HONORING PHIL MURPHY

On 2025-12-19, Representative Mike Thompson (D-CA-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING PHIL MURPHY" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered trade policy.

HONORING PHIL MURPHY

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 215 (Friday, December 19, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 215 (Friday, December 19, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1235] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING PHIL MURPHY ______ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Friday, December 19, 2025 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Phil Murphy for his more than four decades of dedicated service to the Native Sons of the Golden West Parlor 53 and to our St. Helena community. Mr. Murphy was born in San Francisco and graduated from San Mateo Junior College and San Francisco State University. After moving to our St. Helena community, Mr. Murphy joined the Native Sons of the Golden West Parlor 53 in 1983. The Native Sons of the Golden West, founded in 1875, is one of California's oldest fraternal organizations and was established as a tribute to the men and women of the Gold Rush era. Today, the organization serves as a charitable organization supporting local communities throughout California. Mr. Murphy's commitment to this organization spans more than 40 years. In 1986, he assumed the role of Hall Manager for the Native Sons Hall on Spring Street, a position he has held for nearly four decades. As Hall Manager, Mr. Murphy has been the steadfast caretaker of the 110-year-old historic landmark. Under his leadership, the Hall remained open, maintained, and accessible to the public. Thanks to his vigilance and hands-on stewardship, the Hall has continued to serve as one of St. Helena's most important gathering places, hosting weddings, funerals, community fundraisers, holiday celebrations, civic meetings, dances, and countless local events. Buildings of this age do not remain standing, let alone thrive, without the type of constant care Mr. Murphy has provided for decades. As President of Native Sons of the Golden West Parlor 53 and its long-serving Hall Manager, Mr. Murphy has been essential not only to the Hall's physical preservation but to the vitality of the organization itself. He has worked to keep membership strong through generational change, ensuring that new members feel welcomed, valued, and connected. His efforts have strengthened the organization's future while honoring its history. Mr. Murphy's leadership extends beyond the Hall. He has consistently authorized donations and offered support for local educational programs, civic projects, and fire department initiatives, reflecting his dedication to improving and supporting our St. Helena community. Mr. Murphy and his wife, Andy, have raised three children: Molly, Amy, and Darren. Mr. Speaker, for nearly 40 years, Phil Murphy has cared for this important community landmark. His stewardship has preserved local history, strengthened community ties, and served generations of St. Helena residents. It is fitting and proper that we honor him here today for his extraordinary leadership, service, and devotion to the Native Sons of the Golden West Parlor 53 and to the people of St. Helena. ____________________