[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 144 (Tuesday, September 10, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN RECOGNITION OF CHRISTINE BUTTON STRUMSKI ON HER INDUCTION INTO THE 
                   LUZERNE COUNTY SPORTS HALL OF FAME

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 10, 2019

  Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor member of the 
Tunkhannock Little League Association and Northeastern Pennsylvania 
native, Christine Button Strumski. This year, Christine was inducted 
into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame at the 35th annual dinner 
on August 11, 2019 for her distinct achievements in the sport of 
softball.
  Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who 
have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through 
their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors.
  Growing up in a time when sports like baseball were male-dominated, 
Christine became a trail-blazer for the inclusion of women in sports in 
the 1970s. In the 70s, the National Little League was sued by the 
National Organization for Women for discrimination based on sex. 
Christine would go on to help form the first girls' softball league in 
Tunkhannock. Dedicated to equality and inclusion, Christine 
commissioned the board to have a girls' team from the league 
participate in the State of Pennsylvania Baseball Tournament. The 
girls' league was so new at the time that one team would only have to 
win six games to become state champions. Despite the small number of 
competitors and a new league, the competition was fierce. Christine 
helped her team secure the first state girls' softball championship 
against Minersville.
  Today, Christine is still actively involved in the Tunkhannock Little 
League Association. This past year, the girls secured another state 
championship title. Under her leadership, the team qualified for the 
Softball World Series in Portland, Oregon where they came in second.
  Christine's dedication to equality and excellence has been an 
inspiration to all. Her service and willingness to stand and be counted 
in the uphill battle for equality in sports is admirable.
  It is an honor to recognize Christine on her induction into the 
Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her story serve as an 
inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving 
for excellence.

                          ____________________