Raven Club president Miriam Rook celebrated her 50th birthday in style last night with a big party at Raven Hall. The guest list was truncated compared to the club’s original plans for their inimitable leader, being forced to comply with local lockdown restrictions. Out of the original 200 people who were going to receive an invitation to the hottest event of the summer, only about 50 made the final cut. Tables meant to sit 8 people only had 2 or 3 place settings to ensure the guests remained at least 6 feet apart at all times.

However, those who didn’t get to celebrate with Mrs. Rook and company in person were still able to join in on the fun with the official event livestream. When it came time to sing “Happy Birthday” and open the mountain of gifts that nearly touched the ceiling, the livestream topped out at over 2,500 viewers. Following the procession of presents, Mrs. Rook was seated on stage as some of Emerson Valley’s most distinguished luminaries took turns singing the guest of honor’s praises.

The in-person guests left with goodie bags containing hand sanitizer in bottles made to look like expensive white wine, gorgeous faux-emerald earrings modelled after Mrs. Rook’s favorite pair, and a brand new zylafone 12. Those who logged in to watch the livestream received a surprise email after the party ended that contained a code for a free pair of high heel shoes in any size or color from footfiend.com, or a free game retailing for $55 or less through Steam.

Now that Mrs. Rook’s 50th birthday party was such a smashing success, the pressure is on to top it come her 60th. Hopefully by 2030, the pandemic will be a distant memory, and the Raven Club will be able to dust off their original plans for her 50th and give the town a night they’ll truly never forget.

-Sarah Donovan, Editor & Local News, Emerson Valley Gazette