[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 205 (Wednesday, December 18, 2019)]
[Senate]
[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.

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