By Donald Norton/Photos by Claudia Ferro

Five former aldermen that recently left office here in Somerville were honored at an “Appreciation Night” event this past Friday, February 9, at the Somerville City Club.

A crowd of some 200 family members, supporters and friends of the five gathered to show their appreciation for all the hard work they have put in while serving the city.

The former aldermen who were honored were Ward 2 Alderman Maryann Heuston, who served for 13 years; Ward 3 Alderman Robert McWatters, with 4 years; Ward 4 Alderman Tony Lafuente with six years; Alderman At-Large Jack Connolly, with 33 years; and Alderman At-Large Dennis Sullivan, with 20 years.

The Master of Ceremonies was former Ward 5 Alderman Sean O’Donovan. The event was by invitation only, with the aldermen personally sending out invitations to their individual supporters.

Many other former aldermen and elected officials were present and some spoke, giving the honorees some positive information on what to expect now that they are out of office and the phone doesn’t ring anymore. Things that happen when you leave office. Lots of laughs and memories where shared by everyone present, and everyone had a great time.

After several former Somerville officials got up and said a few words of encouragement, former Mayor Eugene Brune then presented each of the five with a Certification of Appreciation, which is customarily done for the aldermen.

The event was well received by everyone present. In the end, the former aldermen thanked everyone for coming, and they in turn gave thanks to those present for their support over the years.

Many thanks to the following for generously donating to help and make the event the success it was: The food was donated by Mortadella Head of Davis Square, with a full Italian spread. The cake was custom made and donated by Juscelia LoRusso of Juscelia’s Cakes, which was a completely edible Somerville cake with the Powder House building on top. George Landers donated his time and a fantastic rendition of his usual great selection of music to fit the occasion. Balloons donated by UP, UP and AWAY were from Susan Fontano.

The organizers planned this event as a thank you to both the former aldermen and their supporters. Everyone present was touched and delighted to be together once again. The event was free but donations were gladly accepted, several people made donations, and others are still sending them in. Once collected the money will be donated to a local charity on behalf of the former Aldermen.