Community Projects

2nd Place & AN INVITATION TO INTERNATIONALS: Nicki Hollis and Lorraine Wilson with Saving Earth’s Wardrobe

Information & Images provided by Flagler Palm Coast High School

Matanzas Theatre Company Presents “Little Shop of Horrors”

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Matanzas Theater Company at Matanzas High School in Palm Coast, Florida, proudly presents the hit Broadway musical Little Shop of Horrors in the Pirate Theater on April 3-5 at 7pm, with a special matinee at 2pm on April 5.

A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theater goers for over 30 years. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty And The Beast, and Aladdin) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world. The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names “Audrey II” – after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it BLOOD! Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II’s out of this world origins and intent towards global domination!

The Matanzas High School production is directed by James Brendlinger, with musical direction by Jens Oliva, and choreography by MHS senior Leah Lehnertz. Unique poster designs have been created by Orlando-based graphic designer Bryan Jager, and the Audrey II puppets at the center of the story were created by Danny Belden of Twistid Arts Initiative in Inverness, Florida, specifically for this production.

Tickets are on sale now at TeachTix.com/PirateTheater. General admission seats are $10, while special VIP seating is available for $25. The Pirate Theater is located at 3535 Pirate Nation Way, Palm Coast FL 32137. For more information, contact James Brendlinger by texting 407-310-8908.

Flagler Schools recognized for Safe Sports School

By
Don Foley
-

PALM COAST, Fla., March 26, 2025 – Safety is a top priority at Flagler Schools, and its dedication to protecting student athletes has earned national recognition. The district received the Safe Sports School Award from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, an honor that highlights its proactive approach to student health and injury prevention. Flagler Palm Coast High School (FPC) and Matanzas High School (MHS) applied individually, and in conjunction with the athletic trainers, to meet a certain set of criteria to receive the award.

The award was presented during National Athletic Training Month to FPC Head Athletic Trainer Ronald Steinwehr and MHS Head Athletic Trainer Michael Doersch, making the recognition even more meaningful. It also underscores a strong partnership between the school district and AdventHealth, which has helped elevate safety standards for student athletes.

“At Flagler Schools, the well-being of our student-athletes is a top priority,” said LaShakia Moore, Superintendent of Flagler Schools. “Our partnership with AdventHealth ensures they have access to exceptional medical treatment, resources and support to keep them safe both on and off the field. By working together, we’re providing the highest level of care to keep our student-athletes safe and performing their best.”

For decades, AdventHealth has hosted free pre-participation physicals and cardiac screenings for student-athletes in grades 6 through 12.

In 2024 alone, 628 Flagler County students received physicals – 15% of whom reported not having a primary care physician. For many, this event is their only interaction with a health care provider all year.

In addition, AdventHealth provided nearly 506 cardiac screenings, flagging three students for follow-up care and leading to one potentially lifesaving procedures.

Beyond screenings, AdventHealth has taken steps to strengthen the district’s athletic training program, recognizing their vital role as frontline medical providers.

AdventHealth has stepped up to provide:

  • National certification support, covering the cost of annual National Athletic Trainers’ Association membership fees, certification renewals, and state licenses

  • Expanded event coverage, supplying 170+ hours of athletic training coverage at nearly 40 additional sporting events

  • Lifesaving equipment, donating six AEDs to ensure every school is equipped for emergencies

  • Better injury tracking, offering access to an electronic medical record system for streamlined documentation

  • Essential medical equipment and supplies, contributing over $1,200 worth of resources for student-athlete care and the prevention of exertional heat stroke

  • Concussion management, conducting nearly 4,284 tests to monitor and protect students since the partnership with AdventHealth and Flagler Schools began in 2021.

At the center of these efforts is Erik Nason, a certified athletic trainer hired by AdventHealth to serve as a care coordinator and liaison to the school district. His expertise helps ensure best practices are in place to keep student athletes safe.

“This isn’t just about meeting the standard – it is about setting a new one and creating an environment where students can thrive,” said Erik Nason, Director of Strategic Partnership Operations. “We are proud to partner with Flagler Schools and committed to supporting our student athletes, whether it is through annual physicals, cardiac screenings, concussion management or helping the district recruit and retain top-notch athletic trainers.”

AdventHealth’s formal partnership with Flagler Schools began in 2021 and represents a $750,000 commitment to bolster student mental health, provide care for student athletes, and establish more career pathways for graduates.

