HONORING AMANDA PERNA

On 2026-08-27, Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING AMANDA PERNA" in the House.

HONORING AMANDA PERNA

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 136 (Thursday, August 27, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 136 (Thursday, August 27, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E812] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING AMANDA PERNA ______ HON. LOIS FRANKEL of florida in the house of representatives Thursday, August 27, 2026 Ms. LOIS FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my constituent, Amanda Perna--an accomplished fashion designer, author, and community leader--and to recognize her as a finalist in the Verizon Small Business Super Pitch Competition. Amanda was one of only four finalists to compete in the Super Pitch and win tickets to the World Cup Final. In 2012, Amanda founded House of Perna, a sustainable fashion brand based in Delray Beach. Over the past fourteen years, she has built one of South Florida's most recognizable independent fashion labels through creativity, entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to giving back. Under her leadership, House of Perna has supported more than 250 nonprofit organizations through charitable donations, mentorship, educational workshops, fundraising initiatives, and community partnerships. From advancing literacy and youth development to empowering women, supporting healthcare initiatives, and promoting the arts, Amanda has used her business as a powerful force for positive change throughout Palm Beach County. Amanda's dedication to serving others extends far beyond her business. She serves on the boards of the YMCA of South Palm Beach County, Achievement Centers for Children & Families, and the Delray Beach Chamber Advisory Board, reflecting her belief that opportunity, education, and creativity should be accessible to everyone. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amanda partnered with Hearst Publications to create free sewing tutorials and patterns that helped people make protective face coverings. She also serves as co-chair of Laugh with the Library, raising critical funds to expand literacy programs, and chairs Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, inspiring community support for women and families affected by breast cancer. Amanda exemplifies the very best of community leadership through her compassion, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit. She has demonstrated that business success and civic engagement go hand-in- hand, creating lasting opportunities for others while strengthening the fabric of our community. Please join me in recognizing Amanda Perna for her outstanding contributions to Palm Beach County. I thank Amanda for her extraordinary service to South Florida and wish her continued success in all her future endeavors. ____________________