Barwis presented Hospital Champion Awards to Rep. Frank Nicastro, “For the many battles in the House where he’s fought for us.”
Nicastro, who is retiring after the current legislative session, humbly accepted the etched-glass award with a shy smile.
Barwis called Rep. Betty Boukus up next.
“She helped me understand and navigate the Capitol … what she’s done for our community,” he said smiling at her.
Boukus stood for a picture, saying, “Let’s get a good one, so I can send it to the 10,000 people who tell me how bad I am,” she said.
Barwis’ next award went to Rep. Whit Betts, who, he said, “is always available from late at night to early in the morning and is truly a health care supporter.”
Betts, who cracked that he has never been at a loss for words, did not disappoint those who cheered him on.
“Bristol Hospital has become the model fro health care advocacy,” Betts said. “Through emails, phone calls, letters, a lot of people know about Bristol Hospital.”
State Sen. Henri Martin was next up for an award.
“In the Senate, he has been amazing. He gets me where I need to go in the Capitol,” Barwis said.
Martin said he felt he was “just doing my job.”
“I listen to the taxpayers, small business owners,” Martin said. “At the Capitol, (Barwis) is the strongest ally we have up there. This honor really belongs to him.”
Rep. Cara Pavalock, blushing, headed for the podium next.
“She came in and took the community and her commitments by storm,” Barwis said. “ She has always been advocating for us.”
In accepting the award, Pavalock, smiled at Barwis.
“You have a whole team behind you,” she said.
When the awards were finished Connecticut Hospital Association Director of Government Relations, Brian Cournoyer, said the legislators at the forum mean a great deal to the hospitals.
“I work with legislators all around the state, and they listen,” he said. “On behalf of the of CHA, I thank you for our participation and your support.”
Eve Britton can be reached at ebritton@bristolpress.com or 860-973-1801.