AdventHealth will continue its commitment by hosting free pre-participation physicals and cardiac screenings on May 21 and 22 at Flagler Palm Coast High School. Registration is required. Visit FSSportsPhysicals.com to register online.

Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Florida Holocaust Memorial and Honors Holocaust Survivor David Schaecter with Governor’s Medal of Freedom

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled the Florida Holocaust Memorial in Memorial Park, remembering the over six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust and honoring the survivors who later made their homes in the Sunshine State. The Governor was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis, Holocaust Survivor David Schaecter, and Israeli Consul General Maor Elbaz-Starinsky.

The memorial, constructed in iron and limestone, displays faces and names of Holocaust survivors who made their homes in Florida after the war. Florida-based Jewish groups assisted the Florida Department of Management Services in sourcing survivors’ names and images. The unveiling comes on the date in 1942 when the first Jews were deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp.

“First Lady Casey DeSantis and I were honored to unveil the Florida Holocaust Memorial in the Florida Capitol Complex’s new Memorial Park today,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This memorial serves as a powerful symbol of our commitment to never forget the atrocities of the Holocaust and to recognize the survivors who later moved to our state – including David Schaecter, whose dedication to educating generations of Floridians about the Holocaust has earned the Governor’s Medal of Freedom. Florida is a better place because of the Holocaust survivors who have called our state home. We’re grateful for their contributions, and we’re proud to stand with the Jewish community.”

During the unveiling, Governor DeSantis awarded the Governor’s Medal of Freedom to David Schaecter, a 95-year-old Holocaust survivor who moved to Miami in 1957. Schaecter’s family was taken from their home in Czechoslovakia, and he spent time in the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps before escaping during the Nazis’ retreat from allied forces. His brother was killed in Buchenwald, and he never saw his parents or two sisters again after the war.

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Dave Kerner, Senator Tina Polsky, and former Senator Eleanor Sobel spoke alongside Governor DeSantis.

The Florida Holocaust Memorial is the first memorial placed in Memorial Park, which was established by Senate Bill 2506 in 2023.

Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis

American Trucking Associations Applaud Trump Nomination of Flagler County’s Derek Barrs to FMCSA Role

By
Flagler News Weekly
-

Washington – The American Trucking Associations applauded President Trump’s nomination of Derek Barrs to serve as administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

“With nearly two decades of experience in law enforcement and the commercial motor vehicle industry, Derek Barrs’ career has been defined by his emphasis on making our roads safer for all motorists,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear. “Derek’s extensive public service at the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Highway Patrol make him exceptionally well qualified to be FMCSA administrator. He has a proven track record of strengthening ties between the trucking industry and public safety officers to address top transportation challenges such as drug impairment, cargo theft, and human trafficking.

“Derek’s deep knowledge of the trucking industry and his collaborative approach will make him an invaluable asset to USDOT. Under his leadership, the trucking industry is confident that FMCSA will make significant progress towards achieving our shared priorities of improving highway safety and efficiently delivering the nation’s freight. ATA welcomes Derek’s nomination to this important role, and we urge Senators to swiftly approve his nomination.”

Barrs has served in various law enforcement capacities for the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Highway Patrol. Most recently, he has been a consultant on traffic-related and commercial motor vehicle safety projects across numerous states. He also joined ATA’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board in 2021, and he has been an active member of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance in multiple roles, including serving as the President of the Associate Members, where he represented motor carriers and suppliers to the industry.

In January, ATA, the Truckload Carriers Association, and the National Tank Truck Carriers sent a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to express full support for Barrs.

Media Release: American Trucking Associations

FCSO Arrests Lake County Shooting Suspect Who Fled and Crashed His Vehicle on Interstate 95

By
FCSO Public Affairs Officer
-

BUNNELL, Fla. — The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect in a Lake County, Florida, shooting after he was stopped in Flagler County, fled on foot, and was apprehended.

On the afternoon of March 21, the FCSO Communications Center was notified by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office that a suspect involved in a shooting in Lake County had passed through their jurisdiction and was crossing into Flagler County on State Road 11 near Cody’s Corner. Through investigative means, the FCSO Real Time Crime Center identified the suspect as Levon Coakley, 36, of Tampa, Florida, and determined that he had a secondary address on Slumber Path in Palm Coast.

