[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 38 (Thursday, March 30, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E474]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING THE MEMORY OF CALIFORNIA STATE SENATOR ALFRED E. ALQUIST

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 30, 2006

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of former 
California State Senator Alfred E. Alquist. He is survived by his wife, 
State Senator Elaine White Alquist; son Alan Alquist; stepsons Peter 
and Bryan White; and five grandchildren.
  Alfred Ernest Alquist was born in Memphis, Tennessee on August 2, 
1908. He began his professional life as a railroad yardmaster and 
transportation supervisor, in which he dutifully served for 40 years. 
In his time with the railroad industry, Senator Alquist developed and 
cultivated a keen interest in transportation issues. With a passion for 
policy nested, Senator Alquist joined his local Democratic Club in San 
Jose, California, which proved to be a stepping stone for his political 
career.
  Ever the dedicated citizen, Senator Alquist embarked on the campaign 
trail and was elected to the California State Assembly in 1962. After 
his years in the Assembly, Senator Alquist was elected to the State 
Senate in 1966 and became the first full-time Legislature that same 
year.
  Senator Alquist's legislative legacy includes serving as Chair of the 
Senate's Budget Committee for 15 years. His concern for California's 
future earthquake preparedness led him to author landmark legislation 
that created the state's Seismic Safety Commission and the Energy 
Commission. Senator Alquist spearheaded a bill that established the 
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority and was the pioneer in 
leading an almost two decade effort to build a state office in San 
Jose, California. When the building was completed in 1983, it was named 
in Mr. Alquist's honor.
  Senator Alquist retired from the State Legislature in 1996. He was 88 
years old when he ended his tenure and made history by becoming the 
State Senate's longest-serving member.
  Senator Alfred Ernest Alquist passed away on Monday, March 27, 2006 
at the age of 97.
  I had the great pleasure of being Senator Alquist's seatmate while we 
served together in the Senate. Senator Alquist touched the lives of 
many people and his legacy will remain vivid for generations to come. 
His genuine concern and vision for the future have all made the state 
of California a much better place.

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