[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 164 (Monday, November 18, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1687-E1688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                RECOGNIZING THE GARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 18, 2013

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I 
recognize the Gary Chamber of Commerce as the organization celebrates 
the 6th annual Lakeshore Classic basketball tournament. In honor of 
this historic event, the Gary Chamber of Commerce is hosting a 
celebratory event and basketball tournament on Friday, November 29 and 
Saturday, November 30 at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, 
Indiana.
   The Lakeshore Classic will not only recall a remarkable moment in 
basketball history but will also remind us of the profound effect it 
had on society for generations to come. In 1955, the Indianapolis 
Crispus Attucks High School and the Gary Roosevelt High School 
basketball teams faced off in an astonishing game that left the sport 
of basketball changed forever. It was the first time in the history of 
our nation that two African American high

[[Page E1688]]

school teams would compete for a state championship. The game was 
historic and extraordinary, setting records that would remain for 
decades. The final score, 97 to 74, would make history as the most 
collective points ever scored in a championship game.
   At the time, the impassioned players who participated in this game 
may have been thought of as the ``forgotten Hoosiers'' but are today 
honored with great prestige and have left an indelible mark on the game 
of basketball. I would like to take this time to recognize the members 
of the historic 1955 Gary Roosevelt team that have inspired the 
Lakeshore Classic. Those deceased, Maurice Everett, Arthester 
McCruiston, Johnnie Ford, Charles Ford, James Guyden, Vann Ligon, James 
Eubanks and Coach John D. Smith have since passed on, but their 
contributions will never be forgotten. Surviving members include Wilson 
``Jake'' Eison, Jerome Morgan, Randolph Williams, Jerome Ward and Dr. 
Dick Barnett.
   Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished 
colleagues to join me in recognizing the Gary Chamber of Commerce, the 
organizers and sponsors of the 6th annual Lakeshore Classic, and the 
players who inspired the event. Their noteworthy commitment, 
leadership, and contributions have inspired generations to come. For 
enriching the quality of life in Northwest Indiana and throughout the 
country, they are to be commended.

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