Deputies located Coakley’s vehicle on U.S. Highway 1 and, when it arrived at the Slumber Path address, attempted a felony traffic stop. Coakley exited the vehicle but ignored deputies’ verbal commands. He then re-entered the vehicle and fled. Coakley’s reckless driving caused a multi-vehicle crash, which resulted in minor injuries.

Coakley fled onto Interstate 95, traveling in the opposite direction of traffic. Deputies deployed stop sticks along I-95 near mile marker 290 and successfully deflated the vehicle’s tires. The vehicle rolled before landing upright, striking trees, and catching fire. Coakley then fled on foot into the woods in the F-Section of Palm Coast.

Deputies launched an extensive manhunt that included members of FCSO’s patrol units, Fugitive Unit, K-9 Unit, and Traffic Enforcement Unit, with assistance from Florida Highway Patrol, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. The FCSO Drone Unit, RTCC, and VSO’s Air One helicopter provided support.

Following a nearly hourlong search, deputies located Coakley just north of the crash location. Coakley surrendered and was taken into custody. Deputies found the gun used in the Lake County shooting in Coakley’s vehicle.

“This was truly a multi-agency effort, as this dirtbag fled through multiple counties before our deputies stopped and caught him,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “He put a lot of lives in danger when he recklessly fled from law enforcement, and I am thankful that nobody was hurt or killed because of his dangerous actions.”

Coakley’s local charges include Fleeing and Eluding with Disregard for Safety of Persons or Property, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Reckless Driving Damage to Persons or Property, and Failure to Stop or Remain at Crash Involving Injury. Deputies also arrested Coakley on a Lake County warrant for Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Levon Coakley (Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility mugshot)

Upon arrest, Coakley was taken to a local hospital for medical clearance and then booked in to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility where he is being held without bond.

View bodycam footage of Coakley’s arrest here: bit.ly/4j0prOt

From New York City Cafés To St. Augustine’s Streets: Groundskeeper Turned Poet Laureate Leads St. Augustine PoetFest

By
Flagler News Weekly
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5 Beat Poet Laureates at 2024 PoetFest (L–R) Chris Vannoy, George Wallace, Ron Whitehead, Larry Jaffe, Chris Bodor. Photo Shelley Jaffe

FROM NEW YORK CITY CAFÉS TO ST. AUGUSTINE’S STREETS: GROUNDSKEEPER TURNED POET LAUREATE LEADS ST. AUGUSTINE POETFEST

April 10-12: Annual Festival Highlights National Poetry Month and Literary Arts in St. Johns County

St. Johns County, Fla. – March 24, 2025 – As April’s National Poetry Month approaches, St. Johns County is preparing to celebrate the power of words with the 4th Annual St. Augustine PoetFest, set for April 10-12, 2025. This three-day event, presented by the St. Johns Cultural Council, Flagler College, and Ancient City Poets, brings together poets, writers, and literature lovers for a weekend of workshops, performances, and discussions on the importance of poetry in culture and history.

At the helm of the festival is Chris Bodor, Florida Beat Poet Laureate and longtime Flagler College groundskeeper. While Bodor spends his days tending to the college’s historic landscape, he is equally dedicated to cultivating the literary arts in St. Johns County.

Festival Highlights:

  • Day One: PoetFest kicks off on Thursday, April 10, at The Waterworks (184 San Marco Ave.) from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring a Beat Poet Summit and an open mic session, where local and visiting poets can take the stage.

  • Day Two: On Friday, April 11, Flagler College’s Ringhaver Student Center (50 Sevilla St.) hosts a full day of poetry workshops, panel discussions, and a book bazaar from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. That evening, the Flagler College English Department will present an Open Mic Night at Relampago Coffee Lab (74 Spanish St.) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

    • A special highlight of the day is the “Dolly Parton Poetry Workshop” with Dustin Brookshire, held from 1 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. in the Virginia Room. This workshop celebrates Parton’s lyrical storytelling and explores how her songwriting inspires poetry and creative writing.

  • Day Three: The festival continues on Saturday, April 12, with poetry panels, scheduled readings, and book signings at Flagler College from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

    • One of the festival’s signature events, the Haiku Contest Winner Announcement, will also take place on Saturday, April 12, celebrating the art of concise and expressive poetry by recognizing the top submissions. The festival will conclude with a closing reception, where attendees can celebrate the contest winners and connect with fellow poetry enthusiasts.

