[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 43 (Monday, March 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E201]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING PAUL FRIEDLANDER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 9, 2026

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an 
extraordinary servant leader whose impact on the Rotary Club of Trinity 
and the greater Pasco County community has been immeasurable--Paul 
Friedlander, Paul has served the Rotary Club of Trinity with 
distinction, including as President and in nearly every leadership 
capacity within the organization. His commitment to service, however, 
extends well beyond the club itself. Through his involvement with 
Rotary District 6950, he has supported more than 50 regional clubs, 
strengthening the broader Rotary mission of ``Service Above Self'' and 
fostering collaboration across our region.
  Paul truly embodies the spirit of servant leadership. When a homeless 
family needed emergency shelter and essential provisions, Paul was 
there. When fire victims required immediate clothing and assistance, he 
mobilized his trusted ``hotline'' of generous donors without 
hesitation. Time and again, he is the first to respond, the first to 
organize, and the first to ensure that no one in our community faces 
hardship alone. His leadership reflects a rare and powerful combination 
of institutional knowledge and heartfelt compassion. Paul understands 
not only how to effectively organize service efforts, but why they 
matter. He recognizes that true service is rooted in empathy, 
responsiveness, and a steadfast commitment to lifting others up. Beyond 
Rotary, Paul's record of civic engagement is equally noteworthy. He has 
served multiple terms as President of the Community Service Council, 
sits on the BayCare Hospital Board, and holds the distinction of being 
our community's longest-reigning King Chasco--a testament to the 
respect and admiration he has earned throughout the region.
  As the current President of the Rotary Club of Trinity has shared, 
Paul's wisdom and experience continue to guide the organization's work. 
His mentorship has cultivated new leaders, strengthened community 
partnerships, and ensured that Rotary's mission remains vibrant and 
impactful in Pasco County. Words alone cannot fully capture the depth 
of Paul's contributions. His legacy is not written in accolades, but in 
action--in the families assisted, the lives uplifted, and the stronger, 
more compassionate community that exists because he chose to serve. For 
his unwavering dedication, compassionate leadership, and extraordinary 
commitment to the people of Pasco County, I am proud to recognize Paul 
Friedlander as a 2026 Hero Among Us for Florida's 12th Congressional 
District. He exemplifies the very best of community service and the 
enduring power of servant leadership.

                          ____________________