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Romania Activist Urges People to Do Something Good Every Day

Associated Press

   NUCSOARA, ROMANIA - A gentle hero to many in Romania, Valeriu Nicolae
   says that, at heart, he is more like former NBA star Michael Jordan --
   highly competitive and eager to improve in what he does best. In
   Nicolae's case that is helping others.

   The Romanian rights activist has earned praise for his tireless
   campaign to improve the lives of the Balkan country's poorest and least
   privileged residents, particularly children.

   This is a daunting task in the country of 19 million where hundreds of
   thousands of children lack basics and are unable to attend school.
   Romania is a member of the European Union but bad management and
   widespread corruption have stalled economic and social progress.

   Nicolae told The Associated Press that for society to change,
   individuals should, too. He also thinks it should become mandatory for
   politicians to help someone before they take public office.

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