5 Beat Poet Laureates at 2024 PoetFest (L–R) Chris Vannoy, George Wallace, Ron Whitehead, Larry Jaffe, Chris Bodor. Photo Shelley Jaffe

More About Chris Bodor

Bodor founded Ancient City Poets, a group with roots in New York City’s thriving poetry scene, where he once hosted open mic nights before relocating to St. Augustine, Florida. Since then, he has worked to make poetry a visible and accessible part of life in St. Johns County, proving that the literary arts can flourish anywhere—from the neon lights of Manhattan to the historic charm of the nation’s oldest city.

“Poetry is everywhere—on city streets, in small towns, and in the air we breathe,” Bodor said. “I simply want to give opportunities to others, because I would be nowhere if opportunities were not given to me. Poetry is alive in St. Johns County. Under the umbrella of National Poetry Month, we can share that passion and excitement every April, by welcoming locals as well as traveling poets and poetry lovers.”

PoetFest is free, open to the public and welcomes seasoned poets, emerging writers, and anyone interested in the literary arts. The festival offers an opportunity to engage with accomplished poets, discover new voices, and learn more about the significance of poetry in culture and history. Volunteer opportunities are also available here: https://linktr.ee/stapoetfest. For more information, visit www.ancientcitypoets.org/st-augustine-poetfest.

#  #  #

The St. Johns Cultural Council is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting local artists and arts organizations, ensuring that residents of and visitors to St. Johns County have access to high-quality arts, culture, and heritage experiences. Visit the websites at https://www.historiccoastculture.com and https://www.stjohnsculture.com.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 Astronauts to Discuss Their Science Mission During Postflight News Conference

By
Flagler News Weekly
-
NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, left, Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, second from left, and NASA astronauts Nick Hague, second from right, and Suni Williams, right, are seen inside a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft shortly after splashing down off the coast of Florida, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission returned from a long-duration science expedition aboard the International Space Station. Photo Credit: (Credit: NASA).

After completing a long-duration stay aboard the International Space Station, NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts will discuss their science mission during a postflight news conference at 2:30 p.m. EDT Monday, March 31, from the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.

NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, and Butch Wilmore will answer questions about their time in space. The three NASA crew members and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov returned to Earth on March 18. Gorbunov will not participate in the news conference because of his travel schedule.

Watch live coverage on NASA+. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of additional platforms, including social media.

NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, left, Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, second from left, and NASA astronauts Nick Hague, second from right, and Suni Williams, right, are seen inside a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft shortly after splashing down off the coast of Florida, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission returned from a long-duration science expedition aboard the International Space Station. Photo Credit: (Credit: NASA).

Hague and Gorbunov lifted off at 1:17 p.m. Sept. 28, 2024, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The next day, they docked to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. Williams and Wilmore launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft and United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on June 5, 2024, from Space Launch Complex 41 as part of the agency’s Boeing Crew Flight Test. The duo arrived at the space station on June 6. In August, NASA announced the uncrewed return of Starliner to Earth and integrated Wilmore and Williams as part of the space station’s Expedition 71/72 for a return on Crew-9.

Williams and Wilmore traveled 121,347,491 miles during their mission, spent 286 days in space, and completed 4,576 orbits around Earth. Hague and Gorbunov traveled 72,553,920 miles during their mission, spent 171 days in space, and completed 2,736 orbits around Earth.

Hague, Williams, and Wilmore completed over 900 hours of research, conducting more than 150 unique experiments. During their time in orbit, the crew studied plant growth and development, tested stem cell technology to improve patient outcomes on Earth, and participated in research to understand how the space environment affects material degradation. They also performed a spacewalk and collected samples from the station’s exterior, studying the survivability of microorganisms in space. Additionally, the crew supported 30 ham radio events with students worldwide and conducted a student-led genetic experiment, helping to inspire the next generation of explorers.

NASA’s Commercial Crew Program has delivered on its goal of safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station from the United States through a partnership with American private industry. This partnership is changing the arc of human spaceflight history by opening access to low Earth orbit and the International Space Station to more people, more science, and more commercial opportunities. The space station remains the springboard to NASA’s next great leap in space exploration, including future missions to the Moon and, eventually, to Mars.

Find more information on NASA’s Commercial Crew Program at:

https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew

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Flagler News Weekly Editor: Danielle Anderson Published by Sunrise Media Group, LLC ©Flagler News Weekly, All Rights Reserved.
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