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[Page S7150]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE JESSE WHITE TUMBLERS
Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, every year, 250 Chicago kids form 8 teams
to perform 1,500 shows of acrobatic wonder at major sporting events,
community businesses, and charities. They are called the Jesse White
Tumblers, and for 60 years the troupe has delighted audiences in
Illinois and across the world, including Hong Kong, Israel, and
Croatia. Since 1959, more than 18,000 youths have put in the hard work
and performed in the Jesse White Tumblers. Today, we congratulate this
well-loved Chicago institution on its 60th anniversary.
Jesse White, the man whom the troupe is named after, is the 37th
secretary of State for Illinois. He is the first African American to
win statewide office in Illinois, and he has held the office longer
than anyone else. I am honored to count him as a friend.
Just like the Tumblers, Jesse was an outstanding athlete and student
growing up. He attended Waller High School in Chicago, earning All-City
honors in basketball and baseball. He hoped to play professional
baseball after graduating, but his father insisted on him going to
college first. He went to Alabama State College, majoring in physical
education. He was All-Conference in baseball and basketball. When he
graduated, Jesse signed with the Chicago Cubs. Four days before leaving
for spring training, the U.S. Army drafted him, assigning him to the
101st Airborne Division. In 1959, Jesse returned to Chicago and played
third base in the Cubs minor league system.
During the off-season, Jesse taught physical education at his alma
mater, Schiller Elementary School, and in the Chicago Park District. In
December 1959, the Chicago Park District asked Jesse to create a gym
show for the Rockwell Garden Fieldhouse. The show he developed became
the foundation for the Jesse White Tumblers.
Jesse White has served the people of Illinois throughout his career,
along with being secretary of State for Illinois. He was the recorder
of deeds of Cook County from 1992 to 1999, a legislator in the Illinois
General Assembly for 16 years, and a public school teacher for 33
years. But his favorite role may still be coach of the Jesse White
Tumblers.
Children between the ages of 6 and 20 can find a second family in the
Jesse White Tumblers. Becoming a Tumbler is not an easy task. Thousands
of young people apply every year, and few make it. In addition to
athletic achievement, members must stay in school, maintain a C
average, and stay away from drugs and alcohol. For the hard work,
members get the thrill of performing and develop confidence, structure,
and discipline. The program also helps with homework, study skills, and
can provide financial support through scholarships. The Jesse White
Tumblers have changed the lives of generations of young people.
The Jesse White Tumblers have earned their reputation as a legend in
the State of Illinois. Here is to many more years of success.
____________________
