A community coming together

After the abrupt closing of its bar and convenience store this summer, the Everly community was not only down two businesses, but its heart was broken.

"The community was feeling lost," said Hap Ketelsen Community Center Manager Christie Seivert. "Both entities were places that people gathered and not only enjoyed good food, but also good company."

Quik Spot and The Ranch both closed immediately in July following the untimely death of owner Shaun Iske. Gas station gossip and steak nights were gone, which forced local officials to consider other options.

"There was such a hole in the community," Seivert said.

In August, the community center board agreed to host a happy hour each Wednesday night featuring cold drinks, good food and great company. The events have been catered by Adam Lux, of Hartley, who has served a variety of dishes over the past four months.

He reported stellar attendance with around 100 plates served each night.

"They've been going really good," he said.

Christina Myers has served as bartender during the happy hours. She previously worked at The Ranch and was glad the community center stepped up to fill a void in town.

"It's going very good and it's great to see everyone again," she said. "Turnout has been awesome, and watching everybody sit around and visit again is good to see."

Seivert said some folks just show up to see their friends.

"Not all of them eat and not all of them drink, but they all enjoy the time together," she said. "We have been getting a lot of out-of-town people joining us. Word of mouth has been strong."

The arrangement has been beneficial to both Lux and the community center. He gets to keep the profit from the meal, while the community center nets bar sales.

"Right now things are working out great," Seivert said. "Adam and I haven't really discussed long term, but he knows as soon as the bar opens back up, the Hap will discontinue the Hap Happy Hours."

Happy hour runs from 5-8 p.m. each Wednesday. Seivert encouraged people to check it out and see old friends.

"The Hap Happy Hours are a time for people to gather, enjoy each other's company and just be happy," she said. "Our community has had a lot of loss in the last six months and we needed a place where we could be together and check in on one another. We appreciate the support that we are getting and will keep it going as long as it is needed."