Newtown Salutes Julia Wasserman’s Service

By John Voket

Newtown First Selectman Joe Borst could not resist sprinkling in a dash of humor as he began reading a proclamation recognizing former state representative Julia Wasserman’s nearly two decades of public service to the community.

Making a reference to Ms Wasserman beginning her life of public service as a member of “King Arthur’s Court,” the first selectman went on to detail a body of work which many said the former state lawmaker took in stride with a special combination of joy, dedication, and humility over the years.

And on Valentine’s Day, the community of Newtown spent a couple of hours saying thanks by hosting “A Salute To Julia,” a modest ceremony and reception that moved from the chilly, windswept front patio into the warm confines of the Edmond Town Hall lobby.

The ceremonial aspect of the event was hurried along by Ms Wasserman, who seemed to enjoy petting and fussing over seven horses that joined in the festivities along with corresponding Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard volunteers outfitted for the occasion in their finest uniform parade attire.

And once the ceremonial aspects of the activity were completed, she hastened the gathered crowd of about 60 inside, where they enjoyed light refreshments. In the ensuing hour-and-a-half, as the reception continued, more than 150 other friends and constituents passed through the town hall lobby.

Among the attendees were numerous town officials, board and commission volunteers, and Republican Town Committee members, as well as former Democratic councilman Christopher Lyddy, who won her seat last November.

He recognized that Ms Wasserman has served as an inspiration to many, both here in Newtown and up in Hartford.

“She is a respected leader and we should all be grateful for her years of service to our community,” Mr Lyddy told The Bee.

He said while helping Ms Wasserman move out of her office during the transition, he listened intently to her stories about her successes as well as her trials and tribulations at the State Capitol.

“In listening to Julia, I realized that she was an effective representative because of the passion she brought to the job,” Mr Lyddy said.

School board member Anna Weidemann exclaimed, “It was truly a ‘Salute to Julia,’ someone I feel is a big contributor to Newtown and its rich history.” 

Ms Weidemann said she was proud to be among so may well-wishers, friends, and family and people Julia touched throughout her many years of volunteerism. 

“I was fortunate to get to know her when we were on the Long Range Strategic Planning Committee and very happy to have been asked to help plan this celebration for her,” Ms Weidemann said. 

Bob and Cathy Geckle said the recognition event was “a great tribute to a great person.”

“I had the privilege to accompany Julia to Hartford on several occasions and witnessed how her valuable associations with government officials and other legislators resulted in many benefits she delivered for all the citizens of Newtown,” Mr Geckle said. “She has been a dedicated and insightful advisor to the Fairfield Hills Authority and we are very appreciative of her willingness to continue working with us in the future.” 

Former council member Peggy Baiad agreed, saying Newtown owes Ms Wasserman a debt of gratitude for all she has done.

“She has been a tireless, very capable representative, and has worked extremely hard for the betterment of our town,” Ms Baiad said. “She was instrumental in Newtown acquiring Fairfield Hills and in obtaining open space. Great job, Julia!”

Retired school superintendent John Reed said when he thinks of Julia he is reminded of her profound dedication, intelligence, and strength of character.

“She is a unique and valued contributor to the welfare of Newtown,” Mr Reed said.

Longtime RTC member Barbara O’Connor was pleased with the tribute, which, she said, “went off very well.”

“The Governor’s Horse Guards with their Colonial uniforms really added an elegant touch,” observed Ms. O’Connor.

Ms O’Connor fondly recalled one year when Ms Wasserman was running for reelection.

“I walked with her one day in Nunnawauk Meadows. She was and is a ball of energy,” Ms O’Connor recalled. “Most of the people she talked to in Nunnawauk knew her and said they would vote for her, I don’t know whether it mattered to some of them whether she was a Democrat or a Republican. In my opinion, Julia is one of the few politicians who has no ulterior motive for being in politics.”

While some simply introduced themselves and issued brief thank-yous, others lingered, touching Ms Wasserman’s arm, or hugging her while reminiscing about one or more of her deeds, which in one way or another touched or helped them in some way.