A state Capitol Police Officer holds a red velvet rope for Joan Cavanagh in the area where lobbyists are permitted to gather to influence legislation. While not a paid lobbyist, Cavanagh was asked to move inside the velvet rope where she could pass out literature urging a no vote on an assisted suicide bill – one of the most controversial measures at the Capitol. She is followed by Sean Hughes, son of the legendary lobbyist Carroll Hughes, who died in November after nearly 50 years at the Capitol. (Mark Mirko/The Hartford Courant)