MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) – The Association of Haitian Educators of Dade (AHED) announced its 15th Annual Back-to-School Breakfast, honoring the contributions of Haitian American educators throughout Florida. Set to take place at the Kovens Center at Florida International University, the event will bring together over 300 AHED members, educators, and community leaders to celebrate the pivotal role these teachers play in shaping the future of education.

The event, scheduled for October 19, 2024, will feature several distinguished guest speakers, including Dr. Steve Gallon III, District 1 Board Member of Miami-Dade County Public Schools; Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall, District 2 Board Member; Dr. Jose L. Dotres, Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools; Dr. Michael A. Lewis; a representative from the Office of Florida State Senator Shevrin Jones; and an official from the City of North Miami. Each will highlight the significance of Haitian American educators in promoting academic excellence and fostering a supportive learning environment for students.

AHED President Marie Viard expressed pride in the community’s educators and emphasized their invaluable contributions. “Our teachers are the heartbeat of our community,” she stated. “We are proud to honor their lasting contributions to students, schools, and society.” The event aims to not only celebrate these educators but also recognize their resilience in the face of challenges affecting the Haitian American community.

“Despite the obstacles, our teachers continue to inspire, uplift, and empower future generations,” Viard added.

Event Details:

• Date: October 19, 2024
• Time: 9:30 AM
• Location: Kovens Center, Florida International University, 3000 NE 151st Street, North Miami, FL

For more information or to RSVP, contact: ahedflorida@gmail.com.

About AHED:

The Association of Haitian Educators of Dade (AHED) advocates for Haitian American educators by providing resources, professional development, and support, while promoting educational equity and cultural pride.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (FNN) – Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, of Hawaii, has been charged with firearms offenses in connection with an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. The criminal complaint, filed in the Southern District of Florida, accuses Routh of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession and receipt of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. He made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Ryon M. McCabe in West Palm Beach on September 15, 2024, with a detention hearing scheduled for September 23.

Incident Details
According to the criminal complaint, a U.S. Secret Service agent patrolling the perimeter of the golf course spotted what appeared to be the barrel of a rifle emerging from the tree line. The agent, fearing an imminent threat, fired a service weapon in the direction of the suspected shooter. A witness later saw a man, identified as Routh, fleeing from the area.

Routh was apprehended by officers from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Upon searching the tree line where Routh was seen, authorities discovered a backpack, a digital camera, a loaded SKS-style rifle with a scope, and a black plastic bag containing food. The rifle’s serial number had been obliterated, further raising suspicions about its intended use.

Criminal Background
Routh has a history of felony convictions in North Carolina, dating back to December 2002 and March 2010, making it illegal for him to possess firearms under federal law.

Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is leading the investigation into the apparent assassination attempt, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the U.S. Secret Service. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division are prosecuting the case.

Potential Impact of Violence
This incident underscores the continuing risk of violence targeting high-profile figures like former President Trump, whose outspoken leadership has attracted both fervent support and opposition. The attempted attack raises concerns about the safety and security of public figures in highly politicized environments, further heightening tensions in the nation. It also stresses the importance of strict enforcement of firearms laws, especially involving convicted felons.

As the investigation continues, the possibility of further charges related to terrorism or other offenses may emerge, depending on Routh’s motive and associations.