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.

Afton Cyrus poses with the popular Raspberry Chocolate jam. ~Photos by Emily Blackwood

By Emily Blackwood

There’s a drill for last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts that most of us are aware of: roses, chocolates and wine. And while you could pick that up at the nearest grocery or convenience store, Jam Sessions offered an interesting alternative to this romantic classic.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all our readers and fans. We hope everyone has a great day with their significant other or with close family and friends. Enjoy the day!

By Donald Norton

Lifelong resident Irving “Elmer” Johansen celebrated his 95th Birthday twice last week. Johansen (pictured here with his daughter, Diane Johansen) celebrated at his church with all the church members joining in.

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If you’re looking for that last minute treat for your Valentine, Taza Chocolate has a variety of bars and discs featuring many flavors that are sure to please that special someone. Stone ground and organic, this unique chocolate is minimally processed and is packed with tantalizing flavors. If you’re not able to visit the factory, check out their website for a list of purveyors where their items are available for purchase.

U.S. Representative Michael E. Capuano of Massachusetts made good on a Super Bowl bet Tuesday by wearing a Philadelphia Eagles helmet to a meeting of the House of Committee on Financial Service. It shows that Rep. Capuano is not only a good sport, but he also pays up after losing a bet. He also congratulated the Eagles on their first Super Bowl win.

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Jack Holland arrived at my anointed spot at the back of the Bloc 11 cafe in Union Square, Somerville.

At age 29 he still sports apple cheeks and a thoughtful boyish manner. But don’t be fooled. Holland is a serious musician and lyricist. He is the founder of the Somerville-based rock band, Dutch Tulips, aptly named considering his last name.

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Jennifer Matthews’s poetry has been published in Nepal by Pen Himalaya and locally by the Wilderness Retreat Writers Organization, Midway Journal, The Somerville Times, Ibbetson Street Press and Boston Girl Guide. Jennifer was nominated for a poetry award by the Cambridge Arts Council for her book of Poetry Fairy Tales and Misdemeanors. Her songs have been released nationally and internationally and her photography has been used as covers for a number of Ibbetson Press poetry books, Oddball Magazine and has been exhibited at The Middle East Restaurant, 1369 Coffee House, Sound Bites Restaurant in Somerville and McLean Hospital. She works as a pro voice and guitar teacher. Go to   http://www.jennifermatthews.com.

Arrests:
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Joaquin Arias, of 118 Stearns St., Lawrence, February 6, 7:24 a.m., arrested at Grand Union Blvd. on a charge of operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of liquor.

Tracy Carvalho, of 1374 Broadway, February 7, 1:32 p.m., arrested at Washington St. on a warrant charge of felony daytime breaking and entering.

When 96 up-and-coming comedians step into the ring of the Boston Comedy Festival, it’s only the most innovative and groundbreaking of stand-ups that emerge as champions.

Returning to the stage of The Rockwell this Saturday, February 17, Champions of the Boston Comedy Festival brings back four of their past winners to showcase the best talent throughout the years, featuring past champions Dan Boulger (The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson), Dave McDonough, Peter Martin and Andrew Mayer. The festival is sure to deliver knockout laughter with the decade’s funniest comics.