SR0260 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0260 LRB103 32257 LAW 61501 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Elizabeth N. "Beth" (Newell) Murphy, a beloved community leader, who passed away on April 24, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Beth Murphy was raised in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago; she married James "Jim" Murphy, and he preceded her in death in 2003; and

WHEREAS, Beth and Jim Murphy purchased Ray's Bleachers, located across the street from Wrigley Field, in 1980 and renamed it Murphy's Bleachers; they added a rooftop to the establishment in 1984; and

WHEREAS, After Jim's passing, Beth Murphy assumed control of the business operations; under her ownership, Murphy's Bleachers grew into one of America's most iconic sports bars, becoming a sanctuary for the neighborhood and Chicago Cubs players and a destination for all baseball fans; and

WHEREAS, Beth Murphy served as the spokesperson for the Wrigley rooftop owners, representing the rights of local businesses and residents in numerous battles with the Chicago Cubs organization; and

WHEREAS, Upon her passing, Beth Murphy was fondly remembered by friends, staff, and members of the Chicago Cubs organization with a variety of stories detailing her impact on Cubs players and fans, the neighborhood, and her colleagues, for while everyone loved Murphy's Bleachers, they loved her more; and

WHEREAS, Beth Murphy was a Chicago Cubs fan and friend; she will be especially remembered as a community leader in the Lakeview neighborhood and one of the area's most respected business owners; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Elizabeth N. "Beth" (Newell) Murphy, a beloved community leader, and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Beth Murphy as an expression of our deepest sympathy.