[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 175 (Tuesday, October 24, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S5140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING FLORINE MARK

 Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 
passing of my dear friend Florine Mark, an icon and trailblazer in 
Michigan and the international business community.
  A role model, entrepreneur, and businesswoman, Florine established 
the first Michigan Weight Watchers franchise in 1966, holding her first 
meeting in a school auditorium. Over the next 50 years, Florine grew 
her portfolio, acquiring franchises in 13 States, Canada, and Mexico, 
to become the largest franchise holder of Weight Watchers 
International, employing over 4,200 people.
  Behind Florine's drive for success was a deeply held desire to uplift 
and inspire others to see and act upon the best in themselves. From her 
early childhood, growing up in a family with very limited means, 
Florine's bubbie instilled in her the importance of giving back to 
others. She often spent Sundays with her grandmother, raising funds for 
Jewish charities and was an active member of her congregation at Adat 
Shalom Synagogue.
  Florine's signature saying, ``love, love, love,'' not only reflected 
her love of family, but also her commitment to improving the lives of 
others. Florine shared her time and expertise to countless community 
organizations throughout Michigan, including Children's Hospital of 
Michigan, Detroit Institute for Children, Business Leaders of Michigan, 
Detroit Regional Chamber, Henry Ford Health System, University of 
Michigan Cardiovascular Center, Women of Tomorrow, and several others. 
She was an active board member of the Michigan Fitness Foundation; the 
Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports; the 
Governor's Economic Council Advisory Board; and was on the board of 
trustees of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan since 1992.
  As a strong advocate for women's professional development and 
leadership roles in business, Florine sat on the Women's Leadership 
Board at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. She 
also served a 3-year term on the Detroit branch of the Federal Reserve 
Bank of Chicago, was on the Michigan Committee supporting the 
Smithsonian American Women's History Museum, and on the board of 
directors for English Gardens.
  A well-known motivational speaker, she hosted ``Today's Takeaway with 
Florine Mark,'' during which she interviewed celebrity guests and 
everyday individuals about physical and mental health, relationships, 
and other self-care topics. Through her ``Ask Florine'' and 
``Remarkable Women'' segments on local broadcasts, she sought to uplift 
women leaders while raising self-esteem by providing an avenue for 
advice, support, and dialogue.
  Florine's leadership earned her several awards throughout her career, 
including the 2003 ``Entrepreneurial Visionary Award'' from the Women's 
Business Center in Washington, DC. She was also recognized among the 
100 Most Influential Women in Detroit by Crain's Detroit Business 
Magazine, was the recipient of the William Davidson Lifetime 
Achievement Award, and was the first woman to receive the Neal Shine 
Award for Exemplary Regional Leadership. She received honorary degrees 
from Eastern Michigan University, Central Michigan University, Oakland 
University, Walsh College, Wayne State University, and Lawrence 
Technological University. Five of these were honorary doctorates. And 
just earlier this month, Florine received the Women Who Make a 
Difference award from the International Women's Forum for her 
accomplishments and contributions to her community and the world.
  Through a lifetime of efforts big and small, Florine cemented a 
legacy as an icon in Michigan, across the country, and around the 
world. She willingly and selflessly made time for her community, her 
friends, and especially for her family whom she cherished more than 
anything. I personally know how deeply proud Florine was of her seven 
children and her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
  I am proud to honor the life and legacy of my friend, Florine Mark. I 
ask that we offer our sympathies to her family and thank them for 
sharing Florine with us all. She will be sorely missed.

                          ____________________