My Grandfather left his native land of Romania and traveled
through Ellis Island over one hundred years ago. He took a new
name and forged a new life… His name came from his hometown
of Belz, and his life was built on the new opportunities that
America provided. He studied and became a doctor who tended to
the sick during the Great Depression, but refused to take pay
from those who couldn’t afford it. I honor his legacy and
the countless others who came from all over the world to help
form this great nation. Because of this global heritage, I
believe Americans, in their hearts, are truly citizens of the
world. For my family, I like to think America gave us our name,
while my grandfather gave us hope… and to both, I remain
forever grateful.