Press Release
By Congressman Aaron Bean
9/30/25
America stands strong because the cost of freedom has been paid in full by the brave men and women who gave their lives in service for our nation. We often say freedom isn’t free—but we must never forget just how steep that price truly is, especially for the families who carry its weight every single day. That’s why I joined Congressman Dan Newhouse to introduce a bipartisan resolution designating September 21–27 as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week. H. Res. 744 honors the families of U.S. Armed Forces members who made the ultimate sacrifice and calls on Americans to show their support through acts of service and goodwill. This week of remembrance leads into Gold Star Mother’s Day, observed annually on the last Sunday of September. While that day honors mothers who have lost a child in service, there is currently no official date recognizing all Gold Star families. This resolution seeks to change that. To every Gold Star Mother and Family, I remain committed to honoring every sacrifice and legacy—not just in words, but through action. INVESTING IN NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S TALENT PIPELINE  This week, I spoke at the Keiser University & Propeller Club–Port of Jacksonville Scholarship Endowment Event, as we celebrated a significant milestone in workforce development. The Propeller Club awarded a $25,000 scholarship to Keiser University’s Jacksonville campus—the largest in its history. This partnership, sparked by a business roundtable I hosted earlier this year as part of the One Big Beautiful Tour, reflects a shared mission to prepare students for careers in commerce, transportation, and the logistics industry. At a time when workforce demands are evolving rapidly, this endowment is more than a gift—it’s a blueprint for how higher education and industry can collaborate to cultivate local talent and strengthen our economy. As your Congressman, I’ll continue to champion policies that support education freedom and fuel partnerships like this one—because opportunity should thrive in every community. PROTECTING CHILDREN, STRENGTHENING FAMILIES  On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services for their annual meeting. I was proud to receive their 2025 Champion for Education Award. For nearly fifty years, the Florida Network has been a vital force in supporting vulnerable youth and families across the state. During the meeting, I shared updates from Washington and highlighted the impact of my recently enacted bill—the Missing Children’s Reauthorization Act. This bipartisan legislation strengthens support for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and enhances tools to prevent exploitation and protect at-risk youth nationwide. As your Congressman, I remain committed to ensuring our communities are safe and full of opportunity for every child. FIVE DECADES OF ORANGE PARK MALL—AND COUNTING!  On Wednesday, I was honored to attend the 50th anniversary celebration of Orange Park Mall—a landmark that’s been a part of our community since 1975. While some places sell products and others build memories, Orange Park Mall has done both. I still remember watching Star Wars there in 1977! Fifty years is no small feat. It’s a testament to the mall’s ability to evolve, stay relevant, and remain rooted in the lives of those it serves. In recognition of this milestone, the Clay County government officially proclaimed it “Orange Park Mall Day.” Congratulations to everyone who’s been part of this journey, and here’s to the next chapter. May it be just as vibrant, welcoming, and full of possibility. CELEBRATING AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION EXPANSION  Recently, I was proud to join the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Agriscience and Vet Assisting Academy at Frank H. Peterson Academies of Technology in Jacksonville—an exciting step forward in strengthening Florida’s agricultural workforce. The students here represent the future of farming, veterinary science, and environmental stewardship, and their innovation will help feed our communities and protect our natural resources.This new 8,000-square-foot facility will feature a mock surgical lab, enhanced animal care spaces with secure pastures and a fully enclosed barn, as well as a 5,100-square-foot pole barn for outdoor instruction. It’s a hands-on learning environment designed to prepare students for real-world careers that matter. JOIN THE CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE  AI is transforming the world—and if you’re a middle or high school student with a passion for coding, now’s your chance to be part of the movement. The Congressional App Challenge is a nationwide competition that invites young innovators to create original apps, tackle real-world problems, and showcase their talents on a national stage. Last year’s winners traveled to Washington, D.C., connected with fellow student developers, and saw their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol. The submission deadline is October 30, 2025—so don’t wait. Learn more HERE . CASEWORK CORNER A Jacksonville constituent was experiencing continued delays in receiving his refund from the IRS, with the agency writing on three separate occasions that they needed more time to process his paperwork. Growing frustrated with the lethargic pace at which his case was progressing, he reached out to my office. My team quickly got in contact with the IRS and successfully secured his refund of over $13,000. Do you or someone you know need casework assistance? My staff and I are here to help you! Call us today at 904-830-3933. Sincerely,  Congressman Aaron Bean Proudly Serving Florida’s Fourth Congressional District |
Contact Me Washington 2459 Rayburn Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-0123 Nassau 501 Centre Street, Suite 107 Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 Phone: (904) 557-9550 Clay 4465-6 US Highway 17 Fleming Island, FL 32003 Phone: (904) 830-3933 Duval 117 W Duval St. #230 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Phone: (904) 319-9433 |
