By Bill Herrfeldt
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Soon after Fox Run opened in 2003, Ralph Rays – a so-called Pioneer because he was one of the first to live in the community – organized a happy hour where he and his new friends could get together to swap stories and otherwise enjoy each other’s company.

Ralph’s idea took root, and flourished. You will now find fifty or more fun-loving friends in the Fireside lounge any given Thursday or Sunday evening, partaking of the daily liquid specials, and catching up on the latest happenings with neighbors.

Being Alone Is Not Allowed
“I really want folks to have a good time, and for new people to feel welcome. My wife, Barbara, also known as B.A., and I mingle with people, making sure everyone knows each other before happy hour is over,” says Ralph, who moved to Fox Run from Dearborn Heights.

As you might expect, some of the same people usually show up for drinks any given happy hour. But when you add folks who are visiting someone at Fox Run, and people who have recently moved to Fox Run, happy hour is one of the most popular events on-campus.

In addition to the work Ralph does to make happy hours successful, the staff at Fox Run pitches in, providing munchies, and on Sundays, hot hors d’oevres. “The servers are the young people from the restaurant who are at least 18 years old. They are usually very out-going and add a lot to our get-togethers,” says Ralph.

Great Camaraderie and Single Malt Scotch
John Horne, whose accent reflects his Scottish heritage, also moved to Fox Run in 2003, and wouldn’t miss happy hour either. “Happy hour is a great time to get to know the new people moving to Fox Run, as well as to catch up with old friends. Besides, Marge Hanson plays the piano and conducts the singalong each week, and that’s really a lot of fun. Of course, there’s also the single malt scotch,” says John who moved from Farmington Hills.