The Multidimensional Ronald Reagan

Ah, those good old days of the Reagan administration! Newtown Historical Society will host a look the country’s recent history with a program examining the multidimensional Ronald Reagan and his momentous eight years as President on Monday, on May 12, at 7:30 pm. Michael Asselta will present the program in the community room of C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street (Route 25).

Many of remember the decade of the 1980s, when Reaganomics ruled the economy. Reagan had parlayed a successful reign as president of the Screen Actors Guild into the governorship of California. From there he was able to leapfrog to the national communicator. President Reagan could meet on good terms with nearly anyone, and he developed personal diplomacy to an art form, even as he pushed the Soviet Union to the brink of breakup by his military spending.

His admonition to Soviet Premier Gorbachev on the isolation of Berlin — “Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” — will live forever alongside John Kennedy’s, “Ich bin ein Berliner.”  Known and elected as a conservative, Reagan ran up budget deficits never seen before; at 69 the oldest person to be elected President, he never lacked for energy in the exercise of office. 

Ronald Reagan began his public career as a sports broadcaster, covering University of Iowa football games, and gravitated to Hollywood. He was in 53 movies, including the Knute Rockne Story, when he uttered one of Hollywood’s most famous lines: “Win one for the Gipper.”  He was at home in all kinds of films, while his own love of horses made Westerns a favorite.

Mike Asselta began his career as a high school history teacher, but moved into the business world, operating a wholesale/retail business on Long Island for more than 30 years, all while maintaining a lifelong interest in history.

He retired to Sandy Hook, and has pursued his historical interests with a passion, giving lectures at a number of locations in the area. He has made regular appearances speaking on various Presidents at The Learning Exchange in Danbury. 

Newtown Historical Society programs are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the presentation.

For further information, contact the historical society at 426-5937.