May Beam Continue to Light the Way

Floor Speech

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Mr. BEAN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, a beam is a ray of light, a symbol of hope. For more than 40 years, BEAM in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, has been that light, delivering hope and help to northeast Floridians in need.

It started in 1985 by representatives of local churches who saw people needing a hand up.

Today, I rise to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry, BEAM, a lifeline for families facing hardship in eastern Duval County, places like: Mayport, Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach. From keeping the lights on to filling the pantry, supporting seniors and single parents, BEAM continues to show up with compassion and care.

Mr. Speaker, I know what you are thinking. They are 40 years old, and they don't look a day over 29. That is true. What is also true is their volunteers and benefactors are everyday heroes, quietly providing critical services to thousands of neighbors each year.

As our community has grown and changed, BEAM has remained a constant source of light, guiding families through tough times with warmth, direction, and hope.

Today, we celebrate more than a milestone. We celebrate that ray of light that is never dimmed. May BEAM continue to shine, lighting the path forward for those who need it most for years to come. Honoring the Life of Carrol Eugene Franklin

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Mr. BEAN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart but a grateful spirit to honor the life of my friend, Commissioner Carrol Eugene Franklin, who passed away peacefully in Hilliard, Florida, at the young age of 76.

Born in Booneville, Mississippi, Carrol lived a life shaped by hard work, deep faith, and a quiet but profound dedication to others. He was a proud combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army's 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam war.

That same courage and resolve stayed with him throughout his life, whether it was in service to his country, in business, or in leadership with the Nassau County Ocean, Highway & Port Authority.

Carrol was a man who showed up, not just when it was easy but when it was needed. He believed in faith, integrity, and perseverance. He loved his family dearly. For 42 years, he stood side by side with his beloved wife, Judy, raising their sons, Garrett and Greg. They also cherished their granddaughter, Diana Del.

To his church and to his church family at First Baptist of Boulougne; his brothers and sisters; and his many friends, nieces, nephews, and neighbors who knew him, Carrol was the kind of man whose legacy is etched not in headlines but in the lives he lifted.

Mr. Speaker, we say goodbye to a veteran, a man of character, a family man, and my friend. It hurts because that is the impact that Carrol made on so many.

May his memory continue to inspire us all to serve with heart, live with purpose, and love without hesitation.

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