[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 61 (Thursday, April 26, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E671-E672]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING ANNETTE FENTIN, RECIPIENT OF THE BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING 
                                 AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THEODORE E. DEUTCH

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 26, 2012

  Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Annette 
Fentin, recipient of the Jewish Museum of Florida's Breaking the Glass 
Ceiling Award. Her tenacity, professionalism, and role as a business 
and philanthropic leader in Florida are truly an inspiration, and it is 
an honor to represent her in the United States Congress.
  Annette Fentin is a pioneer. At a time when the very existence of her 
career seemed improbable, she not only entered the workforce but 
skyrocketed to the top of her field. As a young mother balancing 
numerous family obligations, Annette was inspired to get a real estate 
license, and after overcoming numerous hurdles was soon a top seller at 
a real estate firm.
  In 1969, after being recognized as a respected member of the business 
community, Annette became the first woman member to be appointed to the 
Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. She worked side by side with 99 men 
to help make Jacksonville a place where businesses could grow and 
thrive. Soon, Annette was appointed to their board of governors, was 
organizing business exchanges with countries around the world as head 
of the World Trade Committee in Jacksonville, and began her own firm 
where she employed 30 individuals. And the honor of being the first

[[Page E672]]

woman member of an influential organization was given to her once more, 
as she was appointed to the University of North Florida board of 
trustees.
  But Annette's service to her community transcends far beyond the 
realm of creating an environment where business can flourish. She is 
committed to improving education for people in Florida, and has 
organized fundraisers with her Synagogue, B'nai Torah, to assist 
students in need at FAU. Furthermore, in Miami she was instrumental in 
the creation of Israel Tennis Centers, a Jewish organization that 
fosters cultural exchange by connecting athletes who are part of the 
global Jewish community.
  Today, women make up half of our workforce here in the United States. 
And although we have made great strides since the 1960's when Annette 
first began her career, we are often reminded that there is still room 
for progress. Business owners like Annette who took on careers 
previously reserved for men are an inspiration to us all. She reminds 
us that with tenacity and courage it is possible to break barriers and 
give women a seat at the table.

                          ____________________