[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 60 (Thursday, April 29, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E819]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CONGRATULATING THE BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SCHOOL ON ITS NATO PAINTING

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                           HON. MARGE ROUKEMA

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 29, 1999

  Mrs. ROUKEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the students of 
Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Ridgewood, NJ, on the distinct honor 
of being one of only 19 schools across the Nation chosen to contribute 
a painting to the recent NATO Summit held in Washington, DC. This 
inspiring and impressive work of art--displayed at the summit to 
welcome world leaders--was a tribute to the nation of Canada created as 
part of the international celebration of NATO's 50th birthday.
  The artwork project was an important part of the NATO summit, 
offering students an invaluable lesson in the history, geography and 
politics of NATO's member nations. It enabled young people from all 
over the country to participate in one of the most significant events 
of their lifetime--the gathering of world leaders celebrated the 
alliance that has safeguarded freedom and security since World War II 
and marked the beginning of a new era of partnership. And the artwork 
these students created will serve as a permanent symbol of the 
relevance of the transatlantic alliance to future generations in 
preserving peace and democracy.
  Each participating school was assigned one of the 19 NATO countries 
and asked to interpret the three main themes of the summit--freedom, 
democracy, and partnership. Student artists worked with the colors of 
each country's flag, plus the NATO colors of blue and gold, to 
illustrate significant moments in history or culture. The 4-foot-by-6-
foot acrylic paintings on canvas were then combined into a 10-foot-by-
28-foot commemorative mural that was displayed at the summit as a 
welcome to NATO leaders.
  Students at Benjamin Franklin were assigned to create a painting 
honoring our northern neighbor Canada. Their inspiring design shows 
three individuals draped in the flags of the United States, France, and 
Britain--the three nations with which Canada has its closest ties--
against the Canadian flag. It is a strong symbol of international unity 
that highlights the enduring relationship of the nations depicted. The 
students, their teachers, and Principal Tony Bencivenga did an 
outstanding job.
  I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in 
congratulating these young people not only for creating an outstanding 
piece of art but for seeing the importance of international harmony and 
becoming active participants in our global society. From culture to 
economy, no nation is ``an island'' today. Young people who understand 
that are better prepared to be the leaders of tomorrow and to be 
dedicated to expanding democracy, peace, and prosperity in our world.

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