Representative Laura Hoydick (R-120) was among those honored today at the State of Connecticut Chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) annual luncheon and award banquet held at the Aqua Turf Club in Planstville.
Hoydick, who serves a s the Ranking Member of the Legislature's Energy Committee, was recognized for her leadership over the prior year in working toward achieving energy affordability and stability, and particularly for her efforts in passing legislation which brings greater accountability and standards to utility companies for restoration of power following extreme weather.
"I am honored to be recognized by the AARP once again this year for work in the legislature that makes the quality of life better for seniors," said Hoydick. "I believe one of our essential roles in the General Assembly is to assure that our seniors are properly cared for, and I have always considered the AARP as one of our finest partners in assuring that we can achieve those goals. They are a phenomenal resource organization and I deeply appreciate their recognition."
The emergency storm response legislation which Representative Hoydick supported followed historic storm damage last year from Tropical Storm Irene and an October Nor'easter. Hoydick cosponsored the bipartisan bill which enhances emergency preparedness plans for utility companies, and requires the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) to set standards for restoration service when 10% or more of their customer base is without service during an emergency which lasts for 48 hours or longer.
This is the second year that Hoydick has been recognized by the AARP with an award for her work for seniors.
Stratford resident Helen Benjamin also received the Outstanding Volunteer Specialist of the Year Award from the AARP. She was recognized for her work as a member of the Advocacy Leadership Council, organizing and supporting numerous events and efforts, and her advocacy at the state capitol for seniors' issues.
Those assembled also took the time to recognize the dedicated work of Maury Johnson, the AARP Andrus Award Winner of 2007 and Outstanding Volunteer Leader of the Year of 2003, who passed away on May 6th of this year. Johnson was well-known in Stratford and had a long history of public service including work on the Board of Education and Economic Development Commission.
