[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 6] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 7999-8000] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]CONGRATULATING THE BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SCHOOL ON ITS NATO PAINTING ______ 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- [[Page 8000]] 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. ____________________